What teams have a 3 3 5 defense?

Who’s Running the 3-3-5 Defense in College Football?

While most college teams stick to traditional defensive schemes, a growing number are turning to the 3-3-5 defense to add speed, pressure, and unpredictability to their game. This formation, built on three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs, thrives in an era where spread offenses dominate. It’s especially effective against passing attacks and gives defensive coordinators more flexibility in coverage and blitz packages.

Several programs have made the 3-3-5 a staple of their defensive identity. Boise State has used it creatively over the years, leveraging its depth in the secondary to confuse quarterbacks. West Virginia and BYU have also embraced the scheme, particularly under coaches who value aggressive, opportunistic defense. San Diego State (SDSU) and Arizona have seen success blending the 3-3-5 into their playbooks, using it to counter fast-paced, high-octane offenses.

Notably, Michigan experimented with the 3-3-5 during the 2010 season under defensive coordinator Greg Robinson, though it was more of a situational look than a full-time commitment. The results were mixed, but it showed the formation’s potential even at the Power Five level.

Then there’s TCU, which doesn’t run a pure 3-3-5 as its base defense. Instead, they use it as a versatile change-up within their broader defensive scheme, often shifting into it from their base 4–2–5 nickel package. This hybrid approach allows them to keep offenses guessing while maintaining structural balance.

While the 3-3-5 isn’t yet mainstream, its use highlights a shift in defensive philosophy—especially in college football, where innovation often leads the way. As offenses continue to evolve, don’t be surprised if more teams dust off the 3-3-5 playbook and put their own spin on it.