VITAL ASPECTS OF CORNERBACK PLAY
SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES
TABLE OF CONTENTS• 1. Defensive Concepts and Defensive Terminology• 2. Qualities of Great Cornerbacks• 3. Responsibilities• 4. Body Position and Movement • 5. Alignment• 6. Keys and Reads• 7. Coverages• 8. Skills• 9. Drills• 10. Appendix
SO MUCH OF WHAT YOU DO PHYSICALLY HAPPENS BECAUSE YOU’VE THOUGHT ABOUT IT AND MENTALLY PREPARED FOR IT.
-Dan Fouts
PREPARATION
Qualities of an Great Cornerbacks
SmartFast PhysicalResilient
Cornerbacks are the best athletes on the field.
Characteristics of Corners
• Movement: be athletic and fast.
• Toughness: mental and physical.
• Physical Toughness: shed blocks, tackle, press man
• Mental Toughness: endure adversity, disappointment, success.
• Concentration: concentration leads to things being done correctly. Be in the correct position, the correct alignment.
Five Phases of Every Defensive Play
Know and understand the call.
Recognize the formation.
Align Properly.
Read your keys.
Execute your responsibility.
Basic Principles of Secondary Play
• Call: a coverage call is made on every play. Adjustments may be made.
• Vison:
• Alignment: positioning is determined by call, formation, down and distance, hash mark, and field position.
• Stance: the best starting body position to enable quick and aggressive reactions.
• Backward Run: the most used fundamental technique executed on the snap of the ball to put you in position to play.
• Playing the football: ability to effectively know where the ball is and to anticipate and react to it.
• Play Recognition: identifying the play (run or pass) by your key.
• Execution: carrying out a defensive assignment to prevent an offensive gain.
GAP RESPONSIBILITIES
BCD A A B C D
PURSUIT Effective pursuit is the result of desire and taking
proper angles to the ball. It can result in great plays for the defense and eliminate big offensive plays. When a gap responsibility is not carried out, great pursuit can make up for individual errors. Great desire is great effort.
PURSUIT: DESIRE AND PROPER ANGLES.
WHAT IS A LOAF? GIVING UP AT ANY POINT DURING A PLAY.
LAYING ON THE GROUND
NOT TURNING AND GOING TO THE BALL.
CHANGE OF SPEED.
GETTING PASSED UP BY ANOTHER PLAYER.
TURNING DOWN A HIT.
ANY LACK OF EFFORT---MENTAL OR PHYSICAL
FOOTWORK AND MOVEMENT FUNDAMENTALS
MOVEMENT
• The most important movement skill of a cornerback is being able to open and run. This is a transition from a backpedal to a crossover run once your cushion has been broken. Being able to turn quickly and efficiently with great body control and pad level is crucial.
WEAVE DRILL
Allow DB to maintain horizontal relationship
Head and Shoulders Stay Square to Target
Inside or Outside Leverage
No Crossover with Feet
Maintain Base with Feet (No Heel Clicks)
Keep Feet Underneath Core
Combine Movements with Weave
Backpedal, Weave, Backpedal
THREE WEAVE DRILL
Receiver Attacks Leverage 3x
Three Different Directions
Elbows Tight
Grab Grass on Angles
Maintain Initial Leverage
Angles to the Ball
• If you can picture the compass while reacting to your respective drops in coverage or breaks on the ball, you will take a straight line route directly to the ball at the correct angle.
Angles to the Ball!NORTH
EASTWEST
SOUTH
NE
SE
NW
SW
STEMS AND ROUTE ANGLES
A. Dig/Square In B. Slant/Comeback, Out, Curl C. Post D. Post Corner E. Vertical F. Hitch, Curl
A.B.
C.
D. E.F.
DEGREE TREE
TO THE BALL: BACKPEDAL CURL
DB DB
BACKPEDAL
CP: Push DBs off the ball and then bring them back in a straight line.
TO THE BALL: BACKPEDAL OUT/DIG
DB DBCP: Drive steps out of the break and active arm cycle should be emphasized.
TO THE BALL: BACKPEDAL OPEN CURL
DB DB
Open hips.
CP: Push DBs off the ball, open hips away in a straight line, bring them back in that straight line.
Backpedal
AWAY FROM THE BALL: BACKPEDAL ZONE TURN,MAN TURN/HIGH POINT
DB DB
Backpedal
Zone Turn-Open Hips Away
Open Run
CP: Throw ball to the outside. Highpointing the ball is the often the difference between a ball that is caught or a play made by the DB.
SPACING AND FIELD CONCEPTS
DIMENSIONS OF THE PLAYING FIELD
Playing Surface: 53 1/3 yards wide and 100 yards long with two scoring areas---the end zones at each end of the field. The end zones are 10 yards deep.
Hash marks: divide the field into thirds. About 80% of the game is played at the hash marks. The area between the hashes is 13 /13 yards.
Yard line numbers: top of the numbers-9 yards from the sideline (boundary) and bottom of the numbers is 7 yards from the sideline. The middle of the numbers is 8 yards from the sideline.
Offenses use these landmarks to determine their alignments and scheme.
