DEFENSIVE BACK

SECTION

DEFENSIVE BACKS
INTRODUCTION
Thou Shalt Be Great
The University of Notre Dame Will Be the Best in the Nation! This will happen if we strive to
be the best. The importance of great Secondary play cannot be overemphasized.
The basic requirements for a Great Defender are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

I.

OBJECTIVES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

II.

Attitude Most important! Be positive and play all out for Notre Dame.
Pride Be the best at your position. Pay attention to the details of your
assignment on every play.
Confidence Believe in yourself!!!
Poise Always be in control. Play one down at a time.
Aggressiveness Break on the ball, increase interception distance and hit people.
Play every down with a sense of urgency to get your assignment executed.
Preparation Know your assignment, know your opponent and know the game
situation.

Be fundamentally sound on every down every play.

Eliminate big plays. No long runs or passes.
No mental errors or missed assignments.
Make interceptions/force turnovers. Know what the defense / coverage is on
every play.
Disrupt by disguise.
No missed tackles.
Play together as a defensive unit.
Communicate with each other on every play.

BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES
1st Defend against the pass. Get your eyes in the right place, know what you are seeing.
2nd Defend against the run. Get your eyes in the right place, know what you are seeing.

III.

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
1.
2.
3.

Do whats right.
Do your best.
Treat others as you would like to be treated.

PASS INDICATORS
1.

QBS EYES: Where is the QB looking?

2.

QBS FRONT SHOULDER: In what direction is his front shoulder facing? Is it

up or down? See the front hand: Hand comes off of the ball.

3.

LONG ARM: When the QBs front hand comes off the ball, all pass defenders should be
breaking in that direction.

4.

BALL RELEASED: Break on the ball everyone on the entire defense should
be headed in the direction that the ball has been thrown.

ALERTS
Communication between our pass defenders is a must. Be aware of the importance of this
communication and work to get better at communicating everyday. Everyone must be on the
same page, and this starts with knowing the Defense / Coverage that has been called.
The following are some of the alerts we will use in communicating with each other.
1.

Safeties will make sure everyone knows the coverage. Corners must
communicate the coverage call back to the safeties.

2.

Pass, Pass, Pass should be yelled as soon as anyone recognizes that a pass is
being executed by the offense.

3.

Yell Crack, Crack, Crack on crack back blocks. Alert to angle of the receiver.
Execute Crack Replace when block is made.

4.

The Defensive Backs, OLB, and LBs must communicate In, In, In or Out,
Out, Out when covering curls, hooks, and outs. Also Under, Under, Under
versus shallow crossing routes.

5.

If you suspect a TE or slot faking a block, yell Delay, Delay, Delay

6.

A WR who is going against the grain and into the backfield yell Reverse,
Reverse, Reverse.

7.

The Defensive Back will play pass first until he is positive that it is a run. Then
he should yell, Run, Run, Run. Get your eyes in the right place so that you can
properly read your run / pass keys.

8.

Yell Oskie after all interceptions.

9.

We must communicate with the front 7, all support calls.

10.

We must communicate tight splits or wide splits of Wide Receivers.

11.

We must communicate when two receivers are aligned Close to each other.

12.

We must communicate all movement by receivers before the snap of the ball.
Examples: Z-IN.

13.

Always know which receivers are aligned off of the ball. These receivers can
move before the ball is snapped.

14.

Versus one-back sets, we must always communicate where he is aligned. Is he

behind center (Ace) or off-set.

15.

Be alert for special offensive formations and communicate with each other.
Ex: Bunch sets, Empty sets, etc.

16.

Communicate to the defensive front anytime a safety is dropping down into the box.
Ex: Safety Right, Safety Left.
POSITION STANCE

Corners will line up with their inside foot slightly back. The feet will be spread 4-6 inches apart
to facilitate quick movement in any direction. Hips dropped with flexion in the ankles and
knees. Shoulders rolled forward and squared with L.O.S. Its very important that the chin is in
front of hips. Arms hung comfortably down. Head up, and eyes focused on run-pass key, using
peripheral vision to see receivers. This gives you stability and ability to drive off in any given
direction without wasted movement and losing precious steps. For every mistake you make in
changing direction, the receiver gains 3; work on footwork and balance and you can play pass
defense. It isnt always the fastest who plays, but the one who makes the fewest mistakes in
footwork and concentration. All foot movement is quick and fast. Never allow your feet to be
slow. We cover with our feet and having our eyes in the right place.
Free Safety and Strong Safety will line up in a parallel stance; or with outside foot slightly back.
Back straight, knees slightly bent, arms hanging loose with hand at or just above the knees. The
parallel stance applies to both safeties when the coverage dictates deep zone responsibility.
Anytime a Safety is in Sky support, he will line up with his inside foot up with a toe to instep
relation. If dropping down late into a sky alignment, work to get your body into this position.
A thorough knowledge of field markings and the relationship of these markings to the ball and/or
receivers is important in terms of gaining an advantage in allowing you to be successful in your
run/pass responsibilities. Master a complete understanding of the playing field and its markings
and you will gain great insight into offensive strategy.

THE BACK PEDAL

1.

General
The basic technique you must master in order to be a great defensive back is the
back pedal. Your ability to back pedal with maximum speed, break to the
football, and play to the interception point is essential for you to play in our
secondary. The objective of the back pedal is to be able to stay in the back pedal
and maintain proper cushion on the receiver for as long as possible. Once you
turn and get out of your back pedal you have become less effective to any play in
front of you However, if you dont get out of your back pedal at the proper time
the receiver could run right by you. Therefore, the development of speed in your
back pedal is essential to arriving at this balance. You must realize that the
receiver running forward is going faster than you are backwards. Separation
between the defensive back and the receiver (cushion) closes as both men move
vertically down the field. How quickly the cushion closes is a result of three
things. Namely, the receivers speed, the speed of the back pedal, and the initial
alignment off the receiver. If the cushion does close to less than four yards you
must then turn and run. This normally occurs at about 12-16 yards down the field
on a normal Off alignment from the receiver. The receiver usually will have to
indicate the route he is running by this depth. If the cushion closes prematurely it
will force the defensive back to turn and, therefore, he will be less effective in
reacting to the play in front of him. Proper knowledge of cushion principles are
essential to have consistent defensive back play.

2.

Mechanics of the Back Pedal

The Back Pedal is a series of short backward push steps that are from 8-12 inches
in length. The feet are not lifted more than two or three inches from the surface
(barely grazing the grass). It is performed on the balls of the feet with the knees
slightly bent, upper body relaxed and upper body leaning slightly forward and
weight balanced with chin over the toes. The idea is that if the feet are never far
off the ground, you can react faster when you have to. It is extremely important
to work your arms in the same manner as when running forward. Work your
hands from the chin to the hips and keep elbows in close to your rib cage. Relax
the arms and shoulders and avoid swinging the arms across the body.

3.

Elements of Good Back Pedal

A.

Start: (Weight evenly distributed slightly forward on inside portion of

the balls of the feet.)
1.
2.
3.

Weight on front foot. Inside portion of the balls of the foot.

Push off front foot. Avoid false steps.
Step with back foot. Short step. Get 2nd step on the ground as
soon as possible.

B.

Pedal:
1.
Narrow base. Feet are almost together in back pedal.
2.
Weight slightly forward. Chin in front of hips.
3.
Upper body relaxed move your arms in a normal relaxed fashion.
Keep elbows in, thumbs up to eliminate side to side movement of
shoulders.
4.
Short quick steps reach back with each step and pull your body over your feet. Push off the front foot hard.
5.
Do not open the hips and run until receiver has closed cushion to
3-4 yards.
6.
Visualize ankles rubbing together. Narrow width of stride and
with the cleats on your shoes cutting thru the grass.
7.
Keep shoulders at the level that you started from. Do not raise
shoulders until you are committed to running deep.
8.
Eyes must be on the target which is the receiver that you are
covering with your eyes focused on his belt buckle.
Important: Do no look at his head, shoulders or eyes.

