S
C
B
E
B
T
B
T
B
C
E
ALBANY Football Playbook
HIGH
Head Coach Joseph Burke
Table of Contents
Offense
Offensive Philosophy
Things to know
Line Splits and Alignment
Formations
Offensive Techniques by Position
Offensive Plays
Passing Tree
Passing Protection
Running Plays
Runs vs 5-3 attachment
Page
2
3
4-5
6-7
Appendix
8
10
11
34
Defense
Defense
Defense Charts
Page
38
43
Special Teams
Philosophy
Extra Point
Punt
Punt Return
Kickoff
Kickoff Return
Player Name:
59
61
62
63
66
70
Why we use the Veer Offense
At Albany High we use the Veer Offense. This offensive set allows us to meet four important goals:
Maximize the talents of our players
Make plays easy to learn and execute perfectly
Balance running and passing to place maximum pressure on the opponent’s defense
Be diverse and flexible when calling plays
We will constantly attack the defense with plays that utilize our power, speed, finesse and ability to outsmart
and deceive our opponents. We will constantly pressure the opponents with our equal willingness to run or
pass and attack any weakness they present.
Running Philosophy
Our running plays are designed to use the talents of our athletes:
Speed
We will get to the point of attack quicker than our opponent. Opponents fear our speed.
Power
We will get to the point of attack ready to deliver maximum force and leverage in blocking and attacking our
opponent
Finesse
We will get to the point of attack with the option and with deception.
Passing Philosophy
The passing game has the following goals:
Neutralize any physical advantage of our opponent
The passing game must be half of our offense, not a surprise or gamble
We will use the passing game to score quickly. We will be able to score from any spot on the field within 2
minutes.
We will pass when the defense knows we must pass and we will be successful
We will strive to eliminate interceptions by continually stressing sound fundamentals
2
Offensive Philosophy
Albany High School Football
Things to Know
Albany High School Football
When the Clock Stops
The clock is stopped in the following situations:
1. When any score is made.
2. When a time out is called.
3. When a penalty is called.
4. After an incomplete pass.
5. When a live ball goes out of bounds.
The clock starts when the REFEREE signals it is ready for play when it is stopped by penalties, or by the
offensive team being awareded a first down. The exception to this is a first down which is awarded to the
offensive team when they recover their own kick.
The clock starts when the BALL IS SNAPPED when it was stopped because of score, a free time out, an
incomplete pass, a live ball going out of bounds, or to award a first down to the defensive team or to the
offensive team when they recover their own kick.
Run the Clock Offense
Run roll out pass without throwing the ball and QB sneak.
Do not go out of bounds.
Get up slowly after the play.
Do not commit penalties; they will cost us 25 seconds.
Use the maximum allowable time in the huddle without incurring a penalty.
Making a normal call after the referee declares the ball ready for play will normally take 23 seconds.
3
10 yd (30')
3'
4.5'
3'
3'
3'
4'
10 yd (30')
4.5'
Line Splits
Proper offensive line splits are important to spreading out the defense and creating enough room for our
running attack. If you are not sure of your splits it is better for splits to be too wide rather than too narrow.
The exceptions to this are the option and sweep plays, where we are attacking the corners of the offensive
line.
Guards- Take a constant 3 foot split
Tackles- Take a constant 3 foot split
Tight End- Take a constant 4 foot split, except when you need to get outside postion on the defensive end.
For instance on a down block or arch release you would want 4 1/2 feet.
Back Field Alignment
Full Back- Line up to the side of the formation call. Line up directly behind the offensive guard, with your
heels 4 ½ yards from the back tip of the ball.
Running Back- Line up to the side of the formation call. Line up directly behind the offensive guard, with
your heels 4 ½ yards from the back tip of the ball.
Offensive backs must take care to not judge the 4 ½ yards from the back of the guard, but from the back tip
of the ball.
4
Splits and Alignment
Albany High School Football
Splits and Alignment
Albany High School Football
Pro Right
10 yd (30')
Center
3'
3'
3'
3'
4.5'
Twins Right
Left Hash
4'
3'
3'
3'
Center
10 yd (30')
4.5'
3'
4.5'
Twins Right
4'
6 yd (18')
4.5'
4'
3'
3'
3'
3'
4.5'
10 yd (30')
6 yd (18')
4.5'
Twins Right
4'
Right Hash
3'
4.5'
3'
3'
3'
4.5'
Receiver Alignment
Pro Right of Pro Left Formation
Flanker- Split 10 yards from the Tight End - 1 yard deep in the backfield
Split End- Split 10 yards from the offensive Tackle on the line of scrimmage.
Twins Right of Twins Left Formation
Ball on left hash mark
Flanker- align on right hash mark
Split End- align 6 yards outside of Flanker
Ball middle of field
Flanker- align 10 yards outside the offensive Tackle
Split End- align 6 yards outside of Flanker
Ball on right hash mark
Flanker- align 6 yards inside of Split End
Split End- align 5 yards from sideline.
5
6 yd (18')
5 yd (15')
Formations
Albany High School Football
Pro Right
Spl
ker
Tight Right
Tigh
ker
Heavy Right
End
Pro, Tight and Heavy Formations
In these three formations, both the Tight End and the Flanker go to the side of the play call.
In the Pro formation, the Split End aligns 10 yards outside of the Offensive Tackle.
In the Tight formation, the Split End aligns where a Tight End would align 4 feet outside of the Offensive Tackle.
We may also use two true Tight Ends with this formation.
In the Heavy formation, the Split End lines up on the call side outside the Flanker. (Remember the 5 yard
sideline rule for alignment and maintain 6 yard Split End / Flanker spacing)
Right
Split End
Flanker
Tight End
Falcon Right
Tight End
Split End
Slot Back
Flanker
Right And Falcon Formations
In these two formations, both the Tight End and the Flanker go to the side of the play call.
In the Right Formation, a Tight End will line up like a Flanker as a offensive threat. The Flanker will align on the
line of scirmmage. (Don’t forget the 5 yard sideline rule)
In the Falcon formation the Flanker remains off the line, but is split out further. An Offensive Back will move into
a normal Flanker position as a Slot Back. The Quarterback will operate from a “Shotgun” alignment.
6
Formations
Albany High School Football
Twins Right
Tight End
Flanker
Split End
Twins Right Flex
Tight End
Split End
Flanker
Spread
Split End
Split End
Slot Back
Flanker
Twins, Twins Flex and Spread Formations
In these three formations, the Flanker and the Split End both go to the side of the play call.
In the Twins formation, the Tight End aligns normally away from the play call.
In the Twins Flex formation, the Tight End aligns where a Split End would align 10 yards outside of the Offensive Tackle. We may also use two Split Ends with this formation.
In the Spread formation, both ends are split out. An Offensive Back will take up a slot position opposite the play
call. (Remember the 5 yard sideline rule for alignment and maintain 6 yard receiver spacing)
Wishbone
Split End
Split End
Wishbone Tight Right
Split End
Tight End
Wishbone 2 Right
Tight End
7
Split End
Patterns
Albany High School Football
1 Slant
Split Receivers- 3 step slan
Tight End - Release down f
away from slants.