2 0
Fiel
d
Dim
ensi
ons
End
Zone
End Zone
10
9
7
17
13
1/3
17
10
3
Deep Outside 3rdDeep Outside 3rd
Cover 3This a 3 Deep Zone with 5 underneath zones.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
TE
Flat Flat
Curl Hook Curl
COVER THREE DEFINITIONS
HOOK: area 15 yards deep from the center’s head to tight end’s outside leg or the tight slot.
CURL: area 15 yards deep from the tight end’s outside leg to the inside leg of the widest receiver.
FLAT: area 15 yards deep from the receiver’s inside leg to the near sideline (boundary).
DEEP 1/3: area extending from 15 yards deep that divides the field into equal thirds.
SEAM: weakest area of the coverage in Cover 3. Receivers must be rerouted out of this area.
NO COVER ZONE: area extending 5 yards from the LOS; execute drops out of this area; sprint up and make the tackle.
VERTICAL RELEASE: a release straight up the field of 5 yards or more.
OUTSIDE RELEASE: a release away from the core of the formation.
INSIDE RELEASE: a release towards the core of the formation.
NO COVER ZONE 5 YARDS
Underneath Zones
Flat Curl Hook Hook Curl Flat
Deep 1/3
Deep 1/3
Deep Middle
Seam Seam
Line of Scrimmage
NO COVER ZONE
In Cover Three, the seams represent the weakest part of the coverage. The deep seams is the vertical space that the secondary is the farthest from.
C C
FS
NO COVER ZONE 5 YARDS
Underneath Zones
Field Width: 53 1/3 yards
Flat Curl Hook Hook Curl Flat
Deep 1/3
Deep 1/3
Deep Middle
Seam Seam
Line of Scrimmage
NO COVER ZONE
Stretch Principle
• Vertical Stretch
• Horizontal Stretch
Stretch Principle
The stretch principle is the fundamental concept to the passing game. Offenses will stretch the defense vertically or
horizontally in three ways: 1. Formation2. Releases of Receivers3. Complimentary Routes
Return to Table of Contents
AlignmentYou will align at 11 yards in every coverage,
except Cover 5.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WRWR
Cover 3 Alignment
C RG RTLGLT
C
RT
In Cover 3, align on the inside eye of the widest receiver (# 1 receiver at seven yards depth (1 x 7). The inside shade protects against the quick slant. The depth may be adjusted based on personnel. Define and maintain initial leverage. Be aware of route tendencies based on ball position (hash, field.).
Cover 3 Alignment
C RG RTLGLT
C
RT
The purpose of Cover 3 is to protect the deep zones. As we will see later, once we master landmark drops, we will pattern read the routes of receivers.
Cover 4 Alignment
C RG RTLGLT
C
RT
In Cover 4, align on the inside eye of the widest receiver (# 1 receiver at seven yards depth (1 x 7). The inside shade protects against the quick slant. The depth may be adjusted based on personnel. Define and maintain initial leverage. Be aware of route tendencies based on ball position (hash, field.).
Cover 2 AlignmentsCOVER 2-ALIGN HEAD UP AND OUTSIDE SHADE OF # 1 RECEIVER
COVER 2 MAN UNDER-ALIGN HEAD UP INSIDE SHADE OF # 1 RECEIVER
COVER 2 SKY LIGHTNING AND CLOUD
C RG RTLGLT
C
WRWR
Cover AlignmentsAll Cover 2 CoveragesApply the Hash Rule – in all Cover 2s, align no more than 3 yards off of the hash marks.If the ball is on the -LH/RH– Shift to the inside or outside of the hash, but no more than 3 yards off of hash landmark.M – Align just outside of hash marks.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR
WR
FS
Cover AlignmentsAll Cover 2 CoveragesApply the Hash Rule – in all Cover 2s, align no more than 3 yards off of the hash marks.
If the ball is on the -LH/RH– Shift to the inside or outside of the hash, but no more than 3 yards off of hash landmark.M – Align just outside of hash marks.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WRWR
FS
WRWR
Bear AlignmentsYou are man to man with inside leverage on the # 1 receiver to your side.
Slot and Clemson: corners are man to man on the # 1 and # 2 receivers. You are on the same side of the formation.
Slot and Clemson: there is not a receiver split to one side of the formation.
C RG RTLGLT
C
WRWR
C
WRWR
# 1 receiver # 1 receiver
Bear AlignmentsYou are man to man with inside leverage on the # 1 receiver to your side.
Slot and Clemson: corners are man to man on the # 1 and # 2 receivers. You are on the same side of the formation.
Slot and Clemson: there is not a receiver split to one side of the formation. Corner Over.
C RG RTLGLT
C
TE
C
WRWR
# 1 receiver # 2 receiver
WR
No split receiver to this side.
Cover AlignmentsSky/Cloud/Lightning – Communicate rotation of the coverage to the secondary.Align yourself in the correct position to get to your respective rotation coverage.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WRWR
FS
TE
INITIAL KEY AND READ1. Key through End Man on Line of Scrimmage (EMOL) to Quarterback for Run/Pass Read
2. EMOL can be a tight end (TE) or a Tackle (T)
3. Read High Hat or Low Hat by EMOL
4. High Hat = Pass Low Hat = Run
5. Quarterback: 3 Step Drop or 5 Step Drop?
6. Read # 2 receiver, Feel (Periph) # 1
7. Low Hat: Proper Pursuit Angle on Run
8. Must have vision! Do not let your eyes get stuck in the backfield!
TTE
11
QB
CC
READS
PASS
• Read EMOL
• 3 Step or Five Step Drop by QB
• Read # 2, Feel # 1
• Define and maintain leverage.