C.

Weave:
1.
Maintain relative alignment on receivers, either inside or outside
leverage.
2.
Adjust back pedal to the release of receiver.
3.
Weave outside on outside release. If he releases straight up the
field, then no weave.
4.
Weave inside on inside release.
5.
It is difficult to weave for more than 1-2 good steps in the
directions that you want to weave. Accomplish this by keeping
your body square to the L.O.S. and stepping out and back with the
near foot in the direction of the weave.

D.

Plant and Drive: (Know the angle you must take.)

1.
Lower the center of gravity. Watch for receiver lowering his hips
and dropping his hands.
2.
Get yourself under control.
3.
Plant off foot opposite of the direction of your break. Step with
near foot in the direction of your drive. Get that foot on ground
quickly short step.
4.
Body lean and drive as you come out. Get 2nd step on ground as
quickly as possible.
5.
Always use shoulders and arms to assist you in changing direction.
6.
First two steps coming out of plant should be short and as quick as
possible. (Tap-tap technique)
7.
Be certain to see the receivers thru the breaking point of the route
(3-4 steps). Important: Do not look back at QB until you have
come out of your break, and have seen the receiver thru the
breaking point of his route (his 1st 3-4 steps).

PRESS MAN TO MAN TECHNIQUES

1.

PRESS-SHORT PRESSURE TECHNIQUE

Alignment: Inside Technique, 2-3 yards deep, from wide receiver. Have enough inside
leverage so as not to allow an inside release without attacking it with a two-handed jam.
Stance: Parallel stance feet shoulder width, weight on inside part of the balls of your
feet. Arms relaxed in front of you, with your hands up.
Key: 100% eyes on the wide receiver, with total focus on his belt buckle. Important: Do
Not Look at the Receivers Head, Eyes, or Shoulders.
Reaction on Snap:
* Slight shuffle back with your feet this is just to get your feet moving.
* If receiver releases inside attack him step up and inside (not parallel to L.O.S.) with
your inside foot cut off the receivers inside move, get a two-handed jam be physical
with your head inside of the receiver. Work to flatten out the receiver down the L.O.S.
attempt to keep your body square to L.O.S.
* If receiver releases outside shuffle slightly outside, but do not turn hips or shoulders
to outside, until you are sure that it is an outside release. At that point, drop your outside
hand, open hips and shoulders down field, take an angle to close to the receiver and use
an off-hand jam to his near arm just above the elbow. Attempt to knock receiver offstride. You want to come out with your outside shoulder slightly ahead of the receivers
inside shoulders. At this point, your focus is 100%n on the receiver. Sense if he is
coming under control to break off a route. If you sense that he is in phase for a GoRoute (9-Cut), close to his inside hip and be prepared to run deep. When the receiver
looks for the ball you look for the ball and become the receiver make a play on the
ball.
* If the receiver takes 1-3 steps outside stay square with your hips and shoulders. If at
that point he plants and drives back to inside, attack and jam this move. Step up and to
the inside, get two-handed jam with your head inside of his body. Work to flatten the
receiver out down the L.O.S.
* If the receiver release straight down the field, you want to quickly settle your feet and
deliver a two-handed jam, maintaining inside leverage. Keep your shoulders down, hips
low and be strong with your jam. If he tries to work to inside of the jam, flatten his
release out down the L.O.S. If he works off jam to the outside, maintain the jam as long
as possible. As he works off to the outside, drop the outside hand, open your hips, turn
shoulders down field and react as you would versus an outside release.

2.

PRESS-LONG PRESSURE TECHNIQUE

Alignment: Inside Technique, 2-3 yards deep from wide receiver. Same as in short
pressure technique.
Stance: Parallel Stance Feet shoulder width, weight on the inside part of the balls of
your feet. Arms relaxed in front of you. Same as in Short Pressure Technique.
Key: 100% eyes on the wide receiver with total focus on his belt buckle. Important: Do
Not Look at the Receivers Head, Eyes, or Shoulders. Same as in Short Pressure
Technique.
Reaction on Snap: Shuffle your feet back several short steps, creating some separation
between you and the receiver. When doing this keep your shoulders down and square to
the L.O.S. Keep eyes focused on target and get ready to take a cut-off angle to the
receivers release. Maintain inside leverage on any inside release, working to get a twohanded jam, and closing to get off-hand jam to outside release.

Important Note: This is an effective change up to the receiver who likes to use a 2-3 step outside
push and then plant and drive to your inside. The separation will allow you to maintain your
inside technique. Effective also versus receiver who gives you a 1-2 step inside release to set
your feet, then releases hard outside on a fade or go route.
3.

PRESS-QUICK JAM TECHNIQUE: (Note: Most effective versus a receiver who is

aligned on the L.O.S., and who tries to use a quick jump step to get head up with you.
Alignment: Inside alignment and crowd the L.O.S. as much as possible. Do Not Align
Off-sides!! Look inside at the ball in insure this.
Stance: Parallel stance same as Short-Long Pressure.
Key: 100% eyes on the wide receiver. Same as Short-Long Pressure.
Reaction on the Snap: Step up field with your inside foot, and attack the receiver with
both hands, maintaining inside leverage head inside of receiver, and your hips and
shoulders down under control and parallel to L.O.S. Without jumping out of control
be physical with your jam. As soon as you accomplish the jam shuffle back under
control to regain a slight separation with inside leverage then react to his release using
techniques described in Short Pressure.

4.

STEP AND SLIDE TECHNIQUE: Used in Cover 8 Trail Coverage and inside the 5
yard line, where you want to end up in a slight trail technique.
Alignment: Inside alignment from crowding the L.O.S. to 3 yards off the ball.
Stance: Parallel to the L.O.S.

Key: 100% eyes on the receiver.

Reaction on the Snap: React to receivers movement. No false steps or false movement.
React to what you see. If receiver attempts to release inside of you attack him by
stepping with your inside foot, get 2 hand jam, your head inside of his, flatten him out,
down the L.O.S. and play him man to man all over the field. If receiver attempts to
release down field or to the outside, allow him to take one step before you react. This
allows you to protect your inside if he takes one step and tries to come back underneath
you. As the receiver takes him 2nd 3rd steps - begin to shuffle slid to him keeping
hips/shoulders parallel to L.O.S. to protect inside move. As he gets into 3rd step open
hips to outside, use off-hand jam and fall to an inside-trail technique.
Inside Trail Technique: Trail receiver underneath, but where you can still touch him with
your outside arm extended. Align your outside shoulder on his inside shoulder. Focus
your eyes on his belt buckle. Do Not Look at His Head and Shoulders. From here you
will undercut all inside and outside routes by the receiver.
Trail Technique versus Outside Routes: As the receivers hips begin to drop and turn to
the outside, begin to come under control, and keep underneath cushion. When he breaks
to the outside you break to the outside, but keep eyes on the receiver thru the breaking
point of the route (3-4 steps). You want to always remain between the receiver and the
ball (QB). As you see the receiver thru the breaking point of the route, get your head and
eyes around quickly to locate the ball and bring hands up make play on the ball. Allow
the route to turn your body to the inside.
Trail Technique vs. Inside Routes: Same as the Outside Routes, except you are working
your body, head, eyes, and hands to the inside. You cannot allow the receiver to get
inside technique on you. Protect the inside of our defense. Allow the route to turn your
body to the inside.
Trail Technique vs. Deep Routes: You must feel that the receiver is going deep. His hips
will be up, body lean downfield, arms pumping, and legs in full stride. Know breaking
points of his short and intermediate routes. As he passes those points, accelerate to
maximum speed and attempt to catch up to his inside hip. As his head and eyes turn back
to locate the ball, your head and eyes must do the same. Again, maintain inside leverage.
Protect the inside of our defense.
5.

