Secondary Notebook Stance Corner and Strong Safety 1. Outside foot up (all coverages except when using bump/run; 70:30 weight distribution (front:back). 2. Feet no wider than hips; toes pointed straight ahead (at LOS). 3. Comfortable bend at ankles, knees, and hips. 4. Shoulders square with arms hanging freely NOTE: Be "relaxed" yet ready to "explode." CP: If bump/run is being used, a parallel stance can replace the outside foot up (weight then evenly distributed 50/50); other components remain the same. NOTE: At times may alter your stance with parallel feet (rather than outside foot up), ready to move laterally in either direction (ex. when in backer support). Free Safety 1. Starting point is a parallel stance, allowing free lateral movement in either direction 2. May choose to use an "open" stance at times when depth and width are required at the snap (use open stance toward direction of responsibility). NOTE: Other components are same as for corners and Strong Safety.
Start Corner If primary support defender (ex. Cloud). 1. Level off stance at snap (bring inside foot up to a parallel position) - shoulders and feet square to LOS. 2. "Bounce" in place, do not be caught moving up or back on snap. 3. Slide "flat" in a lateral direction with release. 4. Contact and collision receiver. NOTE: Be "relaxed" yet ready to "explode." CP: If bump/run is being used, a parallel stance can replace the outside foot up (weight then evenly distributed 50/50); other components remain the same. NOTE: At times may alter stance with parallel feet (rather than outside foot up), ready to move laterally in either direction (ex. when in backer support). If not primary support defender (ex. Cover 4, Cover 3) 1. "Push" off front foot 2. Upon movement by offense, utilize arms. 3. Bring shoulders/chest up gradually. 4. Keep feet on ground, "cut the grass." 5. Maintain narrow width base. NOTE: Can use turn and run in zone covers vs single TE. Must work for width and depth. Variations if not primary support defender (to boundary, stub ): 1. If responsible for a deep 1/2 field, get into turn and run at snap, for aiming point. Utilize backpedal to start. 2. Vs. single TE, alignment varies by coverage but aiming point is the same; aim for inside shoulder of #1 on the run; alter on the go. 3. Vs. #1 wide, base drop off release of #1; always work to maintain inside leverage when a 1/2 field defender. Strong Safety If primary support defender (ex. cover 4,cover 3). 1. Always bounce at snap to solidify keys and reaction; never be in a hurry to diagnose. 2. Vs. pass (reaction), bounce, use crossover run (turn and run) or backpedal to aiming point; aiming point is inside leg of #1 on 45 degrees at approximately 14 yards in depth.
If NOT primary support defender (ex. cover 3) and responsible for : 1. Outside 1/3 (cover 4 - cloud call) - use turn and run at snap. Aiming point is outside leg of #1 at 18-22 yards. Be ready to square up into backpedal with proper depth/width. 2. Middle 1/3 (use turn and run at snap). Aiming point is mid-point of two deepest, widest receivers at 18-22 yards. 3. Deep 1/2 (cover 4 Lock) - use backpedal at snap. Let keys (#2 to #1) bring you to your aiming point. One vertical = inside leverage with depth. Two verticals = "compromise" position favoring #2 (inside) receiver. Free Safety When responsible for : 1. Mid 1/3 - use turn and run at snap. Open toward strong (2 rec) side. Gain depth to 18-22 yards. Maintain leverage between 2 deepest, widest receivers ("apex"). 2. Deep 1/2 - use backpedal at snap. Let keys (#2 to #1) bring you to aiming point. One vertical = inside leverage with depth. Two verticals = "compromise" position favoring #2 (inside receiver). 3. Robber - slide flat at snap. Let key (#2), bring you to coverage area.
