OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHY
1. RUN TO WIN (Out rush opponent in 4th quarter)
2. DEFEAT THE BLITZ
3. PLAY ACTION PASS
4. SHORT PASS, LONG RUN (Ball out quick)
5. UTILIZE DIFFERENT PERSONNEL GROUPS/FORMATIONS
6. EXECUTION
TEAM OFFENSE RECORDS
POINTS PER GAME TOTAL POINTS YARDS PER GAME TOTAL YARDS RUSHING YARDS PASSING YARDS PLAYS -
POSITION IDENTIFICATION
X
F
3rd WR
LT LG C RG RT Y
Z
Q
H
3rd TE
2nd TE
A
•
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
Position Identification
Our lineman are referred to as right guard and tackle, left guard and
tackle, and center, all lineman have a 2 foot split
Our tailback is letter A in a two point stance 7 yards from the ball, 5
yards from the ball if off-set to one side or the other in one back
alignment
Our Quarterback is lettered Q
Split End is letter X and is on the ball
Tight End is letter Y and is always on the ball and to the strength call
Flanker is letter Z and always off the ball
2nd Tight End is the letter H.
3rd receiver is F
3rd Tight End replaces the flanker so he is letter Z
Z
7 YARDS
HUDDLE FORMATION
•
A.
B.
C.
LT LG C RG RT
X
Z
H A Q Y
*=H or F
HUDDLE PROCEDURE
The center sets the huddle with “Huddle” call 7 yards from the line of
scrimmage. Everyone must get back to the huddle as soon as possible. Stay
in the huddle until someone replaces you. If you are replacing someone make
sure you are calling out the personnel number so everyone can hear it.
Silence in the huddle.
The QB will call the formation, strength, play and snap count if any. If no snap
count is given the play is on 1.
EXAMPLE PLAYS – Plays always follow the format below=Form., Str, Play, any Tag
Formation/Strength
Motion/Shift Play
Tagged assignment
Strong Rt.
Yaz
4 Swipe
Spread Lt.
Zorro
60 Option
Bunch Lt.
HoHo
67 Z Snag
Weak Lt.
Hum Strong 9
QB in Huddle “Strong Right 4 Swipe…Ready” (clap hands on break)
•
A.
CADENCE – The cadence at the line of scrimmage is as follows;
“Set Hut” given when everyone is in proper formation and ready to motion or
trade. Used also when on first sound or in two minute game.
B.
3 numbers are said twice, example “295, 295”
C.
“Set-Hut” tells center to snap ball and play is started, Set-Hut is one word
D.
“Easy” call by QB tells everyone to relax as we have motion or a change in play
E.
“Check” follows easy alerting everyone to a play change
Audible Example- “Easy, Easy…350, 350…Set-Hut”
New play is now “50” on 1
FORMATIONS
12 PERSONNEL FORMATIONS (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR)
STRONG RIGHT
X
Y
Q
Z
H
A
STRONG LEFT
Y
Z
X
H
Q
A
WEAK RIGHT
X
Y
H
Q
Z
A
WEAK LEFT
Z
Y
X
Q
A
H
12 PERSONNEL FORMATIONS (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR)
WEAK RIGHT SLOT
X
Z
Y
H
Q
A
STRONG RIGHT SLOT
X
Y
Z
Q
H
A
STRONG RIGHT OPEN
X
Y
Q
H
Z
A
WEAK RIGHT OPEN
X
Y
H
Q
A
Z
12 PERSONNEL FORMATIONS (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR)
BUNCH RIGHT
X
Y
Q
H
Z
A
BUNCH RIGHT TITE (TITE=X 3 YARD SPLIT)
X
Y
Q
H
Z
A
BUNCH RIGHT FAR
X
Y
Q
H
Z
A
SPREAD RIGHT
X
Z
Y
Q
A
H
13 PERSONNEL FORMATIONS (1 RB, 3 TE, 1 WR)
STRONG RIGHT
X
Y
Q
H Z
A
WEAK RIGHT
X
Y
H
Q
Z
A
WEAK RIGHT SLOT
X
Y
Z
H
Q
A
WEAK RIGHT OVER
Y
H
Q
A
X
Z
11 PERSONNEL FORMATIONS (1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WR)
FOR USE IN 2 MINUTE OFFENSE – ALWAYS RT. STRENGTH
AIR FORCE
X
Y
F
Q
A
Z
MOTION/SHIFTS
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
HUM STRONG – H MOTION TO STRONG POSITION
HUM WEAK – H MOTION TO WEAK POSITION
HUM WIDE – H MOTION TO RECEIVER POSITION ON SAME SIDE OF BALL
H RETURN – H MOTION STARTING TO OPPOSITE SIDE AND RETURNING TO
ORIGINAL POSITION
YAZ – Y TRADE=START OPPOSITE OF STRENGTH CALL AND SHIFT ON 1 ST
SOUND
JUMP – Y & H TRADE=START OPPOSITE OF STRENGTH CALL AND SHIFT ON
1ST SOUND
EXPLODE – Y & H TRADE, THEN Z MOTIONS ACROSS BALL. ALL START
OPPOSITE STRENGTH CALL.
Z DOG – Z SHORT MOTION AND FAKE Z REVERSE TO HOLD DE
Z WIDE – Z SHORT MOTION TOWARDS SIDELINE
ZING – Z SHORT MOTION IN BUT NOT ACROSS BALL, TO 2 YARDS OUTSIDE
OF Y OR TACKLE
ZOOM – Z MOTION ALL THE WAY ACROSS BALL
ZORRO – Z RETURN MOTION STARTING TO OPPOSITE SIDE AND
RETURNING TO STARTING POSITION
A LEFT OR A RIGHT – TAILBACK MOTION TO DIRECTION CALLED PAST ALL
RECEIVERS
RUN
4 / 5 – INSIDE ZONE
FS
C
C
0
B
2
B
1
E
T
T
X
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. 4
4
B
SS
3
E
Y
H
Z
A
PY
Zone step to playside gap. Block #3 defender
PT
Zone step to playside gap. Block #2 defender
PG
Zone step to playside gap. Block #1 defender
C
Zone step to playside gap. Block #0 = 1st defender head up to playside
BG
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BT
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BY
Block backside force defender/backside LB.
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Chip Y’s man to #4if frontside, block backside LB if away from call.
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
First step at outside leg of TE, second step at outside leg of Guard
A
Read 1st down lineman to adjacent DL. Press frontside to cutback, stay tite.
