Nickel Defense(s)

Every team in the league is beginning to rely more and more on so-called "Sub Defenses."  There are essentially two types: The Nickel and The Dime.  The Nickel is so-called because it involves 5 DBs rather than 4 DBs (called Base Defense). The Dime exhibits 6 DBs.

However, many Defenses around the league are beginning to show a number of different Nickel packages.  The personnel always includes 5 DBs, but does the situation call for 3 corners or 3 safeties?  In the Patriots case, Belichick can use either Ras-I Dowling (a CB) or Tavon Wilson (a S).  Belichick might even opt for the skill set of Sterling Moore, who can play corner or safety.

Also, Nickel packages can vary based on which player comes off the field for that 5th DB.  Belichick might take off a LB like Brandon Spikes, who is not great against the pass. However, The Patriots showed a Nickel against the Titans that included Spikes.  Instead of taking a LB, Belichick might opt to take off a DL like Kyle Love.  Its a question of what kind of Defensive front they want to play, either a 3-man front with 3 LBs, or a 4-man front with 2 LBs. The role of Rob Ninkovich as a hybrid LB/DE also bears consideration when creating a Nickel package.

There are essentially 4 different ways you can contruct a Nickel, but with the versatility The Patriots have on Defense, there are many more personnel combinations.

The Basic Nickel, with Even Front - LB comes off for a 3rd Cornerback.  The 4-man front is good for the pass rush, and so, this package is used for obvious passing situations, especially 3 WR-sets.  Look for this package on 3rd and long.

The Big Nickel, with Even Front - LB comes off for a 3rd Safety.  This package is better than the Base D vs the pass, but better vs. the run than the regular Nickel. Also, it may be used against receiving TEs. Look for this package on 2nd and long or 3rd and medium, especially when looking for pass rush.

The Basic Nickel, with Odd Front - DT comes off for a 3rd Cornerback.  The 3-man line is not great for pass rush, but having 3 LBs helps to cover the middle of the field.  This package is this the weakest vs. the run, so look for this package against 3 WR-sets, and any time there is an empty backfield, like on 3rd and long.

The Big Nickel, with Odd Front - DT comes off for a 3rd Safety.  The 3-man line lacks pass rush capabilities, but this is a much faster package (than Base D) that can still be effective against the run. This is a safe package to call on balanced downs like 3rd and 3+ or 2nd and medium.