The Big Little Pick

Overview of Big Little Offense

• Big Little Offense: This tactic is widely used because it’s difficult to defend. The main goal is to create mismatches between defenders and offensive players.

• Teaching Importance: Correctly teaching angles, positioning, and pick placement is key to maximizing the effectiveness of this strategy.

Key Concepts: Angles, Positioning, & Pick Placement

• Pick Angle: Aim for a diagonal angle towards “X” (behind the goal), not quite 45 degrees but slightly slanted.

• Starting Position: Players should start the pick from in front of the net to make defenders think about timing and positioning, which complicates their decision-making.

Starting the Picker in Front of the Net

• Pressure on the Crease Defender: By starting in front of the net, the picker forces the crease defender into a trailing position, increasing communication difficulties and pressure.

• Synchronized Movement: Both the picker and the dodger should move at the same time, with the picker arriving just before the dodger to avoid setting a moving pick.

Separation from Defender

• Avoid Early Setup: Pickers shouldn’t get to the pick position too early, as this gives the defending player time to direct switches or other defensive actions.

Pick Variations & Adjustments

1. Brush Pick:

• Set near the crease but on the ball side of “X”.

• Script the Defense: Coaches need to ensure defenses practice without switching, forcing defenders to fight through the pick, enhancing the offense’s skill.

2. Pick Adjustments:

• Picker’s Movement: The picker should shuffle their feet slightly to adjust positioning based on how the defense is reacting to the pick.

Dodger Responsibility

• Dodger’s Job: The dodger must run their defender into the pick, making it difficult for the defense to navigate around it.

• Reaction to Overplay: If overplayed towards the pick, the dodger should go in the opposite direction or perform a split dodge.

Types of Picks

1. Swing Pick:

• Looks like a brush pick but, at the last moment, the picker jumps over to pick for the rollback.

• Works best against teams that switch late.

2. Flyby or Slip Pick:

• Looks like a brush pick, but the picker continues past the pick spot. Used against teams that switch early.

Common Mistakes

• Swing Pick Mistake: When players don’t turn sharply enough, the defender can easily slip under the pick.

• Flyby Timing Issues: If the attackman dodges too hard, the angle for the pass becomes difficult, leading to execution problems.

These key points should help you understand how to effectively teach and implement a big little offense in lacrosse, ensuring smooth execution and capitalizing on mismatches.