<p>When tunnels pass through soft rock strata under high geostress, they are prone to severe, large deformation disasters. This paper proposes a resistance-limiting and energy-dissipating support structure for soft rock large deformation tunnels, which combines airbag resistance limiters with rigid lining. Through methods such as literature research and model tests, this study systematically investigates the deformation patterns, failure mechanisms, and bearing characteristics of soft rock tunnels. Additionally, it explores the support theory, support methods, and support effects of the limit-resistance and energy-absorbing support structure. This study involves laboratory testing to obtain large deformations, displacements, and strains of the surrounding rocks, which were compared and analyzed for the two Cases. In the experiment design, the circular tunnel steel lining is divided into two sections: Case 1 (rigid support) and Case 2 (rigid support cover with airbag resistance limiter). The mechanical behavior and support effect of this structure have been verified through model experiments. The results of the model experiments indicate that the combined resistance-limiting and energy-consuming support structure of “pressure limiting airbag + rigid lining” not only effectively releases the pressure of the surrounding rocks, reduces the internal force of the support structure, and ensures the safety and stability of the support structure, but also possesses advantages such as a simple structure, convenient installation, and low cost, holding significant theoretical and engineering value.</p>