121401921 2010 kansas state university secondary manual

8/13/2019 121401921 2010 Kansas State University Secondary Manual

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Alley

Bail

BCBallcarrier

Blanket

BombBump

Bump and Run

Buster

Cadence

Cloud Force

Cloud Disguise

Cover 2

Cover 3

Cover 4

Cover 4XC.P.

Curl (Route)

Curl (Zone)

EMLOS

Engage

Flat

Leverage

LOS

Post

Press

Primary ForceQuick Jam

Read Force

Robber Technique

Secondary Force

Tandem

Trail Technique

Upfield Shoulder


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THE CODE

WWHHAATTIISSTTHHEECCOODDEE??The Code is the definition of the way we play. It is our philosophy and a way to evaluate our play. The Kansas

State secondary will represent The Code. From how we prepare, to how we conduct our meetings, practice,

and play on Saturday, we will represent The Code in everything that we do. The four prongs of The Code are:

1) Be Prepared2) Play Hard3) Maximum Speed4) FINISH!!!

BBEEPPRREEPPAARREEDDThe first part of The Code is to be prepared. Preparation is the first key to succeed. This starts with film study

knowing what a team likes to do in certain situations, formational tendencies, Wide Receiver splits, and

extends to knowing the defense called (your stance, alignment, key, and assignment). The bottom line is, if

you are prepared, you will never be scared.

PPLLAAYYHHAARRDDPlaying hard is all about giving 100% effort in everything that we do. Playing hard is giving maximum

relentless pursuit to the football, refusing to be blocked, etc. The only thing that makes up for bad football is

maximum effort. Playing hard requires no talent and is the only thing that makes up for bad plays.

MMAAXXIIMMUUMMSSPPEEEEDDMaximum speed isnt about being fast by running 4.2 in shorts. Its about being right. Its about playingat top

speed and taking proper angles to the football. This comes from being prepared and playing hard.

FFIINNIISSHH!!!!!!Finishing is the hardest and most important thing we do. Whether its on the football field, or in life, we must

finish everything we do. Its about finishing a play, finishing your last rep in the weight room, finishing every

drill, finishing in the classroom, finishing in the 4th

quarter, etc. If we are prepared, play hard, at maximum

speed, and finish, we will be successful and win a lot of football games.

UUSSIINNGGTTHHEECCOODDEEAASSAANNEEVVAALLUUAATTIIOONNTTOOOOLLThe Code is not only a philosophy, but is also a method to evaluate our play. When watching film, the 4

prongs of the Code can give us insight to a mistake. Here is an example of how we can evaluate a bad play by

using The Code:

1) Be PreparedWas the player prepared? Did he know where to line up? Did he know the call? If so,did he?

2) Play HardDid the player play hard? Did they miss the play because they didnt give 100% effort? Ifso, did he?

3) Maximum SpeedWas the player going at full speed? Did they take the right angle to the ball? If so,did he?

4) FINISH!!!Did the player finish the tackle? Did they finish at the point of attack?


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CHEETAHS

WHAT IS A CHEETAH?

The cheetah is the fastest animal in the jungle, and the fastest land animal period. A cheetah can reaching

speeds between 70 and 75 mph in short bursts covering distances up to 1,510 ft., and has the ability to

accelerate from 0 to 64 mph in three seconds, faster than most supercars. And the fastest players on the

defense? The secondary.

MENTAL QUALITIES OF A CHEETAH

THRIVES UNDER PRESSURE REWORD XXX

A true cheetah is able to handle pressure. That must be able to because when you play in the secondary, its

the glits or the shits you are either making plays or getting exposed. They will learn from their mistakes,

but have short term memories. Being a cheetah, if you want to eat, you gotta hunt. We dont get to punt like

the offense. The fastest way to lose football games is to give up big plays and the cheetah is not only the

fastest, but the most tested. A Nose Tackle could miss a play and only give up 3 yards. On the other hand, a

cheetah can play 60 plays in a game and have 58 good plays. However, the 2 bad plays can lead to 14 points

given up. That is why the number 1 quality of the best cheetahs to ever the game had one thing in common:the ability to handle the most pressure-packed situation. After all, pressure cooks a ham. Many guys can

run 4.2, but not many guys can get beat in front of 85,000 people, get back in the huddle, and make a big play

the next time the ball comes their way. The cheetah that thrives under pressure welcomes sudden change

situations and is ready to perform at a moments notice. We will play a lot of things on defense, but we will

not play scared. If you do get beat, learn from your mistake, dont get bent out of shape because 1 play

doesnt make a game. Dont layaround, pound the ground, throw your helmet, or get downget back in the

huddle and be ready to make a play (SEHORN!) Being able to handle pressure comes from having great

confidence.