CORNERS ONLY. OUTSIDE PRESS MAN TECHNIQUE (USED IN COVER 10 IN

THE RED ZONE)
Alignment: Outside Technique, 2-3 yards deep from the wide receiver.
Stance: Parallel stance Feet shoulder width, weight on the inside part of the balls of
your feet. Arms relaxed in front of you.

Key: 100% eyes on the wide receiver, with total focus on his belt buckle. Important: Do
Not Look at the Receivers Head, Eyes or Shoulders.
Reaction on the Snap: Quick shuffle back of your feet. This is just to get your feet
moving.
* If Receiver Releases Outside, attack him, step up and outside with your outside foot
(not parallel to the L.O.S.). Cut off the receivers outside move, get a two-handed jam, be
physical, with your head outside of the receiver. Work to flatten out the receiver down
the L.O.S. As receiver begins to work up-field, open back to the inside and play receiver
man to man. Alert for fade/stop with ball being thrown outside of the receiver and
underneath.
* If Receiver Releases Inside of your Jam, squeeze hard from the outside, to the slant
route, work to strip the outside arm from the ball. To any other inside route, squeeze hard
from the outside and undercut any inside route. Hold outside position if the #1 receiver
works back to the outside.
* If Receiver runs Shallow Cross Route: If receiver pushes up into you, you must cover
him as he pushes off you. If he runs away from corner on the snap, make an Under,
Under call to #2 defender, then sink looking to the inside for the #2 receiver running a 7cut, maintaining outside leverage on the #2 receiver.
6.

OFF MAN TO MAN TECHNIQUE (OPEN FIELD)

Alignment: Inside technique, outside foot up, shoulders parallel to the L.O.S. at a depth
of 7-9 yards from the receiver (not the L.O.S.).
Stance: Parallel to the L.O.S., outside foot slightly up, slight bend at the ankles, knees,
and hip, and feet close together narrow stance shoulders should be down with your
chin in front of your hips. Arms hanging relaxed at your side.
Key: Key QB for 3-step drop. No 3-step drop, immediately get your eyes back on the
receiver, focusing on his belt buckle.
Reaction to a 3-Step Read: As the ball is snapped, come out with a slow, low back pedal,
seeing the QB. As you read his 3rd step and his plant of his back foot, you want to plant
the next foot that hits the ground, quickly get your eyes on the wide receiver and drive up
field to the route that you see.
* Versus Quick Slant: Drive and close to his up field shoulder and inside of this route.
* Versus Quick Hitch: Drive and close to receiver, taking an angle that will not allow
him to catch the ball and turn up field to the outside. We must turn this route to the
inside and to our inside-out pursuit.

* Versus Quick Out: Must close to the down field shoulder to prevent receiver from
catching ball and turning down field. Can never break under any out route, unless you
have the two handed interception. We must always tackle any out route with our head
going across the receivers body. This allows us to be strong with both arms in the tackle.
Important Note: When reacting to any 3-step route, we must close to the receiver and see him
thru the breaking point of the route. If we look back at the QB too soon, we will never see the
Slant/Go, the Hitch/Go, or the Quick Out/Go. By seeing the receiver thru the breaking point of
the route, we will see the Go portion of the route, and allow us to react properly to it, by
turning down field, or jamming the receiver as he turns downfield.
Reaction to 5-Step and 7-Step Drop by QB: As soon as the QB drops beyond a 3-step
drop, you want to get eyes on the wide receiver immediately. Focus your eyes on his belt
buckle. Accelerate the speed of you back pedal trying to maintain a 4-yard cushion
between yourself and the receiver. You need to immediately recognize his release point
(inside or outside of his original alignment), and weave your back pedal accordingly to
keep your proper leverage on the receiver. If the receiver breaks a route in front of you,
plant the foot opposite of where you are breaking, see the receiver thru the breaking point
of the route as you drive to the receivers downfield shoulder. If receiver closes cushion
inside of 4 yards, open your hips downfield. Turn to the receiver, close to his downfield
shoulder and react to his route. If the receiver gets inside your alignment, play his route
from outside-in. Do not try to regain inside leverage.
OFF CATCH TECHNIQUE RED ZONE: (Inside 15-yard line) In playing a Catch
technique, we will align with inside leverage, and at a depth of 4-5 yards. On the snap, use a
slow-controlled back pedal, allowing the receiver to close the cushion, at which point you want
to use a two-handed catch of the receiver. As you catch (jam) the receiver, maintain inside
leverage on the receiver. It is important that you disrupt the route, re-route the receiver and be in
position to react to the receiver as he adjusts to your jam. From this point, you must cover the
route that develops, maintaining a downfield and inside position on the receiver.
Note: You can play an outside Catch technique the same as the inside catch, just reverse the
techniques to an outside alignment.

1.

COACHING TIPS FOR PASS DEFENSE

Dont ever leave the huddle without knowing the coverage called. If no huddle, read
coaches signal, communicate it to each other.

2.

Prepare for the pass on every play. Never be surprised by the pass. Believe in your
run/pass keys. A man surprised is in big trouble!

3.

Diagnose run or pass as soon as possible by focusing on your primary key.

4.

Intercept all passes at the highest point.

5.

Break to the ball when it is thrown. Aggressively attack the ball in the air.

6.

Know the game situation (score, down and distance, time).

7.

Always work drills at full speed. Never do any drill with slow feet.

8.

Never get knocked off your feet. If you get knocked down, get up immediately.

9.

Play through Receiver when going for the ball.

10.

In filling vs. run, stay square to L.O.S. If containing the run, protect you outside leg.

11.

Knock passes down when you cannot intercept them.

12.

Never align closer than 6 yards to the sideline. This is our 6 yard rule.

13.

Always make breaks under control seeing the ball.

14.

When in doubt, get depth.

15.

Never come up in pass situations unless the QB is across the L.O.S. with the ball. If in
doubt, stay in coverage.

16.

We must disguise our coverages. Understand our basic alignments. Do not give the QB
a pre-snap read of the coverage being played.

17.

In man coverage always protect your technique side. With inside alignment, hold inside
position on post, and maintain depth on takeoff. With outside technique hold outside
technique on the corner route and maintain depth on the takeoff.

18.

Collision Receivers when you are beat deep and always when the ball is inside your 30
yard line.

19.

When using Press, vary your alignment as receiver lines up. Move to press after receiver
aligns. Vary your pre-snap alignment. Dont allow offense to read your coverage
technique based on your pre-snap alignment.

20.

Never allow receiver to work you head up in Man Coverage.

21.

Always keep proper leverage on the ball in run situations.

22.

Versus a scrambling QB:

A.
If in Man/Man coverage: Stick your man alert for your man working to the side
of the QB, or turning and running deep.
B.
If in Zone Coverage locate deepest receiver in your zone and stick him. Alert
for him working to side of QB, or turning and running deep.

POSITION ON RECEIVER (VERY IMPORTANT)

A.

When Covering a Receiver Maintain position between the Receiver and the goal line
(unless playing a trail technique).
Never allow a Receiver to get more than one step behind you.
We will always break hard on the ball.

B.

1.

Vertical Position Not closer than 3 yards or further than 5 yards. The cushion
will gradually come down as the Receiver reaches the critical area (12-16 yards).

2.

Lateral Position Keep the Receiver between you and QB (unless playing a Trail
Technique). This is why it is important that you keep your leverage on the
Receiver. (We must be able to weave in our back pedal. Dont let a Receiver
work your head up.) Maintain pre-snap (either inside or outside) leverage
throughout the route. Use weave to accomplish this. If you lose your lateral
leverage, do not attempt to get it back. Stay on that side of the receiver and
squeeze to him.

