Contents

Page 4 Defensive Objectives Page 9 Huddle Procedure Page 10 Technique Alignment Page 11 Down and Distance Chart Page 12 Trojan Defensive Terminology Page 17 Defensive Fronts Page 24 Defensive Front Stunts Page 29 Inside Linebacker Stunts Page 32 Outside Linebacker Stunts Page 35 Two Fire Stunts Page 37 Defensive Adjustments Page 43 Trojan Pursuit Page 45 Defensive Line Play Page 63 Inside Linebacker Play Page 74 Outside Linebacker Play Page 80 Defensive Secondary Page 99 Zone Blitz Page 114 Storm Page 115 Storm Weak Page 116 Sword Page 117 Sword Weak Page 118 Stack Page 119 Red Blitzes Page 133 Even Slant Page 137 Gator Page 138 Defending The Option Page 142 Defending The Wing T Page 148 Defending The Jet Sweep Page 149 Defending The Double Dive Page 151 Defending The Gun Option Page 1

This playbook is a reference manual designed to be used by our coaching staff for the purpose of teaching our defensive players how we play defensive football. Nothing in this manual is unique or original. All of this information has been gleaned from many excellent football coaches who have been gracious enough to share their wisdom with their colleagues over the years.Much of this information is the result of personal experience, trial and error.

To be successful defensively, you must have a defensive system that is sound. Being sound means that every gap and every offensive player is accounted for on each play. Every coach on the staff must understand this system and be able to teach it in a way that can be understood by their players.

There have been many defensive theories and systems developed that are very sound and teachable. We are not saying that other systems are not good. We are just saying that this is the way that we do it at North Hall High School.

We are extremely confident in and proud of our way of playing defense. This is a very balanced and versatile defensive system that is sound, orderly and teachable.

Page 2

Defensive Football The North Hall Way

Split 4 Defense We play a versatile Gap Control 8 Man Front which allows us to get into a

Forty Front Fifty Front Sixty Front Nickel Package

Without compromising the integrity of our defense

Page 3

Defensive Objectives
1. No one runs the football on us. 2. We must execute on first down.

3. Do not allow the opponent to dictate flow on third down. Force him to pass or go for the big play. Now we dictate his moves.

4. Communicate on defense. There is no room on defense for " I Thought" or "I'm Sorry".

5. Be a big play defense. Turnovers are converted into points 80% of the time.

6. Pull for each other. Play together with emotion. It demoralizes an offense to play against enthusiasm.

7. Football is a game of momentum. To be successful you must be able to hold it and be able to take it away.

8. No one can control the football against us for more than two first downs in a drive.

9. Force teams to throw and set your ears back and go get them.

10.Don't allow teams to move out of bad field position situations.

11. No team can go 80 yards consistently without your help such as penalties and mental errors.

Page 4

Checklist For Success

1. Get in the huddle and come out together 2. Know the defense called

3. Know the coverage called

4. Know the down and distance

5. Know the field position and how it relates to you. ( For Example : hash mark, etc.)

6. Know what your key is

7. Know how to get into your alignment

8. Pre-read offensive alignment

9. Is the offense tipping the play

10. Execute your responsibility and then pursue

Page 5

Green Swarm Objectives

1. Win 2. Total Yards: 250 3. Rushing Yards: 150 4. Passing Yards: 100 5. No Big Plays Over: 15 yards rushing 20 yards passing 6. Points Allowed Per Game: 13 points

7. No TD After Sudden Change

8. No TD After Possession Change In Negative Zone (-40 in ) 9. Defensive Big Plays Per Game Takeaways: 2 (Caused Fumbles/Recovery or Interception) Sacks: 2 or 1 Per 10 Attempts Tackles For Loss: 5 Per Game

10. 3 And Out Series: 25% 1 out of 4 Possessions/Game

11. 3rd and Long ( 7 yards or more) 60% 12. Short Yardage Situations: 1 Out of 3 Per Game 13. Hold to Field Goal or Less: 50% Inside Red Zone 14. Create 2nd and 7+: 60% of The Time on 1st Down 15. Score or Set Up At Least One Score Inside the 30 Yard Line

Page 6

Trojan Award Stars Individual Awards 1. Pass Interception 2. Cause Fumble 3. Recover Fumble 4. Big Hit 5. Quarterback Sack 6. 2 Passes Broken Up 7. Leading Tackler 8. Hurry/ Pressure 9. Tackles For Loss

Team Awards

1. Win 2. Defense Scores 3. Stop Opponent inside the 10 yard line 4. Hold Opponent to less than 215 yards total offense 5. Create 2 take aways 6. Shut Out

Page 7

Green Swarm Thought

I AM ONLY ONE BUT I AM ONE I CANNOT DO EVERYTHING BUT I CAN DO SOMETHING THAT WHICH I CAN DO I OUGHT TO DO THAT WHICH I OUGHT TO DO I SHALL DO "TO THE BEST OF MY GOD-GIVEN ABILITY

Page 8

Huddle Procedure
Huddle 4 yards off the ball. After breaking the huddle: The Tackles step up to the line and must take a knee quickly. The Anchor End (LE) will step up 2 yds. The Quick (RE) End will step up 3 yds. The Stud steps up 1 yd. and the Whip steps back 2 yds. The Sam LB will stay put. The Will LB will step back 1 yd.

WH W S ST C T RE LE T C FS
POST HUDDLE

FS - calls down, distance and coverage several times. CORNERS- call quick receivers their side using "Ace" or "Deuce"

Page 9

Technique Alignment

9 6 7

5 4 4i

3 2 2i

2i 2 3

4i 4 5

7 6 9

1 Technique is a strong or weak shade on the center 2 Technique is head up the guard 2i Technique is an inside shade on the guard 3 Technique is an outside shade on the guard 4 Technique is head up the tackle 4i Technique is an inside shade on the tackle 5 Technique is an outside shade on the tackle 6 Technique is head up the end 7 Technique is an inside shade on the end 9 Technique is an outside shade on the end

Page 10

Down and Distance

Always be aware of the down and distance

1st and 10 Expect Run or Pass 2nd and Short (1-3) Waste Down. Look for a big play 2nd and Medium (4-7) Most will favor their running game, but does not eliminate the pass. 2nd and Long (8+) Pass situation. 3rd and Short (1-3) Expect opponents best play. Must stop them for no gain. 3rd and Medium Same as 2nd and medium. Must hold them to less than 3 yards. 3rd and Long (8+) Most teams will rely on their passing game. 4th and Short (1-3) Expect Run. Treat this like 3rd and Short. 4th and Medium (4-7) Expect pass 4th and Long (8+) Expect pass

Page 11

Trojan Defensive Terminology

Pro Rt/Lt Split Pro Rt/Lt

Twins Rt/Lt

Twins Rt/Lt Invert

Trips Rt/Lt Ace

Trips Rt/Lt Open

T Dbl Tight

T Rt/Lt

Page 12

Trojan Defensive Terminology

Dbl Tight Bone Bone Rt/Lt

Bone Rt/Lt Over

Bone Twins Rt/Lt

Bone Twins Rt/Lt Open

Bone Twins Rt/Lt Over

"I" Slot Rt/Lt Open

"I" Wing Rt/Lt

Page 13

Trojan Defensive Terminology

"I" Dbl Tight Wing Rt/Lt "I" Pro Rt/Lt Flex (Nasty)

Pro Rt Twins Lft Ace

Power I Rt/Lt

Split Cats

Double Twins

Trips Rt Twins Lt

Gun Trips Rt/Lt Open

Page 14

Trojan Defensive Terminology

"I"

Backfield Sets
Split

Strong * Based on TE

Weak

Bone

"T"

Shotgun

Power "I"

Page 15

Trojan Defensive Terminology

Backfield Sets
Double Wing Wing Rt/Lt

One Back

Stack "I"

Broken Bone Strong/Weak

Kings

Queens

Page 16

DEFENSIVE FRONTS 40 FRONTS

Even

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Out

E C St

T S W

E Wh C

FS

In

E C St S

T W

E Wh C

FS Page 17

40 Fronts
Shade

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Shade Weak

E St C S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Slide

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 18

40 Fronts
Slide Weak

St C

E S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Out Stab

E C St

S W

E Wh C

FS

50 Fronts
50 Even

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS Page 19

50 Fronts
50

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

50 Weak

St C

E S

T W

E Wh C

FS

54

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS Page 20

54 Light

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

54 Heavy

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

53

E C St

T S

T W

Wh C

FS

Page 21

60 Fronts
60 In

St C

E S

T W FS

E Wh C

60 Out

St C

T S W

Wh C

FS

60 Shade

St C

T S FS

T W

Wh C

Page 22

60 Fronts
60 Shade Weak

St C

E S

T W FS

E Wh C

60 Slide

St C

T S

T W

Wh C

FS

60 Slide Weak

St C

E S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 23

Defensive Stunts
We have the capability of stunting our defensive front only or both our front and linebackers. When stunting our linebackers we will adjust our coverage so that we can cover all receivers with as few adjustments as possible Defensive Front Stunts 1. RIP - Tackles and ends give a vertical push through half the man they are aligned on

Shade Tuff Rip

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

ENDS RIP - Ends give a vertical push through half the man they are aligned on. Tackles play base technique Shade Tuff Ends Rip

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

Page 24

TACKLES RIP - Tackles give a vertical push through half the man they are aligned on. Ends play base technique

Shade Tuff Tackles Rip

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

2. JET - Tackles and Ends give a vertical push through the gaps they are aligned closest to.

Shade Tuff Jet

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

ENDS JET - Ends give a vertical push through their gap responsibility. Tackles play base TACKLES JET - Tackles give a vertical push through their gap responsiblity. Ends play base

Page 25

3. SLANT - Tackles give a diagonal push to the hip of the next offensive lineman in the direction of the gap they are aligned closest to. Use a banana step with trailing leg to square up to the LOS. Ends play base Shade Slant

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

50 Slant Weak

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

54 Dart

Dart - Tells the Nose Tackle to slant to the call or strength

St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 26

4. EX - A crossing stunt between the tackles and the ends. The 5 technique end slants to the hip of the offensive guard , the 6 technique end gets inside penetration. The tackle punches the man he is on and then loops outside for contain. The end goes first. EX - Between Strong E & T. DOUBLE EX - Both Ends and Tackles. EX WEAK - Weak side E & T

Out Ex

E St

T S W

E Wh

5. Pinch - Tackles and ends are slanting to the hip of the offensive lineman to their inside.

64 Pinch Whip Dash

St

T S

E Wh W

Page 27

Front Stunts
6. SMASH - Hard penetration from a 7 technique through the hip of the offensive tackle

Out Tuff Smash

E C St

T S W

Wh

FS

7. LIGHTNING - Same as Smash for weak side end.

Shade Lightning

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 28

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

We can stunt one or both inside linebackers. "Blitz" will indicate that both inside linebackers are blitzing. "Sam Blitz" indicates that the Sam Inside Linebacker is blitzing. "Will Blitz" indicates that the Will Inside Linebacker is blitzing.

