Noted author and coach of 20 years John Rice examines why the spread offense has become so prevalent in the last few years, and then offers the philosophy, concepts, tips and diagrams of current defensive strategies that will provide the reader with the necessary tools to successfully defend against the spread offense. Includes information on formulating a defensive strategy, attacking various pass protection schemes, the 4-2-5 nickel versus the spread offense, the 3-3-5 nickel versus the spread offense, the dime package versus the spread offense, the 4-3 defense versus the spread offense, and the 46 nickel versus the spread offense. Also includes even- and odd-front strategies versus the empty backfield.