QB
Open @ 5/7, get ball to RB as deep as possible, boot hard away to hold DE.
8/9 – OUTSIDE ZONE
FS
C
C
B
E
SS
B
T
N
X
T
E
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 13 Snug Rt. 8
PY
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase.
PT
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase. If 3 Tech is too wide for G to block=Down
PG
Hard reach playside. If 3 Tech is too wide to reach, pull for force/LB.
C
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase.
BG
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase.
BT
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase.
BY
Hard reach playside. Don’t chase
Z
Block corner.
H
Block OLB to Safety.
X
Block corner.
A
Playside step 1 yard outside TE and sprint to edge. Cut up not back.
QB
Open at 4/8 and sprint to back, hand off and boot away hard to hold DE.
26 / 27 POWER – Power G
FS
SS
B
B
C
E
T
N
T
X
C
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. Hum Strong 26 Power
PY
Block inside gap, DL up to LB
PT
Block inside gap, DL up to LB
PG
Block inside gap, DL up to LB
C
Block inside gap, DL up to LB
BG
Backstep Lead pull to B/C gap, stay tight to wall and blow up any color.
BT
Step Hinge. Don’t allow any run thru between you and C back block.
BY
Step Hinge. Don’t allow any run thru between you and T.
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Kick out first man that shows outside of Tight End
X
1-2 safety rules.
3TE
Block inside gap, DL up to LB
A
Slide step, balance, sprint through first gap inside-out
QB
Open @ 6, hand off deep to A, set up to pass.
8/9 TOSS – G Toss
FS
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
SS
T
X
E
Y
H
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. 8 Toss
Z
A
PY
Reach End man and turn him inside
PT
PG Uncovered=Hard Reach, PG Covered=Block down on 3 tech for pulling G
PG
Pull to block frontside LB, if he blitzes=stay and reach him
C
Hard Reach, work with BSG up to LB
BG
Hard Reach, work with C to combo up to LB
BT
Hard Reach
BY
Hard Reach
Z
Frontside=Block Corner, Backside=TD block
H
Kick out first man that shows outside of Tight End
X
Frontside=Block Corner, Backside=TD Block
3TE
Block Corner or Force defender
A
Open flat, receive toss and sprint to perimeter
QB
Reverse out and toss to A, hard naked fake away.
4 / 5 OPTION – Option with Zone blocking
FS
C
C
0
B
2
B
1
E
T
T
X
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. 4 Option
4
B
SS
3
E
Y
H
Z
A
PY
Zone step to playside gap. Block #3 defender
PT
Zone step to playside gap. Block #2 defender
PG
Zone step to playside gap. Block #1 defender
C
Zone step to playside gap. Block #0 = 1st defender head up to playside
BG
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BT
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BY
Block backside force defender/backside LB.
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Chip Y’s man to #4 if frontside, block backside LB if away from call.
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
Open step to sideline and work to position from QB 4 yards deep and one
Yard in front. Receive pitch and run hash/numbers/sideline
QB
Open at 4/8, work to force defender for pitch/keep read
4 / 5 WHAM – DT Trap by H
FS
C
C
B
E
B
T
B
T
X
SS
E
Y
H
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. 5 Wham
Z
A
PY
Zone step to playside gap
PT
Zone step to playside gap
PG
Zone step to playside gap
C
Block backside A gap DL to LB
BG
Block backside B gap DL to LB
BT
Block backside C gap DL to LB
BY
Block backside D gap
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Short motion, block DT keeping head on the line of scrimmage side
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
First step at outside leg of TE, second step at outside leg of Guard
A
First and second step must be wide enough to clear trap block on Nose/1 tech
QB
Open @ 5/7, must run to 1 Technique.
6/7 COUNTER – Counter with Guard/H Pull
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 13 Weak Rt. Hum Strong 7 Counter
PY
Block Inside Gap, DL to LB
PT
Block Inside Gap, DL to LB
PG
Block Inside Gap, DL to LB
C
Block Inside Gap, DL to LB
BG
Pull flat, Kick out End, work inside out
BT
Step Hinge. Don’t allow any run thru between you and C back block
BY
Step Hinge. Don’t allow any run thru
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Pull through B/C gap and look for playside LB, blow up any color that shows
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
Counter step, receive ball and follow H through hole. Don’t bounce unless H
A
bounces outside.
QB
Reverse out at 5/7, hand off and continue on Naked/Boot path.
2 Draw – Single back draw
FS
S
C
B
E
T
C
B
N
T
X
E
Y
Z
H
Example shown;12 Weak Rt. H Return 2 Draw
A
PY
Block playside LB
PT
Fan to End man on line of scrimmage
PG
Fan to 2nd man in from the outside
C
PS A gap to head up to backside A gap
BG
Pass set, release for LB, vs. 43=Block MLB, if 1 tech Fold block to LB
BT
Pass set, block PS gap to head up to LB
BY
Pass set, block end man on line of scrimmage
Z
Influence release
H
Block outside LB to your side
X
Influence release
A
Slide step with eyes up, receive ball and get straight upfield
QB
Pass drop with eyes downfield, on third step hand ball to A and set up
4 / 5 CUT – Predetermined Cutback
FS
C
C
0
B
2
B
1
E
T
4
B
T
X
SS
3
E
Y
H
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. 4 Cut
Z
A
PY
Zone step to playside gap. Block #3 defender
PT
Zone step to playside gap. Block #2 defender
PG
Zone step to playside gap. Block #1 defender
C
Zone step to playside gap. Block #0 = 1st defender head up to playside
BG
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop. If two outside the fan to 3 or 5 technique.
BT
Block out on EMLOS. If two outside alert G by making fan call.
BY
Block backside force defender/backside LB.
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Chip Y’s man to #4if frontside, block backside LB if away from call.
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
First step at outside leg of TE, second step at outside leg of Guard
A
Press frontside then cut back and read H block.
QB
Open @ 5/7, get ball to RB as deep as possible, boot hard away to hold DE.
4 / 5 SWIPE – Inside Zone with H on BS End
FS
SS
C
0
B
2
B
1
E
T
C
B
T
X
3
E
Y
Z
H
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt.Slot 4 Swipe
A
PY
Zone step to playside gap. Block #3 defender
PT
Zone step to playside gap. Block #2 defender
PG
Zone step to playside gap. Block #1 defender
C
Zone step to playside gap. Block #0 = 1st defender head up to playside
BG
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BT
Zone step to playside gap. Scoop.
BY
Block backside force defender/backside LB.
Z
1-2 safety rules.
