Empty and 3x1 formations present problems for defenses because of the 3-receiver side. When playing zone coverage, it can complicate defensive assignments depending on the route combination.
One great way to handle these formations is to eliminate the 3-receiver side using “Mini” coverage out of a 2-shell look (Quarters and Quarter-Quarter-Half).
The basic concept here is that the cornerback on the outside to the 3-receiver side will lock up on that outside receiver, either in press-man or off-man. The rest of the coverage inside plays quarters or quarter-quarter-half against a more manageable formation for the defense (2x2 or 2x1) in a more condensed space.
This play from a Dolphins-Bills game in Week 4 of the 2023 season is a great example.