CONFIDENCE

The true cheetah walks out of the locker room thinking they are the best player. They eat, sleep, drink, and

think that they are good. A cheetah wants to be the best; part of being the best, means welcoming the

challenge of going up against the best. Having confidence and welcoming this challenge stems from being the

ultimate competitor.


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CHEETAHS

2 Kansas State Cheetahsfeasting on a WR from UCLA

MENTAL QUALITIES OF A CHEETAH (contd.)

COMPETITIVE

A cheetah competes in everything that they do. Everything that they do is about competition because it

makes everyone better. All of our drills will be competitivethere will be a winner and loser just like on

Saturdays. A cheetah loves the fact that we will keep track of all one-on-one drills. The young cheetahs willcome in and outplay the starters. A veteran cheetah will establish themselves and welcome this challenge. A

true cheetah will compete maturely (without taking it personally) because it makes them and everyone

around them better. When competition is gone, the starters will relax and lose their pucker factor.

DISCIPLINE

A true cheetah plays with great discipline. This includes playing within the rules of the game and seeing the

other team between the whistles. This includes no cheap shots (avoiding hitting a player out of bounds).

PATIENCE

A lot of the time, the cheetah might not be involved in the play. This is especially true versus power running

teams. So what happens is, the undisciplined cheetah tries to make a play just to get involved. They end up

becoming overzealous and make a mistake. The disciplined cheetah doesnt go to the game, he lets the game

come to him. He patiently stalks his prey and doesnt let his prey lull him to sleep. Instead he vigilantly waits

and strikes when the time is right!

CHARACTER/LEADERSHIP

A true cheetah has great character. Character doesnt come out when youre winning character comes out

when you are getting your ass kicked and you need to respond and make a play. A cheetah leads by example

the best cheetahs are not only the best players, but sets the tone by working the hardest on and off the

field. A cheetah that possesses great leadership qualities polices the team themselves. The coach is obviously

the ultimate authority, but the best teams do not let issues grow because the players themselves police theteam.

HAS FUN

A cheetah works hard, but has fun and enjoys the game. Football, after all, is a game. This does not mean

that they will not prepare with great intensity. However, they have fun and get after peoples asses.


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CHEETAHS

PHYSICAL QUALITIES OF A CHEETAH

WINNING AT THE POINT OF ATTACK

The most important skill in the secondary is the ability to win at the point of attack. That is why we will spend

most of our individual time working on tracking the ball in the air. Again, many guys can run 4.2, but the best

cheetahs in the history of the game, have the ability to go and get the football at its highest point. At the end

of the day, it all comes down to you, the man, and the ball A cheetah goes up knowing he will win!

DISCIPLINED EYES

The first part of being a cheetah is having disciplined eyes. Its where it all starts and is the cheetahs greatest

asset. Recognizing formations, splits, and reading keys is the first step in being successful in the secondary.

Because, where the eyes go, the body will follow.

FEET

Having quick feet is an important quality to a cheetah. Pure speed is important, but quick feet and the abilityto change directions quickly has more to do with being a cheetah.

HANDS

Whether it is getting off a block, playing bump and run at the line, or striking a blow in the open field, a

cheetah must have violent hands.

SPEED

Obviously, speed is an important quality of a cheetah. However, it is not the most importantly quality. With

that said, a slow cheetah is not really a cheetah. A fast cheetah not only runs fast, but takes proper angles to

the ball carrier and has possesses great speed to the ball when it is in the air.

OTHER IMPORTANT QUALITIES OF A CHEETAH

COMMUNICATION

The best secondaries communicate on the field. A true cheetah echoes coverage calls, checks, unusual splits,

formations, bunches, anticipated routes, and critical situational information (i.e.alerting their teammates

that its 3rd

and Medium and the team likes to throw quick game in this situation). This extends beyond the

field. A cheetah properly airs any discontent in a constructive fashion. We are a family and having locker

room lawyers tears the team apart. We all must be on the same page and can feel that we can talk to our

brothers about anything.


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ROUTE TREE


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PASS ZONES


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FIELD ZONESBacked Up, Coming Out, Free-Wheeling Zone, Coming In (Yellow), Red Zone, GL


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DEFENSIVE BACK TECHNIQUES

GENERAL

Every player is differentthey all have different strengths and weaknesses. They are like carpenters, with different

tools in their tool belts. Some players are more physical, play more with their feet, are better playing press, better

against the run, etc. We must sharpen the tools we have while acquiring new ones.