Going for Thrown Ball

1.

If you have a chance for the interception, shoot his hip and go for the ball with
both hands. (If cushion is broken jam Receiver). Never break underneath a
receiver without being certain that you can get your two hands on the ball.

2.

If you have no chance for the interception, make certain you tear away his
downfield (or back) arm and throw your other arm in front to knock ball down.

3.

If your Receiver is too far away from you to tear away his downfield arm, then
you must make the tackle. (Be under control). Tackle thru the receiver. Make
receiver go where you want him to go. Ex: Out Route, thru the downfield
shoulder.

4.

Fight for the ball. It is your ball. Fight him to the ground. If he goes down for
ball, you go down for ball.

5.

Look the ball right into your hands.

6.

Hit through your Receiver as he catches the ball on short and medium patterns.
Make him conscious of you with good hard hitting. You must knock the ball
loose. Work hard at stripping the ball once you have secured the tackle.

7.

On high pass, play through Receiver, always going for the ball.

C.

8.

On take off routes: When you feel your cushion broken, flip hips according to
coverage. If playing man to man technique, turn to the receiver. If playing zone
coverage open inside to the QB, so that you can see the QB and his throwing
motion.

9.

If playing take-off route in man to man coverage, you must look for the ball when
the receiver turns to look for the ball.

10.

If Receiver has caught the ball and he is in a position to cut, you must come under
control and use your open field tackling technique.

11.

If ball is tipped, look up for it , Eyes to the Sky.

Knock the ball out the of Receivers hand if he has caught it

We will mistreat Receivers. We will intimidate them and make them very aware of us
with our hitting it will pay off.
1.

D.

On short passes, we will work to hit the Receiver as he catches the ball.

Playing 1 Receiver or 2 Receiver side Zone Coverage

When playing on the 2 Receiver side a Corner cannot jump the out, curl or post as hard
because of the threat of #2 coming deep into his zone. When playing the 1 Receiver side,
we will play tighter on the Receiver. You must be aware of Backs coming out.
NOTE: Know what you have to stop.

Playing Off Blocks

We can never get knocked off our feet or stay blocked.
When playing off a block you must take your concentration to the Blocker. See and
defeat the blocker before you look at the ball carrier. Try to feel the ball, as you defeat
the blocker.
A.

Blocker trying to cut you.

We will use the shed and skate technique.
1.

Close distance to Blocker.

2.

If possible we will avoid Blocker by stepping aside or running around.

You must be able to get back on your correct angle with the ball. (This is
a judgment move if ball carrier is 10 yards or further away.)

B.

3.

Get back under control, stay low, and keep shoulders parallel to L.O.S.

4.

Keep inside foot forward when taking on a block. Protect your outside
leg.

5.

You must take all of your concentration to the Blocker.

6.

Put your upfield hand (outside hand) on head gear of Blocker and push it
parallel to the L.O.S. Get your near hand (inside hand) on his ribcage.
Shock blocker with hard jam locking your elbows. Push the blocker
away and down.

7.

At the same moment you are pushing the Blockers head gear parallel, you
must skate to keep your outside leg free. Dont be afraid to give ground
when coming off block, then work to re-gain that distance once you have
defeated block.

Blocker using stalk technique

1.

Close distance to Blocker.

2.

If ball carrier is closer than 10 yards, take all of your concentration to

Blocker, get hands on Blocker so he cannot get into your body. Control
him and constrict the running alley. Roll your elbow in, shoot your hands
under his shoulder pads, and inside the framework of your body. Grab
with both hands, throw blocker opposite ball carrier. Keep your head to
the leverage side of the blocker.

3.

When ball carrier commits himself, shed the blocker to the inside and
make the tackle. When taking on Blockers it is very important to keep
your proper angle on the ball and keep your outside arm and leg free.
Remember, preventing the long run is just as important as preventing the
long pass.

PRINCIPLES OF ZONE COVERAGE

1.

We will key the QBs body for the direction of the throw, and the beginning of the QBs
throwing position.

2.

We want to break to the ball on the very beginning of the QBs throwing motion.

3.

The QBs front shoulder and his feet will indicate the side of the field that he is throwing
to. We cannot see his feet, but we must see his front shoulder. Focus on the front
shoulder, not the QBs head and eyes. Dont allow QB to move you with his head or
eyes. See the front shoulder and the front hand on the ball.

4.

The QBs front hand will indicate the start of the throwing motion. When the front hand
comes off the ball, we will break to the direction of the throw.

5.

It is the combination of the direction the QBs front shoulder and the front hand coming
off the ball that triggers us to break to the ball.

6.

By seeing the front shoulder we will also get an indication of a short/intermediate throw
or a deep ball.

7.

If the front shoulder is down, it will be a short or intermediate route.

8.

If the front shoulder is up, we will also get a long arm action, and the deep route.

9.

We will also subscribe to the short throw, long throw theory. The ball is in the air for a
longer time as the distance of the throw increases.

10.

The longer the ball is in the air the farther we can break to the ball. Therefore, we must
break on the start of the QBs throwing motion.

11.

Since we will believe in this theory, we must defend the shorter throw, forcing the QB to
make the longer throws.

12.

Therefore, if we are playing any zone-short, intermediate, or deep zone, we will defend
the shorter throws in those zone. If we have receivers at the extreme edges of a zone, we
will off-set our drops toward the inside of those zones there by defending that zone
from the short throw to the long throw. This principle is applied in all zone short,
intermediate or deep.

Important: Where the ball is located on the field in relation to the hash mark greatly effects the
distance that the ball must travel to get to the zones on the field.
Example: With the ball on the hash mark, the zones into the boundary are much shorter throws,
than throws to the same zones to the wide side of the field. Therefore, we must slide our zone
drops toward the boundary 2-3 yards, with the boundary corner using his 6 yard rule.

COVERAGE TECHNIQUE
DEEP 1/3 TECHNIQUE
I.

Stance - Normal

II.

Alignment 1.

Outside 1/3 Tight Formation 7-9 yards deep and aligned from outside
shoulder of tight end to 1 yard outside of tight end.
Outside 1/3 Wide Formation 7-9 yards deep, inside or outside shoulder of the
wide receiver, depending on the split of the receiver and the type of 3 deep
coverage being played.

2.

III.

IV.

Middle 1/3 Will align 10-12 yards deep splitting the distance between the two
corners. (You must be able to play the post route to either side). Alignments of
corners could push safety to one side or the other.

NOTE:

Safety can align 12-15 yards in definite passing situations.

NOTE:

Our alignment will be dependent upon the Receivers split for the most
part. A normal split is approximately 17 yards from the ball. It is
approximately 14 yards between the hash marks, and approximately 17
yards from the middle of the field to halfway between the hash marks and
boundary. Once splits go past normal, we will begin to move inside the
Receiver. Corners will never align closer than 6 yards to sideline (6 yard
sideline rule).

Keys
1.

Corners Key thru end man on the L.O.S. to the QB and the backfield triangle.
Use peripheral vision on receivers.

2.

Safety QB using peripheral vision on Receivers. Uncovered offensive lineman.

Key thru uncovered offensive lineman to the QB use peripheral vision on
Receivers.

Pass Reaction
1.

Corners Deep outside 1/3 to your side

2.

Safety Deep middle 1/3

V.

VI.

Run Reaction
1.

Outside - Always fill outside-in to the football. Secondary contain.

2.

Middle 1/3 Always fill inside out to football.

Techniques
1.

Outside 1/3 You will begin back peddling on the snap of the ball making your
first 3 steps short, as you are reading pass or run. Your cushion should reduce 3-5
yards as you reach the critical area (12-16 yards). You must always keep
receivers in your zone in front of you. Always be aware of receivers in your zone
or coming into it. You must be aware, if you are on the 2 Receiver side, of
applying the short-long throw principle if 2 receivers come into your zone. Stay
square to the L.O.S. Always attack runs from the outside in. Be aware of
Halfback passes. On run away from you take a pursuit angle so that you can
make the play if the ball cuts back.