H
Step flat behind LOS. Stay tite to LOS and kick out EMLOS.
X
1-2 safety rules.
A
First step at outside leg of TE, second step at outside leg of Guard
A
Read 1st down lineman to adjacent DL. Press frontside to cutback, stay tite.
QB
Open @ 5/7, get ball to RB as deep as possible, boot hard away to hold DE.
8 PITCH – Fake 8 Quick Pitch to A
FS
C
C
B
B
E
X
Z
B
T
T
B
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. Slot 6 Pitch
PY
Block OLB.
PT
Sift inside and block PSLB.
PG
Block 8
C
Block 8
BG
Block 8
BT
Inside release and set up block for OLB
BY
Release and block 2nd level defender.
Z
Full speed motion and fake 6 Sweep.
H
Block 2nd defender from outside in.
X
Block corner. Move him back!
A
Release flat opposite of 8, receive ball and race edge then get up field.
QB
Fake 6 Sweep and quick pitch to A.
BLOCK 4 / 5 Z REVERSE
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
B
E
X
Y
H
A
Example shown; 21 Plus Rt. Block 4 Z Reverse Lt.
PY
Block 4/5.
PT
Step down on 4/5 then up to LB and seal him inside.
PG
Block 4/5 and seal away.
C
Block 4/5 and seal away.
BG
Block 4/5.
BT
Block 4/5.
BY
Block FS.
Z
Short motion, belly back, receive ball and race outside to up field.
H
Fake block on DE and get upfield for OLB/Force.
X
Block Corner, crucial.
A
Fake 4/5 and block.
QB
Fake 4/5 and hand to Z over the top. Can also do Y reverse.
Z
PASS
WIDE RECEIVER ROUTE TREE
2ND NUMBER DICTATES ROUTE BY X OR Z
EX. – 64 OPTION = X & Z RUN 10 YARD OUT
9
9
8
8
7
7
6
6
5
5
4
4
3
3
1
1
2
2
0
0
X
Z
EVEN NUMBERS BREAK OUT
ODD NUMBERS BREAK IN
ROUTE TREE DESCRIPTIONS
•
•
•
•
•
•
0 – COIL ROUTE STARTING IN ON A QUICK SLANT THEN PIVOTING AND
RUNNING FLAT TOWARDS SIDELINE
1 – THREE STEP QUICK SLANT WORKING FIRST THREE STEPS OUTSIDE
LEVERAGE OF CORNER
2 – FOUR STEP SPEED OUT
3 – FIVE STEP HITCH TURNING INSIDE ON BREAK (50 SERIES) OR 9 STEP
CURL TURNING INSIDE ON BREAK (60 SERIES)
4 – EIGHT STEPS AND OUT TO SIDELINE
5 – NINE STEPS AND IN TO MIDDLE OF FIELD (ALSO CALLED WHIP)
6 – EIGHT STEPS THEN TO CORNER
7 – NINE STEPS THEN TO POST
8 – SEVEN STEPS TO POST, THEN THREE STEPS AND BREAK TO CORNER
•
**ALL RECEIVERS START WITH INSIDE FOOT UPFIELD
•
•
•
PLAY/CONCEPT
FS
SS
C
B
E
B
T
B
C
T
X
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown;
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
B
QB ACTIONQB KEYSNOTES-
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
SNAG CONCEPT
FS
C
C
SS
B
E
B
T
B
T
X
Z
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12- WEAK RIGHT SLOT ZING 66 Z SNAG
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Corner
Inside normal
Best
8 steps
Snag
Normal
Inside
5 steps
Post
Normal
Inside
9 steps
Normal
Outside
3
Check Swing
Flat
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- Hard Corner=X, SS dog=H, LB blitz=Z (Z – H vs. 3)
NOTES- Snag concept – Called runs Snag, Companion runs Flag,
3rd WR in runs Flat, opposite receiver runs numbered route.
SNAG WHIP
FS
C
C
SS
B
E
B
T
T
X
Z
B
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12- WEAK RIGHT SLOT ZING 65 Z SNAG WHIP
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
WHIP
Inside normal
Best
9 steps
Snag
Normal
Inside
5 steps
Post
Normal
Inside
8 steps
Normal
Outside
3
Check Swing
Flat
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- SS dog=H, LB blitz=Z (Z – X - H)
NOTES- Snag Whip concept – Called runs Snag, Companion runs
Whip, 3rd WR in runs Flat, opposite receiver runs numbered route.
READ - 4 VERTICLE CONCEPT
FS
C
SS
B
B
E
X
T
B
C
T
E
Y
F
Z
A
Example shown; 11 – RIGHT 69 Y READ
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H/F
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Go
Normal
Outside
Bottom of
numbers
Go
Normal
Outside
Bottom of
numbers
Read or Seam –
Over top of LB’s
Normal
Outside
Outside of LB,
inside of Safety
Normal
Outside
Outside of LB,
inside of Satety
Check Stop
Seam or Read
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop.
QB KEYS- MOFO=Seam to Over, MOFC=Field Seam to boundary
seam.
Notes – Read Concept – 4 Verticle receivers. Outside receivers bottom of #’s, Inside receivers 2
yards outside of hash. Important that inside receivers are outside of LB’s but inside of Safeties.