Backpedal 1. After assuming comfortable stance, start by pushing off front foot and step back with inside foot. 2. Allow shoulders to come up naturally and slowly. Keep shoulders over toes. Maintain narrow base. 3. Don't overextend "reach" with feet; "cut the grass" by keeping feet on the ground. 4. Move arms in normal running motion (arm swing should "punch" chin with hand and "hammer" back. Keep elbows locked at 90 degrees and elbows should "rub" on ribs). Quick Feet 1. After stance, start, and backpedal, with receiver's break occurring in front, do not "plant" and stop body's momentum. 2. Lower shoulders to "sprinters" position. 3. Move arms as quickly as possible 4. Snap hips, eyes, and shoulders toward interception point (approx. 6-8 yards in front of receiver's break point). 5. Transfer body's center of gravity over toes and explode from low to high. NOTE: If receiver releases upfield after initial break, drive toward interception point to get in position to collision his upfield release. With outside hand, drive it through receivers sternum and "lock" it. Inside hand should drive through inside shoulder. If unable to knock receiver off course, allow his momentum (with "locked" arm) to carry you to a turn and run. Turn and Run When in Zone coverage/man coverage: 1. Maintain backpedal for as long as possible until cushion (approx. 3-4 yards) breaks down. 2. Must maintain inside (ex. man to man) leverage or outside leverage (ex. corner in Cov 3) based on call. 3. Open hips toward intended direction once cushion breaks down. 4. With leg (toes) and arm on side of intended run, point toe toward interception point and "rip" arm across body. Must keep shoulders low. 5. Place "eyes" on intended receiver's hip. 6. Immediately drift (Capture) to displace receiver's horizontal leverage (run him toward sideline). NOTE: Vs. 2 receivers vertical (in zone covers), utilize zone turn and run (open hips toward ball) and maintain "compromise" position based on your "help" side. Always maintain great depth. Vs. 1 receiver vertical (in zone or man covers), utilize man turn and run (open hips toward receiver) and immediately work drift. CP: Never look back at ball until receiver's indicators "show" you. Stay in phase and concentrate on V of the neck. Watch hands and eyes. Always turn with receiver (never away). Be ready with strip tech.
Wheel/Speed Cut Corner, Strong Safety, Free Safety 1. Man or zone technique used after turn and run (if necessary); used when a receiver breaks back underneath you turn and run. 2. Continue running with receiver until he breaks underneath. 3. Don't open hips back toward ball; turn away from ball (#'s to QB). 4. Continue running straight while altering your angle toward near hip of receiver; must shift head and eyes quickly. 5. Get into drift tech. on "new" hip Drift (capture receiver) Corner, Strong Safety, Free Safety 1. Man or zone technique used vs any vertical route by 1 receiver to you after you have turned to run with the route. 2. As you run with receiver (from inside-out or outside-in position), squeeze the receiver with your body toward the direction he has released on you (ex. from inside-out position, squeeze receiver toward sideline). 3. Simply mirror route of receiver as you run him out of his chosen vertical route.
SECONDARY COMMUNICATION SKILLS It is of the utmost importance that Defensive backs learn to communicate thoroughly, properly, and effectively. By communicating properly, all members of the defense can respond accordingly to what the offense is doing. Important communication such as: coverage checks, motions, alerts, play diagnosis, and ball calls should always be repeated clearly and loudly as least 3 times! Pre-Snap Communication 1. The Secondary should become familiar with all pre-snap communication necessary in order to put all defenders "on the same page." 2. Alert - Call given to make sure that defenders are in tune to a possible change occurring by the opponent. Ex. "Motion, Shift 3. Owner - Call made by defensive back assigned to a particular receiver when his motion requires something. Ex. "Owner" - "I've got #18 on motion." 4. Coverage Calls - After huddle break, F/S and S/S should repeat huddle call to other DB's reminding them of coverage called. 5. Strength Calls - Made by LB s and Safeties after locating strength (2 receiver side) or formation that requires alignment change. (Ex. Roger/Lucy, Safety Right ) 6. Coverage Checks - Safeties are responsible coverage checks based on game plan. 7. Bump - Call made by defensive back assigned to a particular receiver when his motion requires a switch in alignment or assignment to the next eligible receiver. This happens in motion to trips, motion from Trips, etc. Post-Snap Communication 1. Run or Pass - Communication by any and all DB's (in game or on sideline) when play is diagnosed. 2. Crack - Call by DB when alerting next inside level defender of a block by receiver coming from outside in. 3. Pattern Diagnosis - By knowing the pattern tree, alert all patterns as they occur. 4. Ball Calls Whenever a definite Pass is diagnosed, the word "pass" should be communicated. "Ball" should be called at QB's long arm motion. "Fire" should be communicated upon interception in order to set up your blockers.