2.

Middle 1/3 You will mirror the QB and step with him. If ball is on line you
slide with the QB until he is one step past the dive back then attack inside out on
the ball. If DBP or pull up pass, take a mirror step with the QB and drop straight
back working to side of front shoulder of QB. Break on start of throwing motion.
If sprint out pass you will begin to work towards the side the QB is sprinting.
Once he passes the Tackle box, maintain an inside out position on QB. You must
keep everything in front of you and be aware what both Wide-Outs are doing.
Always be deep enough to be on a collision course with any post route.

OUTSIDE THIRD BAIL

I.

Stance Normal

II.

Alignment Inside foot on WRs outside foot, 2-3 yards deep (Press).

III.

Key QB to WR to #2 Receiver. Key belt buckle.

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique

Run Second contain

Pass Deep outside third

Step back with inside foot and bail out getting depth and width.
Key 3 step drop
See release of #2 receiver
Weave
Expect WRs pass pattern to be a Cover 2 (Hard) route as he was
expecting you to be funneling (fade, post corner, skinny post, etc.)

HARD TECHNIQUE
I.

Stance -

Normal with feet parallel.

II.

Alignment -

Wide Formation 3-7 yards deep, outside shoulder of #1 receiver.

Tight Formation 3-7 yards deep, 2 yards outside #1 receiver.

NOTE: Never closer than 6 yards to the sideline.

III.

Key -

End man on the L.O.S. to the QB/Backfield triangle. Use peripheral

vision on the receivers.

IV.

Pass Reaction Outside flat, from widest Receiver to sideline, unless threatened by #2
receiver from L.O.S. Take care of deepest route in your zone first.

V.

Run Reaction Primary contain. Pitch on option. Be aggressive.

VI.

Techniques Regular technique on snap of ball. Squat, reading end man on L.O.S. to the QB.
If ball is on line, step to Receiver and come hard for pitch. If ball is off line, slide
with Receiver to get re-route on him to alter his route. Collision, or re-route WR
and then continue to gain depth looking for the #2 Receiver. If #2 threatens your
zone, read QB and break on ball. If there is no #2 receiver threat, you will
continue to gain depth. If Receiver gets outside release, collision or re-route, turn
hips inside looking at #2 Receiver and QB. You may take a chance when playing
this technique. Break on QBs long arm motion.

SOFT TECHNIQUE
I.

Technique Pass -

On the snap slow out at a 45 degree angle. We must deny the

outside release by the wide receiver.

II.

Outside Release -

Slow out at a 45 degree angle or greater if the receiver widens

excessively. Key #2. A) If #2 runs a quick flat route, cushion #1
until the safety can overlap or the QBs to the flat. B) If #2 runs a
deeper out cut, play the same way as the flat route. C) If #2 runs a
vertical, we will turn and run with #1.

III.

Inside Release -

Slow out at a 45 degree angle. Once the receiver declares insider

release, backpedal to the hole. You are responsible for the postcorner. A) Cushion the hole, see the corner route by #1 break on
#2 or #3 in flat when QBs shoulders turn to flat. B) Cushion
hole, see #1 turn in, break on flat. C) If #1 turns in with no flat
route, stay with #1, and undercut the inside route.

DEEP TECHNIQUE
I.

Stance -

Normal with inside feet up.

II.

Alignment -

Base 4 across look.

III.

Key -

Key thru end man on L.O.S. to the QB to the #1 receiver to your side.

IV.

Pass Reaction-Deep zone to your side.

V.

Run Reaction
Ball To Read ball to #1 Receiver
Fill to ball at proper angle
Be aware for Halfback pass.

VI.

Ball Away
Inside out force on football

Technique
Execute your keys: If you get run read key from ball to the #1 receiver. If he blocks
corner fill the alley inside-out. If #1 releases on run read, you must cover him M/M.
Vs. pass you are a deep in player. Get drop to 2-3 yards outside of hash. Must know if
#2 receiver is a deep threat down the middle chute.
If you two vertical threats from #1 and #2 receivers to you side, you must play deep
zone drop (2-3 yds. outside hash) and break on the start of the QBs throwing motion. If
#2 receiver is not a vertical threat, check backside #2 threat. If no middle threat, you can
cheat to #1 receiver. Always keep inside position on any route by #1 receiver. If you
turn shoulders to outside, and the ball is thrown back to the inside, use a speed turn (roll
turn). Versus trips away from you, you must know if there is a deep middle threat from
#3 or #2 to the trips side. If we get full sprint out pass, we need to rotate the coverage to
a 3 deep zone. Rotate the safeties and back side corner, keeping tempo on the width of
the QB.
We must stop the FADE and any route down the middle chute. If you get a deep threat
from the #1 and #2 receivers, attempt to stay in back pedal and break on start of QBs
throwing motion. Our corners must get a jam and flatten out the fade route and run with
the fade, if #2 receiver is not a threat to the flat.

PRESS FUNNEL TECHNIQUE (TIGHT HARD TECHNIQUE)

This is a funnel or squat from a press alignment.
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Your inside eye on his outside eye, as close to wide out as line of
scrimmage will allow. Take a settle step with outside foot on the snap for
further width.

III.

Key -

Wide receiver to ball.

IV.

Responsibility-Run Contain. Pitch on all option.

Pass Hole to flat.

V.

Technique -

Run

We will attack the receiver on the snap, working laterally and jamming hard. If he
attacks us it is run.
Deliver a blow eyes through the sternum, punch both hand s through the sternum and
ribcage area of the receiver. Get both hands inside the receivers arms and lock out arms
and control him with hands positioned inside the receivers arms and your shoulder pads
under his shoulder pads. Keep your shoulders square to L.O.S. The man with his hands
inside and his pads lower will win.
Drive him back across L.O.S. and/or into alley.
Come off to inside or outside (outside if short split), but close down the alley!
We must own the receiver.
Come inside if he keeps his shoulders square and you have control (throw him to
outside). Also, if it is a big split, make a great attempt to beat him inside.
Same responsibilities as 2 level technique vs. option.
a.
b.
VI.

Technique Pass

Crack and Flare attack lead back pitch

Crack and load QB
Jam receiver as far inside as you can. Once the receiver clears,
open inside, and turn and run to hole. Key #2s pattern to tell you
what #1 will do and to see if your contain is threatened.

Pass vs. Inside Release of #1 Receiver Know the split of #1 receiver from #2 receiver.
Jam receiver and re-route the receiver inside immediately pick up #2 release. Cant
allow #2 receiver to release across your face. No threat of #2, ride #1 to inside, then open
to inside and sink to hole, and play throw of QB.
Pass vs. Outside Release of #1 Receiver Must get 2 hand jam and flatten receiver down
L.O.S., not allowing an outside release without forcing receiver to flatten out. As
receiver turns downfield, open back to inside, sprinting to get depth in hole. Pick up
route of #2 receiver, and play QB start of throwing motion.
KICK TECHNIQUE CORNERS
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Outside foot on the receivers inside foot (slightly inside) and from 2-6
yards deep.

III.

Key -

Thru the end man on the L.O.S. to the QB and backfield triangle
peripheral vision the Wide Receiver.

IV.

Responsibility-Contain vs. all runs. Pitch on all options.

Flat responsibility vs. the pass.

V.

Technique -

Run Play the run hard. Your first thought is to beat the wide receiver to
the inside on the snap. If he blocks you, stay inside and push up field into
the alley. If playing off and receiver cuts you off, play back thru his
outside pad.
We will still attack the receiver with hands inside, lock out arms, pads
under his pad except with inside leverage. The safety will play off of
you.
Same responsibilities vs. the option

VI.