• Execute pass coverage drops or man techniques.
• Protect against the vertical.
RUN
• Read EMOL
• Low hat/down block: get downhill and stay outside in on the ball.
• Force all traffic inside (fencepost)
• Be sure ball declares (crosses LOS).
• Destroy blocks and keep outside shoulder free.
• Protect vertical first.
• Always outside in on the football!
READS
1. TE or T blocks down
T
1QB
CC
READS
PASS
• Read EMOL
• 3 Step or Five Step Drop by QB
• Read # 2, Feel # 1
• Define and maintain leverage.
• Execute pass coverage drops or man techniques.
• Protect against the vertical.
RUN
• Read EMOL
• Low hat/down block: get downhill and stay outside in on the ball.
• Force all traffic inside (fencepost)
• Be sure ball declares (crosses LOS).
• Destroy blocks andkeep outside shoulder free.
• Protect vertical first.
2
3
1 2
1
Receiver Numbering System
We will identify receivers from the outside to inside on each side of the formation. The widest receiver on each side would be the # 1 receiver. The second widest receiver would be # 2.
1
1
21
3
Receiver Numbering System
2
2-3
2-3
11
2
Receiver Numbering System
11
2-3
Motion by Slot Changes Receiver Numbering
He becomes # 2, Y becomes # 3
Receiver Numbering System
PRE-SNAP MENTAL CHECKLIST1. Know the Down and Distance.
2. Know Field Position and Tendencies from Scouting Report.
3. Recognize the Offensive Formation.
4. Offensive Line: “Heavy” or “Light”?
5. Time on the Clock
PRESNAP WIDE RECEIVER INDICATORS
1. Alignment
2. Split (normal, wide narrow)
3. Is the receiver looking at the sticks?
4. Is the receiver looking up the field and trying to find an aiming point (a route)?
5. Is the receiver looking at a possible blocking assignment?
6. Does the receiver have any mannerisms as he comes to LOS?
PRESNAP QUARTERBACK INDICATORS
1. Does the quarterback delay getting to LOS? (possible quick count)
2. Where is the quarterback looking?
3. Does the quarterback do anything to indicate run or pass (dry his hands, etc.)
WINNING
The price of victory is high but so are the rewards.
-Paul “Bear” Bryant
FIELD DIMENSIONS
Importance of understanding field dimensions and landmarks
Responsibilities are clearly defined.
Defines leverage relative to scheme and call.
Understanding of the inherent strengths and weaknesses of a coverage.
Field dimensions are a constant.
Zones are clearly defined.
Gives true meaning to personnel alignments and positioning.
DEFENSIVE TEACHING PROGRESSION
STANCE
ALIGNMENT
ASSIGNMENT
TECHNIQUE
KEY
READ
BLOCK PROTECTION
BLOCK ESCAPE
PURSUIT
TACKLING
CAUSING TURNOVERS
PREPARATION
• If you are continually developing your skills and refining your approach, then winning will be the final result.
-Bill Walsh
PASS COVERAGE: THREE CATEGORIES
1. Run package: Outside runs, options, and play action. Secondary has support and fill responsibilities.
2. Flow passes: Two backs start in the same direction and the ball is leaving the line of scrimmage.
3. Ball in the pocket with no fakes: Ball has left the LOS with no fakes.
ROUTE FITS: THREE TYPES OF ROUTES
1. QUICK ROUTE• Three Step Game• Out, Hitch, Slant• Read receiver body language at 3 yards
2. INTERMEDIATE ROUTE• Five, Seven Step Game• Dig, Curl• Read receiver body language at 8 yards
3. DEEP ROUTE• Five, Seven Step Game• Fade, Corner, Go, Post• No cut at 10-12, get depth
* Comeback Route
BE GREAT
• Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.
• -Theodore Roosevelt
TACKLING COMPONENTS
APPROACH
CONTACT POINT
FOLLOW THROUGH
EYES, SHOULDERS, ARMS, LEGS
PROPER CONTACT PROGRESSION
QUICK HANDS
STRIKE TO LEVERAGE
FLIPPER
PUSH-UP
SIX-INCH PUNCH
TWO-STEP PUNCH
ONE-KNEE DOWN THRUSTS
ACROSS THE BOW
The WVU Box Drill 9
DBBackpedal
CP: DB will chop feet in the middle of cones. Use: open and run, bp, sprint, shuffle to get to each cone. Drill ends with coach tossing the ball in the air. Highpoint the ball.
Box and Break Drill
DB
Backpedal
Foot Fire
SprintBackpedal
Break to Post
CP: Emphasis on low pad level. Throw the ball on each break.