PLAYING THE BALL On short routes (occurring in front of DB), always aim for the interception point (approx. 6-8 yards in front of receiver's break). During transfer from backpedal, turn and run, etc. into the close, always focus eyes on interception point/receiver's near/upfield shoulder (vs. curl routes). Close to receiver. Use interception or strip tech (near arm to QB/ball in front of receiver to near arm for strip; far arm to receiver's far neck/shoulder for tackle). On deep routes, make sure to use drift tech and run stride-for-stride with receiver (staying in phase). Never look back at ball when beaten. Always strive to catch up with receiver (get back in phase). Focus eyes on the v of the neck. Many deep throws are under-thrown, therefore, there is plenty of time to close the gap. Always play the ball when thrown, not the receiver. All forward passes are "free balls." Therefore, the DB should go after every thrown ball in an attempt to intercept it, except in these special situations: 1. Knock down all fourth down passes unless a. Last play of half. b. DB has the definite ability to return the ball past the LOS. 2. Knock down all passes intended for a receiver with outstanding jumping ability (as determined by game plan) where by waiting on ball, the receiver could out-jump the DB. 3. Always play the ball at its high point with both hands. DO NOT wait for the ball - the good receivers will drive in front of or out-jump the DB for a reception or knock the ball away. Always "look" the ball into hands and the "tuck point." NOTE: Return all interceptions up near sideline. Never attempt to return an interception across the field. Simply get as much yardage as possible, but protect the ball - give it over to the offense and let them go.
TACKLING Tackling is the way to victory for a defense. Nothing will have more influence on the outcome of a game than aggressive, all out tackling. Aggressive tackling limits the yardage our opponent gains, prevents ball control by our opponent's offense, causes turnovers which give us field position, and most importantly gives our team the psychological advantage that is the difference in many ball games. Good tackling is a state of mind - an attitude of I will make every tackle myself. Never assume someone else will make a tackle! An aggressive, solid tackle that "unglues the ballcarrier" is contagious. Set the example! The ability to tackle well can be developed through the understanding and application of sound fundamentals and techniques. There are several different forms of tackling but each consists of three basic elements: 1. Approach 2. Contact 3. Follow through Approach This involves the movement to the ballcarrier and gathering one s self to explode into him. This requires concentration on the runner. Use the eyes to pick a spot (#'s/hip, etc.) on the ballcarrier. Keep eyes open and head up. Approach the ballcarrier and "step on his toes". Too often a missed tackle is the result of being too far away (stopping feet) from the ballcarrier. The feet must be as wide or wider than the ballcarrier's hips to ensure a good base. Flex the knees and lower the hips to get under control and to put the body in a position to strike. Arch the back and explode up and through the runner with a quick, rising blow. Contact In a game, we want to get the ballcarrier down anyway we can. But when the opportunity to make a great hit is there, we want to punish and wear down our opponent. Explode up through the runner, club the arms around him and "lock-up." Every defensive player knows the exhilaration of a great hit - that feeling is your reward. Each man who has an opportunity should "Get A Piece" of
the ballcarrier. It is often the second man on the tackle who caused the fumble. We want to take something out of our opponents on each play and wear them down. A ballcarrier can only take so many hits before fatigue sets in and then he is more vulnerable to fumble(s) and less likely to make a long run. Most importantly, the difference between a 2 and 4 yard gain for the offense is NOT LETTING THE BALLCARRIER FALL FORWARD! Follow Through To follow through effectively requires concentration and intensity. Explode through the runner. Continue to drive the legs forward to stop the ballcarrier's momentum and knock him back! Pin the runner to the ground and separate him from the ball.
Tackling Types There are four basic tackling techniques that we must master to be a great defensive team. Each player will find it necessary to execute all of these techniques at one time or another. The most important aspect is good knee bend. Head on Tackle This technique is used most frequently when the ballcarrier is confined to a small area (close quarters). We must put our chest in the numbers of our opponent striking a blow up and through the runner. As we wrap our arms around the ballcarrier, we grab one wrist with the opposite hand and "lock-up" the ballcarrier. Angle Tackle This technique is used by everyone in many situations throughout a game. As you approach the ballcarrier, you must concentrate on him. Pick a spot on the hip that is the closest to you and give the runner only one way to go. Take one more step and drive your head across in front of the runner, striking him with your shoulder on his hip. club you arms around the ball carrier and "lock-up." When making an angle tackle on th sideline, use the sideline to your advantage. By coming under control and maintaining leverage on the runner, the sideline becomes our twelfth man on defense. Receiver Tackle If receiver is head on: Explode into man driving chest into neck area and upper back area - this causes receiver to cough ball up. One arm should hook underneath receiver's armpit into solar plexus area and.other arm should slam receiver high and around upper shoulder and neck area - this action helps drive ball loose prevent further advancement. Now lock arms, and literally drive through man with wide base and accelerated feet. If receiver is to angle: Same technique, except now drive for the receivers far shoulder and neck area, the inside arm hooks underneath the man, you must always drive through far shoulder, for this prevents further advancement - receiver will always attempt to turn away from you. Inside arm will drive ball loose.