Quarterback- Turn and throw
Quick
3-step and out
Solid
6-step and out
Single Receiver- Sharp
Inside Receivers- Roll t
Tight End - Drag.
Outside receiver- Probably will receive other
play call to draw defenders
3 Curl
Dashed lines show what might happen
on a two receiver side.
Solid lines are for single receiver side.
Quick
6-step and turn in
Solid
8 to 10-step and turn in
All Receivers- Proper steps
to face Quarterback with ha
receive ball immediately.
If ball is not thrown yet. Slowly move to center.
4 Hitch
Quick
6-step and turn out
comeback to ball
Solid
8 to 10-step and turn out
All Receivers- Proper steps
swing shoulders around tow
Work back towards the line of scrimmage to
receive ball. Ball should be thrown low and to
outside.
5 Slip
Quick
One hard step, then loop
towards Tackle
Receivers- Take the first ste
off route to run an arc towar
line.
Quarterbacks- One step and throw
8
Passing
2 Out
Patterns
Albany High School Football
6 Bubble
Inside Receivers- Step back, jog,look for ball.
Tight End - Drag.
Outside receiver- Probably will receive other
play call to draw defenders or block as this
pass is behind line of scrimmage.
Quarterbacks- One step and throw
Narrow splits!
7 Post
8 Flag
Passing
7
Post- goes toward
goalpost
Flag- goes toward
sideline
Only run out of Solid (7yds)
Receivers- Attack upfield, c
away and then run on new angle against man or
try to find space against the zone.
8
pillars to make the
mall flags were used.
Therefore, running a Flag meant to run to the flags rather
than the goal post
9 Wheel
Inside Receivers- Run arc through space
behind outside receiver. Do not make the arc
too shallow (close to the scrimmage line)
Tight End - Drag.
Outside receiver- Probably will receive other
play call to draw defenders
0 Fade
d
ps, release step
look after a few more
steps
Qu
3-s
look for ball
1 Slant
2 Out
3 Curl
4 Hitch
5 Slip
6 Bubble
7 Post
8 Flag
9 Wheel
0 Fade
Backside Receiver Rules
If a single number is called all receivers run this pattern.
example: Quick 0 - all receivers run the fade.
If two numbers are called then the backside receiver(s) aways runs
a post unless they are a Tight End, who must run a drag.
The exception to the single digit rule is the Dive pass. On this the
receiver away from the play will run a post.
9
E
T
T
E
vs. 4-3
E
T
T
Solid
vs. 4-4
E
T
T
E
Boot
T
T
E
E
T
T
Dive Pass
Sprint Out
T
T
E
E
T
T
T
T
E
E
T
T
Bootleg
T
T
E
T
E
E
E
E
T
T
E
E
T
N
T
T
T
10
E
E
vs. 5-2
E
T
N
T
E
vs. 5-2
E
T
N
T
E
vs. 5-2
E
T
N
T
vs. 4-3
E
E
vs. 5-2
vs. 4-3
vs. 4-4
E
N
vs. 4-3
vs. 4-4
E
T
vs. 4-3
vs. 4-4
E
E
vs. 4-3
vs. 4-4
E
E
vs. 5-2
E
vs. 5-2
E
T
N
T
E
Passing
Quick
vs. 4-4
Protection
Albany High School Football
Dive vs 44
Albany High School Football
Dive vs. 4-4
S
C
E
B
T
Dive vs. 4-4
TED
B
B
T
C
E
S
C
Running
B
B
E
B
T
Dive vs. 4-4
Down Scheme
B
B
T
C
E
S
C
B
E
B
T
Dive vs. 4-4 Gap
B
B
T
C
E
S
C
B
B
B
E
T
T
Dive Weak vs. 4-4
B
C
E
S
C
B
E
B
T
11
B
T
B
E
C
Dive vs. 4-3
S
C
S
B
E
Dive vs. 4-3
TED
B
T
T
E
S
C
S
B
E
C
B
B
T
B
T
12
E
C
Running Dive vs 43
Albany High School Football
Running Dive vs 50
Albany High School Football
Dive vs. 5-2
S
C
B
E
Dive vs. 5-2 Over
B
T
N
T
S
C
S
C
S
C
E
S
C
B
E
Dive Weak vs. 5-2 Over
B
N
T
T
E
S
C
B
E
T
B
N
13
T
E
S
C
B
B
E
B
T
Veer vs. 4-3
T
E
S
C
W
S
M
E
T
Veer vs. 5-2
C
B
S
T
C
E
S
C
B
E T
S
B
N
T
14
E
C
Running
Veer vs. 4-4
Veer
Albany High School Football
Option
Albany High School Football
Option vs. 4-4
S
C
B
B
E
T
Option vs. 4-3
Running
B
T
E
S
C
S
W
M
E
T
Option vs. 5-2
C
B
S
T
C
E
S
C
B
E T
N
15
S
B
T
E
C
DIVE Weak vs. 5-2 Over (Base)
F
C
C
B
E
B
T
S
N
T
E
DIVE vs. 5-3 (Base)
S
C
C
E
B
M
T
N
B
T
E
DIVE vs. 5-3 (TED)
S
C
C
B
E
T
M
N
16
B
T
E
SLANT vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
SLANT Weak vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
SLANT vs. 4-3
S
H
H
W
E
M
T
S
T
17
E
SLANT Weak vs. 4-3
S
H
H
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
SLANT vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
E
SLANT Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
18
S
T
E
COUNTER DIVE vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
COUNTER DIVE Weak vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
COUNTER DIVE vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
E
M
N
S
T
19
E
COUNTER DIVE Weak vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
COUNTER DIVE vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
E
COUNTER DIVE Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
20
S
T
E
OPTION Weak vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
T
S
T
E
OPTION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
E
OPTION Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
21
S
T
E
COUNTER OPTION vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
COUNTER OPTION vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
E
M
T
S
T
22
E
COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
COUNTER OPTION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
E
COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
23
E
LEAD OPTION vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
LEAD OPTION Weak vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
LEAD OPTION vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
E
M
S
T
T
24
E
LEAD OPTION Weak vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
LEAD OPTION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
B
T
N
S
T
E
LEAD OPTION Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
25
E
LOAD OPTION vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
LOAD OPTION vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
LOAD OPTION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
26
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
E
M
S
T
T
27
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
E
SLANT COUNTER OPTION Weak vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
28
E
POWER vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
POWER vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
T
S
T
E
POWER vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
29
E
SWEEP vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
SWEEP vs. 4-3
S
S
H
H
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
SWEEP vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
30
E
TRAP vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
TRAP vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
TRAP vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
31
E
COUNTER TRAP vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
COUNTER TRAP vs. 4-3
S
S
C
H
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
COUNTER TRAP vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
32
E
ISOLATION vs. 4-4
S
H
H
B
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
ISOLATION vs. 4-3
S
S
C
C
W
M
E
S
T
T
E
ISOLATION vs. 5-2
F
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
S
T
33
E
DIVE vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
OPTION vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
VEER vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
34
E
SLANT vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
COUNTER DIVE vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
COUNTER OPTION vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
S
N
T
35
E
LEAD OPTION vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
TRAP vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
S
N
T
E
ISOLATION vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
36
E
POWER vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
COUNTER TRAP vs. 5-3
F
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
E
SWEEP vs. 5-3
S
C
C
B
E
M
T
B
N
T
37
E
DEFENSE
Nose Guard
Stance
Four-point stance with weight slightly forward and feet
square, head up, and eyes on the ball.