Out Blitz

E St

T S W

E Wh

The inside linebacker that is blitzing will blitz his gap responsibility. The tackle on the same side as the blitzing linebacker will slant his gap responsibility to the hip of the next offensive lineman.

Slide Sam Blitz

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

Linemen not involved in the stunt play base

Page 29

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

WE CAN COMBINE OUR LINE STUNTS WITH OUR LINEBACKER BLITZES BY ADDING "RIP" , "JET" , OR "SLANT" TO THE CALL. Shade Tuff Rip Will Blitz

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

When all the gaps are filled by linemen to the side of the blitzing linebacker, then the inside linebacker blitzing becomes an edge blitzer 54 Light Will Blitz

E St

T S

W Wh

Page 30

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

Knife - Smash by the Anchor End. The Sam loops around the end Shade Knife

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

KNIFE WEAK - The Quick End performs a Lightning Stunt and the Will loops around the end 54 Knife Weak

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 31

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

DASH - When we send an outside linebacker at an angle as deep as the deepest back. STUD DASH - Sends the Stud Outside Linebacker WHIP DASH - Sends the Whip Outside Linebacker DOUBLE DASH - Sends both ENDS - The end to the side of the stunting outside linebacker slants

Shade Stud Dash

St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

54 Whip Dash

E C St

T S

T W

Wh C

FS

54 Double Dash

St

T S

T W

Wh

When the tackle to the dash side is in a 4i he will perform a slant

FS Page 32

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

CRASH - This is a "C" gap stunt by the outside linebacker. The End slants out and becomes a "D" gap player. Shade Stud Crash

E St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Shade Whip Crash

C St

T S

T W

E Wh

FS

Out Double Crash

E St C

T S W

E Wh C

FS

Page 33

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

BASH - This is a "B" gap stunt by the outside linebacker. The End slants out and becomes a "D" gap player. The tackle slants out and becomes a "C" gap player

50 Even Stud Bash

C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

50 Whip Bash

C St

T S

T W FS

E Wh C

50 Even Double Bash

E St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 34

LINEBACKER STUNTS
TWO FIRE - Stunting an Inside Linebacker and an Outside Linebacker from the same side. TWO FIRE - The side we stunt from is determined by the Outside Linebacker that is not in coverage. TWO FIRE STRONG - Stunting the Stud and the Sam TWO FIRE WEAK - Stunting the Whip and the Will 50 Even Two Fire

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Slide Two Fire Strong

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Shade Tuff Two Fire Weak

C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 35

LINEBACKER STUNTS

50 Two Fire Crash Strong

St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Shade Two Fire Crash Weak

C St

T S

T W

Wh

FS

50 Two Fire Bash Strong

E St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 36

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
1. Versus Unbalance Slot - Shade Bump Red

E Wh

T W

T S

E St C

FS

2. Versus Unbalanced Line ( 4 down linemen)- Shade Tuff Stud up Bump Black

St C

E S

T W

E Wh C

FS

3. Versus Unbalanced Line ( 4 down linemen ) - Out (Tuff)Bust Black. Everbody shifts one man and treat the Strong Guard as the Center.

E St C

T S W

E Wh C

FS

Page 37

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
4. Versus Jumbo - Shade Bump Red

St E S

T W

Wh

FS

5. Versus Unbalanced Trips - Shade or Shade Bump Whip Over Black

E Wh C St S

T W

E C

FS

6. Versus Jumbo - Shade Whip Over Black

Wh C

St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Page 38

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
7. Versus One Back - Base adjustment will be "Shade Black". Versus Trips the Whip LB'er will split #2 & #3. The Inside LB'ers will bump one man to the trips

Trips

E Wh C W

T S

E St ( 1 X 4 YDS) C ( 2 X 7 YDS)

FS

Note: Sam bumps 1/2 man Will bumps full man

Doubles

E Wh C W

T S

E St C

FS

8. Versus No Huddle - Base will be "Out Black"

E Wh C

T W S

E St C

FS

Page 39

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
9. Versus One Back - At times we may want to play man coverage ("White"). The Lb'er not in coverage will stunt Shade White

Wh

T S

E C

St

FS

Shade White

E C Wh W

T S

E St

FS

10.

Versus a Wingback - We will never leave a wingback uncontested

St E C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 40

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
11. Versus Two Tight Ends and Two Wings- Base will be "Out Black"

St C

T S W

Wh C

FS

12. Versus Wide Twins to the Open Field - This will be a sideline adjustment that will be called in the huddle. "Over" call

E C

T S

T W

E St

Wh C

FS

13. Versus Wide Twins - Choke (Corner Over) Corners play man, Free Safety is free Inside LBs and Outside LBs play zone.Outside Backers have Flats to Fade.

E Wh

T S

T W

E St C C

FS

Page 41

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS
Adjustments when in Red Coverage A. Twins Open - Stud must run with "Z" motion

St C

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

B. With Ace Tight End - Whip and Corner will exchange

E C St W

T S

E Wh

FS

Page 42

TROJAN PURSUIT
Purpose: To develop and teach proper pursuit angles

Procedure 1. After the defense is called, players break the huddle and align in a defense 2. Two RB's align with a coach (QB) against the defense 3. On the snap, the QB pitches to either RB who then runs wide outside the cones and down the sideline 4. After the snap, all defensive players take proper pursuit angles on the RB. 5. Playside defenders attempt to cross the RB's face without impeding him. 6. Backside defenders attempt to tag the RB before he reaches the end zone. Key Points 1. Watch defenders. Make sure each runs a correct pursuit angle. 2. The defender must tag the RB before he can sprint to the huddle for the team breakdown. 3. Station coaches to observe everything. Each coach gives a thumbs up or thumbs down to signify proper or improper technique. 4. If a coach signals thumbs down, the same defensive squad runs the drill until they earn all thumbs up.

Page 43

Trojan Team Pursuit Drill

Coach E Wh C T W T S E St C

FS

Page 44

DEFENSIVE LINE PLAY

THE DEFENSIVE LINE TEACHING PROGRESSION WILL BE BROKEN UP INTO THE FOLLOWING TEACHING PHASES: I. Knowledge A. Stance B. Alignment C. Assignment II. Technique A. Get Off B. Head Reads C. Hand Placement (Blow Delivery) D. Separation (Lockout) E. Pass Rush Technique III. Effort and Pride A. Pursuit B. Tackling

I. KNOWLEDGE A. Stance 1. We will use a 3 point staggered stance with hit foot back and hit hand down. 2. Stagger shoulder never to exceed toe to heel. Feet should never be wider than shoulder tip width. 3. Tail should be slightly higher than head with weight slightly forward. B. Alignment - Depends on front. C. Assignment 1. Attack the breast plate of the offensive lineman you are aligned on. 2. This is a gap controlled defense that is to become aggressive on the snap of the ball. Know all the defensive calls.

Page 45

DEFENSIVE LINE PLAY

II. Technique A. Get Off 1. Beat the offensive lineman out of his stance. Attack him through the gap side V of his neck. 2. Move on movement, not on sound. B. Power Step (Steps) 1. The first step will be a six inch explosion step upfield with the hit foot. Step to be determined by the offensive lineman's release. Immediately follow with a second step. It should always be two quick steps. 2. Explode out of the hips and legs 3. Directed at the gap side V of the neck. *** Cardinal Rule #3 ***Never Get Reached C. Head Reads 1. Directed towards the four major blocking schemes: 1) Base Block,2) Down Block, 3) Reach Block, 4) Pull (inside and outside), 5) Cut-off Block, 6) Double Team Block, 7) Veer Block 2. Emphasis will be placed on three steps versus all blocking schemes 3. Coaching Points- Watch for overstride. D. Hat/Hand Placement (Blow Delivery) 1. Helmet to the gap side breast plate 2. Hands coming up with the thumbs up to the breast plate and grab cloth. Hands must be above the level of your eyes. 3. Hat/Hands and first two steps must occur at the same time. 4. *** Cardinal Rule #4 Never get taken off the ball. Low man wins.

Page 46

DEFENSIVE LINE PLAY

E. Separation ( Lockout) 1. Punch press the offensive lineman off of you, with the power hand, feel the pressure. Lock elbows 2. Lock out arm will be dictated by the offensive lineman's movement patter. 3. ***Cardinal Rule #3 Never get reach blocked*** 4. Find the ball through your assigned gap, disengage when the ball carrier commits to your gap. 5. ***Cardinal Rule #2 Never take the path of least resistance** If the ball carrier commits to another gap, always fight across the face and pursue. F. Pass Rush Techniques 1. Recognize high hat versus low hat 2. Keys - Pressure of offensive lineman's fingers/hands 3. Will teach a. Bull Rush b. Jerk By c. Rip d. Swim e. Spin technique only when deeper than the QB III. Effort and Pride A. Pursuit 1. Swarm to the football and punish the ball carrier 2. Take a proper pursuit angle at all times. Never Give Up. B. Tackle 1. Use proper "technique"

2. Accelerate through the ball carrier

Page 47

DEFENSIVE TACKLES
A. Pre-Snap After the defensive huddle break, go to the LOS and take a knee. Once the center places his hands on the football, Pop to your stance and call "Ball, Ball" loudly. Observe the lineman's hand and heels in front of you. If weight is heavy on the hand and the heels are off the ground, we will make a "Red" call for run. If the hand is light and the heels on the ground, we will make a "Yellow" call for caution (Pass Set or Pull) We will use a three point staggered stance with the hit foot and hit hand down. Stagger should never exceed heel to toe. Feet should never be more than shoulder width. Tail should be slightly higher than the head with weight slightly forward. We will crowd as much of the ball as possible. Do Not get beat by a poor alignment. Defensive Tackles will align his inside eye on the offensive lineman's outside eye or vice versa.

B. Pre-Snap Read

C.

Stance

D. Alignment

E. Assignment

We are responsible for the gap that we are shade to. Versus pass, we will try to rush through the gap we are shade to. When playing base technique, we will key the chin of the lineman we are on. On movement, we will attack taking two quick steps locking out the offensive lineman's pressure side shoulder. Keep square to the LOS by working our hips laterally to the football. Secure your gap before pursuing. Do Not Cross Face until the ball crosses the LOS. Initial attack steps will be determined by the read you get from the man you are on.

F. Technique

G. Pursuit

We will always pursue the football on our side of the LOS and across the face of the offensive lineman ***Cardinal Rule #2 *** Our Goal: To be on the pile or in the picture

Page 48

DEFENSIVE ENDS
A. Pre-Snap After the huddle break, the Anchor End takes 2 steps up and the quick End takes 3 steps up and wait for the strength call from the linebackers. Once the center places his hands on the ball, the tackles will make a loud "Ball" call. The ends will echo the ball call.

B. Pre-Snap Read

Observe the lineman's hand and heels in front of you. If weight is heavy on the hand and the heels are off the ground, we will make a "Red" call for run. If the hand is light and the heels on the ground, we will make a "Purple" call for pass.

