I have played football in college, and now coach football at the elementary level. The 5-2 defense is "ok" against the run, but if there is little chance of a pass, why not go all the way to a 6-2-3 alignment? It provides a very balanced approach to the line of scrimmage against the run, and still offers alt least minimal protection against the "surprise" pass. The deep safety is also good backup for the runner who breaks through the line of scrimmage as well. My personal favorite at the 9-10 year old is a 5-4.... I place one defensive lineman against every single offensive interior lineman, and have man to man coverage on the typical two receivers... I then Blitz 2-3 of my linebackers in various combinations. This is a great defense in a pure run oriented league with say no more than 2-4 passes per game... and even then, we often sack the QB before he has a chance to get the ball off... remember, it takes an EXTREMLY gifted 9-year old QB to ignore a huge pass rush, set up, and deliver an accurate pass. Why go 5-2 and waste 4 players to defend passes, when 2 defensive backs would probably do?

Coach Keith
PFL Colts
Plano, TX

Nope 5x2 is well balance Def.
Blitz the Corners occasionally!
Throw in a 5x2 eagle configuartion too!

In a league with little passing, I used to put 8 men in the box and bring someone every play or two; the biggest threat (you can teach 9's one trick play) is a reverse or end around. When you are being that aggressive, the two back have to be sharp.

In JPW we had a team go to a 5x2 once .... and only for one play. It is a balanced defense ready for the pass, we were a smash-mouth team. Ran in right up the middle and both their safeties were in a tail chase after our TB. Would not recommend until you read a level with solid passing.