Pass
You have flat responsibility. This should be our best coverage against any high-low pass
route combination involving the split end.
A.

Force the wide receiver to release outside thereby taking away any inside
routes or any effectiveness of inside routes.

B.

We want to give them a fade release into a deep third safety who is
expecting the fade. We also want you to play the run hard. You do not
have to honor the fade release.

C.

After jamming the receiver to the outside, turn to the inside getting depth
to 8 to 10 yards. Look for #2 receiver coming into the flat, or the #2
receiver running a 7 cut (Corner route).

D.

We are responsible for the flat route, but must drop to 8-10 yards to cover
the hole route, forcing the #1 receiver to run the fade route deeper into our
safety rolling over the top.

1/2 1/3 TECHNIQUE CORNERS

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

2 yards inside, 10 yards deep

III.

Key -

Ball to wide receiver to #2 receiver not threat from #2 receiver to your

side, look for #3-#2 receiver from the strong side for any deep, middle
route.

IV.

Responsibilities 2nd Contain vs. Run

Deep half field

V.

Technique -

Run Same Outside 1/3 Technique

Pass A looser version of Outside Third technique. This is not a true
halves technique. You must stop the post cut by the #1 receiver and be
able to overlap a deep ball thrown down the middle of the field.
You will have trouble stopping an out cut or a post corner. If we have a
short split, we may check to Cover 2 of the game play dictates.

TRAIL PRESS TECHNIQUE CORNERS

I.

Stance -

Parallel feet, forward body lean, rounded shoulders, with arms in read
position. Weight on the inside of the balls of your feet. Use Step-Slide,
man to man technique.

II.

Alignment -

Outside eye on receivers inside eye. Press alignment vs. receiver.

III.

Key -

Receiver to ball.

IV.

Responsibilities -

Run If the wide receiver attempts to block you, contain, pitch on

all options. If receiver release, it is late safety support.
Pass Jam receiver, force outside release, and trail
Outside Release
Inside Release
Step-Slide Technique
Step-Slide Technique

Trails from 1 yard inside the receiver and 1 yard behind the receiver. Honor all inside
fakes. You must take away inside routes you have no inside help. Accelerate
underneath all inside and outside routes. Do not look for the ball immediately after the
receiver breaks. First, accelerate to a position underneath the receiver and in a line
between the QB and the receiver. See the blur of the ball at the last second. Dont look
inside to the ball, keep your eyes on WR. Allow the receivers route to pull your body
around to see the ball. As you come around, get your head around and your hands up.
You have deep safety help.
TRAIL TECHNIQUE VS. A #2 RECEIVER
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

1 yard inside #2, 4 yards deep

III.

Key -

Ball to #2 receiver

IV.

Responsibility -

Run If the receiver blocks you, Alley, QB on options. If receiver

releases it is late safety support.
Pass Trail #2
Look inside for a quick ball on or off read of the QB. Get your eyes back to WR and
funnel him out. Trail him at arms length behind and to the inside of the WR. Cover him
forever.
Expect an outside fake, but protect the inside. Honor all inside fakes.
a.

Inside routes you have no inside help so keep you inside cushion. Over
play the inside and expect inside routes, especially the square in. You
cannot let the receiver beat you across the field.

b.

Outside routes the routes to the outside are the hardest to throw. We
must honor all inside fakes. With any outside route you must accelerate
underneath.

KICK TECHNIQUE SAFETY

This is a deep third technique with the corner forcing the wide receiver to the outside. Expect
the FADE. You must also take away the POST CORNER, OUT CUT, AND DEEP GO
ROUTE.
1.

STAY DEEPER THAN THE DEEPEST

2.

DONT GET BEAT DEEP (Post Corner and fade)

3.

TAKE AWAY THE SPLIT END (Out, Post Corner, and Streak)

4.

YOU ARE A DEEP LINEBACKER! Be tougher versus weak side runs.

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Split the difference between #1 and #2 receivers, 10 yards deep. 2-3 yards
outside the hash.

III.

Key -

Ball to wide receiver to #2

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

VI.

Run Technique

Same as Halves technique, but expect the corner to be caved down

inside more often with the ball coming outside. Fill off of the
corners technique.

VII.

Pass Technique

You will get less help underneath from the corner so you must take
away the OUT, POST CORNER, and FADE.

Deep third. 2nd contain vs. run.

Run lateral steps out towards the WR.

You must take away the quick fade and the deep fade. Key the
quarterbacks 3 step drop to let you make the play on the quick
post.
You must get a 2 yard outside cushion on an inside release as well
as your 4 yard cushion for depth. Middle Safety has the post cut.
From here you can take away the Fade, Outcut, Post/Corner, and
the Take-off by the #1 receiver.

CREEP TECHNIQUE (SAFETY)

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

2 yards inside of WR, 12 yards deep. On snap work outside of WR for a 2

yard outside cushion

III.

Key -

Ball to Wide Receiver to #2 receiver.

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

2nd Contain
Deep outside third

Run 2nd contain. Attack wide receiver and get a two-way go. Keep your
outside arm free. Replace the corner if he is cracked on. Expect the
crack! Vs. Option (A) if WR cracks on ILB, replace him on QB. If WR
cracks on corner, replace on pitch.
Pass Work laterally on the snap until you have a slight outside cushion.
From there, play it the same as Press Clam technique.

CREEP TECHNIQUE (CORNERS

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

1 yard inside and 2 yards deep move to Clam alignment on snap

III.

Key -

Ball to OT to WR

IV.

Responsibility -

V.

Technique -

Contain, pitch on all options

Run Same as Clam Technique

Pass Same as Clam Technique

CLAM TECHNIQUE
This is a technique used by the weak corner (in the Cover 5 Family). The Weak Corner will play
a Sky technique (Pitch Contain vs. Run) (Curl / Flat vs. Pass). Corner will play from inside
#1 Receiver and outside the #2 Receiver. The Safety will play over top of #1 Receiver.

SKY TECHNIQUE / CLAM CORNER

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Pro Set 4 yards outside the TE and 3 yards deep

3-4 yards outside OT and 3 yards deep to SE side
Twins Set Head up to 1 yard outside the #2 receivers and 4-5 yards deep.

III.

Key -

Ball to #2 receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

Contain on all runs and pitch on all options. Curl to flat versus
passes.

3 ROBBER TECHNIQUE SKY PLAYER

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Pro Set 4 yards outside the TE and 3 yards deep

Twins Set 1 yard outside the #2 WR and 4 yards deep

III.

Key -

Ball on or off to #2 receiver to #1 receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

Contain all runs, pitch on all options. Curl to flat in combination

with the OC and FS.

Run Same as Sky Technique

Pass Read the same keys as Sky Technique
If the #2 runs a flat route jump him with any wheel route.
If #2 runs a seam route, we will take away the out cut just like a Sky
technique. All 2 lane passes we will also drive to the out cut the same as a
Sky technique.

READ TECHNIQUE
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Ball on the hash 3-5 yards outside TE, 9-10 yards deep
Ball in the middle 1-2 yards outside TE, 9-10 yards deep
SS Formation into Boundary 2 yards off hash, 10 yards deep

III.

Key -

Ball on or off to TE

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

2nd Contain
Deep middle third

Run Fill where needed. Key ball on the line to the TEs block.

TE hook block
Fill where needed
Stay 3 yards from
Garbage

TE down block
Contain. DE will
Bounce ball

TE inside cut off

Keep tempo on ball
Fill where needed

Our front is angling to the TE and therefore changes our run support.
TE blocks on DE fill inside B to A Gap
TE blocks down (on DT) fill in C Gap
Option Cover 5 (No Loop)
TE Arc Release
Veer pass to QB

TE Down Bas or Down Block

Pitch

Run Away
Take proper pursuit angles. Dont let ball cut back.
VI.