10 yards
CUSHION DRILL
Goal: Turn when Receiver is within 1-3 yards
Maintain Vertical Cushion
Intersect 1/3 of his Body
Make Him Run Up your Back
Transition Tight
Do not give him a path
Transition is Backward
PING PONG DRILL
Opening and Turning
Technique Emphasis, not Speed
Accentuate Movement
Head Should Fall, Not Rise
Throw Elbow Low to Accentuate Transition
Transition in One Step
Down Back, Down Back
RELEASES
Maintain Upfield Shoulder Leverage
Do Not Beat Receiver to the Reception Point
Intersect 1/2 to 1/3 of Body
Do Not Break Too Far Ahead (or Behind)
Drive to Low Shoulder if you Have Help Over the Top
Maintain Vertical Leverage without Help
COACHING POINTS
Maintain Relationship on Route
Protect on Double Moves
No Overbreak to Outside
SKATE TECHNIQUE
Vertical Shuffle, Wider Base
Protect 3-step in 1st 3 Steps
Feet Under, Accelerate on Drive
Transition to Crossover Run
Protect the Vertical
PRESS MAN COVERAGE
MIRROR DRILL
Mirror, No Hands
Shut Off Receiver from Getting Vertical
Burn Eyes on Hips
Put Body in way of Receiver
MIRROR WITH HANDS
Hands on Numbers
Thumbs Up
Punch with Near Hand
Quick Jab, Bring it Back
Not Long or Down from Shoulders
WIDE RELEASE (FADE)
Jab, Bring Hips, Create Momentum
Don’t Chase, Intersect Vertically
Stay Square; Shut Off with Feet
Not a Chase to Sideline
Where does Charles Woodson have his eye placement versus Larry Fitzgerald?
INSIDE RELEASE
Outside then Inside Release
Recover with Opposite Hand
Grind Receiver Down
Outside Fake then Inside
Recover
Use Speed Turn to Get Out of Trouble
Inside Hip Open
Speed Turn: Protect Yourself Vertically
DEEP BALL DRILL
Create Confidence in Reaction Aspect
Don’t Look Back in Open Space
Stay Vertical with Receiver
Look for Indicators (Eyes, Hands)
Eyes Flash, Big Hands
Attack High Point, Attack Upfield Shoulder
TACKLING
Roll off front foot
Siamese arms and pinkies
Eyes to the sky
Low pad level
Run feet
Grab cloth
Explode the hands through the armpits
Roll hips
Explosive movement
Holster, Shimmy, Hit
HIGH POINT DRILL
Catch with extended arms
Reach and attack the football
Create first access to the football
Reach and attack at its highest point
Use man turn drill
Boundary---look up for the ball
Field---attack receiver’s hands
QB INDICATOR DRILLS
Read the quarterback
Direction and depth
Front shoulder, long arm action
Break on the long hand action
Force weave on direction
Move with the shoulders
High launch, low launch
Don’t break on the pump
High launch---break back
LOW LAUNCH
WR has first access to football
We have depth
Intersect wide receiver, great collision
Ball insignificant, but receiver is
Rip up through the receiver
QB shoulders down (indicator)
BALL DRILLS
Rake drill
Upfield shoulder
45 degrees
Receiver has first access to football
Rake upfield arm down + away from the ball
Bat Drill
DB on low shoulder
Reach in near arm
Hand must come down to get ball on ground
Back hand secures
Hand has to come down, not just intersect
Get great break on ball
INSIDE RELEASE
Outside then Inside Release
Recover with Opposite Hand
Grind Receiver Down
Outside Fake then Inside
Recover
Use Speed Turn to Get Out of Trouble
Inside Hip Open
Speed Turn: Protect Yourself Vertically
DEEP BALL DRILL
Create Confidence in Reaction Aspect
Don’t Look Back in Open Space
Stay Vertical with Receiver
Look for Indicators (Eyes, Hands)
Eyes Flash, Big Hands
Attack High Point, Attack Upfield Shoulder
BLOCK DESTRUCTION PROGRESSION
Explode hands to numbers
Thumbs up, use heels
Stalk
On knees
Hand placement, aiming point inside
Hand placement
Drive feet (wide)
Good balance
Explode through bag
Good habits
Establish confidence to explode through a target
HAND COMBAT
Man with hands inside wins
Fit hands; establish leverage
Slap, rip, break hands down; violent
Create hand placement and sense of urgency
Return to Table of Contents
Man vs. Free vs. Zone
• ManCover 5 – Lock on to #1
receiver unless game plan changes that.
• FreeCover 1- # 1 ReceiverCover 2 Man under - # 1
Receiver
• Bear Slot and Clemson: Corner over on # 2
• ZoneCover 2 Sky – Deep Outside 1/3Cover 2 Cloud – FlatCover 2 Lightning – Deep Outside 1/3Cover 2 – FlatCover 3 – Deep Outside 1/3Cover 4 – Deep Outside 1/4
Cover 5 We are matched up man to man with no help over top. We
most likely are blitzing. You need to lock down your receiver for 4 seconds!
You will lock on to the #1 receiver. Take away his inside and force him to release outside.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WRWR
TE
WR
CB CB
Cover 1You are man to man with # 1 receiver. Deny inside release.
Most dangerous route is the fade. Stay in phase---no more than an arm length behind receiver. Read receiver indicators.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WRWR
TE
WR
CB HCBL
Cover 2 Man UnderCover 2 Man Under: Man to Man on # 1 Receiver. Deny inside release.
Protect vertical. Most dangerous route is the fade. Read receiver indicators.
C RG RTLGLT
C
WR WR
WR
Cover 2 Man UnderGain depth and help over top of deep threats or mismatches.
