What teams have 335 Tite playbook?

Which Teams Run the 335 Tite Playbook?

One of the more intriguing defensive schemes in college football is the 3-3-5 Tite formation, a hybrid defense that blends flexibility, speed, and pressure. It’s not widely used, making it a point of curiosity for fans and analysts alike. As of late 2025, only 10 teams in the FBS are running the 335 Tite as their primary defensive package.

The list includes: Army, Auburn, Baylor, FAU, Florida, Florida State (FSU), Georgia, Houston, Syracuse, and Troy. This setup features three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs, designed to counter the rise of spread and pass-heavy offenses. The "Tite" variation often includes an over-shifted front, with one defensive end lined up outside the offensive tackle—perfect for creating pressure without blitzing.

Interestingly, while Miami runs a 3-4 base, they operate in a 4-3 Multiple scheme, which differentiates them from the true 335 Tite group. That distinction matters when evaluating defensive tendencies and game planning. Because the 335 relies heavily on versatile athletes—especially in the linebacker and secondary positions—teams that adopt it often prioritize speed and adaptability over sheer size.

Florida and Georgia, two SEC powerhouses, utilizing this scheme speaks to its effectiveness in a conference known for physical, high-octane offenses. Meanwhile, programs like Army and FAU have tailored the system to their personnel, maximizing its strengths despite resource gaps compared to power conference teams.

Coaches can use the presence (or absence) of the 335 Tite to gauge a team’s defensive philosophy and schematic tendencies. Whether it’s disguising coverages or bringing unexpected pressure, the 335 Tite remains a tactical weapon in a modern defensive coordinator’s playbook—just not one every team is willing to adopt.