---
slug: "spill-run-support"
title: SPILL
depth_tier: entry
side: DEFENSE
category: Fronts
source_id: "DEF-0078"
created: 2026-04-06
updated: 2026-04-19
canonical: https://learningfootball.xyz/terms/spill-run-support
---
# SPILL

## Short Definition

Run-fit technique where a player fits inside a block to force the ball carrier to bounce outside.

## Definition

Spill is a run-fit technique where a defender—usually a linebacker or defensive end—attacks inside a blocker rather than fighting through or outside him, intentionally bouncing the ball carrier to the outside where the force player is waiting. The spill player doesn't try to make the tackle; he creates the bounce that puts the runner in front of the force player.

Spill and force are designed to work together. The spill player attacks inside the kick-out block on a power or counter play, forcing the ball to bounce outside. The force player holds the perimeter and makes the tackle on the bounced runner. If either player does the wrong assignment—spill turns the run inside, force crashes inside—the bounce has no one to catch it.

The technique is most common against gap schemes like power and counter where a pulling lineman is trying to kick out the edge defender. Rather than taking the kick-out block and fighting inside, the spilling defender beats the block to the inside gap.

## Example

"Power play—pulling guard kicks out the edge linebacker. Linebacker spills inside the kick-out block instead of taking it. The back has to bounce outside. The corner has force and is waiting. Tackle for one yard. Spill forced the bounce; force made the play."

## Common Confusion

Spill and force are opposite assignments that work together. Force turns the run back inside. Spill attacks inside a block to make the run bounce outside toward the force player. They're complementary, not interchangeable—confusing the two produces a defense where everyone turns the run the same direction with no one waiting on the other side.

## Related

- 0-tech
- 2i-tech
- 3-tech
- 4i-tech
- Front
- front

---
Source: https://learningfootball.xyz/terms/spill-run-support