C. Stance

We will either use a three point stance as described earlier or we will utilize a two point stance. In our two point stance we will assume a parallel stance with our feet under our arm pits. Bend the knees to the point where the gut touches the tops of the thighs. The back should be flexed with weight forward on the balls of the feet. Knees should be in line with the big toes.

D. Alignment

Vertical alignment will be as much of the ball as possible. Horizontal alignment will be eye to eye for a #7 technique and nose to nose for a #6 tech. A #5 tech to the open side will play inside eye to outside eye of the offensive lineman. The #5 tech becomes a #7 tech when there is a tight end to your side.

E. Assignment

We will always be responsible for the gap we are shaded to. Versus pass, we must work vertical to contain the QB.

F. Technique

When playing base technique we will key the chin of the lineman we are on. On movement, we will attack taking two quick steps locking out the offensive lineman's pressure side shoulder. Keep square to the LOS by working our hips laterally to the football. Secure your gap before pursuing. DO NOT CROSS FACE until the ball crosses the LOS. Initial attack steps will be determined by the read you get from the man you are on.

Page 49

DEFENSIVE ENDS
G. Pursuit 1. 2. Ball to outside... When the ball is outside to our side we work our hips to the ball laterally not getting reached. Ball to inside... Play to our side, but inside of us we will lock out our inside arm and work hips to the ball keeping the offensive lineman's shoulders square constricting B Gap for a #5 tech and C Gap for a #6 tech

3. Ball away... We will accelerate down the heel line and catch the ball carrier from behind. Pursue off the hip. 4. Ball away "Red Coverage"... We will chase contain as deep as the deepest back to prevent reverse.

#6 and #7 Technique Exception

Technique Versus Arc Release This is an outside read, so we take two quick steps with our outside foot using punch press technique. If we feel no pressure from the TE, our eyes are to go inside immediately. Also, we are to constrict the C Gap as quickly as possible when we get no pressure from the TE. Close down C Gap and attack anything threatening C Gap.

Page 50

DEFENSIVE LINE PLAY Five Cardinal Rules # 1 Never get taken off the LOS. Low man wins # 2 Never take the path of least resistance. Never run around the tail. Always fight across the face.

# 3 Never run upfield unless the ball takes you there. # 4 Never get reach blocked. You must demand a double team. #5 Never allow a free release by the offensive lineman you are aligned on, thereby keeping him off our linebackers.

Page 51

DEFENSIVE LINE PLAY HEAD READS

I. BLOCK REACTIONS A. Base Block

1. Explode on movement (GET OFF) 2. Attack with inside (HIT) foot using punch press technique, get at least two quick steps in. 3. Stay low with a good base and parallel to the LOS locking out read side (inside) arm. Work hips to the football. Stay square, control him and check gap responsibility. 4. Disengage (escape) When the ball carrier commits to your gap. 5. Pursue-- Be on the pile or at least in the picture.

B. Reach Block

T
1. Explode on movement (GET OFF)

2. Step with hit foot using the punch press technique; get at least two steps in. Steps should be directed to the movement of the offensive lineman. Work to the next lineman's hips through the lineman you are aligned on. You must occupy your gap responsibility. If your gap moves you move with it. 3. React to his head and keep your feet clear. Do not get cut or loose your feet. 4. Use your hands to flatten the offensive lineman out constricting the outside gap. Lockout the pressure side (outside) arm. Attempt to turn the offensive lineman's shoulders upfield to make the ball carrier run the hump. 5. Check gap responsibility, disengage when the ball carrier commits to your gap. 6. Stay low, shoulders square, and pursue working your hips to the ball and get on the pile or in the picture.
Page 52

C. Cut-Off Block

T
1. Explode on movement (Get Off)

2. Step with the hit foot, attack the cut-off block and constrict the opposite gap working to get across his face once the ball has committed to the LOS. D. Down Block with Trap

Level 1

Level 2

1. Explode on movement (Get Off) 2. Step with inside foot in the direction of the lineman's movement using the punch press technique. Get at least two quick steps in. 3. Lock out pressure side (inside ) arm and squeeze that lineman down to the next gap. Keep him off the linebackers. Never give a free release. 4. Immediately take eyes inside looking for the trap. Recognize the depth of the trapper as Level 1 or Level 2 and react accordingly. 5. Level 1 ( for inside tackles and 5 techniques) Trap the trapper. Wrong arm him. Attach the inside half of the pulling lineman's body. Dip,rip, and find the ball carrier. 6. Level 2 ( 5 technique) Recognize depth , plant inside foot and redirect out and upfield to keep contain on the quarterback. 7. Pursue, be on the pile or in the picture.

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E. Veer Block

T
1. Explode on movement (Get Off)

2. Use the same technique as the down block with the trap. EXCEPTION: If you feel pressure from an outside blocker. 3. React to the outside pressure by working across his face. We always fight pressure. F. Double Team Block

T
1. Explode on movement (Get Off) 2. Treat all combo blocks as a single blocking scheme.

3. Take on the post block as you would a base block. Fight the outside pressure. Try to split or defeat the double team by dropping your inside knee and shoulder and drive upfield. 4. MOST IMPORTANT : DO NOT GIVE GROUND. If you feel movement, take the double team to the ground by dropping the inside knee and grabbing cloth. G. Pull Block (In or Out)

T
Pull toward Center

T
Pull Away from Center

1. Explode on movement ( Get Off) 2. Be prepared to take on the cutoff block from the lineman in the direction of the pull block. 3. If the guard is pulling toward the center, cross face the cutoff immediately. 4. If the guard is pulling away from the center, play Big In Your Gap, until the ball carrier commits to the LOS. 5. If the guard is pulling away from the center and there is no cutoff pressure from the tackle, get eyes to the inside, plant your outside foot and get inside immediately. Be ready for the influence trap.

Page 54

PASS RUSH
Pass Rush Lanes

Pass Rush Techniques

Keys to a successful pass rush 1. Observe the stance of the offensive lineman in front of you. If the weight of his hand is light and his heels are flat on the ground, he is setting up for the pass. 2. Also, recognize high hat vs. low hat on the snap of the ball.

Bull Rush
1. Explode on movement ( Get Off) 2. Attack with the inside foot using the punch press technique. Once you have recognized a pass set, work for immediate lockout. 3. Lockout the offensive lineman, keep a solid base, and initiate a hard charge. 4. Initiate charge in your rush lane .In your gap responsibility. 5. Once the Qb is in your sights, disengage the blocker and out run the lineman to the QB's hands. Be sure of the sack.

Page 55

Swim Technique 1. Get off the ball and close the distance between you and the blocker 2. Deliver a hand shiver to set the lineman on his heels, grab cloth, pull down and across 3. Punch the free arm just over the offensive linemans shoulder. 4. Once the arm is over, it should be brought down hard to push off the offensive lineman. 5. KEY: DO NOT loose your vertical push COUNTER: If swim does not work, redirect to opposite side or spin Rip Technique 1. 2. 3. 4. Get off the ball and close the distance between you and the blocker. Shoot hands to the breast plate using the punch press technique. Set the offensive lineman on his heels. Push, Pull. Push with your outside arm and pull with your inside arm, hand to turn his shoulders. Sometimes referred to as openning the door. 5. Execute the rip by bringing the inside arm from low to high in a violent motion ripping through. 6. Pursue QB looking for a big hit. 7. KEY: DO NOT loose vertical push COUNTER: If Rip does not work, redirect or spin when you become a yard deeper than the QB. Spin Technique To be used when the offensive lineman works you beyond the QB position Coaching Points 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. You can read pass or run by studying film of the offensive lineman's stance, etc. Quickness is the key. Do Not give the lineman time to set up. Close the Distance. Turn blocker - shed quickly. Always keep your feet moving, sprint to the QB. When you see his arm rise, get your hands high. Stay in your pass rush lane. Alternate your pass rush techniques. Tackle the QB high. Pin his arms. Break to the ball on a full sprint when the ball is thrown.

Page 56

"EXPLOSIVENESS IS THE GREATEST ASSET A DEFENSIVE LINEMAN MAY POSSESS"

Important points in a good pass rush

Acceleration Hand placement. Grab with your fingers. Good shoulder turn. (swin, rip) Make your move before he sets Smaller players must get movement. Take a side and rush. Out smart your opponent. 6. Play action pass: When he sets make your move 7. Stress acceleration and explosiveness on the snap and after you get by the blocker. 8. Always keep your eyes on the passer. 9. Stay in your lane and DO NOT get driven out. The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. 10. Contunual vertical push is important and yell pass when it is recognized.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Objectives of a good pass rush 1. Throw the passer for a loss. 2. Choke out the QB's operating area and possibly force him out of the throwing area. 3. Force the QB to throw on the move or run. 4. DO NOT alllow the QB time to find the secondary receiver. 5. Force a fumble with a Big Hit. 6. Force the QB to hurry and loose confidence in his protection.

Objectives in getting your hands up

1. To knock the ball down. 2. To break the QB's concentration. 3. To force the QB to adjust his arm action and cause a bad throw.

Page 57

Base & Stunt Rules

All defensive line play will be governed by these two rules. We will either play base or we will stunt. BASE

1. Play through the chin of the man you are on getting push to stabilize his block. 2. Keep your shoulders square to the LOS. 3. Never let the man you are on come across the LOS or cross your face.(Cardinal Rule #5) 4. Work to get across opponents face when the ball has committed to the LOS. (Cardinal Rule #2)

STUNTS
RIP 1. Key ball movement out of peripheral vision. 2. Attack vertically getting push up field by dipping and ripping shoulder and forearm through opponents upper thigh. Attacking half the man so that vertical push is possible. 3. Read on the run and flatten out to find the football ASAP. 4. You must beat the offensive lineman with your first step so that vertical push can be accomplished. 5. We want to create vertical walls.

SLANT 1. Key ball movement out of peripheral vision. 2. Aiming point will be the hip of the next down lineman in the direction that you are slanting. 3. We will not let the lineman we are on touch us. 4. We will use a banana step with trail leg to get square to the LOS. 5. Read on the run and get to the ball ASAP. 6. You must out quick the lineman you are on. 7. This is an avoidance stunt.

JET This is a vertical push through the gap that you are responsible for.

***REMEMBER , QUICKNESS WINS***

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TACKLE STUNTS
RIP - Vertical penetration through the thigh of the offensive lineman you are shaded to

SLANT - Angular penetration to the next down lineman's hip in the direction that you are slanting to.

JET - Avoidance stunt with vertical push through the gap you are shaded to.

DART-A slant stunt by the tackle that is lined up on the center. We will Dart Strong or Dart Weak.

Page 59

TACKLE STUNTS
NUT- Is a crossing stunt between the Nose Tackle and Tackle in our Slide (Weak) Fronts where the Nose goes first and the Tackle punches and loops.

TUN - Is a crossing stunt between the Nose Tackle and Tackle in our Slide (Weak) Fronts where the Tackle goes first and the Nose Tackle punches and loops.

EX , EX WEAK, DOUBLE EX- Is a crossing stunt between the tackles and the ends where the end goes first and makes inside penetration. The tackle punches the man he is on and then loops outside for contain.

