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How does Aaron Rodgers beat Red Tampa 2 – It’s not the obvious choice

4,863 views · Published 31 October 2018 · 3:12 · Indexed 21 October 2026

Channel: The QB School · 2018 · Sports

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In today’s video, we will look at how to beat Red Tampa 2. Red Tampa 2 or 22 if it’s in a sub, i.e., nickel, dime, quarter, defense is a condensed version of Tampa 2, which was made famous in Tampa Bay by defensive coordinator Monty Kiffin. 

In the red zone, it is often called Red T2 or Red Tampa 2. In the red zone, the defense condenses a bit, but the core principles are the same. The Tampa 2 defense has many similarities to a normal cover two, but the easiest way to spot the difference is the play of the Mike linebacker or middle of the three linebacker type positions. It really doesn't matter who it is. 

The middle linebacker type player will get depth and try to cover the middle of the field deep zone—think Brian Urlacher. It’s a tough ask. And, counterintuitively, it turns into a version of 3 deep but is still often called Tampa 2.

What are you going to learn today? – One way to beat Red Tampa 2

Today you are going to learn one way to beat Red Tampa 2. Green Bay does a few nice things to beat Red Tampa 2. The first one is the players. Jimmy Graham demands attention in the red zone. The second is scheme. Running someone at the mike linebacker occupies the mike and doesn’t allow him to get deep. And, third is Aaron Rogers. He does an excellent job going through the read and, in essence, using his eyes to manipulate the zone defenders.

Why is this concept important – Beating Red Tampa 2 = Touchdowns

Beating Red Tampa 2 is important because it leads to touchdown passes. And QBs, coaches, and fans love touchdown passes. There are a number of ways to attach Red Tampa 2, but going after the mike or middle field player is the one used most often.

Where does this concept fit – Red Tampa 2 is an NFL staple

You need to know how to beat Red Tampa 2 to be successful because it is a staple call in the League. Many teams run some version of it. When we understand the principles of the defense and how to attack the weaknesses we can appreciate red zone efficiency and touchdowns even more. The windows get tight in the red zone.

Going forward – Red Tampa 2 can be beat

Taken together, the players, concept, and execution need to be connected and thriving to take advantage and successfully attack Red Tampa 2. The holes are there. Being able to diagnose and execute is what elite QBs do in the red zone. Attaching Red Tampa 2 is no different. Be on the lookout for it the next time you see a passing situation in the red zone. 

Touchdowns to checkdowns.

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