STANCEA players stance is important because it sets you up for everything you are about to do. It must be comfortable and

functional with the player thinking I am damn good! There is no one right stance everyones stance is different

because everyone has different body types. In general, make sure you have good bend in your knees with flexion.

However, dont be too low. For example, if you are 62 standing up, be 6 in your stance, not 55. Keep your weight

forward on the inside balls of your feet with your arms relaxed and off of your knees, ready to strike. Lastly, make sure

your stance is the same when you blitz and when you cover.

BACKPEDALINGThe goal of backpedaling is not to simply run backwards. The technique is actually used to help the defensive backs

come forward. This is a popular misconception, but is true. If we want the defensive back to simply run downfield, we

would use a bail technique. Because of the goal is to break in different directions, they must be patient. The mechanics

of the back pedal is the same as running forward. The defensive backs feet shouldbe 6 to 8 apart. The arms and

upper body must be relaxed with the elbows in tight and inside the framework of your body. If they get outside, they

feet can widen and make it more difficult to transition. This is because the defensive backs upper andlower body go

together. Thus, you should push and pull with your arms and feet. The feet should barely skim the top of the grass or

turf, so the defensive back has less distance for them to travel when he needs to transition. The shoulders and lean

should be consistent throughout the pedal with the head and eyes up, looking at whatever key is necessary for the

coverage.

WEAVE PEDAL

The Weave Pedal is a technique primarily used by Safeties playing Cover 2. The mechanics for the Weave Pedal are thesame as the backpedal. When the Weave begins, push off the inside part of the foot, opposite the direction you want to

go. On the second step, drop the back foot at a 45 degree angle with your weight on the outside portion of the playside

foot. When weaving, the key coaching point is to keep the shoulders square to the line of scrimmage. This allows the

defensive back to transition back to the opposite direction.

TRANSITIONINGBASICS

When a defensive back backpedals, he must break, or transition, in many different directions. These include straight

ahead, 45 degree in or out, 90 degrees in or out, 135 degrees in or out, and 180 degrees down the field. Although the

angle of the break determines the appropriate footwork, there are a few important general points when transitioning.

EYESAn important point to remember is to always keep your head and eyes up, focusing on your key, in and out of your

breaks. Undisciplined eyes can lead to poor technique because where the eyes go, the body will follow.

USING THE UPPER & LOWER BODY TOGETHER

Remember that your upper body and lower body go together. When transitioning from a backpedal, use your arms to

open your hips. This can be done by keeping the arms in tight, and ripping the elbow towards the direction you want to

go. Also, make sure that your pad level stays the same throughout the entire breakdo not pop up or crow hop.

DIRECTION FOOT


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In your last step before the break, take a gather step and point the toe towards the direction you want to plant. This wi

help open your shoulders and hips to where you want to go and make planting and re-directing easier.

PLANT FOOTWhen making a turn, stick whatever foot is in the ground and plant off of it. You cant afford to take extra steps you

are at risk and need to be able to break as soon as possible. When transitioning, get as much of your foot in the ground

as possible (especially when it is wet). If you just plant on your toes, it will be harder to transition because you wont

have as much cleat in the ground and enough of a surface to plant off of (or force to generate). Also, make sure that

your plant foot does not go past the heel of the directional step. This will keep everything tight, and in the framework oyour body, by keeping you from becoming overextended.

T-STEP VS. REPLACING FEET (ROADRUNNER TECHNIQUE)

Some coaches coach the T-Step (where the player plants with their back foot perpendicular to the front foot) or the

Roadrunner technique (where the player has both toes pointed straight ahead and replaces their feet). I do not care

which transitional technique each player uses because each player is different and feels more comfortable doing a

particular technique. However, you must quickly re-direct and not get overextended.

TRANSITIONING WHEN IT IS WET

When the field is wet, you must take short, choppy steps to prevent from being overextended. One alternative is to cut

in more of a diagonal fashion. Normally this is not a desired technique. However, you must get as much cleat in theground as possible. An alternative is to widen your base, which will delay the time it takes to switch directions.

Nevertheless, you must be able to transition when it is wetyou cannot slip. Excuses will not be tolerated!

TRANSITIONINGANGLES

The Corners can execute these transitions from a backpedal or Bailed position. The Safeties can execute these

transitions from a backpedal (Cover 2 and Cover 3) or a flat-footed, square position (Cover 4).