If receiver leaves feet: Making sure receiver is making contact with ball, execute basic receivertackle. Open Field Tackle Approach runner in good balanced football position. Once you are 5 yards away from runner, balance off on his inside or outside shoulder. You will not make any forward movement or commitment to him at this point. Be balanced off and let him commit to a side. Once runner commits, execute, head on or angle tackle. Must tackle high and keep feet at all cost. Key in executing open field tackle is to balance off and let runner commit direction.
SUPPORT ASSIGNMENTS vs. END RUN AND RUN/PASS Our secondary and linebackers have the responsibility of stopping the end run and run/pass. The primary support man can be either the backer, safety, or corner, depending on coverage. In virtually all cases, the Primary Support Man will also be responsible for Flat Coverage in Zone and Pitch on Option. Our team's defensive run support pattern will have four elements: 1. Primary Support Man 2. Cut-Back Man 3. Run/Pass or Secondary Support Man 4. Alley Man If these four elements are properly executed, the end run and run/pass will be stopped. The final ingredient to a successful end run defense is good pursuit and gang tackling by the remaining seven defensive players. Primary Support Man This term describes the responsibility of meeting the end run in its formative stage - making the tackle, forcing the cut-back, or driving the ball carrier deep so that he is vulnerable to pursuit. The primary support man can be either the backer, safety, or corner, depending on the formation and the coverage call. Basically, the primary support man is responsible for the pitch phase of a regular option play. Example: Backer Support, Safety Support, Corner Support. Cut-Back Man This term describes the area between the primary support man and the first inside pursuit man. The cut-back man can be either the backer, safety, or corner, depending on the formation and coverage call. Basically, the cut-back man is responsible for the QB phase of a normal option play. Run/Pass or Secondary Support Man This term defines the type of play we want from our deep people who are responsible for the pass first, run/pass, or play pass. The Secondary Support man is also the person responsible for tackling the ball carrier when the rest of the team has failed to do so. Alley Man
This term describes and defines the area between the cut-back and primary support men. The alley man will be an individual (usually a secondary person) who will be "free" either by alignment or rotation. This alley man is always assigned to play pass first (ex. Y dump pass) and lend support, second, to one or more phases of the option (ex. QB to pitch). He also provides vital inside out support Vs. all wide runs. THE FENCE RULE FOR RUN SUPPORT A very important concept that our corners and safeties must understand is that of our "fence rule". The Fence Rule means that the primary support man should not be too quick to pursue if the ball disappears inside. In many instances the ball carrier is going to "bounce" outside and around support. Defensive backs responsible for Primary Run Support need to "slow play" an inside run and be ready for it to bounce outside, expecially vs. a T.E. Never go behind our outside linebacker or defensive end (man aligned on T.E.) for support, but rather, think of a "fence" being run behind the man aligned on T.E. and to a depth of 4 yards. In other words, as the primary support man begins toward the squeeze point (aiming initially 1 x 1 on T.E.), go around the fence, gaining depth in pursuit so that if the ball bounces outside, he will be in position to make the play.
Head and Shoulder RUN SUPPORT TECHNIQUES Technique by any defender that is used when approaching a downfield/stalk block by an offensive player. 1. Approach opponent. 2. Give body "lean" and indication with eyes, head, and shoulders; step in the direction opposite your intentions; must "sell" your false intentions. 3. Work quickly to avoid contact. 4. Give opponent your "back" numbers. High Hands Technique used when defender cannot avoid contact by using his head and shoulders. (Ex: use vs stalk). Must maintain control of opponent to be able to "come off' his block in any direction. 1. Contact opponent with hands at his shoulder pads; thumbs up; get shoulders turned. 2. Work to gain 1/2 man leverage to ball direction. 3. Slide flat/parallel to opponent. 4. Can't let opponent get "into" your body; bench press him away. "Push" off and work to give him your back numbers. Low Hands Technique used vs an open field cut block when you are attempting to protect your legs from being "taken." You must keep your leg (to the side you wish to protect) "free and clean." 1. As you approach contact, see his eyes and shoulder begin to drop on you. 2. Gather yourself under control in 3/4 squat position. 3. Opponent will attempt to cut you by placing his head on one side of your body and shoulder through you. With your hand to the side of his head, find his ear hole and strike a downward and outward blow making contact with heel of your hand. Make sure that you keep you thumb extended to the sky. 4. Opposite hand contacts "hips" of opponent, attempting to keep his legs from "whipping" you. Contact is again downward and outward. 5. Maintain square shoulders, hips, and feet. 6. Bend at "power angles" (ankles, knees, hips); must not over extend by maintaining locked knees. Give cushion. 7. Be ready to "give ground" back and in direction you intend to protect after contacting and pushing opponent away.
