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BJJ Wiki β€Ί Over Under Pass

Over Under Pass

πŸ₯‹ Blue β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Intermediate

The over under pass (also called the smash pass) is a pressure-based guard passing technique made famous by 5x World Champion Bernardo Faria. It involves controlling one leg over and one under the opponent's legs while driving forward with your shoulder into their hip.

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Contents

    How to Execute

    1. 1. Break the opponent's closed guard or open their guard
    2. 2. Position one arm over their thigh and one arm under the other thigh
    3. 3. Grip both legs β€” over arm grabs near hip, under arm grabs far thigh
    4. 4. Drive your shoulder into their hip/thigh with full body pressure
    5. 5. Walk your feet to the side and flatten them out with the smash
    6. 6. Pass to side control when their hips are flat
    πŸ’‘ Pro Tip: The pass is about weight distribution, not strength. Your shoulder on their thigh creates a base that neutralizes guard retention. Walk your hips low and your shoulder drives flat.

    Why is the over under pass so effective?

    The over under pass neutralizes most guard retention tools by controlling both legs simultaneously. Bernardo Faria used it to win multiple World Championships against black belts β€” it works at every level.

    Related Techniques

    Knee Slice Pass Torreando Pass Leg Drag Pass

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does 'How to Execute' involve in this context?

    The how to execute phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.

    What does 'Related Techniques' involve in this context?

    The related techniques phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.

    Common Mistakes in Over Under Pass

    Rushing the Setup

    Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.

    Using Strength Over Technique

    Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.

    Skipping Drilling

    Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.

    Ignoring Defensive Reactions

    Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.

    Training Tips for Over Under Pass

    Shadow Drill at Full Speed

    Perform the technique slowly, then progressively increase to competition speed while maintaining crisp mechanics. Video yourself to catch form breakdowns.

    Use a Skilled Partner

    Training with a partner who can give realistic resistance and honest feedback accelerates technical development more than repetitions with a passive uke.

    Isolate Weak Phases

    Break the technique into phases and identify which phase breaks down under pressure. Spend disproportionate drilling time on that specific phase.

    Compete in Tournaments

    Competition reveals real weaknesses that controlled training obscures. Even white belts benefit from early competitive experience.

    Learning Progression for Over Under Pass

    1. Start with controlled drilling of the core mechanics at 30% resistance.
    2. Progress to positional sparring: your partner starts in the relevant position and you practice Over Under Pass with moderate resistance.
    3. Integrate into flow rolling β€” actively hunt for Over Under Pass opportunities without forcing.
    4. Add to live sparring with full resistance. Focus on recognizing setups, not just finishing.
    5. Record and review footage to identify timing gaps and mechanical errors.
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    More Questions

    What's the main goal when setting up the Over Under pass?

    The primary goal is to break your opponent's base and posture, creating an opportunity to secure a dominant side control position. You want to get your shoulder deep into their hip and your arm around their waist to control their movement.

    How do I prevent my opponent from shrimping or bridging out of the Over Under pass?

    Maintain tight hip control and pressure. Keep your weight distributed forward, and use your legs to block their hips and prevent them from creating space to shrimp or bridge. Your shoulder should be firmly planted on their hip.

    What are common mistakes people make with the Over Under pass?

    A common mistake is not getting the shoulder deep enough on the hip, allowing the opponent to maintain their base. Another error is overcommitting to the pass and losing connection, giving them an opportunity to recover guard or escape.

    Common BJJ Problems & FAQ

    Q: Why do I feel a lot of pressure on my neck when I try to do the Over Under Pass in BJJ?

    This often happens when you're not properly driving your shoulder into their hip socket. Instead of letting your head hang, actively press your shoulder into their hip and use your head as a wedge to control their base, directing the pressure into their hips rather than your neck.

    Q: How can I effectively use the Over Under Pass when my opponent is much bigger and heavier than me in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

    Against a larger opponent, focus on using your hips and core to generate pressure, rather than brute strength. Drive your shoulder deep into their hip crease and use your opposite arm to hook their far leg, creating a strong lever to unbalance them and initiate the pass.

    Q: What is the correct way to position my hips and legs to prevent my opponent from shrimping away when I'm attempting the Over Under Pass?

    To prevent the shrimp, ensure your hips are low and tight to your opponent's body, with your passing leg stepping across their hips, not their knees. Your hooked leg should be actively pulling their far leg towards you, creating a strong base that limits their hip mobility.

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