BREAKING STRAIGHT AHEAD

When breaking straight ahead, make sure to keep your pads over your toes with your weight forward. When making the

transition forward, plant and drive as quickly as possible using either T-Step or replacing your feet (Roadrunner

Technique). For the Corners, breaking straight ahead is seen when playing a Hitch, rallying up on a Screen, or attacking aStalk block. For Safeties, breaking straight ahead can be in any coverage (primarily Cover 4) when the ball is directly in

front of them.

BREAKING UP AT A 45 DEGREE ANGLE

When the defensive back needs to break up at a 45 degree angle, they must begin to change angles on their directional

step. This is the last step they make with their front foot before transitioning forward. The front foot will point in the

direction they want to go. On their next step (plant step), they must roll over, gain ground, and accelerate. No false

steps or chattering can be made. When planting, the feet should never be wider than 6 to 8 apart. The shoulders

must stay in the same position from the backpedal to the drive forward. Corners will break in or out at a 45 degree

angle on run reactions, inside routes (Slants, Inside Hitches, Drags, Curls) or outside routes (Quick Outs, Deep Outs,

Comebacks). For Safeties, the 45 degree drive up will generally include run reactions or quick game passes in front ofthem (especially in Cover 4).

BREAKING AT A 90 DEGREE ANGLE

Breaking at a 90 degree angle is used most often to defend Deep Outs and Dig routes by the Corners, and robbing

underneath routes in Cover 4 by the Safeties. When breaking at a 90 degree angle, the player must begin by pointing

their transition foot in the direction they want to go. After the directional step, the defensive back will rip his elbow to

open up his hips and shoulders towards the 90 degree angle while simultaneously planting the back foot perpendicular

to the line of scrimmage (at a 90 degree angle). On the third step, roll over the opposite foot to complete the turn.


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BREAKING AT A 135 DEGREE ANGLEBreaking at a 135 degree angle down the field (45 degree downfield angle) is used when the Corner or Safety needs to

break to the Post or Corner route. When transitioning from a backpedal to a 135 degree angle, the defensive back must

use his directional step with his outside while simultaneously ripping the playside elbow. This will help open his hips and

shoulders to the downfield angle. With the next step, the defensive back must use the plant foot to roll over, while

exploding his eyes back to the QB (for zone) or towards the receiver (for man). The defensive back must take a wide,

135 degree angle (downfield 45 degree angle) to secure the receivers upfield shoulder if your angle is too flat, the

receiver will get behind you and you will be trailing him. Remember to maintain a consistent, low pad level throughout

the movement. Do not rise up or crow-hop when you transitionthis will slow the turn down, get your weight on yourheels, and slow your progress down the field.

CENTERFIELD TURN

The Centerfield Turn is used when a defensive back has committed down the field to one direction at a 135 degree angle

(downfield 45 degree angle) and needs to break back the opposite direction at a 90 degree angle. For Corners, it is

commonly seen in Zone coverages when a receiver has run a Post Corner route, or if they have Bailed too far inside and

the receiver has gotten behind them. For Safeties, it is commonly used on a Corner Post route (Cover 4) or if they have

committed to wide towards the sideline and need to break back towards the middle of the field (Cover 2).

After the defensive back has opened up down the field at a 45 degree angle, they need to flip to the opposite direction.

They will plant off of whatever foot is in the ground and rip their elbow in the direction they are going, to open their hipand shoulders to the opposite direction. They must explode their head and eyes to the new direction they want to go

and locate the upfield shoulder of the receiver (man coverage) or the ball (zone coverage). Make sure to sink your butt

down, and bend at the knees (not the waist) when planting and re-directing. The key point is to make sure that they

take a proper 90 degree angle when they make their second transition. If they come out of their break too flat, the

receiver can get behind them and they will lose the desired upfield shoulder position.

SPEED TURNThe footwork in transition for the Speed Turn is the same as the Centerfield Turn. The difference is that it will be used in

a quick, man situation when you are close to the receiver. The common use of the Speed Turn is when a defensive back

is playing a Press technique and has opened their hips and shoulders at, or close to, a 90 angle. If this happens, they

cannot open their shoulders back to the Quarterback without turning. This would cause wasted steps and the defensive

back would not be able to recover quickly (which is needed on a quick route).