Break up on the ball as you read the QB’s release.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
Deep Outside 3rdDeep Outside 3rd
Cover 3This a 3 Deep Zone with 5 underneath zones.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
TE
Flat Flat
Curl Hook Curl
Cover 3You have the deep outside third.Read your key to adjust your alignment.Read # 2 and feel # 1. (periph).Be aware of ball location (on hash, field).
C RG RTLGLT
C
TEWR
NO COVER ZONE 5 YARDS
Underneath Zones
COVER 4
Flat Curl Hook Hook Curl Flat
Deep 1/4
Deep 1/4
Deep 1/4
SeamSeam
Line of Scrimmage
NO COVER ZONE
You have deep outside quarter. Read EMOL key. Gain depth. Identify threats. Communicate with LBs and secondary players changing zones. Maintain initial leverage; break on long arm action of the quarterback. Remember the seams are the weakest part of this coverage.
Deep 1/4
Read EMOL
In Cover 4, we will have 4 deep quarter zones and 3 underneath zones.
Cover 2 ZonesWe disguise a Cover 3 Zone coverage with a Cover 2 shell.Sky –Corner has deep outside third. Cloud – CB rotates up to the Flat, FS covers deep outside or middle
thirdLightning – LB rotates to the Flat, FS sits on the Hook/Curl, CB has
deep outside third.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
H
WR
CBCB
Deep Outside 3rd
Flat
Deep Middle 3rd Deep Outside 3rd
Hook/Curl
Cover 2 Zones
Hook/Curl
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
H
WR
CBCB
FlatCollision, Funnel, Gain Depth. Protect the safeties.
Cover 2 ZonesWe will rotate to the strength of the formation.
If balanced, we will rotate to game plan determined tendencies, which could be QB’s arm strength or the field.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
H
WR
CBCB
Cover 2 Zone SkySafety has the flat zone. (Sky – stands for Safety.) You have the
deep third.Read the EMOL, recognize threats, get depth. Protect against vertical.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
C
CB covers Flat
Cover 2 Zone CloudYou will have the Flat Zone. Adjust your angle (width and depth) according
to ball location. Free Safety has the deep 1/3. Anticipate complimentary routes.
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
C
Cover 2 Zone LightningYou will have the Deep 1/3. (Lightning– stands for LB covering Flat.)Read your EMOL Key and gain depth. Adjust initial leverage.Recognize threats.
C RG RTLGLTWR WR
WR
CB
Cover 2 ZoneYou will have the flat in Cover 2.Collision, funnel, and sink. Gain depth. Protect the hash safety.Weakest spot of coverage is the hole behind you.
C RG RTLGLT
C
WR WR
WR
HOLE
Deep Outside 3rd
Flat Flat
Deep Middle 3rd Deep Outside 3rd
Hook/Curl
Cover 2 Zones
Hook/Curl
C RG RTLGLT
FS
WR WR
WR
H
WR
CBCB
PURPOSE OF MAN COVERAGE
To cover the receiver.
To prevent the completion.
To make an interception.
To strip the ball or make the tackle immediately if there is a completion.
MAN COVERAGE: POINTS OF EMPHASIS
EYES, EYES, EYES! ZONE-BALL IS FOCUS; MAN-RECEIVER IS THE FOCUS
NEVER GET BEAT BY ALIGNMENT. NO TWO WAY GOS.
KEEP EYES ON RECEIVER THROUGH THE BREAK POINT.
NEVER LOOK BACK TO BALL UNTIL YOU HAVE WR UNDER CONTROL.
KEEP THE FEET TIGHT.
KEEP SHOULDERS LOW.
BIG PLAYS COME ON THE SLANT OR POST!
MAKE THE BALL GO THROUGH THE DEFENDER TO GET TO WR
KEY QUESTIONS IN MAN COVERAGE
What are the abilities of the receivers? Who are their two best receivers?
What ability do they have to get open in addition to their speed?
Who are our best cover personnel?
What kind of pressure tie-ins do we have with man coverage? What is their protection scheme?
Are there hot schemes? Is there a hot receiver?
MAN COVERAGE: TEACHING COMPONENTS AND TERMINOLOGY
PRESS MAN Stance Stagger Shadow Hands/Active Fingers Reading Receiver Declares Release MDR: fade, slant Open Step Low Elbow Stab/Stab Arm Opposite Hook and Wedge In Phase/Out of Phase Force Width Finish Become WR Trail Technique
OFF MAN Eyes Shoulders/Weight/Feet Bubble Key Cushion Inside/Outside Wide Feet/Tight Feet Ball Go Through You Peripheral Vision Three Step Drop Quick Set/Quick Throw Clue QB All Dead Key
OFF MAN COVERAGE DRILLS
Dead Key
Weave Dead Key
Settle and Break
Turn and Run
Catch
Route Fits (Programmed)
Route Fits (Random)
Route Fits with QB
• R1 R2 R3 R4
• DB DB DB DB
4 yards
DRILL ORGANIZATION
OFF MAN VISION: DEAD KEY/DEAD KEY RECEIVER
C SC
S
Dead Key Dead Key Receiver
CP: Dead key WR if he is close to QB; Clue WR for wide split.
OFF MAN DRILLS: WEAVE DEAD KEY
R
DB
CP: R take two steps straight ahead, then weave to right or left. Do not allow R to get nose up---two way go. Maintain leverage. Backpedal with low pad level, do not cross over.