Throw Technique used vs high stalk blocks after head and shoulder high hands techniques have failed. Difficult technique due to the fact that you are actually trying to throw opponent's body weight away from you. 1. Approach and contact same as high hands technique; must "bench press" him and keep leverage. 2. Take a lateral penetrating crossover step with leg opposite the direction you intend to go (Ex: if going to your right, or opponent's left, you should step with your left leg and bring it across his body). 3. At same time of step, "throw" opponent away from your intended direction. Maintain square shoulders; get his shoulders turned. 4. Make sure to put crossover step down behind and to side of opponent. You must get past him. 5. Pursue to ball. Swim Technique used if unable to throw due to strength of opponent, and if contact has already been made; excellent technique if you are taller than your opponent. 1. Gain control of opponent's shoulders like high hands technique (must be ready to push/pull his shoulders based on direction you intend to go). 2. Again, maintain square body position. 3. Take a lateral penetrating crossover step (same as throw technique) and at same time: 4. Pull opponent's shoulder pad across your body (not into your body) with opposite hand.
Shoulder/Forearm Technique used vs high drive block (Ex: kickout by guard of FB on toss play) when you can't use high or low hands due to momentum of kickout block. 1. Approach block and begin to breakdown within a few yards of opponent; never get too high or overextended in your breakdown position. 2. Keep the leg to the side you wish to go back and to your outside; protect it. 3. With the arm opposite the leg you were protecting: 4. Place it at a 90 degree angle (at elbow) and going straight across your body, parallel to ground. 5. Roll thumb into your abdomen - this will allow you to make contact with "fatty" part of arm and not bone. 6. Begin to bring forearm straight up and slightly out, contacting opponent's body; at the same time, with your other hand, contact and control your opponent's shoulder to the same side that you are protecting your leg. 7. Bring forearm up to approximately your chin level. 8. "Shed" opponent with your control hand. 9. Bounce or slide to ball. Crossface Technique used when pursuing to ball from a distance and you encounter a downfield block which forces you to maintain leverage on upfield (your side of LOS) shoulder of your opponent. Very similar to rip technique. 1. Pursue to ball. 2. Approach opponent. 3. Dip shoulder closest to your opponent across his body; at the same time step across opponent with leg nearest to him. 4. With other hand, control his opposite shoulder and shed him. 5. You do not need to get "square" to your opponent. You can perform this "on the run."
6. Punch with other arm across opponent's head; do not extend you "swim" arm straight into the air, as this will cause you to become vulnerable at rib cage to his counter move. At this point, your crossover step and swim arm should be past opponent. 7. Bring the elbow of your swim arm into lower back of opponent and drive it through him. 8. Pursue to ball. Rip Technique used as a complement to swim move. Excellent if you are shorter than your opponent or vs TE Arc. 1. Begin technique just like swim technique (contact, crossover step, shoulder pull). 2. With arm on same side as crossover step, "jab" punch opponent's arms (which should be located on or around your chest); come from low to high with your elbow at 90 degree angle; "dip" the shoulder from low to high. 3. Bring your fist up to your eye level; this should clear your shoulder and 1/2 of your body past your opponent. 4. Bring the elbow of your rip arm into lower back of opponent and drive it through him. 5. Pursue to ball.
