Part 2/6:
The Lions executed their trick play against a Cover 3 zone defense employed by the Bears, a scheme that relies on three deep defenders, with the corners primarily tasked with covering the outer thirds of the field. This defensive alignment is essential to understanding the effectiveness of the Lions' strategy.
The play began with Jared Goff taking the snap, but immediately, fans were reminded of a previous incident where Goff stumbled during a game against the Packers. This time, however, it was not an error but a crucial design element. In a purposeful act, both Goff and the running back ended up mimicking a stumble, a deliberate tactic to enhance the play's authenticity as a handoff, creating an effective illusion.