When executing the Speed Turn, the defensive back must plant off on whatever foot is in the ground, rip the elbow to

open the hips and shoulders, rolling off the opposite foot you are planting off of, and explode your head and eyes

around back to the receiver (man coverage) or the Quarterback (zone coverage). Make sure to sink your butt down, and

bend at the knees (not the waist) when planting and re-directing.

BREAKING AT A 180 DEGREE ANGLE

Breaking from a square position to a 180 degree downfield angle is one of the hardest techniques for a defensive back to

execute (which is one of the reasons we play so much Bail technique). When transitioning from a backpedal to a

downfield run, the defensive back MUST use his upper body to help his lower body open up. Rip the elbow to open up

the playside foot and then roll over the outside foot to transition. Burst when you transition with a nice, smooth turn,

keeping your pads at the same level. Explode your head and eyes down the field. A common mistake is coming up too

high or crow-hopping in the turn. This will slow the turn down, get your weight on your heels, and slow your progress

down the field.

WINNING AT THE POINT OF ATTACKWinning at the point of attack, by getting the ball at its highest point, is the most important (and hardest to develop)

skill for a defensive back. This is because more games are won at the point of attack, than anywhere else. This is why

we spend so much time practicing this skill. No matter what coverage it is, the game often comes down to you, the man

and the ball. The bottom line: WE MUST WIN!


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Winning at the point of attack all begins with mentality. It is about the desire to go and get the ball when it is in the air.

This desire starts with a positive mental frame of mind. You will never hear me say,Dont get beat deep. That is soft

and leads to us playing scared. In the secondary, we ATTACK! Instead, of talking about getting beat deep, we will focus

on staying on the upfield shoulder, and going and getting the ball at its highest point, taking the initiative for 50/50 balls

When the ball is in the air, it is ours! We are the receiver! You cant have an attacking mentality if youre afraid, just like

you cant steal second with your foot on first base.

The physical aspect of winning at the point of attack, getting the football at its highest point, comes down to attackingthe ball with proper positioning, timing, and finishing. Before attacking the football at its highest point, the defensive

back must properly run down the field. They must keep running with their arms in, only putting them out to jump at the

last second. In zone, the defensive back must avoid peeking at the man. They must track the ball because it will take

you the man, and more importantly, the point of attack. The key is to get depth and then plant back towards the ball. A

common mistake for defensive backs is that they stop running, and try to time their steps (making a Sports Illustrated

pose). This can cause them to try to catch the ball leaning away (or worse, backpedaling) from the line of scrimmage

and the ball instead of attacking towards it. The more square the defensive backs shoulders are to the line of

scrimmage, the better off they will be. Once proper positioning and angles have been established, the defensive back

must FINISH! The last 18 are the most important. Watch the ball in and secure it.

DEFENDING THE POST AND THE BOMB (CORNERS) MAYBE MOVE TO BAIL SECTION? XXX

The two most important routes we must defend are the Post and the Bomb (Fade). These are the two most dangerous

routes. If we defend these two routes, we will be in a lot of ball games! In general terms, the Corners will defend these

routes in Cover 4, and the Safeties will defend them in Cover 2.

For the Corners, the defending the Post route begins with getting proper depth in the bail. We are bailing outside so we

must get enough depth to close the upfield shoulder once it breaks to the inside (generally at 10 yards). Once we have

secured the upfield shoulder, track the ball, not the man. This will take you the interception point (generally about 30

yards down the field). The only time you can undercut the Post is in the Red Zone.

To begin playing the Fade, time the bail and run for depth. As the receiver fades toward the sideline, fade with him and

stay on top of the route. The depth of the Fade depends on the footwork of the Quaterback. 3 Step Fades will generally

be thrown at 30 yards and the 5 Step Fades are generally thrown at 45 yards. Get enough of depth so you can plant,come back to the ball, and attack it at the highest point. If the receiver gets outside of you too far where you lose vision

and you feel that you cannot fade back to him, execute a Centerfield Turn and cut the receiver off in a position to play

the ball.

DEFENDING THE POST AND THE BOMB (SAFETIES)

In general, the Safeties will defend the Post and Bomb in Cover 2 (defending these in Cover 4 will come from an inside

and underneath position). Defending these routes begins with executing proper, initial footwork. When the ball is

thrown, the Safety wants to track it, not the man. If the Safety tracks the man, he may take proper angles and be in a

poor position to high point the football (we are in zone coverage after all). The ball will take you to the man and allow

you to make a play on the ball.