OVER CONCEPT
FS
C
SS
B
E
B
T
B
C
T
X
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12- STRONG RIGHT 67 H OVER
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
F/H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Post
Inside Normal
Inside
9 steps
Dig
Normal
Inside
9 steps
Drag
Normal
Inside
4 yards
Normal
Inside
10 to 12 to 16
Check Swing
Over
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- Peek at Post, Drag – Over - Dig
NOTES- Over concept – Called runs Over, TE runs Drag, Z runs
Dig, opposite runs Post
DOUBLE POST (CORNER) CONCEPT
FS
C
C
B
E
B
T
SS
B
T
X
E
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 12- WEAK RIGHT HUM TITE 69 DOUBLE POST
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Go
Normal
Outside
Z
Post-lean heavy on
outside
Normal
Inside, lean
outside
9 steps
Y
Post at toes of near
safety
Normal
Inside
Across toes of
FS
Normal
Outside
3
X
A
F/H
Check Stop
Flat
QB ACTION- 5 Step, hitch
QB KEYS- Outside Post to Flat, in Dbl Post Corner=best match up
NOTES- Double Post Concept - #1 Runs Post, #2 runs Post at
toes of FS, #3 runs Flat, opposite runs Go
SMASH CONCEPT
FS
C
SS
B
E
B
T
C
B
T
X
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12- STRONG RIGHT ZOOM 66 SMASH
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
X
Corner –Flag, Post,
out vs. man, Sit
Inside normal
Outside
8 steps
Z
Coil, allow X route
to clear the burst
Inside Normal
Best
Wait for X to
clear, then break
Go
Normal
Best
8 steps
Y
A
H
Check Stop
Delay
Wait for Y to
clear, then break
Normal
Best
Wait for Y to
clear, then break
QB ACTION- 5 Step (used in conjunction with sprint series often)
QB KEYS- Corner read for throw, Safety read for Stretch route
NOTES- Stretch Concept- Called runs Stretch, companion runs
Hitch
STICK CONCEPT
FS
C
C
B
E
B
T
SS
B
T
X
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 – STRONG RIGHT H RETURN 69 Y STICK X GLANCE
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Slant (Glance)
Normal
Inside
3 Steps
Go
Outside normal
Outside
Clear out-crucial
Stick
Normal
Best
5 steps
Normal
Outside
1, wider than
widest
Check Stop
Arrow
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop, throw on 5
QB KEYS- Peek at Slant, H-Y. SS Dog=Arrow, LB Blitz=Stick
NOTES- Stick Concept – #1 runs O/S Go, #2 runs Arrow, Called
runs Stick, opposite runs Slant
DRIVE CONCEPT
FS
C
SS
B
E
B
T
B
C
T
E
X
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 – BUNCH RIGHT FAR ZING 69 Z DRIVE
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Go
Normal
Outside
Drive
Tight
Inside – Behind Y
release
6
In
Normal
Outside – Strong
release
9 steps
Normal
Outside – Let
Drive go in front
Get width then
look quickly
Check Swing
Wheel
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- Peek at X, Drive, In, Wheel. Vs. man=Drive to Wheel.
NOTES-Drive Concept – Called runs Drive, #2 runs In, #3 runs
Wheel route, opposite runs Go.
OPTION CONCEPT
FS
SS
B
C
E
B
T
B
C
T
E
X
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; SPREAD RIGHT 69 OPTION
PROTECTION
60
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
Option – Break out
high percentage
Normal
Best
Go
Outside Normal
Outside
Option – Break out
high percentage
Normal
Best
Check Stop
Go
DEPTH
8 steps
8 steps
6 yards
Outside Normal
Outside
QB ACTION- 5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- Best Option match-up. Throw on 5th step.
NOTES- Option Concept – Outside receivers run Go, must outside release, Inside receivers run
Option route (Out breaking route 90% of the time), if outside leverage by LB/SS=curl inside.
CROSS CONCEPT
FS
C
C
SS
B
E
B
T
B
T
E
X
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 12 – WEAK RIGHT SLOT ZING 66 X CROSS
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Cross
Inside normal
Inside
6 yards
Corner
Normal
Outside
8 steps
Drag
Normal
Inside
Under Cross
route
Normal
Outside
3 yards
Check Flare
Flat
QB ACTION-5 Step Drop
QB KEYS- Peek at Corner, vs. man read Cross mesh, Flat/X/Y
NOTES- Cross Concept=Called runs Cross, Y Drags under Cross,
H runs Flat route. Tight mesh with Cross/Drag important.
59 X SPEED OUT
FS
C
SS
B
E
B
T
C
B
T
X
E
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 12 – Strong Rt. Slot 59 X Speed Out
PROTECTION
50
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
Speed Out
Split Z and T
Outside
Go
Normal
Outside
DEPTH
4 steps
Block 50 pro unless
tagged
50 protection
Block 50 protection
unless tagged
QB ACTION- 3 Step
QB KEYS- Corner read. 90% of the time through Speed Out
NOTES- 59 X SPEED OUT – Outside receiver runs called patter,
inside receiver runs 4 step speed out.
51
FS
SS
B
C
B
E
Z
Z
Y
A
H
C
T
E
Y
H
A
50
RECEIVER
X
T
X
Example shown; 12 – Strong Rt. Slot 51
PROTECTION
B
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Slant
Split Z and T
Inside
3 steps
Slant
Outside normal
Inside
3 steps, press
outside
Block 50 pro unless
tagged
50 protection
Block 50 pro unless
tagged
QB ACTION- 3 Step
QB KEYS- Read flat defender for inside/outside slant throw
NOTES- 51 – Double slants, inside receiver must cross the face
of the number 2 defender
52
FS
C
SS
C
B
E
Z
T
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
N
X
T
E
Y
H
Example shown; 12 – Weak Rt. Slot 52
PROTECTION
B
A
50
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Speed Out
Split Z and T
Outside
4 steps
Speed Out
Inside normal
Outside
4 steps
Block 50 pro unless
tagged
50 protection
Block 50 pro unless
tagged
QB ACTION- 3 Step
QB KEYS- Read outside in. Change play if hard Corner or press.
NOTES- 52 – Double Speed Out
51 Y/H ARROW
FS
C
C
E
B
T
X
SS
B
N
T
E
Y
H
Z
Example shown; 12 – Weak Rt. 51 Y/H Arrow
A
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
X
Z
Y
A
H
ROUTE
SPLIT
RELEASE
DEPTH
Slant
Outside normal
Inside
3 steps
Slant
Outside normal
Inside
3 steps
Outside
1 step and aim 3
yards to sideline
Outside
1 step and aim 3
yards to sideline
Arrow
50 protection
Arrow
QB ACTION- 3 Step
QB KEYS- Slant/Arrow read opposite of flat defender
NOTES- 51 Y/H ARROW – Slants stay shallow off of hip of flat
defender, Arrows look quick for ball
FLAT CONCEPT
FS
SS
C
B
E
B
T
B
C
T
X
E
Y
H
Z
RELEASE
DEPTH
A
Example shown; Strong Rt. 63 Flat
PROTECTION
RECEIVER
ROUTE
SPLIT
X
Numbered routeUsually 3/Curl
Normal
Inside
9 Steps
Z
Numbered routeUsually 3/Curl
Normal
Inside
9 Steps
Hook over Center
Normal
Inside
6 yards
Normal
Outside
3 yards at
sideline
Y
A
H
Check Swing
Flat
QB ACTION- 5 Step drop
QB KEYS- Hook to Curl/Flat read. Let Curl develop vs. soft cov.
NOTES- Flat Concept – Curls by WR, Hook over middle by TE, H
in the flat, back check Swing. Good vs. Cover 3.