OFF MAN DRILLS: DEAD KEY
R
DB
CP: R go half speed. Keep at least two yard cushion with shoulders square. Work four at a time.
4 ya
rds
OFF MAN DRILLS: SETTLE AND BREAK
R
DB
CP: R settle as if they are going to break. Go half speed. Shoulders come down, belt buckle square. Exaggerate. DB maintain cushion, backpedal and settle. Keep feet active. Settle to get ready to transition.
OFF MAN DRILLS: TURN AND RUN
R
DB
CP: R crosses face. Turn and hook the hip. Takeaway inside of body. Work both sides. Lean him into the boundary.
4 ya
rds
OFF MAN DRILLS: MUSH
R
DB
CP: R breaks cushion. Runs up on toes of DB. DB feels he is beat. Catch and mush the R. Keep feet moving on the mush.
Catch/Mush
4 ya
rds
PRESS MAN DRILLS
SHADOW
BASKETBALL CUTOFF
HOOK AND WEDGE TO FADE
QUICK TURN
PUSH-OFF DRILL
COMBAT DRILL
QUICK-JAM BAG DRILL
QUICK-JAM COVER 2
4 x 4 DRILL
ROUTES
UNIVERSAL ROUTES
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
• Don’t bite on hitch
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Read # 2
• Intercept ball at highest point
Smash
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Maintain outside leverage
• Anticipate double move
Out and Up
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
• Stay between the two verticals
• Break on long arm action of QB
• Intercept ball at highest point
Two Verticals in Zone
INFORMATION• RAP
• Don’t lose leverage on play pass
• Maintain vertical leverage.
• Break on the long arm action of QB
• Intercept the ball at highest point
Run Action Pass
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Read # 2
• Make IN call
Y Smash, In Call
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary routes
• Read # 2
• Make IN call
• Break on long arm action of QB
Counter Read/RAP
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep third.
• Keep leverage on the double move.
• Fit the hitch on the outside shoulder.
Double Move
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone.
• There is help underneath on slant
• Stop the wheel route.
Wheel
INFORMATION• Alert S with “In, In, In!”
call
•Maintain vertical leverage on #2.
•Anticipate complimentary route.
Divide
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Don’t bite on short route
RAP/Spacing/Motion
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
• Don’t bite on hitch
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Read # 2
• Intercept ball at highest point
Smash
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Maintain outside leverage
• Anticipate double move
Out and Up
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
• Stay between the two verticals
• Break on long arm action of QB
• Intercept ball at highest point
Two Verticals in Zone
INFORMATION• RAP
• Don’t lose leverage on play pass
• Maintain vertical leverage.
• Break on the long arm action of QB
• Intercept the ball at highest point
Run Action Pass
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Read # 2
• Make IN call
Y Smash, In Call
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary routes
• Read # 2
• Make IN call
• Break on long arm action of QB
Counter Read/RAP
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep third.
• Keep leverage on the double move.
• Fit the hitch on the outside shoulder.
Double Move
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone.
• There is help underneath on slant
• Stop the wheel route.
Wheel
INFORMATION• Alert S with “In, In, In!”
call
•Maintain vertical leverage on #2.
•Anticipate complimentary route.
Divide
INFORMATION•Maintain vertical leverage
in deep zone
•Anticipate complimentary route
• Don’t bite on short route
RAP/Spacing/Motion
DEFENSIVE TEACHING PROGRESSION
STANCE
ALIGNMENT
ASSIGNMENT
TECHNIQUE
KEY
READ
BLOCK PROTECTION
BLOCK ESCAPE
PURSUIT
TACKLING
CAUSING TURNOVERS
NO COVER ZONE 5 YARDS
Underneath Zones
Field Width: 53 1/3 yards
Flat Curl Hook Hook Curl Flat
Deep 1/3
Deep 1/3
Deep Middle
Seam Seam
Line of Scrimmage
NO COVER ZONE
RUN SUPPORT TERMINOLOGY
Contain: keeping the ball inside Force: defender responsible for squeezing and turning an outside run play
to the inside. Cutback: defender responsible for maintaining a pursuit angle that keeps
backside leverage on the ball. Sky: run force by safety; turn outside run plays inside Cloud: run force by corner; turn outside run plays inside Alley: inside-out player; safety responsible for maintaining a pursuit angle
that keeps the backside leverage downhill to prevent cutback. Perimeter: C-D gap to the boundary; outside run play(s). Ball Declares: Ball crosses LOS and no chance of a forward pass (option
pass, halfback pass) remains.
SKY FORCE
SS
C
FS
SECONDARY FORCE
CUTBACK
C
BACKSIDE
LEVERAGE
THE BALL DECLARES
SS
C
FS
C
CP: The ball declares on a run---crosses the line of scrimmage and there is no possibility of a forward pass. Secondary run support must fit into the run scheme.
CLOUD FORCE
C
S S
C
Force
Secondary Force
Cutback
Backside Leverage
OUTSIDE RUN DRILL
SS
C
FS
SECONDARY FORCE
CUTBACK
C
BACKSIDE
LEVERAGE
CP: Toss, Option. Work both sides. Keep proper leverage on the ball.
