Max Protect uses seven or more blockers, sacrificing routes for maximum protection. It's used when facing heavy pressure or when the offense needs extra time for deep routes to develop.
Overview
Max Protect prioritizes pass protection over route distribution. By keeping seven or more players in to block, the offense can handle any pressure package the defense can create. The tradeoff is having only three or fewer receivers in the pattern.
This scheme is typically used in two situations: against defenses that love to blitz, or when calling deep routes that require extra time to develop. Max Protect ensures the quarterback has time to throw, even if the options downfield are limited.
The additional blockers are usually tight ends, running backs, or both. They're assigned to specific threats (usually edge rushers or blitzing linebackers) rather than releasing into routes.
History & Origin
Max Protect has been part of football since teams started passing. It represents the fundamental tradeoff between protection and firepower - sometimes you need to sacrifice one for the other.
Key Principles
- 1Seven or more blockers in protection
- 2Only two or three receivers in pattern
- 3Tight ends and running backs stay in to block
- 4Handles any pressure package
- 5Used for deep routes that need time
- 6Each blocker has specific assignment
- 7Quarterback must find open receiver quickly
When to Use
Max Protect is appropriate against heavy pressure or when you need time for deep routes. Use it when facing known blitz teams, in obvious passing situations, or when your offensive line is overmatched.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Handles any pressure package
- +Gives quarterback time to throw deep
- +Keeps offensive line from being overwhelmed
- +Forces defense out of heavy blitz
- +Good for shots down the field
Disadvantages
- −Only two or three receivers in pattern
- −Easy for defense to cover limited routes
- −Predictable big-play attempt
- −Limited options if routes are covered
What Coaches Call It
Different coaches use different terminology for the same concepts.
| Coach | Team | Their Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bill Belichick | Patriots | Max | Standard terminology |
| Jon Gruden | — | All-8 | Eight blockers |
| Andy Reid | Chiefs | Big | Indicates heavy protection |
What You Need
Skills and jobs required to run this scheme effectively.
Critical
All OL win their 1-on-1s
Absorb bull rush and hold ground in pass protection. Core strength and technique.
RB and TE account for extra rushers
Identify and block blitzing linebacker or DB. Recognition and physicality.
High
TE helps before releasing late
Help offensive line briefly then release into route. Timing and physicality.
Only 2-3 receivers run routes - must win deep
Beat defender deep with speed. Pure speed and release moves.
Medium
QB may need to escape despite max protect
Create outside the pocket when protection breaks. Athleticism and vision.
Matchups
Good Against
- +Heavy blitz packages
- +All-out pressure
- +Aggressive defenses
Avoid Against
- −Zone coverage with few rushers
- −Drop-8 coverage
- −Coverage-heavy schemes
Installation
What You Need
Prerequisites for running this scheme effectively.
- ✓TE and RB who can pass protect
- ✓Receivers who can win 1-on-1 deep
- ✓QB with arm strength
When NOT to Use This
- !Only 2-3 receivers in pattern
- !Easy for defense to cover limited routes
- !Predictable - signals shot play