Alignment
Line up nose on ball to 1½ feet from ball depending on
defensive call, down and distance.
Basic Charge
Mirror center’s movement, using him to fill the centerguard gap, eventually working across his face. Use twohand shiver under the shoulder pads, gaining control of
his movement and the line of scrimmage. Rush all
passes in proper lane.
Drive To (Away) Rip the backside forearm through the play side shoulder
of the center and square shoulders in the center-guard
gap. Penetrate 1 yard into the backfield and re-direct to
the football.
Slam
Jam the center and accelerate through the center’s block.
Vs. Drive Block Step into the center, control him, do not pick a side, read
the head of the center, fight across his face to the ball.
Vs. Reach Block Mirror the center’s block staying ½ a man behind, work
across the face of the center to the ball, take cutback
lane.
Vs. Scoop Block Mirror the center along the line of scrimmage; do not
allow him to come off and into the linebacker.
Vs. Double Team Control the center, when you feel the double team, (a)
split the seam, or (b) grab ankles and create a pile at the
line of scrimmage.
Vs. Pass
Rush lane is away from the strong safety.
38
Defensive Tackles
Stance
Alignment
Basic Charge
Drive To (Away)
Loop
Vs. Pull
Vs. Drive Block
Vs. Hook Block
Vs. Inside Release
Vs. Double Team
Vs. Pass
Three-point stance with weight slightly forward, feet
square to the line of scrimmage, head up.
Line up 1-1½ feet from the line of scrimmage with feet
splitting the outside leg of the offensive tackle.
Key the initial movement of the OT. Use two-hand
shiver under the shoulder pads of the OT, controlling
his movement and the line of scrimmage.
Rip the backside forearm through the play side
shoulder of the OT, square shoulders into the guardtackle gap. Penetrate 1 yard into the backfield, redirect to the ball.
Open step, aiming point is one whole man outside.
Get into the hip pocket of the OT or OG; follow down
the line of scrimmage.
Step into the OT, control him, do not pick a side, and
squeeze the OT down inside the LOS, using him to fill
the gap while constricting the OT area.
Step into the OT, maintain outside leverage, flattening
the block of the OT widening any plays along the line
of scrimmage. Don’t be hooked.
Step into the OT, flattening the block of the OT while
keeping him off the linebacker. Close down hard
looking for trap, keeping shoulders square to and on
the line of scrimmage.
Control the OT, when you feel the double team, (a)
split the seam, or (b) grab ankles and create a pile.
Rush lane is an inside up-field rush.
39
Defensive Ends
Stance
Alignment
Anchor
Drive To (Away)
Inside Technique
Weak Alignment
Hatchet
Triangle
Vs. Drive Block
Vs. Turn-out Block
Vs. Hook Block
Vs. Down Block
Vs. Arc Release
Vs. Play Away
Vs. Bootleg
Vs. Pass
Two-point stance.
Head up on the TE in normal alignment, up to 1-2
yards split from the DT.
Straight-up alignment and charge. Stay square on the
line of scrimmage. Read the movement of the TE.
Rip the backside forearm through the play side
shoulder of the TE, square shoulders into the tackletight end gap. Penetrate one yard into the backfield
and re-direct to the football.
On split 3-5 of tight end, align splitting inside leg of
offensive receiver.
Split outside leg of the tight end or same relative
position. On Eagle, split outside leg of OT.
Penetrate the guard tackle gap from stack.
Key TE, near RB, and football.
Whip him in his tracks; create distance, keeping
outside arm and leg free. Use 2-hand shiver.
Fight pressure through Tight end’s head; keep
shoulders parallel to the line of scrimmage. Fight
inside. Jam tight end into gap.
Fight outside, keeping outside arm and leg free.
Deliver with inside shoulder and forearm. Stay along
the line of scrimmage, ride tight end wide.
Step with tight end to the inside; stay square to the
line of scrimmage. Expect kick-out block by the
near back. Do not penetrate. Squeeze off the
running lane.
Jab out and respect his initial movement. If you
read, (a) option, then take QB, (b) near back kick-out
block, then squeeze inside, (c) OG kick-out block,
then stuff him to the inside with back side shoulder.
Stay on the line of scrimmage and check for reverse.
Be only as deep as the football.
Keep outside leverage. Get to QB outside-in.
Rush all passes, outside leverage to the ball.
40
Linebackers
Stance
Alignment
Eagle
Basic Read
Vs. Drive Block
Vs. Hook Block
Vs. Cutoff Block
Vs. Down Block
Vs. OG Out Block
Vs. Pulling Guard
(To)
Vs. Pulling Guard
(Away)
Vs. Pass
Two-point with weight on balls of feet, feet parallel
and even. Knees slightly in.
Split the outside leg of the OG, at the depth of 4 ½
yards from the line of scrimmage.
Split the inside leg of the OT.
Read the head of the OG.
Deliver with inside shoulder and forearm, keep
shoulders parallel to the line of scrimmage, and the
outside arm and leg free.
Shuffle out and up, drive inside shoulder and forearm
into him diverting him down the line while working
outside. Pursue the ball inside out.
On flow away, take on with backside shoulder and
forearm. Square up on him and divert him flat down
the line of scrimmage, reading for the cutback. Do not
overrun the play.
Step up expecting either Isolation or Trap. If Trap,
step out and look for OT down block. Don’t get
collapsed inside. If Isolation, attack the FB with
shoulders square, as deep as possible using the FB to
fill the C-G gap. Keep outside arm and leg free.
Step up behind OG’s butt and deliver on inside fold by
tackle and react to counter and cutback.
Control area if back fills, then shuffle to outside ready
to defeat down-block of TE. Once outside of OT
attack up field, stay inside out on ball. Don’t overrun.
Control area if back fills, then shuffle across to the
point of attack.
Drop to the hook area; keep the nearest receiver to
your side, head on a swivel, talk.
41
Cornerbacks
Stance
Alignment
Basic Read
Blue Coverage
Gold Coverage
Vs. Option
Vs. Sweep
Outside foot back, bend at the ankles, knees, and hips.
1 yard inside wide receiver and 7 yards deep.
Play your zone, then man in your zone, then the football. If two
receivers are in your zone, split the two, and then react to the
football. Be deeper than the deepest man.
Deep outside ⅓, no rotation, 3-deep coverage.
¼ field, no rotation, 4-deep coverage.
Strong side – slow play force. Weak side – pitch responsibility.
Strong side – Slow play force. Weak side – contain, get up field
as fast as you can and force the play back to the inside.
Strong Safety
Stance
Alignment
Basic Read
Blue Coverage
Gold Coverage
Vs. Option
Vs. Sweep
Vs. Off Tackle
Vs. Play Away
Outside foot back, bend at the ankles, knees and hips.