QB
QB
QUARTERBACK OFF THE LINE
QUARTERBACK ON THE LINE
Return to Table of Contents
COVER 2: CORNER FIT DRILL
WR
DB
Purpose: To fit DB into outside and inside releases by WR.
CP: Inside eye on his o/s eye. Place head outside his head and make him go through your entire body. Move feet, shuffle, pick feet up WR has already funneled himself with inside release, but have to protect the slant.
STANCE
DEPTH
ALIGNMENT
ASSIGNMENT
COLLISION
GET A REDIRECT
COVER 2: CORNER FUNNEL TECHNIQUE DRILL
15 yards
DB
WR
Purpose: To get the DB to funnel-flip and expand to his landmark.
CP: Add QB indicators after initial progression to develop feel for deep throws and ones underneath.
Play deep to short with multiple routes.
COVER 2: CORNER SLICE TECHNIQUE DRILL
C
Purpose: To teach the DB to read the end man on the LOS for run or pass. Read high hat or low hat.
CPass
Run
COVER 2: CORNER MIRROR DODGE DRILL
DB
WR
Purpose: To get the DB to move his feet laterally and cut off any outside release.
COVER 2: SAFETY ½ TECHNIQUE DRILL
Purpose: To get the FS to open and run to the proper landmark.
DB
CP: Progression: Landmark feel, receiver release, QB indicators. Outside release = travel past landmark; 14 yards deep and 2 yards o/s hash.
Quick Read: To see what kind of release the WR was able to get on the corner.
COVER 2: ROUTE FITS
21
C
FS
1. Ball: Run or Pass?
2. # 1: In or Out?
3. Ball: Pick up QB, # 2
CP: Gain width and stay between on two verticals.
COVER 2: ROUTE FITS
21
C
FS
1. Ball: Run or Pass?
2. # 1: In or Out?
3. Ball: Pick up QB, # 2
CP: Hardest combination: S must really flatten out. # 1 is holding the C.
COVER 2: ROUTE FITS
21
C
FS
1. Ball: Run or Pass?
2. # 1: In or Out?
3. Ball: Pick up QB, # 2
CP: S don’t gain depth on i/s release by # 1; don’t go vertical; S defend post. # 1 inside only two routes possible---dig and pc.
COVER 2: ROUTE FITS
21
C
FS
1. Ball: Run or Pass?
2. # 1: In or Out?
3. Ball: Pick up QB, # 2
CP: # 1 releases outside----takeoff, go. Not releasing o/s to come back inside. S should come off the hash.
COVER 2: ROUTE FITS-SMASH
21
C
FS
1. Ball: Run or Pass?
2. # 1: In or Out?
3. Ball: Pick up QB, # 2
CP: C must read way out and get depth. Recognize pattern combination.
FIELD DIMENSIONS: TEACHING COMPONENTS AND TERMINOLOGY
Playing Surface Field Dimensions Hash Mark Yard Line Numbers Arrows End Zone Goal Line Three Yard Line Goal Post Pylons Field Boundary Seam Midpoints Hash Mark Adjustments Dividers Perimeter
Coaches Area Team Box Leverage No Cover Zone Vertical Horizontal Alignment Perimeter Personnel Split Inside Release Outside Release Flat Hook to Curl Deep Zone, Deep Third Deep Middle Deep Half, Deep Halves
DIMENSIONS OF THE PLAYING FIELD
Playing Surface: 53 1/3 yards wide and 100 yards long with two scoring areas---the end zones at each end of the field. The end zones are 10 yards deep.
Hash marks: divide the field into thirds. About 80% of the game is played at the hash marks. The area between the hashes is 13 /13 yards.
Yard line numbers: top of the numbers-9 yards from the sideline (boundary) and bottom of the numbers is 7 yards from the sideline. The middle of the numbers is 8 yards from the sideline.
Offenses use these landmarks to determine their alignments and scheme.
PRESS MAN: STANCE/SHADOW
WRWR WR WR
DB DB
CP: Inside alignment, helmet inside WR helmet, facemask under WR facemask, fingers alive. Anticipate. Inside foot up, outside foot back. MDR in press scenario is fade. Stay within shadow of WR. Stay square shoulders on his square shoulders. Push off front, pop back. Eyes, feet, hands.
DB DB
PRESS MAN: SHADOW DRILL
DBDBDB
CP: Stay square, keep pad level down, give little ground reset after three steps.
10 y
ards
PRESS MAN: READING THE RECEIVER
WRWR WR WR
DB DB
CP: WR will take least amount of resistance to get to top of stem/route. In first second of a football play, where he tries to release us gives us clues. Outside---good open step + opposite arm stab. Deep fade or o/s cut, o/s finishing route. Protect MDR. Inside release---i/s finishing route. MDR-slant, post
DB DB
PRESS MAN: IN PHASE POSITION
WRWR WR WR
DB DB
CP: After shadow open step, o/s release, stab arm opposite to near pec w/low elbow; no high elbow. Low elbow uses all muscles. Run to get in phase. Protect o/s shoulder w/stab. Focus on near ribs. Elbow punch. Run even, see his numbers, hook rib cage. Progression---rib cage to arm. Hook and Wedge.
DB DB
PRESS MAN: FINISH
WRWR WR WR
DB DB
CP: Arm’s length. Eyes back to QB. Look and lean. Not down and towards field. Look through the sky, creates lean. Maintain hook and wedge. Able to redirect on o/s finish. Ball----up and through, pull arm out, separate ball. Do not secure tackle with the back hand.