Stunt Adjustments - All tackles will Rip Stunt your gap responsibility whenever a linebacker is stunting one of your adjacent gaps. (A or B)

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END STUNTS
RIP- Vertical penetration through the thigh of the offensive lineman you are shaded to.

SLANT- Angular penetration to the hip of the next lineman in the direction that you are slanting to.

EX - Is a crossing stunt between the ends and tackles where the end makes inside penetration and the tackle loops around.

SMASH - Hard penetration from the Anchor End through the hip of the offensive tackle

LIGHTNING - Hard penetration from the Quick End through the hip of the offensive Tackle

E
Page 61

END STUNTS
FLEX - Is a perimeter stunt where the ends flex out on air and key the Near Back or the Deepest Back in the "I" for their target. If there is no Tight End, The DE will align in a Ghost 7 Technique.

E Wh

St

Stunt Adjustments. All ends will stunt D gap whenever an outside linebacker is stunting your inside gap. Example : Crash Spy Technique - Used by our ends when we are running a double linebacker stunt.

Page 62

INSIDE LINEBACKERS
STANCE

Linebackers will have a parallel stance , feet no more than shoulder width, with a slight bend in the knees. Weight placement will be forward on the balls of the feet. not to exceed the point to where the heels will be off the ground. Head and eyes are up with the back flexed from the waist at approximately a 45 degree angle

ALIGNMENT 1. LATERAL ALIGNMENT - Based on the alignment of the defensive tackle to your side. If the tackle is in a 3 technique (outside shade) on the offensive guard, you will align in a 2i technique (inside shade) on the offensive guard. If the tackle is 2i technique on the offensive guard, you will align in a 3 technique on the offensive guard. If your defensive tackle is in an inside shade and the offensive tackle is uncovered, you will bump out to an inside shade on the offensive tackle. VERTICAL ALIGNMENT - The linebacker's alignment (depth) is with toes at 4 yards off the ball. TECHNIQUE 1. STEPS PLAYSIDE LINEBACKER takes two short steps at A-gap on the snap. If you get an A-gap read to your side then roll your knees over your toes and attack now.Blow it up! This reaction comes only when the tackle is playing a 3 technique. If the tackle is playing a 2i technique, then attack the B-gap. If you get another playside read , roll your knees over your toes and run at the offensive tackle. Find the angle of the football and adjust leverage.

2.

2.

STEPS BACKSIDE LINEBACKER- Attack the midline (center)backside leverage on any play between the guards. If the ball does not attack between the guards, attack the center , come across his face and take pursuit angle.

Page 63

INSIDE LINEBACKER PLAY

TECHNIQUE 1. PLAYING THE ISOLATION - The isolation is a running play where there is a double team block between the center and the guard and a lead block on the linebacker by a back. You must attack the lead blocking back quickly and aggressively on the offensive side of the L.O.S. "Blow up" the blocking back. In attacking the running backs block, we will attack at the blocking backs thigh on the side that the double team occurs, thus eliminating a vertical block by the back and resulting in his block becoming horizontal, clogging the running lane of the ball carrier.

T S 2.

T W

T S W

PLAYING THE TRAP - Key the near back through the offensive guard to your side. If the offensive guard to your side pulls across the center - attack the midline now. Look for an openning and make the tackle

T S

T W

3.

COUNTER READ - Locate the opposite guard now for trap read, recover and find open window.

4. SCHEME READING - When the gap that you are responsible for is SQUEEZED by a defensive lineman, you will attack the next outside gap.

T S

T W

T S

T W

Page 64

PROCEDURES WITH PASS READS

We will read four types of Pass Drop Action

1.

Drop Back Pass: Any time the QB's launch point is no wider than the offensive tackle

2. 3.

Sprint Out Pass: Any time the QB's launch point is wider than the offensive tackle Play Action Pass: Any time the QB initiates a run-fake before showing pass. Play action passes are played exactly like sprint out passes regardless of the launch point.

4. Bootleg Pass: The counter read LB'er will try his best to recover. The fake side LB'er will work flat along the LOS for QB in case he tucks and runs.

T S

T W

T S

T W

Page 65

PASS DROP DIAGRAMS

1. Drop Back Pass

SAM LB - TO or AWAY You will drop through the Hook Area keying the Tight End for a Pattern Read. After zoning the Hook Area you will work on to the Curl Area WILL LB - TO or AWAY

You will drop to the Hook or Curl Areas- depending on the formation to your side (Tight End or Split End). As you drop you will key the #2 receiver for a pattern read to your side.

T S

T W

Curl

Hook

Curl

Page 66

PASS DROP DIAGRAMS

2. Sprint Out Pass: SAM and WILL To: You will trigger on the QB and put him on the ground

Away: You will zone through the Frontside Hook Area keying the Tight End or Inside Receiver for a pattern read.

T S

T W

Frontside Hook

Backside Hook

Page 67

PASS DROP DIAGRAM

3. Play Action Pass : SAM and WILL LB'er after recognizing pass and determining playside will: To: After playing run, you will continue your path and put pressure on the QB

Away: Zone the Middle Hook (Head of Center) to a depth of 12 - 15 yds. deep then flatten and zone the Fronside Hook Area to flow side. Key the Tight End or Inside Receiver for a pattern Read flow side

T S

T W

Frontside Hook

Middle Hook

Page 68

PASS DROP DIAGRAMS

4. Bootleg Pass - SAM and WILL LB'er after recognizing pass and determining playside will: To: The bootleg side recover and drop Hook to Curl Away: Play the run fake, recover, play down the LOS, and trigger on the QB

T S

T W

Curl Area

Page 69

PATTERN READ
Pattern Read is a method of reading a single receiver's pattern while dropping to your pass zone responsibility and being able to determine all other complimentary routes of the rest of the receivers to your side.

The linebacker will read the route of the #2 receiver to his side as he begins his drop to his pass zone. This is obtained by simply counting (outside-in) the number of receivers to his side. In the case below SAM'S Pattern Read will be obtained by reading the release of the Tight End or #2 receiver inside. WILL'S Pattern Read will come from the near backs release, also his #2 receiver inside. SAM SAM is reading the Tight End's release. If the Tight End releases straight or seams, then he automatically knows that the Flanker will run an Out Pattern. The Sam will go to his Hook Zone and play the TE's Seam. If the Tight End runs a Flat Route, then the Sam will zone the Frontside Hook being ready to jump to the outside on the Curl by the Flanker. If the Tight End blocks, he will not pass drop any further but will simply "idle down" and wait for the release on a delay or dump pass. WILL WILL is reading the near back as his inside receiver. If the near back goes away, Will must drop and zone his Curl Area. NOTE: If there is a Tight End to his side, there is no Curl Area, but only a Hook Zone. Conversely, If there is a Split End to his side, there is no Hook Zone but only a Curl Area. If the Near Back flares wide to his side, he must drop and zone his Curl Area. If the Near Back Pass Blocks, then he will go to Curl. If the Near Back Pass Blocks and then releases on a Seam after the Will has begun his drop to Curl, then the Will must retrace his drop quickly, eyeing both the QB and the Near Back for a break on the ball and a possible interception. 3 2 1 2
E T S T W E

Page 70

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

BLITZ - LB'ers will stunt A or B gap their side opposite the gap that the tackle to their side is responsible for Shade Blitz Shade Weak Blitz

T S

T W

E S

T W

Slide Sam Blitz

Shade Will Blitz

T S

T W

T S

T W

OUT BLITZ- LB'ers will stunt their A gap. We will use an "Even" call if we want to put our Tackles head up(40 defense) and then stunt the tackles out. This will keep the offensive linemen from knowing which way the stunt is going.

Out Blitz

Even Out Blitz

T S W

T S

T W

Page 71

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

In Rip Blitz Even In Jet Blitz

E S

T W

T S W

Out Cross Blitz Sam goes first

Out Stab Blitz Stab puts the Sam at Nose Blitz sends the Sam to Strong A Blitz Weak sends the Sam to Weak A
E E T S W T E

T S

T W

KNIFE - is a scraping stunt off tackle. 'Knife" indicates that Sam is scraping. "Knife Weak" indicates that the Will is scraping. "Double Knife" indicates that Sam and Will are both scraping. Shade Knife 54 Knife Weak

T S

T W

T S

T W

When a stunt is called to your side and defensive linemen are in both A and B gaps then you will be an edge blitzer. 54 Heavy Sam Blitz 54 Light Will Blitz

T W

T S

Page 72

INSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

"Up" Technique
"Up" tells our inside linebackers to play up on the Line Of Scrimmage at your gap responsibility and read the lineman you are aligned on in a 2 point stance. "Sam Up" indicates that the Sam will play "Up" technique and the Will plays base. "Will Up" indicates that the Will will play "Up" and the Sam will play base 50 Up Black

E C St

E Wh C

FS

1. If the lineman base or run blocks you, shoot your hands to the breast plate, punch press and play your gap responsibility 50 Sam Up Black

E C St

T W

E Wh C

2. When the lineman Pass Sets, Bail to your zone

3. When the lineman pulls, get in his hip pocket and stunt

E St

T W

E Wh St

T W

E Wh

Page 73

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
STANCE

Outside Linebackers will have a staggered stance with the inside foot forward and the outside foot back. The relationship of the outside foot and the inside foot should never be more than toe to heel. Feet should be under your arm pits, never wider than shoulder width. Bend at the knees so that your wrists hang in front of your knees. Head and eyes are up with back flexed from the waist at approximately 45 degrees. Weight placement is on the balls of the feet not to exceed the point to where the heels will be off the ground. Always keep shoulders parallel or square to the LOS. ALIGNMENT Alignment is based on the type of front we are in, type of stunt called, and the down and distance. In our base defenses you will align with your inside foot 3 yards outside of the end man on or near the LOS and 3 yards off the ball. If #1 receiver is a Tight End, we will play 3 yards by 3 yards.

x 3 yds

3 yds

3 yds x 3 yds

St

Wh

In our 60 defenses ( 60 IN, 60 OUT, 60 SHADE, ETC.) you will line up with your inside ear on the outside ear of the 3rd man on or near the LOS. If there is no 3rd man on or near the LOS, then you will align 3 x 3 yds as you did in our 40 defenses.

St

3 yds. x 3 yds
Wh

Page 74

ALIGNMENT ADJUSTMENTS
Versus Slot Split the difference between the slot and the end man on the LOS. LB'er depth (3 yds). Split the difference 3 yds x 3 yds
St Wh

3 yds

Versus Twins Same as Versus Slot. However, no more than 8 yards from the end man on the LOS.