1 yard outside of the TE and 4 yards deep. Blue – align to the
strength. Hash – align to the wide side.
Hard force on run to. Vs. pass flat responsibility, read the
triangle (nearest receiver, near back, and ball). Pitch on option.
Flat responsibility. No rotation. 3-deep coverage.
¼ field, no rotation, 4-deep coverage.
Pitch responsibility.
Contain. Get up field as fast as you can and force play back to
the inside.
Be prepared to take on the play as the DE bounces it out to you.
Close flat inside keeping outside leverage on the ball. Adjust to
proper pursuit angle as play develops.
Free Safety
Stance
Alignment
Basic Read
Blue Coverage
Gold Coverage
Vs. Option
Outside leg back, bend at the ankles, knees, and hips.
11 yards deep on the weak side OG.
Play your zone, then the man in your zone, then the football. If
two receivers are in your zone, split the two and react to the
ball. Be deeper than the deepest receiver. Force inside out on
running plays.
Deep middle ⅓, no rotation, 3-deep coverage.
¼ field, no rotation, 4-deep coverage.
Inside out force.
42
DEFENSE
50-Base
E
T
N
T E
SS
B
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Head up on TE
Outside leg TE
Outside Leg OT
Outside Leg OT
Head up on C
Outside Leg G
Outside Leg G
1x4 outside TE
11 yards weak G
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
Technique
Anchor
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
43
Key
Triangle
Triangle
Tackle
Tackle
Center
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Drive To
E
T
N
T
E
SS
B
B
C
C
F
Stance
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Technique
Head up on TE
Anchor
Head up on TE Fire ½man behind TE
Outside Leg OT
Basic Read
Head up on OT
Drive step strong
Head up on C
Drive step strong
Outside leg OG
Basic Read
Outside leg OG
Basic Read
1x4 outside TE
Basic Read
11 yds weak OG
Basic Read
1x7 inside FL
Basic Read
1x7 inside SE
Basic Read
44
Key
Triangle
Triangle
Tackle
Guard/Tackle
Guard/Center
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Drive Away
E
T
N
T
E
SS
B
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Technique
Head up on TE Fire ½man behind TE
Outside leg TE
Basic Read
Head up on OT
Drive step weak
Outside leg OT
Basic Read
Head up on C
Drive step weak
Outside leg OG
Basic Read
Outside leg OG
Basic Read
1x4 outside TE
Basic Read
11yd weak OG
Basic Read
1x7 inside FL
Basic Read
1x7 inside SE
Basic Read
45
Key
Triangle
Triangle
Guard/Tackle
Tackle
Guard/Center
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Pinch
E
T
N
T
SS
B
C
E
B
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak End
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Head up on TE
Head up on TE
Head up on OT
Head up on OT
Head up on C
Outside leg OG
Outside Leg OG
1x4 outside TE
11yds weak OG
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
Technique
Fire
Fire
Drive
Drive
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
46
Key
Tackle/End
Tackle/End
Guard/Tackle
Guard/Tackle
Center
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Eagle Out Go/50-Eagle In
E
T
N
T
E
SS
B
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Alignment
Outside leg TE
Outside leg OT
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Outside leg OT
Outside leg OG
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong side leg C
Outside leg OG
Inside leg OT
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
1x4 outside TE
11yd weak OG
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
Technique
Anchor
Loop (out/go)
Fire (in)
Basic Read
Loop (out/go)
Drive (in)
Slam
Basic Read
C/G gap (out/go)
Basic Read (in)
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
47
Key
Triangle
Triangle
Tackle
Tackle
Center
Triangle
Ball
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Stack (Hatchet)
E
T
N
T
SS
B
B
E
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Alignment
Head up on TE
Stack behind OT
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Outside leg OT
Outside leg OT
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Head up on C
Outside leg OG
Outside leg OG
1x4 outside TE
11yd weak OG
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
Technique
Anchor
Basic Read
Fire (Hatchet)
Basic Read
Basic Read
Drive (Hatchet)
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
48
Key
Triangle
Ball
Tackle
Tackle
(Ball)
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle
Triangle/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Bear
E
T
N
T
E
SS
B
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Head up on TE
Outside leg OT
Outside leg OG
Outside leg OG
Head up on C
Outside leg OT
Inside leg OT
1x4 outside TE
11yd weak OG
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
Technique
Anchor
Anchor
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Eagle
Eagle
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
Basic Read
49
Key
Triangle
Triangle
Guard
Guard
Center
Tackle/Ball
Tackle/Ball
Triangle
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
50-Tank Man
E
T
N
T
E
S
B
C
B
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
C
Alignment
Outside shoulder of
TE
Relative
Technique
Loop outside,
Quick contain
Squeeze outside
in, Quick contain
Head up on OT
Pinch
Head up on OT
Pinch
Head up on C
Drive To
Head up on OG
Read
Head up on OG
Blitz A gap
Inside shoulder of TE
Blitz C gap
4 yards
Slide to inside
Lock on TE
shoulder TE 8 yards
1x7 inside FL
Lock on FL
1x7 inside SE
Lock on SE
50
Key
Near Back
Near Back
OT’s Block
OT’s Block
C’s Block
Triangle
Ball
Ball
Man to man
Man to man
Man to Man
DEFENSE
50-Stinger Man
E
T
N
T
E
S
B
B
C
F
Position
Strong End
Alignment
Outside shoulder TE
Weak End
Relative
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Outside shoulder OT
Head up on OT
Head up on C
Head up on OG
Head up on OG
1x4 inside TE
6 yards deep
Strong CB
Weak CB
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
51
Technique
Loop – Quick
Contain
Squeeze – Quick
Contain
Loop outside
Drive To
Drive To
Blitz B gap
Read
Lock on TE
Slide step up
Blitz A gap
Lock on FL
Lock on SE
C
Key
Near Back
Near Back
Read OT/TE
Read OT/OG
Read C/OG
Ball
Triangle
Man to man
Ball
Man to man
Man to man
DEFENSE
50-Under Griffin Strong
S
E
T
N
B
T
E
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Alignment
T/TE Gap
Relative – 1x2
Vs. TE – head up
G/T Gap
Head up on OT
Weak side A Gap
Head up on OG
Head up on OG
Outside shoulder TE
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
11 yards middle
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
52
Technique
Blitz C Gap
Quick contain
Key
OT/TE
Near back / Flat
coverage
Blitz B Gap
OG/OT
Read
OT
Blitz A Gap
C/OG
Basic Read
Triangle
Basic Read
Triangle
Loop – Quick
Near back
contain
Flat coverage
Deep ⅓ middle
Zone
Deep ⅓ outside
Zone
Deep ⅓ outside
Zone
DEFENSE
50-Under Stack Blue
E
T
N
T
S
E
B
B
C
C
F
Position
Strong End
Weak End
Strong Tackle
Weak Tackle
Nose Guard
Strong LB
Weak LB
Strong Safety
Free Safety
Strong CB
Weak CB
Alignment
Head up on TE
Walk Away
OG/OT Gap
Head up on OT
Weak side A Gap
Head up on OG
Head up on OG
1x4 outside TE
11 yd Weak OG
1x7 inside FL
1x7 inside SE
53
Technique
Stuff TE
Flat coverage
Blitz Gap
Outside in
Blitz Gap
Basic Read
Basic Read
Flat Coverage
Deep middle ⅓
Deep outside ⅓
Deep outside ⅓
Key
Rush-outside in
Zone
OG/OT/Rush
OT/Contain
C/OG/Rush
Hook zone
Hook zone
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
Zone/Man/Ball
DEFENSE
6-5 Goal Line
E
T
N
B
N
M
T
E
B
C
Position
Nose Guards
Defensive Tackles
C
Alignment
Inside foot on
outside foot of C
Head-up on OT
Defensive Ends
Outside shoulder of
tight end
Middle LB
Head up on C
4 yards off ball
Outside LB’s
Split the inside leg
of TE. 4 yards deep
Cornerbacks
1x6 inside WR or
3x6 outside TE
Technique
Drive trough the
center/guard gap.