NAKED 4 / 5 – FAKE ZONE NAKED PASS
FS
SS
B
B
C
E
X
T
B
T
Y
H
C
E
Z
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. Naked 4
PY
Slam End, delay and run flat to sideline
PT
Block 4/5, don’t go down field.
PG
Block 4/5 don’t go down field.
C
Block 4/5 don’t go down field.
BG
Block 4/5 don’t go down field.
BT
Block 4/5 don’t go down field.
BY
Drag 10 yards.
Z
Post
H
Slam End, delay and run flat to sideline
X
Vs. Hard Corner=Inside release Corner Vs. Soft Corner=Comeback
FB
Block End and release flat
A
Fake 4/5 and sprint through line.
QB
Fake 4/5 and naked. Comeback to Flat to Drag, Post late or tagged.
FAKE 4 WHAM PASS – Crack and Go
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
Z
A Pass
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. Zing Fake 4 Wham
PY
Reach End and Protect.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Fake Pro.
Z
Crack, Go, Flag.
H
Crack and Go up seam and behind LB’s. Work back outside if in End Zone
X
N/A
A
Fake 8 and Pro.
QB
Fake 8 and read H to Z.
FAKE 8 TOSS PASS – Fake Toss TE Drag
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. Fake 8 Toss Pass
PY
Initiate block on E and Drag.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Post.
Z
Curl – 9 steps
H
Inside release to block back and slip up the Seam looking for ball quickly.
X
Thin Post. Must clear out the backside as fast as possible.
A
Toss path then settle in Flat for QB outlet.
QB
Fake 8 Toss, drop and set in G/T box. Peek at X, Y on Drag or H in Seam
QB
Z/A late. No back to protect=if frontside blitz the must hit drag/seam quick.
FAKE 7 COUNTER PASS
FS
C
C
B
E
T
B
N
SS
T E
Y
X
H
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Lt. Slot Fake 7 Counter Pass
PY
N/A
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Over route.
Z
Stutter and Go
H
Bump Angle
X
Backside Corner route – 22 yards
3TE
Go route
A
Fake 7 and protect
QB
Peak at Stutter-go, Backside Corner to Over route, H late
Z
BOOT 4 / 5 WHEEL
FS
C
C
B
B
E
Z
H
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
A
Example shown; 12 Minus Rt. Boot 4 Wheel
PY
Boot Pro.
PT
Boot Pro.
PG
Boot Pro.
C
Boot Pro
BG
Boot Pro.
BT
Boot Pro.
BY
Boot Pro.
Z
Curl route.
H
Wheel route.
X
N/A
FB
Seal edge.
A
Fake 4/5, fill for pulling G to edge rusher.
QB
Fake 4/5, boot for depth, read Wheel to Curl.
FAKE 4 / 5 PASS – INSIDE ZONE PAP, POST / DIG COMBO
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 Odd Rt Fake 4 Pass
PY
Fake Pro.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Fake Pro.
Z
Dig – 15 yards.
H
Post over FS.
X
N/A
FB
Fake 4.
A
Fake 4 and Pro.
QB
Fake 4. Read High to Low, Post to Dig. Make a great Fake for FS to attack.
FAKE 26 / 27 POWER PASS – PAP OFF OF 26 OR 27
FS
C
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
T
B
E
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; 21 Odd Rt. Fake 26 Power Pass
PY
Flag.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Called route or Fake Pro.
Z
Pole across FS toes.
H
N/A
X
Thin Post.
FB
Flat – as quick as possible.
A
Fake Power and Fake Pro ILB to OLB to double End.
QB
Fake Power, set in G/T box and read Y to H, to b/s double Post read on FS.
FAKE 2 DRAW PASS – FAKE DRAW PASS
FS
C
C
B
B
E
Z
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12 Strong Rt. Slot Fake 2 Draw Pass
PY
Drag – under LB’s.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Fake Pro.
Z
Go.
H
Seal edge, watch for any edge blitz, sprint to flat
X
Dig – 15 yards.
A
Fake Draw, check ILB to OLB then hook up at 6 over QB.
QB
Fake Draw. Set in G/T box, Peek at Z, read Y to X. H/A late.
BOOT 4 / 5 TWIST
FS
C
C
B
B
E
Z
H
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
A
Example shown; 12 Minus Rt. Boot 4 Twist
PY
Boot Pro.
PT
Boot Pro.
PG
Boot Pro.
C
Boot Pro
BG
Boot Pro.
BT
Boot Pro.
BY
Boot Pro.
Z
Twist route.
H
Twist route.
X
N/A
FB
Seal edge.
A
Fake 4/5, fill for pulling G to edge rusher.
QB
Fake 4/5, boot for depth, read outside to inside Twists.
BOOT 4 / 5 FLOOD
FS
SS
C
C
B
E T
X
B
N
T
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. Zoom Boot 4 Flood
PY
Seal edge and run flat.
PT
Boot Pro.
PG
Boot Pro.
C
Boot Pro
BG
Boot Pro.
BT
Boot Pro.
BY
Deep Cross. Post through middle of field if no safety.
Z
Thin Post.
H
Bump Angle
X
10 Step Out
3TE
Block edge
A
Fake 4/5, fill for pulling G to edge rusher.
QB
Fake 4/5, boot for depth, Post/Out/Bump Angle, TE late on In/Post
Z
BOOT 4 / 5 SMASH
FS
C
C
SS
B
E
X
Z
B
T
B
T
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12 Weak Rt. Slot Boot 4 Smash
PY
N/A
PT
Boot Pro.
PG
Boot Pro.
C
Boot Pro
BG
Boot Pro.
BT
Boot Pro.
BY
Deep Cross, Post through middle of field if no Safety.
Z
Coil – wait for X to clear release then burst out to sideline at 6 yards
H
Bump Angle
X
Corner – 8 steps
A
Fake 4/5, fill for pulling G to edge rusher.
QB
Fake 4/5, boot for depth, Corner/Coil/Bump Angle, TE possible if FS is gone.
PRO
Pass Protection
•
5-Step Slide protection
RT: R Strength=C Gap extended, L Strength=Man head up to outside
RG: R Strength=B Gap, L Strength=1=A Gap 2/3 tech.=Man Block
C: Strength side A Gap
LG: R Strength=1=A Gap 2/3 tech.=Man Block, L Strength=B Gap
LT: R Strength=Man head up to outside, L Strength=C Gap extended
Back: Dual read from Inside Linebacker to Outside Linebacker.
Solid Call= Cheat up, Read Linebackers across from TE to backside
RTE: R Strength=D Gap extended, L Strength=Double w/T to Edge Dog/Blitz.