3 yds x 3 yds
St

No more than 8 yds

3 yds
Wh

Versus a Passing Team Use Reverse Alignment, which is 3 yds x 4 yds inside the #2 receiver 3 yds x 4 yds
St Wh

Versus Wing We will challenge a wing and play 1 x 1

1 yd x 1 yd

3 yds x 3 yds
Wh

St

Page 75

Keys
The keying system for the outside linebacker is the "triangle area" from the head of the end man on or near the LOS to the Near Back to the Quarterback. Although the actions of the end man on or near the LOS and the QB give you a run or pass read, it is the Near Back that is your pure read. Eyes Sequence 1. End man on or near the LOS 2. Near Back 3. QB through peripheral vision 2 3 1
St

2 3 1
Wh

Near Back Reads and Responsibilities

1. COUNTER READ - When your near back runs away.

St

Wh

Responsibility - take a 6" step with inside foot, sink vertical to LB'er depth looking for counter, then use verbal checkoff system (counter, reverse, bootleg, screen). versus counter - Slow sink - Recognize counter play and fill where needed. versus reverse - Outside leverage- constrict grass lane , take on any lead blocker with inside arm and leg and keep outside arm and leg free. versus bootleg - Drop to flats. Make the tackle when QB commits to run by crossing the LOS. In goaline trigger quickly on bootleg. versus screen - You can recognize screen by an exaggerated drop by the QB and offensive linemen pulling toward the sideline. It is important to recognize the screen quickly in order to "filter" through the linemen before they turn upfield.

Page 76

2. INSIDE READ - Near Back runs A or B Gap to your side of the center

St

Wh

Come to the edge of the Dome, square to the line of scrimmage, ready for the bounce. Responsibility - do not go for an inside fake, or get up the field. All of your responsibilities are outside 3. POWER READ - Near Back runs to C Gap your side of the center A. To TE side - key through the TE. If he releases vertical , then play pass first. The 6 technique can take on lead blocks

B. If the TE blocks down , attack the near back. Collision the Near Back 2 yds. behind the offensive tackles initial alignment. Take on kick out block with inside arm and leg. Keep outside arm and leg free. Do not loose outside leverage. A. B.

St

Wh

St

Wh

4.

OUTSIDE READ - Near Back runs to D Gap to your side of the center

St

Wh

Responsibility - versus quick pitch get up the field and make the tackle. If Near Back is a blocker, get up field in position to take him on with inside shoulder. Keep outside arm free.

Page 77

5. PASS READ - QB is off the LOS. Near Back is pass pro or releasing into a pass route.

Responsibility - take a short 6" step with the inside foot - angle run to the numbers. If corner gives an "IN" call, the angle of your drop will be closer to the LOS. Check Slant or Crack.

St

Wh

Page 78

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER STUNTS

DASH - A D Gap stunt by the LB'er to the one receiver side

E Wh C W

T S

E St C C

E Wh W

T S

E St C

FS

FS

* AIMING POINT FOR DASHERS IS 1 YARD OUTSIDE THE DEEPEST BACK CRASH - is a looping stunt by the LB'er to the one receiver side. He will stunt the inside gap of the defensive end to his side.

E Wh C W

T S

E St C C

E Wh W

T S

E St C

FS

FS

Double Dash stunts both outside linebackers stunting D Gap to their side Double Crash stunts both outside linebackers looping inside the end to their side Stud Dash / Crash stunts the Stud outside linebacker only Whip Dash / Crash stunts the Whip outside linebacker only Up - OLB will walk up to the LOS and play the coverage called in a ghost tech. on air Squeeze Tech. (used vs. a TE or Tight Slot) - Play up on LOS in a tight 9 tech. Prevent a release by the TE
Page 79

DEFENSIVE SECONDARY
Coverage: Black ( 3 Deep , 4 Underneath Zone) Description ILB's - Vs. Drop Back Pass- Hook/Curl Players Vs. 90 Pass - Turn and run through slant to hitch. If there is a Tight End on your side, run through the dump. Vs. Sprint Out - Playside triggers on the QB and backside overlaps playside LB'ers zone. Stud / Whip - Drop to numbers 12 yds. deep Vs. Sprint Out - playside get to flats, backside sink back looking for drag and backside post. Corners - Deep third player reading combo route of #1 and #2 Safety - Deep middle third player. Conscious of #2 strong

E St

T S

T W

E Wh

Flat

Hook

FS

Hook

Flat

1/3

1/3

1/3

E Wh W

T S

E St C

Flat Hook

Flat
FS

Hook

Curl

1/3

1/3

1/3

Page 80

PASS RESPONSIBILITY
Black Coverage ( 3 Deep, 4 Underneath Zone )

E Wh C W

T S

E St C

Flat

Curl

Hook

FS

Hook

Flat

1/3

1/3

1/3

E C Wh W

T S

E St C

Flat

Hook

FS

Hook

Curl

Flat

1/3

1/3

1/3

Page 81

DEFENSIVE SECONDARY
"Black Coverage" ( 3 Deep - 4 Under Zone ) Corner Stance The Corner's stance in BLACK will always be square to the ball with feet at a 45 degree angle and toes pointed toward the QB. Feet should be under the armpits, chest out, good arch in the back, and hands free not resting on knees.

Alignment If #1 is a wide receiver, then your alignment is 7 yards off the receiver on his outside eye. If #1 is a Tight End, then you align 2 yards outside and 7 yards off the Tight End. Intitial Read Steps Your initial read steps will be a slow back pedal with your eyes on the QB.

Keys Your key as you shuffle out is the QB. Always play pass first. If you get Lane 1 or Toss Sweep, be alert for play action and begin to move to run responsibility. Lane 2 or 3, then you continue your back pedal and play as deep as the deepest receiver in your third.

3 2 1 2 1

Page 82

Black Coverage
Corner Pass Read Start in a slow back pedal to get your read.If you read pass, continue to back pedal picking up the pace. Stay outside and over the top of the deepest receiver in your third. Run To You If #1 is a wide out, then you have play action pass ( do not come up until the ball crosses the line ). If #1 cracks on the Outside Linebacker, yell "CRACK" to him as loud as you can and replace his pitch responsibility if #1 forces contact with the OLB. If #1 is a Tight End, then we have to make a pre-snap "Arc" call with the OLB. This tells you that on "Run to You" you will get your responsibility from the Tight End's release. If the TE blocks down, you fill for pitch and contain. If the TE Arc blocks on the OLB, you fill for the QB Alley. If the TE releases down field, you have to honor him and move towards your pass responsibility.

QB

Pitch

E St C

Pitch QB QB

Pitch

E St C

E St C

Run Away On Run Away, you are a deep pursuit and cutback player. Play the cutback first, which means we want to keep 21 players in front of you.
Page 83

Black Coverage
Safety Stance The Safety will use a staggered stance. Toe to Instep with good bend in the knees and chest up.

Alignment The Safety should be 10-12 yards deep cheating to the two receiver side, yet no further than B gap. In the case of Twins or Trips, we will cheat to the Tackle to the deuce or even further in case of Trips. The Safety will never align outside the Hash. Initial Read The Safety will get his initial read from the QB out of a backpedal with shoulders square to the line. If he gets Lane 1 or Toss Sweep, then he goes to his run responsibility. If he gets Lane 2 or 3, then he goes to his Pass Responsibility eyeing #2 to the deuce for route recognition.

Responsibilities Run to You If you get run, then you are a QB alley player. You should aim for a point over the outside shoulder of the end man on th LOS. You should stay inside out on the ball carrier. If you have an "Arc" call to the flow side, then you will become a play action pass player to that side. Pass You are a Middle 1/3 player working to the middle of the field.Your midpoint may move to the deuce side some. If the QB's shoulders go up now, then be ready to run down hill to the Slant or the "Y" Dump. Option Pass If you have committed to the run, keep coming and make something happen. If you are not past the "point of no return", then redirect yourself back to your Middle 1/3.

Page 84

Defensive Secondary Blue

( 4 Under , 2 Deep, Robber) ILB's - Same as Black Coverage OLB's - Same as Black Coverage CORNERS - Deep Halves FREE SAFETY - Is the Robber. He will cheat to the 2 receiver side and key #2 1. When #2 blocks, aggressively play the run 2. When #2 runs vertical, lock on him 3. When #2 runs an out route, get your eyes on #1 to rob the Curl/Post 4. When #2 runs a drag, look to rob weak side #1

1. When #2 blocks and / or you have a run read, aggressively play the run

E C ST

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

2. When #2 runs vertical, the Free Safety locks on him

E ST

T S Hook

T W

E Wh Flats Deep 1/2 C

Flats

Hook

Deep 1/2

FS Lock on #1 Vertical Page 85

Defensive Secondary "Blue"

(4 Under, 2 Deep, Robber) 3. When #2 runs an out, the Free Safety gets his eyes on #1 to rob the Curl or Post

E ST C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

4. When #2 runs a drag, the Free Safety will slide across and look to rob #1 weak

E ST C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 86

DEFENSIVE SECONDARY
"Red Coverage" ( 5 Underneath, 2 Deep Zone ) Description ILB's Vs. Drop Back Pass LBer to the 2 receiver side works to the Apex Opening to the 2 receiver side. LBer to the 1 receiver side plays the vertical route his side. ILB's Vs Sprint Out- The playside LBer will trigger. The backside LBer will over play the trigger LBer zone. Stud Outside LBer- Always line up to the 2 receiver side. If #2 is a slot or twin, you will split the difference between #2 and the end man on the LOS. If #2 is a Tight End, play 1 yard outside and normal depth. Vs pass, you will slow peddle vertically looking for a vertical route by #2 to your side. Read the Combo Route,( #1 may become #2 and #2 would become #1). You will run man to man with any vertical route to your side. Whip Outside LBer Will play a hash mark safety. Alignment will be to split the difference between #1 and the end man on the LOS. Never line up more than 2 yards outside the hash.Responsibility will be to back peddle vertically and stay as deep as the deepest receiver to your side. Do not break off vertical stretch until the ball leaves the QB's hand. Corners- Vs Pass we will line up 1 yard outside #1 and make the receiver release inside working them into the hash mark player being conscious of #2 so that we do not get out flanked down the sideline. After funneling #1 inside, we will come off our attack and work back to the void 12-15 yards deep. Safety - Same as Whip

E W

T S

E ST

Funnel

Funnel

Flats

#2 Vertical
Wh Vertical

Apex

Flats

FS

1/2
Page 87

1/2

Pass Responsibility
Coverage : Red ( 5 Underneath, 2 Deep Zone )

E C ST W

T S

E Wh

Flats

#2 Vertical
FS

Apex

Vertical
C

Flats

1/2

1/2

***With an Ace Tight End The Corner and Whip can exchange by putting the Corner on the Hash***

E Wh

T W S

E ST

Flats
C

Vertical

Apex

#2 Vertical
FS

Flats

1/2

1/2

Page 88

Pass Responsibility
Coverage: Red ( 5 Underneath, 2 Deep Zone )

E ST

T S

T W

E Wh

C FS

E C W

T S

ST

Flats

#2 Vertical
Wh

Apex

Vertical
FS

Flats

1/2

1/2

Page 89

Red Coverage
( 5 Underneath, 2 Deep Zone ) Corner Stance Square to the line straddling the outside foot of the #1 receiver with eyes inside for any QB / WR pre-snap checks. Alignment Line up 1 yard off the LOS on the outside eye of the #1 receiver Keys Get a good jam on #1. Funnel him to the inside with your shoulders square. Get your eyes to the QB for your run, pass read while chopping your feet.