Drive low and hard
through the OT’s
inside hip.
Drive through the
outside shoulder of
the tight end.
Read flow. Move
laterally with flow.
Key
Get penetration.
Establish new LOS.
Control G/T gap.
Establish new LOS
Squeeze off-tackle
area. Quick contain.
Square up in hole.
Don’t allow any
yardage.
Square up in hole
Flow to you - step
up and fill off tackle and don’t allow any
yardage.
area. Flow outside–
step up & penetrate
inside out. Flow
away – Shuffle to
G/T gap and check
for counter.
Slow play; don’t
Ultimate contain on
react too soon.
run to your side.
54
6-5 Goal Line (Man-to man Assignments)
Pro Set
#3
#1
#4
#2
#5
E
C
T
N N
B
T
M
E
B
C
Wishbone or Full T
#3
#2
#4
#1
#5
E
C
T
N N
B
T
M
E
B
C
Twins
#3
#1
#4
#2
#5
E
B
T
N
N
M
C
T
E
B
C
55
DEFENSE
80 Goal Line
E
B
T
N
N
T
B
E
M
C
C
Position
Nose Guards (N)
Alignment
C/G Gap
Tackles (T)
G/T Gap
Linebackers (B)
Defensive Ends (E)
T/TE Gap
Outside
shoulder TE
3x3 outside
Cornerbacks (C)
Middle LB (M)
Head up on
C. 2 ½
yards deep.
Technique
Step Down (on C) with inside foot.
Deliver with inside forearm pivot
back into C/G Gap.
Down then up. Get under the
block. If you fall down, get up in
the gap.
Same as Tackle
Read 2nd receiver. Hand-shiver
the TE. Quick contain.
Read 1st receiver. Ultimate
Contain.
Read Ball. Go with the flow.
56
Key
C/G Gap
G/T Gap
T/TE Gap
2nd
Receiver
1st
Receiver
BALL
rd
3 Receiver
DEFENSE
80 Goal Line (Man to man Assignments)
#3
#2
E
B
T
#4
N
N
#1
T
B
E
#5
M
C
C
57
DEFENSE
Secondary Coverage
BLUE
Deep ⅓
Deep ⅓
Deep ⅓
F
C
Hook
Curl
(Flat)
B B
Hook
Curl
S
C
Flat
GOLD
Play Deepest Man in ¼ Zone
¼
¼
C
¼
F
¼
S
Hook
Curl
B B
58
C
Philosophy of the Kicking Game
Offensive Kicking Game
Our offensive kicking game consists of five parts:
1. Kickoff Return
2. Punt – Protection Coverage
3. Place Kick – Protection Coverage
4. Fake Field Goal
5. Fake Punt
Every phase of the kicking game is extremely important and we must prepare
ourselves for any and all possible chances to gain an advantage on our opponents. At the
same time we must minimize mistakes in our kicking game so that our opponents do not
have the opportunity to gain an advantage over us.
Offensive Kicking Game: Mistakes here will either cost you points on the scoreboard
or valuable field position. No other phase of the game penalizes a team more. For
example, a blocked punt will cost a team 40-60 yards and possibly a touchdown. The
missed extra point of field goal can make the difference in winning or losing the game.
On the positive side, the successful place kick very often gives you the winner’s edge.
The well-executed return puts great mental pressure on your opponent in an evenly
played ball game. This is true of kickoff returns as well. A well-executed return puts us
in good field position so that we can immediately open up with all of our offensive
artillery. A team with a strong kicking game is seldom outclassed.
Rules you should know:
1. Fair catcher does not have to catch the ball, but if he does he may not advance it
more than TWO steps. Never tackle a man who has given a fair catch signal.
2. When downing the ball, don’t leave it until the whistle blows.
3. Don’t let the ball go into the end zone or it comes out to the 20-yard line. Instead,
bat the ball back onto the field of play.
59
Defensive Kicking Game
It is this aspect of the kicking game that many teams will let up on and consequently
lose many opportunities to gain an edge on their opponents. A kickoff that is not well
covered allows your opponent to use its entire offense instead of a limited offense that
they would have to use if they were closer to their goal line. A good punt return often
demoralizes an opponent to the extent that we may get on the scoreboard before they
have a chance to regroup. Every single punt or place kick block must have excellent
timing and execution. Again, from the psychological aspect, a team that blocks a punt or
a field goal attempt very often gets revitalized and completely changes the complexion of
the game.
DO NOT treat any aspect of the kicking game lightly. Strive for perfect timing and
execution on every play. This way, we will put great pressure on our opponent to either
match our kicking game or to completely outclass offensively and defensively. We must
not and will not be outclassed from the opening whistle to the final gun.
Special Teams
Kickoff
-Special Teams are a crucial part of a football game
Kickoff Return
-Special Teams play makes up ⅓ of each game.
Punt
-Special Teams depend on 2nd, 3rd, and 4th efforts.
Punt Return
-Special Teams can win or lose a football game.
Extra Point
-Special Teams must have PRIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Field Goal
60
Extra Point and Field Goal
(Fake Pass Routes)
7 yards
H
K
- Elbows on knees
- Anchor outside Leg
- Step down with inside foot (inter-lock)
61
Punt
2’
2’
2’
2’
2’
2’
5 yards
6 yards
13 yards
Ends: Run through the defender directly to the ball.
Linemen:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1st step with outside foot at 45º angle (hinge step)
Stay in lanes!!!!!
5 yards between lanes.
Hold block for 2 seconds.
If uncovered, go directly downfield.
Blocking Backs:
1. Responsible for center-guard gaps.
2. The become outside contain.
Up Back: Step up in center after the snap and take the first man that shows.
Center: First responsibility is to make a perfect snap.
Punter:
1. Catch the Football.
2. Get the punt off.
3. Become the safety.
62
Punt Return (Right)
Vs. Tight Punt
SS
E
T
Pressure Punt
Last 2 men
on wall
B
N
T
E
B
Fake
Screen
Draw
#1 Defender
S
H
H
Set wall up on hash harks, 5 yards apart. Look back inside and up field.