PASS COVERAGE TECHNIQUES SAFETIES Deep 1/2 Field Zone Technique (Cover 4 Lock, Star) 1. Description - This technique will give us two 1/2 field defenders deep (the safeties or one safety and one corner in Star) with five defenders under (zone or man). The techniques for both safeties are basically the same. 2. Responsibilities - You must maintain depth (deeper than deepest) on receiver(s) in your area. You are responsible for the strong (S/S) and weak (F/S) 1/2's of the field. Key - #2 initially as you use crossover run to gain depth (18-20 yards) 1 yard inside hash (with ball in middle) or 3 yards inside hash (with all on far hash). Focus back to #1 after QB passes 3- step drop point. 3. Alignment - 10-12 yards depth splitting difference between wide receiver and next inside offensive player. 4. Technique - On snap, gain depth and width on hash using crossover run, and square up into backpedal at required depth. Be aware of dead areas (deep outside and middle) as you go. Read #2 to help identify pattern and see him as a quick threat to middle. See #1: a. Funnelled - level off inside #1 with no other deep threat; b. Fade - level off inside technique M/M on #1, with no other deep threat. c. Vs. 2 deep - gain compromise favoring inside receiver. Realize vs. 2 deep you may have help from Sam/Mike/Will on #2 vertical or from C on #2 across his face. d. With #2 vertical need "HELP" call loosen corner with the #2 outside or inside release need "STAY" call tell corner to "STAY" in flat. NOTE: Safeties must give confirmation of #2's route to C's. Help or stay calls are needed.
Corner Jam and Funnel Technique (Star) 1. Description - This technique will allow us to disrupt a receiver's release while destroying his pattern. Work to knock the opponent off-balance and re-route his release (pattern). WE are trying to prevent a quick downfield release by the receiver while buying time for our deep cover people to get to their areas. 2. Responsibilities - Maintain outside leverage on the receiver as he releases downfield. Read his feet (described below). Do not allow him outside of you. Strongside, you have a 3- receiver read (threat of 3 receivers your way). If #2 releases across your face, go with him man-man. Key - Ball - hard run read - attack and squeeze run lane ball off L.O.S. play pass. 3. Alignment - At snap, 7 yards deep play with outside leverage of #1 (if wide); if vs. TE, 4 x 4. Technique - Key receiver's feet. His first step will detonate your action. a. If first step is inside - do not close, wait for his stick move to bring him back outside. If he continues inside after three steps, get at 45 angle viewing QB an #2 and #3. b. If First step is outside - slide flat, do not lunge. Maintain your outside relationship on receiver; if you can ont maintain it, ride SAFETY INSIDE 1/4 TECHNIQUE (COVER 4) 1. DESCRIPTION: The 1/4 technique for our Safeties is a combination coverage, base on the action on 2 (#4 Wk). The safety must be prepared to play man to man (#2/4 vertical) or bracket #1/5 with inside or outside release from #2/4, and support vs run (hard run read). 2. RESPONSIBILITIES: With pass read you will be responsible for one of three actions based on #2's (4's) release. a. #2 (4) releases outside less then 10 yards. - must stay square and be patient - look front side to play post, dig, and curl - with #1 (5) outside or vertical - stay square and look backside - find work. b. #2 (4) releases vertical (10 yds. or better) run with man to man all over field. c. #2 (4) releases inside less than 10 yards - must stay square and be patient - look front side to play post, dig and curl - with #1 (5) outside or vertical - stay square and look backside - find work.
CORNERS OUTSIDE 1/4 TECHNIQUE (COVER 4) 1. Description: The 1/4 technique allows the corner to play 1/4 of the field, inside man with help depending upon #2 (4's) release. Corner is a late support (pass/run) vs. the run attack from outside in. 2. Responsibility: You will be responsible for strongside outside 1/4, may get help from safety depending upon release of #2 (4), may also be on your own - must be aware of #2 (4) release will let you know where (if any) your help is coming from: a. #2 (4) vertical (10 yards or greater): Play 1/4 field or loose inside man vs. #1 (5). i. Play all cuts beyond 10 yards as man ii. Play all cuts less than 10 yds. By zoning off 1/4 of field look to help #2 (4) on flag route. b. #2 (4) inside: (Less than 10 yds.) Weave for outside leverage - attack all outside cuts - will have help on post, dig and curl - should be over top all inside cuts with help underneath from safety. c. #2 (4) outside: (Less than 10 yds.) Weave for outside leverage - attack all outside cuts - will have help on post, dig and curl - should be over the top on all inside cuts with help underneath from safety - Be Aware of #2 (4) on wheel should know split of #2 (4) and who receiver is - can he hurt me on the wheel? 3. Alignment: Should show cover 2 shell as long as possible (1 x 7) at last second cheat to inside leverage. 4. Technique: Play #1 (5) man to man with inside leverage past 10 yds. may or may not get help from safety. You have no flat responsibility "Zone off" on any cuts less than 10 yds. by #1 (5). When you have help (#2/4 inside or outside) weave for outside leverage and attack all outside cuts.