LTE: R Strength=Double w/T to Edge Blitz/Dog, L Strength=D Gap extended.
2
W
Slide Pro vs. 44
Right Strength
E
1
M
S
T
T
SS
E
1 to 2
1
SS
S
M
2
E
T
1 to 2
N
T E
Slide Pro vs. 52
Right Strength
5 STEP CONT.
S
M
Slide Pro vs. Bear
Right Strength
E
T
T N
Slide Pro vs. 52 with 2 Backs
L Strength
FB = ILB, TB = OLB
SS
B
B
E
T
No. 1 LBNo.2 LB-
N
T
E
E
5 STEP PRO CONT.
1
2
M
Slide Pro vs. Under
Right Strength
E
SS
S
N
T
T E
1 to 2
A=If Mac goes TE side let go
1
2
W
Slide Pro vs. 43
Right Strength
E
1 to 2
T
SS
S
M
T
E
3 STEP PROTECTION (50 SERIES)
RT: B Gap
RG: A Gap
C: Left A Gap
LG: B Gap
LT: C Gap
A: Cut first threat outside right Tackle using a
banana path, 2 back = cut first threat outside H if
to right side.
H: 2 back = Cut first threat outside left Tackle,
banana path. Off set=Cut first threat to your side
outside of Tackle.
3 Step Protection (50-59)
W
E
S
M
N
T
E
• FAKE Protection
(Fake 26/27 Power Pass, etc.)
OLINE: Slide protection rules opposite strength call
instead of to the strength call. Backside Hinge
deeper than regular protection.
A: Fake run action and read LB’ inside to outside.
H: Responsible for OLB before checking to route.
Fake Protection
B
B
E
T
T
N
E
Y
H
Minus Lt. Fake 25 Iso Pass
A
E
SS
B
B
W
T
N
E
Y
H
Odd Rt. Fake 26 Power Pass
A
• Boot Protection
(Boot 4/5)
FT/FG/C/FTE: Down Block
BG: Pull and escort QB, listen for “GO” call to run.
BT/BTE: Step down to fill for pulling G and work back out
A: Fake 4/5, fill for pulling Guard to Backside edge
pressure
Boot Protection
B
B
E
T
N
T
SS
E
Boot 4
E
Boot 5
SS
B
B
W
N
T
E
Sprint Protection
•
Full Sprint protection
RT: Hard reach to call side.
RG: Hard reach to call side.
C: Hard reach to call side.
LG: Hard reach to call side.
LT: Hard reach to call side.
Back: Sprint to hip of T/TE and seal outside man inside.
RTE: Hard reach to call side.
LTE: Hard reach to call side.
W
Sprint Lt.
E
M
S
T
T
Q
S
M
E
T
N
T E
Sprint Rt.
Q
SS
E
SCREENS
49 X MIDDLE SCREEN
FS
C
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
T
B
E
Y
H
Z
A
Example shown; 12 - Weak Rt. 49 X Middle Screen
Y
Block playside LB.
PT
Pass set inside, allow speed rush and cut. Inside rusher = wash him down.
PG
Pull up through alley/force. Get upfield, don’t run to sideline.
C
Block left Inside LB. If he blitzes go to FS.
BG
Block alley/force defender.
BT
Pass Pro and try to run by QB.
T
Block Corner.
Z
Stalk Corner.
H
Block Corner, force him underneath.
X
One step forward, retrace and run flat down LOS, receive ball and get upfield.
FB
N/A
A
Sprint flat to sideline, receive ball and get upfield. Can cut back off Tackle.
QB
Read End. If goes with back on 5th step hit H backside, otherwise A on 3rd.
40 Drive Screen Rt.
FS
C
C
B
E
B
T
SS
B
T
X
E
Y
H
A
Example shown; 12 – Strong Rt. Zing 40 Drive Screen Rt.
PY
Release and block FS.
PT
2 count and release for force defender (SS)
PG
2 count and release for playside LB.
C
Double Nose/1 technique to backside LB.
BG
Double Nose/1 technique to backside LB.
BT
5 step Pro, don’t allow inside penetration.
BY
Release to block FS.
Z
Fake Drive concept and block inside LB. Force him underneath.
H
Outside release and block Corner.
X
Influence release.
FB
Outside release and block Corner.
A
Step up in protection and run sift flat towards sideline.
QB
Drop with eyes downfield, fit ball in to A.
Z
45 A Screen Lt.
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
Example shown; 12 - Strong Rt. 45 A Screen
Z
A
PY
Block FS.
PT
Pass Pro, try and run DE by QB drop point.
PG
1 count Pro and release flat then up to OLB/force. Get up field and Cut.
C
1 count Pro and release flat to ILB. Get up field not to sideline and Cut.
BG
Pass Pro. Don’t allow inside penetration.
BT
Pass Pro. Don’t allow inside penetration.
BY
Block FS.
Z
Block Corner.
H
Block OLB/run off.
X
Block Corner.
B/H
Sprint to flat opposite of screen.
A
Step up on Pro for 1 count and release flat. Catch ball and get up field.
QB
On 3rd step pump away and turn and hit A on fifth step of drop.
GOALLINE
Power Right/Left
FS
B
C
B
E
B
T
T
X
C
E
B
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; Jumbo Rt. Zorro Power Rt.
PY
26 Power rules.
PT
26 Power rules.
PG
26 Power rules.
C
26 Power rules.
BG
26 Power rules.
BT
26 Power rules.
BY
26 Power rules.
Z
Go underneath Q and follow G up through hole, seal inside to outside.
H
N/A
X
N/A
FB
26 Power rules.
A
26 Power rules.
QB
26 Power rules.
CRASH RIGHT/LEFT – GOAL LINE TAILBACK READ
FS
B
C
B
E
B
T
T
X
C
E
B
Y
Z
H
A
Example shown; Jumbo Rt. 25 Crash
PY
Block End man any direction.
PT
Block 2nd DE any direction.
PG
Lead step right, blocks first down lineman head up to inside.
C
Lead step left, prevent penetration by PSNG or LB.
BG
Cut off penetration to playside.
BT
Cut off penetration to playside.
BY
Cut off penetration to playside.
Z
Read TE,if he blocks down go outside and block C or LB. Inside TE otherwise.
H
N/A
X
N/A
FB
Read LT for LB block path, if down then go outside and seal LB inside.
A
Follow FB, wait for seam to develop and accelerate inside or out.