63
Punt Return (Right)
Vs. Split Punt
SS
H
E
Pressure Punt
Last 2 men
on wall
T
B
N
T
B
Fake
Screen
Draw
#1 Defender
H
64
E
S
Hold Return
SS
E
B
T
N
B
T
E
S
Double Team
Double Team
5 yards
H
H
-Step up and pass block
65
Kickoff Coverage’s
We will always kickoff with for goals:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Prevent the return from knowing where the ball will be kicked.
To make them adjust to our strategy.
To recover every short kick.
To keep all returns inside the 25 yard line on long kicks.
G
AREA D
AREA B
10
20
30
40
AREA E
AREA C
AREA A
50
** A kickoff is a free ball once it passes the 50-yard line. The ROVER is always on the
move either toward or away from the ball placement. He should always end up in
position to be around the ball. His movement is a method of confusing the opponents
blocking assignments.
66
Area A Coverage
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1
0
R2
R3
R4
R5
R2
R3
R4
R5
K
Area B Coverage
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1
0
K
67
Area C Coverage
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1
0
R2
R3
R4
R5
R2
R3
R4
R5
K
Area D Coverage
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1
0
K
68
Area E Coverage
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1
0
R2
K
69
R3
R4
R5
Kick Return
50
40
30
20
DROP TO A DISTANCE
5 YARDS FROM BALL
10
‘GO’ Call when caught
G
70
Quarterback Techniques
Open step to play side, on the third step reach back with both
hands and ride the dive back into the LOS as you hand off.
DIVE
Dive back will drive the inside hip of the offensive tackle. The
accelerate to the corner.
Open step as on dive, and hand the ball off at the mesh point
which is the outside hip of the offensive tackle, then accelerate
VEER
to the corner.
Vs. 5-man front – open at 180º, vs. a 4-man front – open at 90º
and bring backside foot parallel, hand off as deep as possible.
SLANT
Accelerate to the corner.
Open step away from play side and bring other foot parallel.
The third step is a reverse at 120º bringing the other foot
COUNTER DIVE
parallel, then hand the ball off. Accelerate to the corner.
Landmark is the center guard gap.
Open step at 180º bringing backside foot parallel. Hand the ball
TRAP
off similar to slant. Accelerate to the corner.
Same as dive to the mesh point. Then use the mechanics of
OPTION
optioning the pitch key.
COUNTER OPTION Same as counter dive to the mask point. Then use the
mechanics of optioning the pitch key.
Drop step-hop step, then use the mechanics of optioning the
LEAD OPTION
pitch key.
Fake slant to nearside back, then hand off to the offside back
BELLY
into the off tackle area.
Reverse pivot and hand the ball off to the offside running back.
POWER
Then bootleg in the opposite direction of the action.
Reverse pivot and toss the ball to the offside running back.
SWEEP
Then bootleg in the opposite direction of the action.
Reverse out at 180º and hand the ball off as deeply as possible.
ISOLATION
Same as power to the mesh point. Fake to the offside back, and
then turn toward the LOS. Hand the ball off to the onside back,
COUNTER TRAP
this is an inside handoff.
Mechanics of Optioning the Pitch Key: The quarterback must occupy the man responsible for
him on the option and not allow him to take an effective angle of pursuit to the pitch. At the
mesh point, do not put the ball in, but ride alongside the hip of the running back. Then:
1.
Sprint directly at the inside shoulder of the pitch key. Attack into the LOS (downhill).
2.
Throttle down slightly to make the pitch key take you. If he plays along the line of
scrimmage (feathers) or plays the pitch back, accelerate up field. If he closes to take you,
execute the pitch. Sneak-a-peak!!!
3. Execute the pitch by extending your arm outward toward the pitch back and dropping
your thumb toward the ground while pushing with your fingers. Fall away from the
defender so as to cushion the blow that will most likely ensue. NEVER pitch without
looking.
Appendix
71
Running Back Techniques
DIVE AND OPTION 6” directional step with the play side foot at the inside hip of the
tackle. Run to daylight and look for the cutback.
6” lateral step with the play side foot then run at the outside hip
VEER
of the offensive tackle.
Vs. 5-man front - 6”directional step at the butt of the center.
SLANT
Read his block and run to daylight. Vs. 4-man front - 6”
directional step at the butt of the guard. Read his block and
look to the inside.
On dive, veer, and slant you open step, crossover step and run in
PITCHBACK
the proper pitch relationship to the quarterback (4yds. Out and
4yds. Deep). Hands should be in position to take the pitch on
the third step. The pitch relationship is the running backs
responsibility.
COUNTER DIVE & Dive Back - 6” jab step directly at the quarterback. Then run at
COUNTER OPTION the center/guard gap. Exaggerate jab step with head, shoulder
and elbow action. Be sure to be squared up when approaching
the line of scrimmage.
Pitch Back – jab step straight ahead to show dive action. Then
whip elbow back, turn and run the pitch route.
Dive Back - Offside back runs behind the trap of the guard.
TRAP
Pitch Back – Run pitch route.
Lead
Back – Run an arc course; keep outside leverage on the
LEAD OPTION
first defender that shows outside the pitch key. Stay up on his
outside breast. If he comes across the line too quickly, merely
ride him out.
Pitch Back – Run pitch route.
Onside Halfback – Kick out the last man on the LOS.
POWER
Offside Halfback – Receive handoff, run parallel to the LOS,
then plant outside foot and cut inside the kick out block.
Onside Halfback – Turn up inside 1st guard and lead ball carrier.
SWEEP
Offside Halfback – Receive pitch, stay deep, and break up field
behind the 1st guards kick out block and behind offside guard
and lead back.
Onside Halfback –Lead ball carrier through the running lane.
ISOLATION
Block the first man that shows in the running lane.
Offside Halfback – Keep shoulders parallel to the LOS. Take a
lateral step, crossover step, and receive the handoff on the third
step. Run to daylight.
Offside Halfback – Fake power.
COUNTER TRAP
Onside Halfback – Jab step laterally away from trap block, then
take inside handoff and break up field behind the pulling guards
trap block.
Appendix
72
Wide Receiver Blocking Techniques
Slow Blocking:
The slow block is a very effective method of neutralizing a defender, but it takes
determination and patience to execute the block properly. There are some basic differences in the
technique to be used when slow blocking the pitch support defender, in contrast to the defender
responsible for the deep ⅓.
Let us assume that we are facing a seven man front with four deep secondary versus our twin
formation and we have called one of the following plays; Option, Counter Option, or Lead Option
to the formation side. The wide receivers would block all three plays exactly the same, and they
would block as if the ball were pitched on all three plays. Because of our width we would
anticipate the strong safety taking the pitch support defensive assignment and the corner to be
responsible for the deep ⅓. Both receivers would release downfield for the first three steps
exactly the same, reading the defense as they run.
