Pressure Equals Performance in Football

In the world of soccer, pressure translates to production. The NFL playoffs kick off this weekend, and if you observe the two top-seeded teams—Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks—you’ll find both their defenses rank among the top six in terms of pressure percentage. They reached this point through different strategies; Denver has leaned into aggressive blitzing while Seattle has taken a more conservative approach. Regardless, their success can be attributed to solid defensive play.

Now, just applying pressure to the quarterback isn’t a guaranteed game-changer (for instance, the Dallas Cowboys lead in pressure percentage), but it definitely improves the odds of success.

Before we dive into the NFL Playoffs, though, the College Football Playoff resumes tonight with Miami facing off against Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl. For NFL teams on the lookout to enhance their quarterback pressures next season, keeping an eye on Miami’s pass rusher Reuben Bane Jr. might be beneficial.

Bane first caught attention during the CFP when he sacked the quarterback three times in Miami’s impressive comeback against Texas A&M. He followed that up with another sack in the Hurricanes’ victory over Ohio State. But beyond that single sack, his pressure applied to Ohio State’s quarterback, Julian Sane, was significant.

If you examine Bane’s pressures, you’ll gain an understanding of his critical role in the Hurricanes’ defense and what he could bring to a professional team.

Let’s break down Bane’s performance starting with his Cotton Bowl sack. This occurred early in the second quarter during a crucial play at Miami’s 16-yard line, where he aligned with the left tackle’s shoulder.

At the snap, the Buckeyes employed a half-slide protection scheme, shifting the center, left guard, and left tackle towards Bane’s side. He skillfully cut inside, demonstrating a great ability to disengage from his blockers.

Watch as Bane uses his power to push the left guard aside and chase down the quarterback.

In another noteworthy moment, Bane displayed his strength again to pressure Sane. This time, on second down near midfield right before halftime, he was positioned outside the left tackle in a wide alignment.

As soon as the play began, he barreled into the left tackle, pushing him back before utilizing a powerful move to Chicago Sane.

These two instances exemplify his brute strength as a pass rusher, whereas subsequent plays showcase his agility off the edge. This again occurred just before halftime.

Bane’s alignment was similar to before, positioned outside the left tackle. Instead of cutting inside, he used a hand technique to push the tackle outward, quickly exploding around him, aiming for the quarterback.

What’s interesting about these plays? They occurred on consecutive downs, showing his adaptability in strategy.

Another example highlights his agility from the opposite side as well.

In this case, Bane was aligned wide outside the right tackle. Upon the snap, he swiftly maneuvered past the tackle and nearly executed a strip sack.

This showcases his balance and agility as he rounded the tackle. Only Sane’s movement could save Ohio State from potential disaster.

Another instance emphasizes Bane’s relentless motor. Miami’s defenders, particularly Bane, are known for their tenacity, evident each time he’s on the field.

During a critical third-and-20 situation, with Miami ahead by three points, Bane’s aim was to push the offense back and force a punt.

Observe how he gets past the tight end using a swim move, then executes an inside power move on the right tackle, flushing Sane from the pocket and forcing a rushed throw.

Ultimately, Ohio State managed to execute the punt, but Miami capitalized on the next possession.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning Bane’s first pressure of the game from the first quarter. When evaluating a player, their performance matters, but it’s just as telling to see how opponents adapt their strategies to contain them. For example, did opponents double-team a wide receiver or apply special coverage on a quarterback?

As for pass rushers, did they manipulate protection schemes to counter threats like Bane?

Watch how the offense reacts before the snap. Did you catch it? Maybe a visual will clarify:

Before the snap, all attention—from Sane to the line and tight ends—was focused on Bane and fellow pass rusher Akheem Mesidor. Ohio State adjusted their protection scheme accordingly, and at the start of the play, the tight ends attempted to chip Bane off the line.

What’s particularly interesting is the stunt Miami used here, intending for Bane to curl around a defensive tackle and surprisingly, Mesidor got to the quarterback first for a sack.

This incident from Ohio State illustrates their respect for Bane’s abilities, and moments like this catch the eye of NFL scouts and evaluators.