Pass Play Coverage Responsibility

READ TECHNIQUE VS. SINGLE WIDTH

Read is a technique vs. a single width formation of the formation (i.e. Twins, Power I, 2 TEs,
Tamp).
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

0-2 yards outside TE, 6-8 yards deep

III.

Key -

Ball on or off to TE to RB

IV.

Responsibilities -

Run fill where needed, 2nd contain option (A) TE down block
or base block, pitch (B) TE arc release arc pass to QB.
Pass deep outside third

V.

Technique Run
Fill where needed. (A) Down block by TE the ball will bounce out quick. Contain it.
(B) TE reached or base blocks come up, break down 3 yards from the garbage, and fill
where needed.
Vs. the option: (D) if the TE base blocks pitch. (E) if TE down blocks and RB flares
attack lead blockers inside shoulder then rip through outside shoulder for pitch. You
have help on pitch to inside of flare block. (F) if TE down blocks and RB loads pitch.
READ RUN SUPPORT ALWAYS HAS PITCH. (G) except if TE arcs you have arc
pass, (H) to QB.

VI.

Technique - Pass
We will play a three deep coverage vs. a TE near back (or split back) formation so we
can get FS help to the TE side in the event the RB runs a wheel route deep.
Stay in the deep outside third to take away the wheel route. FS will help with TE down
the middle.
Key TE on all run actions to tip off play action passes.

BUZZ TECHNIQUE TE SAFETY

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

6-8 yards deep, aligned over the C Gap. Disguise until just before the
snap.

III.

Key -

Ball to TE

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

2nd Contain
Robber vs. pass

Run Make Backer call. He has contain, you have second contain.

Key TE. A) TE blocks DE (hook, base, or inside cut-off), fill inside, C Gap or B Gap
to A Gap. B) If TE blocks down on DT fill C Gap. C) Action away fill B Gap
to A Gap.
Pass Key the TE. You will rob routes according to what the TE tells you.
a.
If TE runs a flat route, rob the curl from inside-out.
b.
If TE runs a seam route, take away the seam route from an
outside alignment
c.
If TE runs a deeper dig route, work back out to the flanker
square in.
d.
If TE runs a drag route, rob the square in weak.
BUZZ TECHNIQUE SE
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

8-10 yards deep over backside guard.

III.

Key -

Ball to #3 receiver to #1 receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

Fill where needed inside DE (B to C Gaps)

Robber in backside curl area

Run Give Backer call to LB. He has contain. The inside backer will
usually be blitzing. Come up, break down 3 yards from the garbage, and
fill where needed.
Buzz fill inside LB
Pass Key HB, to tell you who to rob or in which zone to play. If H
option: A) X runs a curl, jump it; B) If X runs an out cut, drive up on
option route; C) If #2 flows strong; D) If he runs a drag route, work to X
Curl.
If #2 runs a vertical (E & F) run with him.

SMOKE TECHNIQUE (STORM)

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Pro Set - Sky Position

Twins Set 2 yards inside #2, 3 yards deep
QBs head movement, ball to backfield

III.

Key -

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

Contain, pitch on all options

Contain rush

Run Turn all runs back to inside, pitch on all options.

Run Away get as deep as ball and chase. Be alert for counter, cutback,
and reverse.
Pass Rush to depth of QB then squeeze the pocket to the QB. Do Not let
the QB scramble out.

COWBOY TECHNIQUE
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

1 yard inside WR, on the L.O.S.

III.

Key -

Head of QB for your initial movement. On snap: Ball to near back to

pulling lineman.

IV.

Responsibility -

V.

Technique -

Contain Rush. Pitch on all options.

On the snap or just before the snap (when the QBs head stops moving
from side to side) move down the L.O.S. and then rush upfield.
Run: Contain all runs. Pitch on all options.
Pass: A) Rush to depth of QB then squeeze the pocket, or B) get around
blocker to QB; C) If the blockers picks you up and you cannot squeeze the
pocket into the QB continue past the depth of the QB and spin back
towards the L.O.S. and back inside.

COWBOY OR STORM VS. SINGLE WIDTH FORMATION

I.

Stance -

Normal, with outside foot up

II.

Alignment -

1 yard outside Te, 2-3 yards deep

III.

Key -

1.
2.

3.
IV.

Responsibility -

TE
Pulling Lineman
a.
Backside wrong arm
b.
Front side contain
Near back
Run Penetrate and wrong arm all off tackle plays, tackle inside
runs, but contain the sweep.
Pass Contain rush. Contain 2 lane pass.

V.

Technique -

Run The Cowboy or Smoke is a blitz designed to attack the run and then
adapt itself to the pass. It is excellent against the sweep.
Attack at the hip of the TE. On runs the TE will block down on
the DE who is shaded inside and is moving into the C Gap
aggressively, so the TE will be stepping down adjust
accordingly.
Come flat off of the butt of the TE and now read the pulling
lineman.
a.
b.

If the backside lineman is pulling down the line, wrong arm

him, ignore the backfield action.
If the frontside lineman is pulling, get contain immediately.
It is sweep (or boot). A frontside pulling lineman will
appear immediately.

Contain outside the FBs block

If the TE blocks down and no pulling lineman shows key the back
field.
c.
d.
e.

If the fullback kicks out, wrong arm him.

If the fullback is into the line, make the play as tight to the
line as possible.
If the TE fan blocks on you keep contain, dont cross the
face.
Pass The Cowboy/Smoke is excellent vs. sprint out pass.

Contain all passes. You will see the TE release.

f.
g.

If it is drop back work for the depth of the QB, then close
on him.
If it is sprint out work for width and then get upfield for
contain.

If TE blocks:
h.
i.

and far lineman pulls for width the depth, get contain it is
bootleg.
Another bootleg action is near lineman pulls for depth get
width and then contain.

SEAM TECHNIQUE (HOT OF A WR)

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

1 yard inside, 3-5 yards deep (or by disguise)

III.

Key -

Ball on or off to #2 receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

Jam and inhibit the seam route through the alley by #2, then work
curl to flat responsibility.

Run Contain, pitch on all options.

Pass Jam the #2 receiver out. Prevent easy inside release and seam route
through the alley. If you cannot prevent inside release, work back out to
the flat.
a.
b.
c.
d.

Jam #2, dont let him get down the seam easily. Work out to flat.
Deny easy inside release inhibit seam then work out to #1.
Jam drag route by #3, but dont chase inside. Work back out.
If #2 goes immediately to the flat, take that route away.

MIDDLE 1/3 TECHNIQUE

You must secure the deep middle third. Against the run, YOU ARE A DEEP LINEBACKER.
1.

STAY DEEPER THAN THE DEEPEST MAN ON THE FIELD.

2.

DONT LET A POST BEAT YOU.

3.

FILL WHERE NEEDED ON THE RUN.

4.

YOU ARE A DEEP LINEBACKER Alley player.

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Pro Set over frontside guard 10 yards deep (Split Formation).

Twin Set Over frontside tackle10 yards deep (Split Formation).

III.

Key -

Ball to #2 receiver.

IV.

Responsibility -

V.

Technique Run
Secondary run support (Alley)
Outside Run
Keep tempo on the
ball, dont let it
break inside you.

VI.

Deep middle third.

Inside Run
Keep tempo on the
ball, dont let it
break inside you.

Option
QB to pitch.
Keep tempo on the
ball. Dont let it cut back.