Flanker: The flanker is responsible for the pitch support and he anticipates the strong safety
reacting up on his read. The flanker will run off after his first three steps, but under control,
reading both defenders. If the strong safety reacts up, the flanker will maintain a cushion of three
or four yards and break down with one yard outside leverage. It is important to keep the three to
four yard cushion because if the difference exceeds four yards, the defender can build up to much
momentum and run through the blocker. When the flanker breaks down he maintains a good base
by keeping his feet at least shoulder width, drops his tail and bulls his neck with his eyes on the
defenders numbers. He must be ready for the defender to fake and alter his course or run through
him. If the defender alters his course to get more width, the flanker will uncoil into the defender
with his heck bulled and the facemask on the numbers. It is important that the flanker not
become overextended during the initial contact. With the defender’s momentum temporarily
neutralized, the flanker must fight to maintain his outside leverage and recoil to butt again and
again. When working with the receivers on slow block technique, we tell them that the block
takes “forever”.
The goal of the flanker on any of these plays is to run effectively enough to make the defender
skate backward. We do not want the flanker coming downfield and breaking down two or three
yards from the LOS. The slow block is most effective when it occurs in the defensive secondary
and not close to the LOS. When the flanker’s first contact is six to seven yards downfield, he can
afford to be less aggressive in order to give ground slowly and maintain his proper leverage.
With a pitch in this situation, and a soft corner, we will have a big gain on any of our option
plays.
If the corner rotates up for the pitch support assignment, the flanker re-directs on a kick-out
angle toward the defender. Our slow block principles are still applied but now we will create a
running lane inside for the ball carrier by forcing the corner wide. As the flanker approaches the
corner he eyes the inside breast of the as his target for the initial contact. The flanker will use his
slow block technique by butting and recoiling, thus forcing the defender to go wide and keeping
leverage so he cannot release downfield. There are situations in which a reverse cross-body block
is more appropriate for the flanker to use on the rotating corner. This is especially true if the
corner rotates very quickly and the flanker loses a good slow block angle.
Appendix
73
Split End: The split end’s assignments on the option plays are the same, the deep ⅓. He can
afford to sprint downfield at full speed, reading the secondary. If the corner rotates up, the split
end passes him up and continues his sprint downfield eying up his target, which now becomes the
defender on the flanker. The split end applies his slow block technique similar to the flanker but
the big difference is that his block is normally much deeper in the secondary. It is possible to just
have the split end run his take off position assuming that someone has to cover him in the deep ⅓.
If the secondary ignores his pattern, the halfback pass is an effective weapon to keep them honest.
If our receivers read man coverage on any of these option plays, they will both automatically
run off.
Inside Out Block (Dive, Counter Dive, Slant):
When a play is called that will break inside of our relative position with the play action to the
twin set, the wide receivers will block the defender that lines up on him.
For all these inside plays, the wide receiver will sprint downfield on an angle that will give
them an inside out block. Because the inside plays develop so much quicker than our options, the
receivers cannot maintain a three to four yard cushion. We want them to make contact at the
intersection points and keep their feet as long as possible.
Unfortunately, the receivers cannot tell which way the back is cutting after he clears the LOS.
If the receiver breaks down with a cushion, he will be reacting on the defender’s movement to get
to the ball carrier and by then he is too late to be effective. The receivers will have a tendency to
want to look inside at the developing play to see if the back is going to clear the LOS. It must be
stressed in practice that the receiver’s assignment is to keep their eyes on the target at all times.
The ball carrier that clears the LOS will cut off the downfield block.
Cross-Field Blocking (All plays with the action going away from the receiver):
When a play is called that will cause the defender to rotate away in their pursuit course, the
wide receivers will use two types of blocks, (1) the Cross-body Block, and (2) the Slow Block.
The wide receiver must know when to use each of these blocks. Their primary goal is to be able
to prevent the secondary defenders from making the tackle. On the snap of the football, both
wide receivers will sprint at an angle to intercept their man before he can get the ball carrier.
When the wide receiver reaches a point ahead of the
defender, he can use his cross-body technique to block, making sure that his head and shoulders
are in front of the defender. If there is any question in the receiver’s mind about the head and
shoulders being in front, he will stay up and chase the defender, anticipating the cut back. If the
ball carrier does cut back across the grain, our receiver is now in good position to slow block his
man. In the chase situation the receiver can use his peripheral vision as he is chasing to
determine the cut back possibilities. If it appears that he can be more beneficial to the ball carrier
by peeling back toward the LOS, he will do so. When the receiver elects to peel he will block the
first wrong colored jersey he sees. As the wide receiver becomes more experienced on crossfield blocking he will make sound decisions regarding whether he should chase or peel. Through
the study of films and situations in practice, he will discover how effective his blocking is on the
plays away from him. The only time that the wide receiver is wrong is when he is indecisive and
blocks no one.
Appendix
74
Crack Block (Lead Option):
The lead option has been a very consistent play for us in our offense. By getting the inside
sealed by the flanker and the split end slow blocking the deep ⅓, it gives our back the opportunity
to cut off the lead back’s arc block.
Flanker Assignment: First defender inside, off of the LOS, in a linebacker position. On the snap
of the ball he will step with his inside foot on a flat angle toward the linebacker. Since we do not
have the benefit of a back diving, there is nothing that will hold the linebacker inside unless he
waits for the quarterback on the keep. The flanker will not try to maintain a three or four yard
cushion and let the linebacker come to him. It must be a full sprint up to one yard from the
collision point. We are going to create the widest seam possible to establish a running lane for
the back. Since the flanker must block above the waist, the technique is very similar to his initial
contact on a slow block without the benefit of a cushion. At one yard from the collision, the
flanker will break down with a good base so he can get more explosion and extension. His
aiming for the block will be the downfield breast. After his original contact he will recoil and
butt, maintaining leverage, to force the linebacker toward the LOS. If the flanker loses the
linebacker, we would rather it be inside and not downfield where he can still make the tackle
when the back crosses the LOS.
X Block:
The defensive secondary may present some situations where it is desirable to change the wide
receiver’s blocking assignments. For example, if the flanker is getting beat by the strong safety
when he slow blocks on pitch support assignments, a change up could solve the problem. A call
such as “X it” between the two wide receivers would mean an X Block would be installed. The
cross action between the two receivers appears to be a combo pass pattern to the secondary.
When using the “X it” block, it is important that the split end take an angle that is flat enough that
the strong safety cannot sprint by to get the ball carrier. The same blocking can be used vs. a
walk-away defender if he is deep enough for the split end to get to him.
Appendix
75
Tight End Blocking Technique
The Arc Block
In the option series, the block of the tight end is critical to the success of the outside attack.
The technique of the block will vary with the type of secondary and rotation being faced.
The responsibility of the tight end versus a four-deep type of coverage is to block the
secondary man responsible for the pitch. The problem is to quickly determine whether corner or
safety rotation is being used. At Bishop Maginn, we make this decision by keying the near
defensive back. Defenses utilizing as eight man front generally cover the pitch from the LOS.
The tight end must be able to distinguish between the two and make the proper adjustment before
the snap of the ball. In the first situation he will use his normal arc release and is responsible for
blocking the most dangerous defensive back, usually the safety.
