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Open Lab

E-T Stunt

End crashes, tackle loops outside

From the 4-3 Over
Open interactiveCompare stunts
DEF E-T Stunt 4-3 Over
E-T Stunt: End crashes, tackle loops outsideLOSE-T STUNTEND CRASHES, TACKLE LOOPS OUTSIDE5136/7SAMMIKEWILL
  • DL
  • Crash
  • Loop
FIG. 1E-T Stunt: pre-snap alignment and each rusher's path. The numbers match the roles list.

The E-T stunt reverses the T-E by having the defensive end crash inside first while the defensive tackle loops outside behind him. The end attacks the outside shoulder of the strong guard (slamming the guard's outside hip, not the tackle's inside shoulder), drawing the guard inward and freeing the looping DT to attack the edge. This stunt is particularly effective when the opposing offensive tackle sets wide against the speed rush, leaving him leaning outside as the DT arrives on the edge before the guard can redirect.

Roles

2 MOVING

Numbers match the keys on the field. Tap a player for his role in the stunt.

Strengths4

  • Strength: Catches offensive tackles who over-set for the outside speed rush
  • Strength: Puts the DT on the edge where he can use his power against a guard trying to redirect
  • Strength: Disrupts the rhythm of the pass-protection scheme by reversing expected rush lanes
  • Strength: Effective complement to the T-E stunt, keeping the OL guessing which direction the game goes

Weaknesses4

  • Weakness: The looping DT is often slower than the DE, giving the QB more time to react
  • Weakness: Creates a soft spot on the edge during the exchange before the DT arrives
  • Weakness: Tight ends can easily pick up the looping DT if they recognize the stunt
  • Weakness: Less effective against max-protect schemes that account for both rush lanes

How the offense counters

4
  • Quick screen or hot route to the stunt side
  • Tight end staying in to chip the looping tackle
  • Offensive tackle passing the crashing end to the guard and redirecting to the loop
  • Sprint-out away from the stunt side to negate the pressure

History

The E-T stunt gained popularity in the 1990s as defensive coordinators realized that running both the T-E and E-T from the same alignment created an unsolvable pass-protection problem. If the offensive line prepares for one, the other is wide open. Coaches like Rex Ryan made extensive use of both directions to generate pressure without bringing extra rushers.