If I developed plays to attack the Chiefs 3-4 run defense, the following things I have to consider.
How to attack Glenn Dorsey
The chances that I would have a LT to drive Glenn Dorsey out of a gap is slim. Wherever he's at he will command that space. To move him I need to commit a TE or G. For a game plan I wouldn't commit an extra block to Dorsey...I would essentially concede area to Dorsey in the run game.
I would do it because I can run around him. Although Dorsey has great command of his space, it's a limited space. If I was a coordinator I would make him move, and reduce his impact as a run defender.
How to attack Kelly Gregg (retired)
Thing I have to consider with Kelly Gregg is he will be disruptive. He is going to be the hardest block that I would have to game plan for. He's not giving up his spot...he will go down to collapse running lanes...linemen are going to have difficulty engaging because of his hand play.
I wouldn't worry about blocking Gregg. Similar to Dorsey but to greater extent...I would make him move. If I would run at him I could have success, but he has too many tricks that cause traffic.
How to attack Tyson Jackson
Out of the 3 lineman I would choose to develop plays with action towards him. Dorsey, and Gregg have great command of their area...Jackson doesn't command space as well. The difference, Jackson has more range while having balanced in most areas for his position.
I am going to have more success running at Jackson because he is an easier drive block. He fights and has improved to the point that he only gives up as little as a yard...but the blocks are typically clean on his side of the line. Jackson is not a liability, but I would package plays that make Gregg and Dorsey move...in that regard, I would make Jackson work.
How to attack Tamba Hali
I would try to put Hali in space. Similar to the Baltimore Ravens playoff game...I would flood routes to his zone. In the run game he's not going to blow up my TE...because of the scheme...Tamba will be "slow playing" outside runs. He will maintain an edge, and has great range to move a TE with his power.
I would attempt to make Tamba move. I can't run at him, because the TE,T won't move him off his spot. I can attack him with speed...running through a hole inside or outside of his edge. Tamba is not fluid, making him change direction in space...puts him in spots where he can't be effective. If allowed to just play in-line he is the best in the NFL.
How to attack Derrick Johnson
This defense does a good job of making sure DJ is "free". "Free" meaning Dorsey is eating the left tackle's block...Gregg is coming up with a trick to occupy a block...Jackson is accounting for a block near the line of scrimmage...Belcher manages to always find the correct blocker and engage. Facing a 1 technique (head up on C)...and two 5 techniques (head up on T)...DJ is left facing backside G.
I know to block DJ I have to commit my 6th best blocker...my tight end. Statistically the results of that match-up is documented...TE's can't block him. Two ways to beat DJ...spread him out and get the 3-4 off the field. Change the geometry and create angles to engage him with lineman in the sup package.
The other way I would attack DJ is with a superior athlete at running back. Jahvid Best had a field day...because the sub-package puts DJ on a running back. Belcher is ill-quipped...Houston and Hali not as advanced in pass coverage. DJ is a great enough athlete that teams that can't win those matchup have little chance for success in run game.
How to attack Javon Belcher
I look at Belcher as a bit of an out. I game plan to put my worst offensive lineman in positions to block him. If he makes a play then I am willing to allow that. I'll do whatever I can to isolate him and make him the playmaker on defense. I would run action right at him...put a RB on him in pass protection. I would put him in as many positions as possible.
Going at him I know that he will be in the right spot every play (albeit a step slow). Going at him I know that he has ability and heart to fight for his spots. He is going to be relentless, but I would take my chances. Physically my guard on average would be able to win most one-on-ones with him.
How to attack Justin Houston
With Justin Houston I would always keep my best blocker on the right side on him. If my best blocker isn't doing the job, then I would commit another one. I want to neutralize his speed, by occupying him with a body. In the front 7 he is the most explosive player, so I would devise a scheme that limited his opportunities to use his athleticism.
Justin Houston is strong and has the ability to make plays off of blocks. Running away from him play side would only enhance his ability. I would put power and run at him. Opposite of Hali who I think you can use speed to get around, you can't do it with Houston. Similar to Hali he is a bit of an in-line athlete...not to the extent of Hali...but he can get exposed in space.
In the end...I'm making Dorsey, and Hali move on their side...hoping I can beat DJ in space. I'm running direct action everywhere else.