Responsibilities Run to You You are the Pitch and Contain player. You must go through the #1 receiver to the pitch. Run Away

Drop and play deep pursuit and cutback. You should keep 21 players in front of you. Make sure you stay in position to cover the throwback post.

Pass

You are a flat defender. You must funnel #1 inside and sink using an angle run getting width and depth in order to force the elevated pass on the post corner. If anything shows up in the flats, then you redirect your hips and jump it.

Page 90

Red Coverage
Safety Stance The Safety should take a staggered stance. Alignment The Safety's basic alignment is the hash mark 12 yards off the LOS. He may cheat 2 yards inside or outside of the hash depending on the formation but never more than 2 yards. Adjustments to Alignment Versus Pro Formation : Align 2 yards outside the Tight End Versus Twins : Line up 2 yards inside #2 Always adjust your alignment wide enough to cover the quick fade by #1

Keys The Safety should get his run, pass read from the QB while taking a good backpedal.

Responsibilities

Run to You Play play action pass first

Run Away Versus Pro, take a good angle to go QB Alley. Versus Twins should go to play action pass looking for the Tight End releasing down the field Pass Responsible for a deep 1/2 of the field from the midfield to the sideline. You must respect the inside vertical first. Your midpoint of your deep half is a point 2 to 3 yards outside the hash. Do not break off the hash until the ball is thrown. Break over the top of everything at a 90 degree angle.
Page 91

Red Man ( Man Underneath, 2 Deep coverage )

Versus Pass

ST

T S

T W

#1

#2

#1

#3
FS

#2
Wh

1/2

1/2

Versus Run

ST

T S

T W

#1

#2

#1

#3
FS

#2
Wh

Safeties: Run to- Run the alley to become the forcer Safeties: Run Away - roll to middle and play free

Page 92

Red Sky

Versus Pass

C ST SCF

T S Middle #3 Rec

T W

SCF Wh

FS

SCF: Seam, Curl, Flat Progression Corners: 1/4's Coverage versus Pass;90 Game through 1/4's Safeties: 1/4's coverage versus Pass Versus Run

C ST

T S

E W

FS

Wh

Corners: Control sink to Black coverage versus run and play action pass Safeties: Run To - Run the alley to become the forcer Safeties: Run Away - Roll to Middle Third
Page 93

Red Drop

C ST SCF

T S Middle #3 Rec

E W SCF Wh

FS

1/4

1/4

1/4

1/4

SCF: Seam, Curl, Flat Progression

Page 94

White Coverage
( Man Free) Corners: Always have #1 receiver to their side Stud Olb : #2 receiver to your side Whip Olb: #2 receiver to your side Sam Ilb: #3 receiver to your side unless you are stunting. Will Ilb: #3 receiver to your side unless you are stunting Free Safety: Free

Tag "Tag" is a call made between the Free Safety and the Stud or Whip Olb. If we get a Quick Run Action ( Lane 1) to the deuce, then we will tag #2. Now the #2 receiver becomes the Free Safety's responsibility and the Stud or Whip can go to pitch.

Responsibilities Run

On run reads the Free Safety should be running the QB alley to the Ace Side. We should get a pre-snap tag call from the Olb to the Deuce Side to alert him for run to him. If he gets run to him to the Deuce, then he will pick up #2 receiver man to man.

Pass

On a pass read the Free Safety should take his eyes to the #2 receiver to the Deuce Side. He will get his "robber" read from that #2 receiver.

Page 95

White Coverage
Responsibilities 1. If #2 goes out, then the Safety should rob #1 to the deuce

FS 2. If #2 goes vertical ( any route deeper than 10 yards) then the Safety will rob #2.

FS 3. If #2 goes across the formation,then the Safety should rob #1 on the backside

FS

4. If #2 does not release, then rob off the QB's shoulders and the thrown ball.
Page 96

Gray Coverage
Corners: Always have #1 receiver to your side Stud Olb: #2 receiver to your side. Whip Olb: #2 to your side Sam: #3 receiver unless you are stunting.

Will: Same as Sam. Free Safety: #3 receiver

Shade Blitz Gray

3 1 2

C ST

T S

T W

E Wh

FS

Page 97

Gray Deuce Coverage

Corners: Always have #1 to your side Stud: #2 receiver unless you are stunting. Whip: #2 receiver unless you are stunting. Sam: #3 receiver unless you are stunting. Will: #3 receiver unless you are stunting. Free Safety: #2 receiver to the side the stunt is coming from.

Shade Stud Dash Gray Deuce

3 1

ST

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 98

Zone Blitz Zone Blitz

A way to put pressure on the offense and still be able to stay in Zone Coverage You get movement from your defensive front which can cause confusion for the offensive linemen You get one crossing inside linebacker stunt which can cause confusion as to who is suppose to pick him up You get one dasher from the edge Rules and Terms Stunt Side End - Loop and Rip through B Gap Away From Stunt End - After recognizing pass drop to the Middle Hook Zone looking for a crossing route Stunt Side Tackle - (RAC)Rip Across Centers face through A Gap Away From Stunt Tackle -(LAT) Loop Around Tackle for outside contain rush Stunt Side Inside Linebacker - Seam Hook/Curl Player. Away From Stunt Inside Linebacker - Loop and blitz the opposite A Gap Stunt Side Outside Linebacker - Dash Away From Stunt Outside Linebacker - Seam Hook/Curl Corners - Outside third Free Safety - Middle Third

Middle Hook Defender plays the same as any other zone coverage looking for crossers Hook/Curl Defenders play a Seam-Curl-Flat progression.1st progression is holding the Seam Route of #2. 2nd progression is the Curl if #2 receiver goes in or out. 3rd progression is Flat if #1 goes out or is gone. Corners will jump any 3-step routes. Bail vs 5 step routes Play Calls Snake - Stud OLB is Dashing, the Will ILB is Blitzing, Quick End is Dropping Wolf - Whip OLB is Dashing, Sam ILB is Blitzing, Anchor End is Dropping Cobra - Boundary Corner is Dashing, Opposite ILB is Blitzing, Opposite End is Dropping
Page 99

Zone Blitz 50 Wolf

E C St

T S

T W

Wh C

Middle Hook 1/3 Seam Hook/Curl

Seam Hook/Curl 1/3

FS
1/3

Position Anchor End Strong Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Corner

Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Base Base Base Base

Technique Dropper LAT RAC Rip B Gap Base Cross Blitz Base Dash Base Base Base

Run To C Gap C Gap A Gap B Gap D Gap A Gap Scrape D Gap Secondary Contain Alley Secondary Contain

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Pursue Verbal Check Off Pursue Opposite B Gap Chase Cut Back Alley Cut Back

Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Dive Pitch Dive QB Pitch Secondary Pitch Alley Secondary Pitch

Pass Middle Hook Contain Rush Rush Rush Seam Blitz Seam Dash Outside 3rd Middle 3rd Outside 3rd

Page 100

Zone Blitz Shade Snake

St C

T S
Hook

T W

E Wh
Seam

C
1/3

1/3

Seam

FS
1/3

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Corner

Alignment 6 3 2i 5 Base Base Base Base Base Base Base

Technique Rip B Gap RAC LAT Dropper Dash Base Cross Blitz Base Base Base Base

Run To B Gap A Gap C Gap C Gap D Gap C Gap A Gap D Gap Secondary Contain Alley Secondary Contain

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Pursue Chase Opposite B Gap Pursue Verbal Check Off Cut Back Alley Cut Back

Option Dive Dive Dive to QB QB Pitch Dive to QB Dive Pitch Secondary Pitch QB Alley Secondary Pitch

Pass Rush Rush Contain Rush Middle Hook Contain Rush Seam Blitz Seam Outside 3rd Middle 3rd Outside 3rd

Page 101

Zone Blitz 50 Cobra

E C St
Seam 1/3

T S

T W

E Wh
Seam

Middle Hook 1/3

FS
1/3

Position Anchor End Strong Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip B. Corner Free Safety F. Corner

Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Base Base Base Base

Technique Dropper LAT RAC Rip B Gap Base Cross Blitz Base Bail to Corner Dash Base Base

Run To Scheme C Gap C Gap A Gap B Gap D Gap A Gap Scrape D Gap D Gap QB Alley Secondary Contain

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Pursue Verbal Check Off Pursue Opposite B Verbal Check Off Chase Over Top Play Action Play Action Pass

Option Scheme Dive to Qb Dive Dive Dive Pitch Dive QB QB Alley Pitch QB Alley Secondary Pitch

Pass Middle Hook Contain Rush Rush Rush Seam Blitz Seam Outside 3rd Dash Middle 3rd Outside 3rd

Page 102

Red Shade Snake

RED SHADE SNAKE

St E C

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Stunt side End: Stunt first gap to your inside. 6 tech is C gap, 5 tech is B gap Away from stunt side End: Middle Dropper. Drop over #3 receiver. With Trips away, End becomes SCF (Seam) away from stunt. Stunt side Tackle: Stunt 1 gap to your inside. 3 tech will stunt A gap. 2I or 1 tech will stunt opposite A gap Away from stunt side Tackle: Stunt into 4I to play the run. If pass protection shows, then (LAT) loop around tackle for contain pass rush. Stunt side OLB: Dash Away from stunt side OLB:SCF, Seam, Curl Flat. Drop over #2 to play the vertical route. If no vertical then play Seam to Flats progression. Whip shows Red then drop over #2 in Red Snake Stunt side ILB: SCF, Seam, Curl, Flat to the stunt side. Drop over #2 to play the vertical. If no vertical route then play Seam to flat progression.With Trips to the stunt side ILB drops over Middle #3 Receiver Away from stunt ILB: You will stunt one of the A Gaps determined by where the stunt side tackle is lined up. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in B gap, you stunt your A gap. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in A gap, you stunt the opposite A gap. Middle Dropper: Drop over #3 Receiver. If #3 stays in and blocks, look for crossers or hook curl.Jump #3 if he flares. SCF: Seam, Curl, Flat progression. Drop over #2 and play the vertical route. If no vertical route, then play seam to flat progression. #2 goes out look for #1 curl, hook. #2 goes out and #1 goes out or vertical continue to the flats. Corners: Slow sink, playing 90 game through deep outside third Free: Show Red and roll to middle third

