Cracking Inverted Cover 2 with the Inside Dig Concept

This clip showcases the base variation of the Inside Dig concept (paired with a Post) hitting for a big play. This is exactly how it is supposed to look in action. This example comes from the 2023 Falcons.

I explain why Inside Dig is one of the top pass concepts in the NFL currently in a few key resources (more on that later).

Against single high, the quarterback will read the middle safety for his starting point. The Post and Inside Dig in a hi-low on him. The throw off this safety’s (FS) movement is with a 7 & a hitch timing. This variation from Atlanta allows for 8 in protection if needed, while getting check downs out on check releases.

With the defense playing an inverted cover 2, the middle safety drives on the Inside Dig. This opens up the big play downfield.

With the ball thrown on time, the opposite cornerback does not have enough time to overlap and contest the catch point.

Ben Johnson is a master of the Inside Dig concept. I spend nearly 30 pages breaking down all the Chicago’s variations in The 2025 Chicago Bears Complete Offensive Manual. Click Here to check out all 500 pages.