Technique Pass
Sprint Out Seam route by #2 to Post
Dropback Passes Your presence alone in deep center field will deter the
throw to the post. Dont play too deep versus the post, you must be able to break
on the square in a curl and be a physical force.
Dropback - #2 Middle Deep middle third, expect a post cut from the X in a pro
set.
Dropback - #2 Flat Expect a post from #1 strongside or a curl. Key #1 weakside
for post. Stay deeper than the deepest.
Dropback - #2 Drag Expect a post frontside and a square backside. Key QBs
eyes for post. It is hard throw late to the post.

LOAD TECHNIQUE (FRONTSIDE SAFETY) FREE SAFETY

I.

Stance -

Outside foot up. Normal.

II.

Alignment -

1 yard outside, 8 yards deep.

III.

Key -

Ball to #2 to #1 to #3.

IV.

Responsibility -

V.

Technique -

Run Contain
Pass Flat to out to streak (by #2)

Run Same as 4 Sky Technique

Pass a.
If #2 goes to the flat, jump him. If he wheels, he is yours.
b.
if #2 comes vertical check #1 for an under route. If he runs
an under route, take it away.
c.
If #2 runs an under, we will either rob the curl by #1 or an
over route by #2
d.
If #2, #1, and #1 all run verticals, turn and run and play
over the vertical by #2.

LOAD TECHNIQUE (BACKSIDE SAFETY) STRONG SAFETY

I.

Stance -

Normal.

II.

Alignment -

Cheated normal DBL width alignment, 10 yards deep.

III.

Key -

Ball to #3 to #2 to #1.

IV.

Responsibility -

V.

Technique -

Deep middle third, overplay #3

Run Alley fill

Pass a.
If #3 runs a vertical we will play as close to the middle of
the field as we can.
b.
But we will never get more than 4-5 yards away from #3
c.
If #3 runs an under, of (D) a flat route, the FS will lean on
verticals by #2. We will not totally jump #2 because the
CC who is bumping the #1 receiver weak and needs a deep
middle third safety.

MIX TECHNIQUE SAFETIES

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

vs. Twin 9-11 yards deep shade inside or outside of #2 receiver

depending upon the spacing of the #1-#2 receivers.

III.

Keys -

vs. Twin Key QB to #2 receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique - Snap of ball shuffle step key QB to #2. Run to fit off LB. Run away
we have cutback C Gap. Pass it is a read by the safety and the corner of #2. #2
vertical - #1 vertical Safety has #2, Corner has #1. #2 flat it turns into cloud Corner
gets hands on #1 ready to jump flat Safety open hips to work to #1. #2 under cut eyes to
#1. Corner aligns outside shoulder we have to be able to help on post.

Run Mix responsibility

Run to alley inside out on the ball. Fit off of the LB.
Run Away Cut back
Pass Read #2
#2 Vertical Play outside of #2 receiver, and inside #1
receiver. If double inside move by #1 and #2
receiver, play #1 receiver with inside leverage.
#2 Out Work to #1 Take off to post Keep inside
leverage on #1 WR.
#2 Under Work eyes to #1

Coaching Points
Shuffle to a control backpedal. Vertical route backpedal and weave keeping inside leverage.
#2 Flat safety must open hips working to the #1 receivers hip. Open and run. Think Take-off
Post proper angle is essential.
MIX TECHNIQUE CORNERS
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

8-10 deep, outside shade to 1 yard outside the #1 receiver.

III.

Key -

Read QB to #2 Receiver.

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Run - You are secondary contain. Never step forward until you
know it is run. Turn ball carrier inside on all run plays. Vs. bubble
fill outside in. Crack by #1 receiver you must replace safety vs.
run.

Technique - Snap of ball shuffle step key QB to #2. Run to fit off LB. Run
away we have cutback C Gap. Pass it is a read by the safety and the corner of

#2. #2 vertical - #1 vertical Safety has #2, Corner has #1. #2 flat it turns into
cloud Corner gets hands on #1 ready to jump flat Safety open hips to work to
#1. #2 under cut eyes to #1. Corner aligns outside shoulder we have to able to
help on post.
Coaching Points
Shuffle to a control backpedal. Vertical route backpedal and weave keeping inside leverage.
#2 Flat safety must open hips working to the #1 receivers hip. Open and run. Think Take-off
Post proper angle is essential.
MIX TECHNIQUE CORNERS
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

6-8 yards deep from outside shoulder to 1 yard outside #1 WR. Never
closer than 6 yards to sideline.

III.

Key -

Read QB to #2 Receiver

IV.

Responsibilities -

Run - You are secondary contain. Never step forward until you
know it is run. Turn ball carrier inside on all run plays. Vs. bubble
fill outside in. Crack by #1 receiver you must replace safety vs.
run.
Pass - Read receivers release. #2 vertical, corner is man to man
on #1. #2 in the flat, re-route #1 with body and break outside in on
the TE.
Smash Route Give china call to LB on hitch by #1 and sink on
corner route by #2.

SWITCH TECHNIQUE SAFETIES

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

vs. TE-FL 2 yds x 8 yds outside TE

vs. TE-LF (Boundary) 1 yd x 8 yds inside TE
vs. Twins 2 yds x 1 yds inside of #2 WR
vs. Open End Single Receiver 2 yds x 8 yds outside OT
c.p. Note inside or outside position will be determined by split of #2

III.

Keys -

vs. TE Key TE/OT to ball

vs. WR QB to #2

IV.

V.

Responsibilities -

Technique -

vs. Run -

Read run support vs. TE

Run to alley Inside out, fit off the LB
Run Away cutback

vs. Run -

Read run support vs. WR

Run to alley (Inside out off of Backer)
Run away Cutback (C Gap)

Pass -

Based on the route of #2 receiver

#2 Vertical man to man
#2 Inside keep getting depth
#2 Flat Work to #1 Curl-Dig-Post

Snap vs. TE-FL dead foot read understand the defense, so run
responsibility is the tie to it. Pass vs. WR shuffle step key QB action to
#2. Run to fit off LB. Run away cutback C Gap. Vs. WR you will take
him after 10 yards.

Coaching Points
TE blocks reach block down block cut off block pass set our responsibilities will be
tied in together with defense on those blocks.
Technique based on Split of WRs.
SWITCH TECHNIQUE CORNERS
I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Either press man technique, or off man technique. Both are playing with
inside leverage vs. normal split by #1 receiver. If the #1 receiver aligns in
a close alignment, corner will play from an outside alignment.

III.

Key -

QB to #1 WR

IV.

Responsibilities -

Run - You are secondary contain late. Never step up until you
know its a run, then fill where needed. Crack you must
replace safety vs. run.
Pass - #1 receiver man to man. (Note: Could pass off shallow
crossing route depending on technique that you are
playing).

SOLO TECHNIQUE BACKSIDE SAFETY

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Disguise as mix/read to an open end. Use the three yard rule from the
hash, when ball is on the hash.

III.

Key

IV.

Responsibilities-

V.

Techniques - Shuffle read vs. run/pass have to be able to run support weak. Pass use
a catch technique reading #3 to #2 to #1 slow shuffle no threat eyes
back to find work. We will game plan your responsibility to frontside and
backside. Dont be in a hurry.

QB (ball action) #3-#2-#1

Run Run to Alley Support
Pass Read #3 to #2 to #1

SOFT CHECK SAFETIES

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Align between #3 and #2 (closer to #3).

III.

Key -

QB (ball action ) to #3 - #2

IV.

Responsibilities -

V.

Technique -

Run to alley support

Run away cut back
Pass soft quarters reading #3 to #2

Run responsibility is like mix. Pass soft quarter. #3 and #2 vertical get
depth play between them read QB and get depth. If #3 or #2 deviates then
work to the other receiver on deep routes.

SOFT CHECK CORNERS

I.

Stance -

Normal

II.

Alignment -

Between #1 and #2

III.

Key -

QB (ball actions #3 - #2)

IV.

Responsibilities -

Run Secondary Contain

Pass Soft quarters reading #3 - #2