Page 103

Red Shade Snake

St E C

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

St E C

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

St C

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Page 104

Slide Wolf

SLIDE WOLF

E C St

T S

T W

Wh C

FS

Stunt side End: Stunt first gap to your inside. 6 tech is C gap, 5 tech is B gap Away from stunt side End: Middle Dropper. Drop over #3 receiver. With Trips away, End becomes SCF (Seam) away from stunt. Stunt side Tackle: Stunt 1 gap to your inside. 3 tech will stunt A gap. 2I or 1 tech will stunt opposite A gap Away from stunt side Tackle: Stunt into 4I to play the run. If pass protection shows, then (LAT) loop around tackle for contain pass rush. Stunt side OLB: Dash Away from stunt side OLB:SCF, Seam, Curl Flat. Drop over #2 to play the vertical route. If no vertical then play Seam to Flats progression. Stunt side ILB: SCF, Seam, Curl, Flat to the stunt side. Drop over #2 to play the vertical. If no vertical route then play Seam to flat progression.With Trips to the stunt side ILB drops over Middle #3 Receiver Away from stunt ILB: You will stunt one of the A Gaps determined by where the stunt side tackle is lined up. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in B gap, you stunt your A gap. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in A gap, you stunt the opposite A gap. Middle Dropper: Drop over #3 Receiver. If #3 stays in and blocks, look for crossers or hook curl.Jump #3 if he flares. SCF: Seam, Curl, Flat progression. Drop over #2 and play the vertical route. If no vertical route, then play seam to flat progression. #2 goes out look for #1 curl, hook. #2 goes out and #1 goes out or vertical continue to the flats. Corners: Slow sink, playing 90 game through deep outside third Free: Middle third

Page 105

Slide Wolf

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 106

Red Shade Cobra

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Stunt side End: Stunt first gap to your inside. 6 tech is C gap, 5 tech is B gap Away from stunt side End: Middle Dropper. Drop over #3 receiver. With Trips away, End becomes SCF (Seam) away from stunt. Stunt side Tackle: Stunt 1 gap to your inside. 3 tech will stunt A gap. 2I or 1 tech will stunt opposite A gap Away from stunt side Tackle: Stunt into 4I to play the run. If pass protection shows, then (LAT) loop around tackle for contain pass rush. Stunt Side OLB: SCF, Seam, Curl, Flat. Drop over #2 to play the vertical route. If no vertical then play Seam to flat progression. Away from stunt side OLB:SCF, Seam, Curl Flat. Drop over #2 to play the vertical route. If no vertical then play Seam to Flats progression. Stunt side ILB: SCF, Seam, Curl, Flat to the stunt side. Drop over #2 to play the vertical. If no vertical route then play Seam to flat progression.With Trips to the stunt side ILB drops over Middle #3 Receiver Away from stunt ILB: You will stunt one of the A Gaps determined by where the stunt side tackle is lined up. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in B gap, you stunt your A gap. If stunt side Tackle is lined up in A gap, you stunt the opposite A gap. Middle Dropper: Drop over #3 Receiver. If #3 stays in and blocks, look for crossers or hook curl.Jump #3 if he flares. SCF: Seam, Curl, Flat progression. Drop over #2 and play the vertical route. If no vertical route, then play seam to flat progression. #2 goes out look for #1 curl, hook. #2 goes out and #1 goes out or vertical continue to the flats. Boundary Corner: Show Red and Dash Field Corner: Slow sink, playing 90 game through deep outside third Stunt side Hash Mark Safety: Roll to replace the stunting corner. Responsible for 90 game through the outside third. Away from stunt side Hash Mark Safety: Roll to middle responsible for Middle third

Page 107

Red Shade Cobra

E C

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Page 108

SHADE RED COBRA

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

E C

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

E C

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

Page 109

RED SHADE FOX

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Page 110

Red Shade Fox

E C

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

E C

T S

T W

E St C

FS

Wh

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Page 111

RED SHADE BLITZ SWITCH

E C St

T S

T W

E C Wh

FS

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Page 112

Red Shade Blitz

RED SHADE CROSS BLITZ

E C

T S

T W

E St C

Wh

FS

E C

T S

T W

E St C

Wh

FS

Page 113

STORM
STORM IS BLITZ, STUD DASH GREY DEUCE

SHADE STORM

St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

SHADE BUMP STORM

St C

E S FS

T W

E Wh C

SHADE STORM SWITCH

St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 114

Storm Weak
WHAM IS BLITZ WHIP DASH GREY DEUCE

SHADE STORM WEAK

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

SHADE BUMP STROM WEAK

E C St S

T W

E Wh C

FS

SHADE STROM WEAK SWITCH

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 115

SWORD
SWORD IS KNIFE STUD DASH GREY DEUCE

SHADE BUMP SWORD

St C

E S

T W

E Wh C

FS

St C

E S FS

T W

E Wh C

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS Page 116

SWORD WEAK
SWORD WEAK IS KNIFE WEAK WHIP DASH GREY DEUCE

E St C

T S

T W

E Wh

FS

E St C S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 117

STACK

STACK STORM

T C St E

T S

E W Wh C

FS

STACK STORM SWITCH

T C St E

T S

E W Wh C

FS

T St C E

T S

E W Wh C

FS

Page 118

Red Blitzes
This is where we line up in "RED" and Bltiz one Inside Linebacker or the Stud Outside Linebacker and play a 4 Under , 2 Deep Zone when Red is at the end of the call. Example: Slide, Stud Dash, Red The Two Linebackers not stunting will be the "Vertical Players". We will be giving up the "Apex"

C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

When "RED" is at the front of the call , we line up in red and run the coverage called. Example: Red, Slide, Stud , Will Dash, Gray Deuce Red Slide Stud Will Dash Gray Deuce

C St

T S

E W C

FS

Wh

Page 119

SHADE SLANT SAM BLITZ RED

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Corner

Alignment 6 3 2i 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red

Technique Base Slant Slant Base Base Blitz Base Red Red Red Red

Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap C Gap D Gap A Gap B Gap Play Action Contain Play Action To You Contain

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Trail Verbal Check Off Pursue Scrape Red Rules Deep Cut Back Red Rules Deep Cut Back

Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Scheme Dive to QB Slow Play QB Dive QB Secondary Alley Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch

Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Hook/Curl Blitz Hook/Curl Deep 1/2 Flats Deep 1/2 Flats

Page 120

Slide Tuff Will Dash Red

E C St

T S

E W C

FS

Wh

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Corner

Alignment 6 3 1 5 Base Base Bump Weak Hash Red Hash Red

Technique Base Base Base Dash Base Base Dash Red Red Red Red

Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap B Gap D Gap A Gap D Gap Play Action Alley Play Action Alley

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Pursue Verbal Check Off Midline Chase Red Rules Deep Cut Back Red Rules Deep Cut Back

Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Dive Slow Play QB Dive Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch/Alley Secondary Alley Pitch/Alley

Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Rush Hook/ Curl Hook/Curl Dash Deep 1/2 Flats Deep 1/2 Flats

Page 121

SHADE TUFF SLANT WILL DASH RED

E C $

T S

E W C

FS
Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner Alignment 6 3 2i 5 Base Base Bump Weak Hash Red Hash Red Technique Base Slant Slant Dash Base Base Dash Red Red Red Red Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap B Gap D Gap A Gap D Gap

WH
Run Away Chase Pursue Pursue Pursue Verbal Check Off Midline Chase Red Rules Deep Cut Back Red Rules Deep Cut Back Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Dive QB to Pitch QB Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Rush Hook/Curl Hook/Curl Dash Deep 1/2 Flats Deep 1/2 Flats

Play Action Pass Alley Play Action Pass Alley

Page 122

SLIDE STUD DASH RED

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS
Position Anchor End Str Tackle Wk Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Fr. Safety Corner Alignment 6 3 1 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red Technique Dash Base Base Base Dash Base Base Red Red Red Red Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap C Gap D Gap A Gap Scheme B Gap Scheme Play Action Contain Play Action Contain

Wh
Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Chase Chase Midline Midline Red Rules Deep Cut Back Red Rules Deep Cut Back Option Dive to Qb Dive Dive Dive to QB Qb to Pitch Dive to Qb Dive to QB Secondary Alley Pitch QB Alley Pitch Pass Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Rush Hook Curl Hook curl Deep Half Flats Deep Half Flats

Page 123

50 SLANT WEAK STUD DASH RED

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS
Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Sam Will Stud Whip Corner Free Safety Corner Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red Technique Dash Slant Weak Slant Weak Base Base Base Dash Red Red Red Red Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap C Gap A Gap Scheme B Gap Scheme D Gap Play Action Pass Alley Play Action Pass Alley

Wh
Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Trail Midline Midline Chase Red Rules Deep Cut Back Red Rules Deep Cut Back Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Scheme Dive to QB Scheme Dive to QB Scheme Dive to QB QB to Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch Secondary Alley Pitch Pass Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Hook/ Curl Hook/Curl Dash Deep 1/2 Flats Deep 1/2 Flats

Page 124

RED 50 2 FIRE STRONG GREY DEUCE

St

T S

T W

FS

Wh

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner

Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red

Technique Dash Slant Base Base Dash Blitz Base Man Man Man Man

Run To C Gap B Gap A Gap C Gap D Gap A Gap B Gap Scheme Alley

Run Away Pursue Pursue Pursue Trail Chase Pursue Scrape

Option Scheme Dive to QB Dive Dive Scheme Dive to QB Pitch Dive Scheme Dive to QB Alley

Pass Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Dash Blitz # 3 Man #2 Off Man #1 Man #2 Off Man #1 Man

Deep Cut Back Alley Deep Cut Back

Secondary Pitch Alley Secondary Pitch

Page 125

RED 50 2 FIRE CRASH STRONG GREY DEUCE

St

T S

T W

FS
Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red Technique Crash Slant Base Base Crash Blitz Man Man Man Man Man Alley Run To D Gap B Gap A Gap C Gap C Gap A Gap B Gap Alley

Wh
Run Away Chase Pursue Pursue Trail Pursue Pursue Scrape Option Qb to Pitch Dive Dive Scheme Dive to Qb Qb Dive Scheme Dive to Qb Qb Alley Deep Cut Back Secondary Pitch Qb Alley Deep Cut Back Secondary Pitch Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Crash Blitz # 3 Man #2 Off Man # 1 Man #2 Off Man # 1 Man

Page 126

RED 50 2 FIRE BASH STRONG GREY DEUCE

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner

Alignment 6 4i 1 5 Base Base Base Hash Red Hash Red

Technique Crash Slant Out Base Base Bash Blitz Base Man Man Man Man

Run To D Gap C Gap A Gap C Gap B Gap A Gap B Gap Alley

Run Away Chase Contain Pursue Pursue Chase Pursue Pursue Scrape

Option Scheme Qb to Pitch Dive to Qb Dive Scheme Dive to Qb Dive Dive Scheme Dive to Qb Qb Alley

Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush Bash Blitz # 3 Man #2 Off Man #1 Man #2 Off Man # 1 Man

Deep Cut Back Alley Deep Cut Back Page 127

Secondary Pitch Qb Alley Secondary Pitch

RED SLIDE TUFF BLITZ WEAK GRAY

E C St FS

T S

E W Wh C

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner

Alignment 6 3 1 5 BASE Base Bump Weak Red Red Hash Red

Technique Base Slant Rip Across Center Slant Out Gray Cross Blitz Blitz Gray Gray Gray Gray

Run To C Gap B Gap Opposite A Gap C Gap D Gap Opposite A Gap B Gap Alley PLayAction Pass Alley Play Action Pass

Run Away Trail Pursue Pursue Trail Verbal Check Off Pursue Pursue Play Action Pass Deep Cut Back Play Action Pass Deep Cut Back