QB
Open step and hand to A as deep as possible and boot away.
TANK – FB WEDGE (OR CUBE – QB WEDGE)
FS
B
C
B
E
B
T
T
X
C
E
B
Y
Z
H
Example shown; Jumbo Rt. Tank
A
PY
Wedge.
PT
Wedge.
PG
Wedge. Wedge on you, must get push!
C
Wedge.
BG
Wedge.
BT
Wedge.
BY
Wedge.
Z
Block off TE hip.
H
N/A
X
N/A
FB
Sprint at Guard, receive ball, secure ball and get first down.
A
Follow FB and look for loose ball threat.
QB
Secure snap, open step and hand to FB.
CLOSERS
SKY – LAST PLAY OF THE HALF/GAME
Y
H
A
PY
5 Step Pro
PT
5 Step Pro
PG
5 Step Pro
C
5 Step Pro
BG
5 Step Pro
BT
5 Step Pro
BY
N/A
Z
Run to goal line and tip ball
H
Run to 5 yards line and look for deflection
X
Run past goal line and look for deflection
FB
N/A
A
5 Step Pro
QB
Deep drop. Lob ball to goal line
Z
X
VICTORY
FS
C
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
X
B
E
Y
H
A
Z
PY
Step inside
PT
Step inside
PG
Step inside
C
Hold your position, don’t go backwards
BG
Step inside
BT
Step inside
BY
Step inside
Z
Last defender. Must make tackle or hold person up until others get there.
H
X
Watch for bad snap, protect QB
FB
Watch for bad snap, protect QB
A
Watch for bad snap, protect QB
QB
Secure snap, retreat two three steps and take a knee. Wait for whistle.
FAKE 9 H REVERSE PASS
FS
C
C
B
B
E
Z
B
T
T
B
E
Y
H
X
A
PY
Jam DE, run Drag.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro, reach DE, can allow an inside rush, watch for edge dog.
BY
Fake Pro.
Z
Pole.
H
Arc back and receive reverse, look for X
X
Stalk and go
FB
A
Fake 9, sprint to sideline.
QB
Fake 9, hand to H over the top, sprint to sideline.
FAKE 8 TOSS REVERSE PASS
FS
C
B
B
E
B
T
T
E
Y
X
H
A
PY
Fake Pro.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Z
C
B
Grab reverse and flip to QB.
H
X
2 Count stalk and go.
FB
Seal edge, don’t allow penetration.
A
Sell sweep and hand to Z
QB
Toss, set very deep. Receive flip and throw to X.
Z
FAKE 8 TOSS HB PASS TO QB
FS
C
B
C
B
E
B
T
T
B
E
Y
X
Z
H
A
PY
Post.
PT
Fake Pro.
PG
Fake Pro.
C
Fake Pro.
BG
Fake Pro.
BT
Fake Pro.
BY
Z
Go.
H
X
Go.
FB
Seal edge.
A
Receive toss, sell stretch, hit QB on wheel. No throw=run.
QB
Toss to A, casual wheel outside of hash and up field.
BUBBLE DOUBLE PASS
FS
SS
C
C
B
E
X
B
T
N
Pole route.
PT
3 Step.
PG
3 Step.
C
3 Step.
BG
3 Step.
BT
3 Step.
E
Y
H
A
PY
T
BY
Z
Stalk and Go.
H
Motion, receive bubble pass and throw to Z.
X
Pole.
FB
A
3 Step.
QB
One step and throw to H, must be a lateral.
Z
BLOCK 8/9 OPTION H REVERSE
FS
C
C
SS
B
E
B
T
N
T
E
Y
H
Z
X
A
PY
Block FS.
PT
Block 8/9.
PG
Block 8/9.
C
Block 8/9.
BG
Block 8/9.
BT
Inside zone release and get up to play side LB, seal inside, crucial.
BY
Z
Stalk, crucial. Allow for flow and seal inside.
H
Reverse path under A. Receive pitch and sprint to sideline, get width.
X
Stalk, crucial. Allow for flow and seal inside.
FB
A
Sprint flat to sideline.
QB
Spin and get down hill. Pitch softly to H on reverse.
FAKE 9 PITCH PASS
FS
C
SS
B
E
Z
T
B
N
T
E
Y
X
H
A
PY
Fake Pro
PT
Fake Pro
PG
Fake Pro
C
Fake Pro
BG
Fake Pro
BT
Fake Pro
BY
Fake Pro
Z
Post.
H
Fake 9H.
X
Stalk and go.
C
FB
A
Sprint flat, receive ball and sell run. Pass to X. If covered = run.
QB
Fake 9H, Pitch to A.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 3
FS
C
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
T
B
E
Y
H
Z
A
Cover 3 is identified by the two corners and free safety dividing up
the secondary into thirds. Corners are 6-9 yards off the ball
looking inside at the QB playing outside leverage on the WR
funneling him to inside help from the FS. Outside Backers or SS
are responsible for the Flat areas while the inside Backers handle
Hook zones.
Vunerable to;
4 Verticle receivers, Curl/Flat zones.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 2 Man
FS
SS
B
C
X
B
E
T
B
T
E
Y
H
C
Z
A
Cover 2 Man is identified by the underneath coverage in Man with
two Safeties over the top for help. Underneath coverage is in
inside shade and the Safeties are at Cover 2 depth and
alignment. Limited blitz possibility.
Vunerable to;
Crossing routes, Quick routes underneath, Draws, no back QB
draw is a killer, can bust with a trap if D&D allows. Will generally
not be able to generate as great of a pass rush.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 0
C
FS
B
E T
X
B
N
SS
T
E
Y
H
C
Z
A
Cover 0 is identified by all DB’s leveled off in inside leverage and
in man defense 1-4 yards off the ball. Used with heavy blitz of 67 defenders. LB’s bracket remaining backs coming their way.
DB’s following WR in motion is indication it is some sort of man.
Vunerable to;
Quick Verts, Quick Slants or Quick Arrow/Slant, Speed Option
very good.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 8
FS
SS
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
T
E
Y
H
C
Z
A
Cover 8 is a combination coverage of Cover 4 to one side of the
field (usually the wide side) and Cover 2 to the other side of the
field (usually into the boundary). Popular versus trips formation
with the Cover 4 side to the trips side and the hard Corner to the
Dead T side or one receiver side.