Deep 1/3 Zone Technique (Corners Cover 4, 3) 1. Description - This technique puts our defensive corner backs in a position to be able to play deep outside 1/3 zone, vs. passing situations, and allows late help on run support. 2. Responsibilities - Maintain outside leverage on #1 in your area as you identify the pattern that develops. Use peripheral vision on the go to help you. Key - through #1 to QB (ball) for his 3-step action. Focus back on #1 after QB passes 3-step drop point. 3. Alignment - Align at a depth of 4-7 yards (depending on receiver's width); align outside of receiver (4 yards vs. a tight receiver) and move to an inside technique as the width increases (ex. ball on far hash and #1 your side is 6 yds. outside near hash). 4. Note: Use 7-yard width rule to the sideline (never closer than 7 yards to sideline). 5. Technique: 6. Vs. 1 receiver vertical in your area - initially aim to an outside position on #1 as you gain depth. Must keep an outside leverage on #1 (help is inside and underneath). Vs. all deep routes (over 14) always maintain a width/depth principal on #1 unless to post/in. vs. post/in, squeeze to W/S ready to come off on #2 late to you. Remember, read steps, backpedal, turn and run to maintain leverage. Can use man turn vs. vertical. 7. Vs. 2 receivers vertical - you should realize that you will have help (ex. S/S will run with #2 across his face and deep; W/S will help vs. horizontal stretch). Your job is to maintain leverage (width/depth) on #1 with help on #2. No help on #2 you must play compromise on #1 and #2. In either case you must use a zone turn to "see" your help. Note: Vs. 2 receivers deep in your area, (ex.: Strong C), gain compromise favoring inside receiver. Vs. Post (Weak C) squeeze it to W/S. Don't overextend inside. Be ready to come off on any new deep threat. Note: Vs. Curl (Strong C) or Slice (Weak C) do not bite on these patterns. Gain additional width and depth seeing #2. C.P.: Break on Curl or Slice only on long arm motion by QB.
Deep Middle 1/3 Zone Technique (Safety, COVER 3, 4 ) 1. Description - This technique will allow you the ability to cover the deep middle 1/3 zone in our 3 deep coverage. The techniques are similar for both safeties, yet there are some slight differences. 2. Responsibilities - Maintain a fairly constant position in the "center" of the pattern (widest receivers) as it develops. You should work to gain a consistent relationship between our two C's. Always be deeper than the deepest receiver on the field. You are our last line of defense. Vs. 2 receivers to one side (or 3 receivers), you may favor that side in your drop. Key - F/S keys QB (ball action) and strongside receivers (#2 to #1) to weakside receivers (#2 to #1); use uncovered linemen to give you an early run/pass key. 3. Alignment - F/S may align from weakside OT to head up ball 9-12 yards deep. 4. Technique F/S - with ball off L.O.S., use 3 READ steps to backpedal or right into backpedal on snap. Vs. straight drop - favor 2-receiver (strong) side on your drop; vs. sprint, roll, play action - drift 1 yard laterally (in your backpedal) with each 3 yards the QB moves. Vs. ball on L.O.S. - slide flat to alley, reading #2. NOTE: F/S must always be aware of backside routes You must learn to keep your head on a swivel C.P.: F/S vs. QB movement - Work 1 yard for every 3 he moves. C.P.: F/S vs. straight drop - Work to middle 1/3; favor strong (2 receiver) side. FLAT ZONE TECHNIQUE (COVER 4) 1. Description - This technique allows us to invert our safeties in our 3 deep scheme. Safeties become responsible for flat coverage vs. pass and primary support vs. run. 2. Responsibilities - You are responsible for flat (outside receiver 14 yards deep) maintain width on #1 through flat. Key - #2 initially to QB to #1 (and #3 if strong side). 3. Alignment - Pro - 5 x 5 off #2 (TE) slot - if slot wider than 5 yds. inside and 5 yds. off L.O.S. less than 5 head up to outside 5 yds. deep. Technique - On snap, bounce and read through #2 to ball. With ball off L.O.S. read release of #2: #2 release inside - crossover run to #1 (flat) #2 vertical - crawl out of 4. Backpedal squeeze #2 buy time for SAM - once hear "GO" call release #2 crossover run to #1. 5. #2 outside release - look up #1 hold off route for SAM play up on #2 Take Away Deep Route of #1 NOTE: F/S must always be aware of backside routes You must learn to keep your head on a swivel