Option Scheme Dive to Qb Dive Dive Qb Pitch Dive Dive Qb Alley Secondary Pitch Qb Alley Secondary Pitch

Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Contain Rush # 3 Man Blitz Blitz #2 Off Man # 1 Man #2 Off Man # 1 Man

Page 128

RED SLIDE TUFF BLITZ WEAK SWAP GRAY

E C St FS

T S

E W Wh C

Position Anchor End Str. Tackle Tackle Quick End Stud Sam Will Whip Corner Free Safety Corner

Alignment 6 3 1 5 Base Base Bump Weak Red Red Hash Red

Technique Base Slant Rip Across Center Dash Gray Cross Blitz Dash Gray Gray Gray Gray

Run To C Gap B Gap Opposite A Gap B Gap D Gap Opposite A Gap D Gap Qb Alley Play Action Pass Alley Play Action Pass

Run Away Trail Pursue Pursue Pursue Verbal Check Off Pursue Chase Play Action Pass Deep Cut Back Play Action Pass Deep Cut Back

Option Scheme Dive to Qb Dive Dive Dive Pitch Dive Pitch Qb Alley Secondary Pitch Qb Alley Secondary Pitch

Pass Contain Rush Rush Rush Rush # 3 Man Blitz Dash #2 Off Man # 1 Man #2 Off Man # 1 Man

Page 129

RED SLIDE BLITZ WEAK STUD DASH GREY DEUCE

E St FS

T S

E "Spy" W Wh C

Page 130

SLIDE BLITZ WEAK STUD CRASH GREY DEUCE

"Spy" C

E St FS

T S

E "Spy" W Wh C

Page 131

RED 50 BLITZ WEAK STUD BASH GREY DEUCE

"Spy" E C St FS

T S

E "Spy" W Wh C

Position

Alignment

Technique

Run To

Run Away

Option

Pass

Page 132

EVEN SLANT EVEN SLANT

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS
EVEN TUFF SLANT WEAK

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS
EVEN TUFF SLANT BLITZ

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 133

EVEN TUFF SLANT WEAK BLITZ

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS
EVEN TUFF SLANT SAM BLITZ

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

EVEN TUFF SLANT WEAK WILL BLITZ

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 134

EVEN SLANT WEAK STUD DASH RED EVEN SLANT WEAK STUD DASH

E C St

T S

T W

E C

FS

Wh

EVEN SLANT WHIP DASH

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS
Even Slant Will Loop Whip Dash

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Page 135

Even Tuff Blitz EVEN BLITZ

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

Even Tuff Blitz Swap

E C St

T S

T W

E Wh C

FS

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Gator
Rules Ends Lock up man to man on the tight end. Get your hands on them and do not let them off the LOS. If two tight ends, both ends lock up. No tight end to your side , then rush the passer. Inside Linebackers Blitz if there is a tight end to your side. Blitz if there is a slot to your side. You have back out of the backfield if there is no tight end to your side and #2 is in the house. Outside Linebackers Dash unless you have a slot to your side.Cover #2 if he is a slot or a Quick receiver. Corners Cover #1. If Ace tight end, cover back out of the backfield. Free Safety Cover back out of the backfield to passing strength. Shade Gator Shade Gator

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Back Out

Back Out Page 137

Defending the Option from our Base Defense

We have a definite way of playing the option with our BASE DEFENSE. This will be drilled on a regular basis during defensive practices.

A. STRONG SIDE OPTION 1. Dive option strong with ARC release by the tight end.

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Check Seam Pass FS

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DE: Read ARC release, take 2 quick steps with outside foot using punch press technique. If you feel no pressure from the TE, eyes are to go inside immediately. Constrict the C Gap and play the QB. DT: The 3 tech playside tackle must demand a double team and play the dive Sam: Read the near back for A gap or B gap dive. If A gap dive, then meet the running back at the LOS. If B gap dive, then get down hill and blow up the off tackle area. Play QB to Pitch. Will: Get counter read. Blow up the midline and play the dive. Stud: Read the release of the Tight End. If ARC release, then attack the outside half and get upfield and play the pitch. FS: Check TE release for Seam Pass. Responsibility is middle third zone first, then secondary tackler. C: Outside third responsibility first, then secondary tackler. If ACE TE look for Seam Pass.

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2. Dive Option Strong with a down block by the Tight End

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DE: (6Tech) Read inside release. Attack TE and force flat. Keep the TE off the Sam LB. Keep shoulders square and attack the dive. Stud: Read the inside release by the TE. Come to the outside foot of the DE. Keep shoulders square and "Slow Play" the QB. Sam: Same as above Will: Same as above FS: Read # 2 blocking down. Run the alley Pitch Back C: Same as above

3. Speed Option Strong with ARC by the Tight End

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Same as Dive Option

Same as Dive Option Page 139

4. Speed Option Strong with a down block by the Tight End

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Same as Dive Option except Stud now reads ARC block by the Near Back and plays the Pitch

B. Weak Side Option

1. Dive Option weak side with Base Blocking 2. Dive Option weak with Veer Blocking

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FS DE: 5 tech defeat the base block. Play QB Will: Blow up the gap responsibility, tackle the dive Whip: Pitch Back Whip: Pitch Back FS: Middle Third. Check the Post/ Corner route. Run the weak alley

FS DE: 5 tech Squeeze the Veer release. See Cardinal Rule # 5. Tackle the dive Will: Scheme read the Veer release. Scrape tight off DE's butt and play the QB.

FS: Middle Third. Check the Post/ Corner. Run the alley

3. Dive Option Weak With 3rd Man Blocking Down Same as 2 Veer Block Except Whip: Slow Play QB

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4. Weak Side Speed Option

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Will: QB to Pitch Whip: Pitch

5. Weak Side Speed Option with Crack Block

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Corner: Give "Crack " call and replace the Whip Whip: Try to beat the crack block. If you can't beat the hit, then cross his face.

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Defending The Wing T

Our linemen will attack the offensive lineman they are aligned on preventing them from getting a free release on our linebackers. Tackles 1. When your lineman releases inside, squeeze him looking for the trap. Trap the trapper.

2. When your lineman pulls toward the center, cross face the cutoff block immediately.

3. When your lineman pulls away from the center, attack the cutoff, play Big in Your Hole. Only crossface after the ball carrier commits to the LOS past your gap responsibility.

T
Ends

1. Read through the End you are aligned on to the Fullback. Squeeze the inside release by the end and get your eyes on the FB. 2. When the Fullback's path is toward or outside the Guard, attack inside pressure and play the 3 Down.

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Defending The Wing T

Ends 3. When the Fullback's path is Midline, toward the center, Squeeze the inside release by the end, then fight outside pressure and play the 6 Play.

Stud And Whip Outside Linebackers Alignment 1. Stud and Whip align 1 x 1 off a wing 2. Stud and Whip align 3 x 3 off end man on the LOS when there is no wing to your side Keys for Whip and Stud Key Near Back When your Near Back is a Wing 1. If he blocks down replace 2. If he comes at you, blow him up with the inside arm and leg. Keep the outside arm and leg free. 3. If he goes in motion (step or jet) then get your eyes on the opposite back for counter, make sure you do a verbal check off. 4. If your near back goe away and the opposite back is not coming back to you on the counter, then trigger on the QB. 5. If he releases vertical, play pass Wing blocks down you replace Wing comes at you, blow him up with inside arm and leg

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Defending The Wing T

Stud and Whip Keys Near Back is a Wing Wing goes in motion drop to 3 x 3 and get eyes on opposite back for counter Wing goes in motion and opposite back goes away Trigger on the QB

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Stud and Whip Keys When your Near Back is a Half Back 1. If he goes inside, come to the edge of the dome and be ready for him to bounce 2. If he comes at you or outside, blow him up with your inside arm and leg 3. If he goes away, get your eyes on the opposite back for the Counter Criss Cross 4. If no Counter Criss Cross, then Trigger on the QB HB goes inside go to the edge of the dome HB comes at you blow him up

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HB goes away get your eyes on the opposite back for the Counter Criss Cross

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Defending The Wing T

Sam and Will Inside Linebackers Keys for Sam and Will 1. Key the Half Back 2. If no Half Back, key the Full Back 3. If the Wing goes in motion, he becomes the Half Back Key the HB No HB Key the FB Wing goes in motion, he becomes the HB

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Keys when Half Back is away from you 1. If HB is away from you and runs vertical, blow up the midline 2. If HB is away from you and comes your way, blow up the off tackle hole 3. On Cowboy, recover the best you can and sprint to the weak side Hook/Curl for the Tight End Drag

Keys when Half Back is to your side 1. If HB is on your side and runs vertical, blow up Gap Responsibility 2. If HB is on your side and goes away, get your eyes on Full Back as you go to the midline and read the FB Track

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HB to your side goes away, get eyes on FB as you go to midline

HB away from you goes vertical blow up midline

HB to you goes vertical blow up Gap Responsibility

HB away from you comes to you blow up off tackle

Page 145

Defending The Wing T

Keys for Sam and Will Reading The FB Track 1. If the Full Back goes vertical, blow up the midline and play the 0 Trap 2. If the Full Back goes toward B or C Gap to your side, pick him up Man for Man 3. If the Full Back goes away, check opposite Wing Back for Counter Criss Cross HB goes away FB goes vertical Blow up midline HB goes away FB goes B or C Gap Pick him up Man HB goes away FB goes away Check the Wing for Counter Criss Cross

Cowboy

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HB away comes to you blow up off tackle. When Cowboy is recognized, get to the weak Hook/Curl as best you can

HB goes away get your eyes on the FB. If his track is B or C Gap, pick him up Man for Man

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Defending the Wing T

Free Safety Keys Read Both Guards 1. One Guard pulls expect Trap 2. Both Guards pull with flow expect the 6 Play 3. Both Guards pull away from flow expect the Cowboy

54 Sam Up Whip Dash Black Vs Cowboy

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50 Wolf Vs Cowboy

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Defending The Jet Sweep

Keys 1. Outside Linebacker - If Split End aligns tighter than normal, be ready for Crack 2. Outside Linebacker - With Jet Motion to you, you must get up field and beat the Crack 3. Corner - Must read the Crack. Yell "Crack" and replace the Outside Linebacker 4. Free Safety - Must be ready to play over top for the Crack and Go

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DEFENDING THE DOUBLE DIVE

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SWORD WEAK GREY DEUCE

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Defending The Double Dive

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Page 150

Defending The Gun Option

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We will defend the inside zone with the 4 linemen and 2 inside linebackers. Each must play gap control and be responsible for their gap. The linemen cannot be reached and must play the zone scheme like it is a double team Back Side End: Squeeze the Tackle and sit for cut back and play the QB Back Side ILB: Scheme read with the End and play the cut back and/or QB. OLB: Edge of the dome for cut back and play option rules when QB keeps Free Safety: Run the QB Alley

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Defending The Gun Option

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Choke

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53 Bump Black

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63 Bump Black

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53 Weak Black

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