Arc Block Technique
a. The Release
The release of the tight end is flat across the face of the defensive end. To achieve this
he assumes his normal stance with the weight concentrated on the inside leg. This is
necessary in order to take the first step with the outside leg. The head should be facing
the key with the inside shoulder pulled back forcing the shoulders to remain parallel to the
LOS. If the shoulders are allowed to become perpendicular to the LOS the tight end will
be unable to cope with force coming quickly to his inside. The lead step is followed by a
flat crossover step. The third step should restore proper base and balance. The tight end
should now be clear of the defensive end and ready to start his arc path downfield.
Throughout the release the body must be kept low and under control.
Occasionally an opponent will attempt to create a lost yardage play to the quarterback
before he can read and react. The most common method is to fire the defensive end hard
and fast inside the tight end. The slam release is an effective counter to this type of
penetration. Here the tight end steps toward the defensive end with his near foot, jolts him
down the line in order to gain separation, and then proceeds on his normal arc release.
b. The Read
The alignment of the defensive backs will generally tell the tight end who he must
block even before the snap of the ball. However, he cannot determine the angle or
intensity of the defensive back’s approach. Therefore, he must key or “read” the near
back beginning with the first step. The approach route of the defensive back must be
determined before the tight end gets him out of position to successfully cope with it.
Appendix
76
c. The Approach
The downfield path of the tight end should be an ever-changing arc determined by
aiming the nose of the helmet at the outside leg of the defensive back. This presents the
defensive back with the problem of attempting to maintain leverage on the ball while at
the same time coming up to force the play as near the LOS as possible. Ideally, the tight
end is striving to achieve two objectives; (1) To produce the maximum inside running
lane by forcing the defensive back to widen, and (2) To make the block as far downfield
as possible thus producing a soft corner. Throughout the approach, the body should be
under control with the knees bent and he head up. As contact becomes imminent, the
tight end should assume the “break down” position. This is achieved by a further
dropping of the tail, a slight widening of the base, and a rapid chopping of the feet.
d. The Block
The tight end must now execute one of two basic types of arc blocks. The direction,
angle, and intensity of the defensive back’s approach will dictate the choice.
1.
When blocking the normal, cautious type of force, the tight end should work to
achieve a “squared up” position with the defensive back. We describe this as being
nose-to-nose and shoulder-to shoulder! This position gives the offensive back the
advantage of running either inside or outside the block. To attain this position the
tight end, at the moment of contact, must come up out of his legs driving into the
outside breastplate of the defensive back and whipping his outside arm up past his ear.
This exaggeration of the arm whip will force his hips around into a “squared up”
position. Once this position has been attained the tight end must stay on his feet and
continue to block! The arc block is not intended to knock the defender off his feet.
This will result in more failures than successes. Instead, the blocker should strive to
tie up the defender until the ball has gone by him. This is best achieved by recoiling
(regaining a good base and the bend of the knees) after each butt. Failure to stay up is
the result either of over-extension or of being pulled off balance laterally. Recoiling
is the solution to both problems because it allows the tight end to maintain a low
center of gravity.
2. There will be times, either by accident or design, when the tight end will be faced
with a very aggressive type of force. If this force is from the outside in, the halfback
will be coming hard and fast attempting to squeeze the ball into the smallest possible
running lanes. In this situation the tight end should no longer be concerned with
depth, but concentrate on gaining width in order to produce the maximum running
lane. The shoulders may now be turned parallel to the sideline as the block will be of
the “kick out” type. The tight end must block the defensive back on the downfield
shoulder, stay on his feet, and not lose him downfield. Rarely will a defensive back
force aggressively inside of the block. To do so would violate his rule of keeping
outside leverage on the ball. However, if this does occur, the tight end must react
quickly to the inside and seal him off. If necessary as a last resort, the tight end may
leave his feet in an attempt to cut down the defensive back.
Appendix
77
Offensive Line Blocking Techniques
Drive Block
1. Step with the near foot directly at the defender.
2. Use your eyes as an aiming point.
3. Upon making contact, roll the wrists and sink the hips, slide the head to the side.
4. Accelerate and rise up in order to use the chest on the defender.
Scramble Block
1. Step with the near foot, explode out at the near hip of the next down lineman to
the play side.
2. Drive the offside shoulder into the play side thigh of the down defender and get
the head by.
3. Keep a wide base and work on all fours.
4. Do not allow the defender to pursue to play side.
Combo Block
1. Inside blocker uses his normal drive block techniques attempting to handle the
defender himself.
2. Outside blocker takes a short lateral step toward the defender and drives the near
arm and shoulder into the part of the defender that shows. If the inside blocker
can maintain the block alone, the outside blocker then steps up to seal the inside
linebacker.
Double Team
1. Both blockers step with near foot directly at the defender to be double-teamed.
2. Both blockers attack the defender with a drive block anticipating that they will
have to block him alone.
3. Both blockers strive to close the gap between them by swinging their hips toward
each other.
4. Now work as a single unit to move the defender off the LOS.
5. Both blockers must rise up and accelerate as a means of following through.
T
1. Both the guard and tackle step with the near foot directly at the defensive tackle.
2. If the defender slants inside, the guard locks on and hard drives him off the LOS
while the tackle steps up on the linebacker.
3. If the defender comes straight up or outside the tackle, the tackle locks on him and
the guard releases up on the linebacker.
Appendix
78
Fold
1. Inside offensive lineman steps to the defender to his immediate outside and uses
the drive technique.
2. Outside offensive lineman pulls around the inside man cutting off of his butt and
stepping up on the linebacker using a drive technique.
TED
1. Tight end releases inside and seals the inside linebacker.
2. Onside guard pulls and drive blocks the inside hip of the defensive end.
Pass Protection
Drop Back Protection
All offensive linemen utilize a controlled drive technique if covered by a down
lineman. If uncovered, check for blitzing linebacker, then help out the center then the
tackle, in that order.
Sprint Out Protection
Onside linemen: use a controlled drive, hit and recoil, maintain for 4 seconds.
Center and offside linemen: Use the step and hinge technique. Step with the near foot
to the play side gap. If the defender is moving to the play side, jolt him down the LOS.
If the defender is using a run around technique, pivot off the play side foot immediately
bringing the other foot back in a parallel position at a 45º angle to the LOS. Remain on
balance and keep the defender away from the quarterback. If the defender is a linebacker
and doesn’t blitz, look backside to help the next man down.
Quick
Onside guard and tackle step to the next defender to play side exploding out at the
crotch of the defender. Stop penetration and force the defender’s hands down. Continue
to drive up field on all fours.
Offside Linemen, if covered by down linemen, use a controlled drive block, if
uncovered, step to the play side gap and check for blitz.
Dive back will fill for the onside guard.
Double
Center and onside guard: Double-team the nose guard. Onside tackle: Controlled
drive block. Dive back: Fill for onside guard. Offside linemen: If covered by down
lineman, use a controlled drive block, if uncovered, step to play side gap and check for
blitz, then look to help out the backside.
Bootleg
Offside guard: pull down the line of scrimmage and drive the inside hip of the
defensive end. Onside tackle: controlled drive block. Dive back: fill for pulling guard.
Appendix
79