FORCE TECHNIQUE (S/S when playing Cover 4) 1. Description: This is a technique that allows us to jam and disrupt a receiver's release while forcing him outside and away from the football. 2. Responsibilities: Vs. pass you have the "CURL" which is either the middle receiver vs 3 release side or the middle area of #1 and #2 looking for gimmick routes vs. run you are the bonus player. 3. Alignment: 4-5 yards deep and inside shade of #2. 4. Technique: On snap, sit see ball action then release of #2. Responsible for force #2 outside. Be ready to run with #2 on any vertical routes past 12 yds. Any breaks under 12 yards play in/out game with corner and outside LBer. EXAMPLES
Man Techniques The techniques described below will have carry over between the safeties and the corners. Realize also, that your zone coverages utilize man techniques. Straight Man to Man 1. Description -- This technique will put you in single coverage with no help or help based on coverage. Always work to maintain and keep an inside (or outside) leverage. Base your leverage on your "help." You can never allow a receiver an easy access to your inside (or outside). 2. Responsibilities -- It is your responsibility to defend your man one-on-one all over the field and force the ball to be thrown to your "help" side. You have secondary support vs. the run to you and secondary pursuit vs. run away. 3. Keys -- See the man you are defending read his inside hip. 4. Alignment -- Vs. WR align at a depth of 4-7 yards and 1-2 yards inside (outside). Vs. TE align at a depth of 4-6 yards and 1 yard inside (outside). 5. Technique a. Backpedal - must maintain backpedal (shoulders square) through intermediate routes (12-16 yds.). Receiver should not be any closer than 2-3 yds. If vertical cushion gets closed must turn and run (open towards receiver). While in your backpedal must maintain horizontal cushion. If receiver works for "head up" position must weave to maintain inside (outside) leverage. i. Short breaking routes Vs. route breaking in front of you - Always maintain inside outside) leverage with route, as break (or occurs, do not mirror it, work for interception point (6-8 yards in front of break) ii. Deeper routes Vs. deeper route Work t maintain backpedal and properlverage until cushion breaks down; once forced to turn and run, use drift techniques. iii. Post Corner Routes - Carry post maintaining inside leverage (defender on left), turn and run with post and continue to run with your "nose" on his "hip".
iv. If beat to post (defender on right), work to close down post, once corner route occurs, use wheel technique to locate "new" inside hip. Trail Man to Man 1. Description -- Similar to straight man-to-man but playing from a shallower depth position and always with inside leverage used with 5-6 packages. 2. Responsibility -- Same as straight. Vs run to you - primary support (ex. Blue Dog); vs run away - secondary pursuit. 3. Keys - Same as straight. 4. Alignment - Vs. WR - align at a 4 yard depth and 1-2 yards inside. Vs. TE - align at 4-5 yards depth and 1 yard inside (or outside). 5. Technique a. Level. b. Hands (jam and force). c. Turn and run. When using turn and run in Trail, always allow receiver to beat you to the outside. Work to maintain an inside leverage and be 2-3 yards underneath his route. Remember, you have help behind you. 6. Example a. Level at snap b. Jam and force c. If beat inside use wheel to locate new hip
Bump and Run 1. Description -- Straight man-to-man from no cushion. 2. Responsibilities -- Same as straight. 3. Keys -- Your man. 4. Alignment -- 1 1/2 yards inside and on LOS. 5. Technique -- At snap locate shoulder of receiver that is upfield (find front foot and that is upfield shoulder). With your side hand, attack that shoulder at snap (note, if WR's outside shoulder is up, can attack using your outside hand). Force WR to release outside and use trail technique a. Vs. hard inside release jam parallel to LOS and ride down LOS get if receiver gets across your face, work to come under and find new hip b. Vs. outside release - do not try to chase and "bump"; allow into turn and run and In and Out Term and call used to defend 2 WR's with 2 DB's. WR's are within 4 yards of each other where a potential crossing scheme or "pick" may develop. TIGHT SLOT vs M/M Vs the tight slot NO "in and out" call will be made if the pick occurs the inside defender will "lock on" to the outside receiver and the outside defender will play over top. ALIGNMENT 1. Receiver who is OFF L.O.S. Defender should align 2-3 yds. OFF receiver. 2. Receiver who is ON L.O.S. Defender should align 4-5 yds. OFF L.O.S. 3. *Make sure the DB's are at different levels.