What Defense is more effective, 3-4 or 4-3?

Question

Regardless of personel, which system of defense works better overall?

Answer 1

By saying "regardless of personel" I am assuming that if one could chose a well oiled 4-3 D vs. a functional 3-4 D than the choice is easy; 3-4
It is better because it is more difficult for the offense to read what they are doing, easier to change up assignments, faster in the mid-field, keeps the run and pass at bay when executed properly and is overall more flexible than the 4-3. But if your nose tackle gets injured or you lose a few of those speedier linebackers it is best to downgrade to 4-3 than linger with a thin 3-4. It is also harder to coach since most NFL players are not known for their intelligence and the 3-4 is more complicated to learn and execute.

Answer 2

the 3-4

Answer 3

Depends on who you're playing. 3-4 is better for a team that runs a lot, such as the Chargers. Pittsburgh uses a 3-4 defense. The 3-4 defense has a high amount of blitzing plays. That's why you see teams like Pittsburgh (teams that run a 3-4 defense) with very good linebackers (Joey Porter, Clark Hagans, James Farrior, Larry Foote, etc).

4-3 is better for a team that passes a lot, such as the Panthers. New England uses a 4-3 defense. The 4-3 defense has a high amount of coverage plays. 4-3 defense relies a lot on putting pressure on the opposing QB or knocking down passes in the air. That's why you see teams like New England (teams that run a 4-3 defense) with excellent defensive ends and defensive backs (Richard Seymour, Eugene Wilson, Rodney Harrison, etc).

So it depends on the players you have and the team you're facing. They will both produce similar results. But I, personally prefer the 4-3 defense because I'm more of a coverage person and I don't rely on my linebackers much.

Answer 4

4-3

Answer 5

You really can't pick regardless of personel. It depends alot on who you have to play the system. Look at the Steelers they can run the 3-4 to perfection just about. They are also designed around running it, they pick the players for running it. Some teams are based around a 4-3 and that is how they pick their players. There really isn't one that is more efficent without the right players for running it.

Answer 6

With talent use the 3-4 with less than stellar talent use 4-3. Both defenses are effective. Which one you use will depend on your philosophy of defense. I like the 3-4 but the tackles really have to keep the OT's off the linebackers. If they are unable to do that your best bet is to go with the 4-3

Answer 7

The more effective defense does depend on the personnel, and the coaches. The Pittsburgh Steelers are Super Bowl Champs and they have been using the four linebacker defense for years. In the 1970's the Steelers won four Super Bowls with 4 defensive linemen and 3 linebackers. Same team, different coaches, different eras.
Teams using the 4 linebacker defense have the advantage right now. Not too many teams are using it, so offenses do not get to play against it to get familiar with it.

Answer 8

I would go with a 4-3

Answer 9

Defenses are based on the talent and how the coaches feel about what would work best. Not every player is a Ray Lewis or D.Brooks, so teams have to do the best they can with what players they have acquired.
The 3-4 only works if you have a huge, and i mean HUGE, nose tackle that basically takes on two offensive players every play. Otherwise, teams are forced to reside with a 4-3....

Answer 10

You can't answer that question regardless of personnel. The success of both defenses relies entirely on your coaching staff and the ability of your players. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, neither really works better than the other. Compare two league average Ds, one using a 4-3, one using a 3-4, and you'll come out with similar average results.