Vunerable to;
Flat area to Cover 4 side, Glance Route to Cover 2 side, play
action to quarters side and verts/smash concept/dead area to
Cover 2 side.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
3 Under/3 Deep
FS
C
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
T
B
E
Y
H
Z
A
3 Under 3 Deep is used in conjunction with blitz or zone blitz. LB’s
are responsible for covering underneath zones. Cover 3 is played
on top to keep the “lid” on and not allow the big play.
Vunerable to;
Underneath routes as only 3 defenders are responsible for area,
4 Verts, Double Slants, Option/Run.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 2
FS
SS
B
C
X
B
E
T
B
T
E
Y
H
C
Z
A
Cover 2 is identified by the two Corners up and outside shade
funneling the WR’s inside to Safety help. The two Safeties divide
the secondary into halves starting on or outside the hash 12-15
yards deep. In most schemes the MLB will get great depth to
help with the middle of the field (a.k.a. Tampa 2).
Vunerable to;
Double slants, Middle of the field between the safties, Dead area
behind the Corner, Smash concept and trips.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 4
FS
C
SS
C
B
B
E
X
T
B
T
E
Y
H
Z
A
Cover 4 is identified by the two corners and two safeties dividing
up the secondary into quarters. Corners are 6-9 yards off the ball
looking inside at the QB playing outside leverage on the WR
funneling him to inside help from the FS. Safeties play more
shallow in Cover 4 than Cover 2 possibly jumping Curl/Hook
routes. Backers are responsible for the Flat areas Hook zones.
Vunerable to;
Flats, play action on aggressive Safeties, underneath zones, trips
routes that pin MLB inside.
COVERAGE IDENTIFICATION
Cover 1
FS
C
B
B
E
X
B
T
B
T
E
Y
H
C
Z
A
Cover 1 is identified by a leveled off secondary. Defenders play
inside alignment and count on help over the top from a single
Free Safety who roams anywhere. Usually is accompanied by
some sort of blitz. SS also is a giveaway as he aligns head up
over TE and is leveled off with Corners. Depth of DB’s are from
1-3 yards. Inside LB’s can bracket running backs or are freed up
to blitz.
Vunerable to;
Quick routes (Flat/Slant, Double Slant concepts), Quick Verts
over the top before FS help can get there.
FRONT
IDENTIFICATION
FRONT IDENTIFICATION
44
FS
C
C
W
M
E
X
S
T
SS
T
E
Y
H
Z
A
44- 8 Man front heavy against the run. OLB’s are responsible for
flat areas against the pass and edge gap vs. the run. One gap
defense.
Vunerable to;
4 Verts., Trips formations, Curl/Flat combos, strong side run game
with unbalanced line.
FRONT IDENTIFICATION
34
FS
SS
C
C
M
S
W
T
X
N
T
E
Y
H
Z
A
34- 2 gap defense. Most multiple of all defenses. Allows for
many blitz combinations. Stand up DE’s forces everything inside.
Coverages vary on top.
Vunerable to;
Inside run game, quick passing game, trap, influence runs.
FRONT IDENTIFICATION
Under
FS
C
SS
C
W
E
X
T
M
N
T
S
Y
H
Z
A
Under- A.K.A. Reduction front from the 50. One gap defense.
Highly adjustable to anything. Sound vs. run or pass. Cover 3
rolled weak or a two high shell are common coverages with.
Popular zone blitz front with 3 under 3 deep on top.
Vunerable to;
Can force the Corner to be large part of run defense. Strong side
pass game vs. SS rolled weak. 4 wides forces OLB to bounce
out and play in space.
FRONT IDENTIFICATION
43
FS
SS
W
C
E
M
T
S
T
X
E
Y
C
Z
H
A
43- One gap defense. Utilizes secondary for extra player against
the rush. Can adjust to most anything. Uses a two high safety
concept most of the time.
Vunerable to;
Underneath passing game, inside run game vs. 3 or more wide
receivers, multiple TE’s can cause gap problems.
FRONT IDENTIFICATION
3-3-5
FS
C
N
N
W
T
X
M
N
S
T
Y
H
C
Z
A
3-3-5- Only 3 down lineman with the rest of the unit as LB’s and
secondary personnel. Strong vs. pass and perimeter run game
as LB’s and DB’s are free to run to the ball. LB’s are generally
stacked on DL.
Vunerable to;
Multiple TE sets, inside run, off-tackle run, perimeter passing
game and possibly 4 verts.
FALL CHECKLIST
5 STEP
FARGO
HOUSTON
CHICAGO
VEGAS
DENVER
OMAHA
FLAGSTAFF
STICK
RUN
4/5
8/9
26/27 POWER
24/25 ISO
20/21 TRAP
8 PITCH
8H
STATUE
CLOSERS
FREEZE
FREEZE TIME
FREEZE DELAY
HOT
SPIKE
SAFETY
SKY
VICTORY
EAT ME
3 STEP
WASHINGTON
MICHIGAN
TEXAS
FLORIDA
CALIFORNIA
BOOT
TWIST
WHEEL
READ
OVER
CROSS
FAKE PASS
FK 26/27 POWER PASS
FK 8 CRACK PASS
FK 8H PASS
FK 4 PASS
FK 24/25 ISO PASS
GOAL LINE
36 POWER
35 CRASH
38 TOSS
TANK/CUBE
FK 26 POWER PASS
NAKEDS
NAKED 4/5
NAKED 4/5 STAY
NAKED 4/5 SEAL
SCREENS
DEBBIE
ALLEY
BUBBLE
A SLIP SCREEN
GADGETS
FAKE 8 TOSS HB PASS
FAKE 9 GODFREY REV. PASS
FAKE 8 TOSS Z REV. PASS
FAKE 9 OPTION H REVERSE
FALL INSTALLATION SCHEDULE
PRACTICE
PERSONNEL
FORMATION
RUN
PASS
PROTECTION
1
11, 21
EVEN, PLUS
ON, OFF
4/5
FARGO,
5 STEP
3 STEP
2
12
MINUS, OVER
ODD
8/9
FLAGSTAFF
FK 8 CRK/H P
SPRINT
FAKE PRO
3
13
TIGHT, SNUG
SNUG SLOT
26/27 POWER
B TWST/WH.
WASH.
BOOT
4
20/21 QT
MICHIGAN
CHICAGO
5
8 PITCH
NAKED 4/5
6
FK 4 PASS
TEXAS
7
CALIFORNIA
8
VEGAS
9
STICK
BOOT READ
10
OMAHA
11
24/25 ISO
12
Z REVERSE
13
36/35/38
TANK
CRACK PASS
14
15
VICTORY
SKY / HOT
SCREEN
DEBBIE
A SLIP SCR