DB DB
IN P
HAS
E
PRESS MAN: SHADOW OPEN STEP DRILL
DB
CP: Shadow Open Step: Cut off at 45 degrees, force bubble. Don’t open gate to vertical release. Stay tough on the stab.
DB
RELEASE DECLARATION
WR
WR
PRESS MAN: BASKETBALL CUTOFF DRILL
DB
CP: Shuffle and drop hips. Be aggressive moving backwards and stay square Progression: vs. air, no hands, hands on. Force WR to move sideways. Drop
WR
Five Yard Increments
PRESS MAN: HOOK TO WEDGE TO FADE DRILL
DB
CP: Stay a sprinter. Near arm finish. Use third eye. Force width by WR. Use line to begin drill. Hook and wedge near rib through arm. Good lean Use ball in second step as part of progression with route.
WR
Stay in phase.
PRESS MAN: QUICK TURN DRILL
DB
CP: Shadow Open Step, WR breaks back inside. Utilize quick turn to get back in phase. Establish hook and wedge again. Don’t panic. Become a sprinter again.
WR
TACKLING COMPONENTS
APPROACH
CONTACT POINT
FOLLOW THROUGH
EYES, SHOULDERS, ARMS, LEGS
PROPER CONTACT PROGRESSION
QUICK HANDS
STRIKE TO LEVERAGE
FLIPPER
PUSH-UP
SIX-INCH PUNCH
TWO-STEP PUNCH
ONE-KNEE DOWN THRUSTS
ACROSS THE BOW
FIT DRILL
DB DB DB DB DB
5 yards
CP: Lead with pads, eyes to sky, wrap around on contact, roll hips, carry for five yards. Shoulders square, arms close to body, legs straight ahead. Begin with good football position. Ball carrier walks into the fit.
ACROSS THE BOW DRILL
DB
DB
DBC
Purpose: to teach proper tackling with the shoulders.
CP: Hit with left shoulder, bring right leg upfield, drive BC back 5 yards. Hit with right shoulder, bring left leg upfield, drive BC back 5 yards.
MIRROR DRILL
BC
DB
CP: Stay behind BC. Lateral run over bags. Execute change of lateral direction/speed turn to change directions. Accelerate through and fit on BC.
Purpose: To develop lateral agility and keep proper leverage on the ball.
Lateral Run
DB
DB
DB
DOOR DRILL
Purpose: to teach reaction tackling.
CP: BC should come out from behind door at a 45 degree angle. Tackler should stay inside out and execute form tackle and accelerate the feet.
5 yards
RICOCHET DRILL
DB
DB
DB
5 yards
5 yards
Purpose: To control the body during
tackling. CP: Move at proper angle and wrap tackle first BC. Release and work across to tackle second BC. Do the same for # 3. BC move on command of the coach.
DEGREE TACKLE DRILL
DB
RB
7 yards
CP: Stay square with an inside out angle. Accelerate the feet. Run the RB back five yards.
5 yards
Purpose: To keep leverage on the ball.
7 yards
WR
DB
CP: Attack the ballcarrier downhill on an inside out angle. Stay square. Force BC to the sideline. Accelerate the feet and drive him toward boundary until his feet are out of bounds. Incorporates approach and contact point.
DB
WR
Sideline Tackle
Purpose: To keep proper leverage on the ball.
Come to Balance Drill
RB
DB
15 yards
CP: Keep feet active, stay square, come to balance with tackling feet at cone. Stay inside out on running back.
Purpose: To drill sprint demeanor to tackling demeanor.
OPEN FIELD TACKLE DRILL
DB
BC
CP: Take horizontal and downhill angle to stay inside out on BC. Accelerate on contact. Balance up, come to tackling demeanor. Keep feet moving at first cone.
Purpose: To keep proper leverage on the ball and to keep feet active and stay inside out at the junction point.
Rapone Low Tackle Drill
DBDBDB
CP: Follow through by rolling with bag. Have already closed vertically. Shoot across bag, head on outside.
Purpose: To drill low tackling from space.
Funnel Drill
FS
C
RB
7 yards
10 yards
CP: FS and C keep leverage on the ball. Funnel represents the alley. FS and C backpedal on command.
Purpose: To keep proper leverage and angles on the ball.
QBWR WR
CB
FS
2 on 1 Tackle
CP: Purpose: To tackle while maintaining proper leverage on the ball. BP on command, WR runs toward QB; WR three way go---sideline, MOF, or split C and FS.
Take proper angle toward ball once ball has been thrown.
C: keep ball on inside pad
FS: keep ball on outside pad
6 yards
FS 10 yards deep
Cowboy Drill
DB
Purpose: to teach blow delivery, disengaging, and tackling.
CP: Attack blocker # 1, disengage, move laterally, defeat block # 2. DB should gain ground upfield with each disengagement and tackle BC.
GANG TACKLE
DB
DB
DB
DBDB
DB
Purpose: to teach gang tackling in a controlled environment.
CP: BC should circle. On command, BC should try to escape. First defender tackle and wrap him up. Remaining defenders get in on tackle, wrap up own teammate. No player should go to ground---stay on feet.