PROBLEMS CATCHING THE BALL

If players are having problems catching the ball, it generally comes down to eye placement and hand placement. The

players must look the ball in before advancing it down the field. In terms of hands, the defensive back must form a

diamond (noose) with their hands, with their elbows in. If the elbows get too wide, the hands can get too close to the

chest, and the ball can bounce off of it.

DEFENDING THE RUN

The techniques for defending the run depends on the run support role a position plays within with the Coverage. For

example, in Cover 4, the Safeties are the primary support players (Force) and the Corners are the Secondary Contain, the


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last line of defense to the run. Conversely, in Cover 2, the Corners are the Force players and the Safeties are the

Secondary Contain players and the last line of defense. These specific techniques are addressed in the coverage

sections.

LEVERAGE & ANGLESRegardless of the responsibility within the coverage, defensive backs need certain techniques to defend against the run.

The first consideration for defending the run is understanding the leverage to play withthe defensive back must know

if he is fitting outside or inside of blocks. This determines angles approaching the ball, as well head, hand, and foot

placement when taking on blocks. The defensive back must play their leverage because we are building a fence aroundthe ball in our run fits based on the coverage. Pick a side, but never take on a block headup. This gives the runner a

two-way gohe can either go inside or outside.

OUTSIDE LEVERAGE: If you are the outside defender against the run (Primary Force or Secondary Contain), establish

outside position on the blocker, keeping the outside leg and arm free. Keep everything inside and in front of you, never

letting the ball get outside of the fence we are building. If you are outside leverage, make sure to never go underneath

or inside of a blockclimb high and go over the top. If you are late to force the run (Secondary Contain technique:

Corners in Cover 4/Safeties in Cover 2), remember to be patient when coming up to support the run. Do not come up

for the run until the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage. You are a deep pass defenderif you come up too fast, you

will be exposed on Playaction passes and/or Trick plays.

INSIDE LEVERAGE/ALLEY: If you are the inside leverage or Alley player (head up to the ball), you will take on all blocks

keeping your inside leg and arm free. In the secondary, this technique is most used by Safeties in Cover 4. Approach the

ball with your shoulders square fitting up to the blocker inside. We never want to stay blocked, but you must careful of

timing up the shed. When you are an inside-out player, you are responsible for some type of cutback. If you shed the

block too early, separation can occur (or the blocker can recover and get his hands on you again) and you may lose the

cutback position. The ballcarrier will be able to get back to the inside.

BLOCK DESTRUCTION

The first step to shedding a block is seeing it. You cannot defeat a block if you cant see it. If your eyes are elsewhere

when the blocker gets his hands on you, you will lose your power. Once you see the blocker, you must control him.

Establish proper leverage with your body, and explode your hands into the man, hitting with the same hand and foot at

the same time.

STALK BLOCK: The stalk block occurs when the receiver the defensive back is aligned on, comes and directly blocks

them. To defeat this block, first see the blocker and control him. If the defensive back is outside leverage, the inside

hand should be place in the V-of-the-Neck with the outside hand on the tricep. If the player is inside leverage, place the

outside hand in the V-of-the-Neck with inside hand on the tricep. Once hand placement has been established, explode

your hands, bench pressing the block to get full extension. After you control the blocker with full extension, use violent

hands to rip, push/pull, or swim off of the block and attack the ball. Timing is keyshedding a block too early can lead

to the defender prematurely getting too far outside (losing the fence) or go inside too quickly (giving up the cutback).

A stalk blocker can come from anywhere. Their goal will be to either turn you out to run inside or reach you to run

outside. Versus a Turnout block, where the receiver attempts to block the defensive back by turning his butt to the ballto prevent him from coming inside, stun the blocker and push him back into the hole. Versus a Reach block, where the

receiver attempts to pin your outside shoulder, take your outside and pull up while simultaneously ripping down with

the inside hand. This creates a steering effect to control the blocker (picture turning a steering wheel). Make sure the

deep pass defenders (Corner in Cover 4/Safety in Cover 2) do not peek inside or come up too fast to attack the Stalk.

Doing this can lead to the offense running Crack and Go, where the receiver pretends to stalk block the defender, get

him to bite or peek, and then run by him.

CRACK BLOCK: A crack block is when an outside receiver goes inside to block a player, leaving the Corner unblocked.

The crack block is mostly used on outside plays and is usually designed to block the Force defender (Safety in Cover 4,

OLB in Cover 3) or an Inside Linebacker. The goal is usually to isolate the Corner by making him make the tackle in


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space, or to pull another receiver, running back, and/or an offensive lineman to block him. The Corner will most often

see a Crack block versus Cover 4 (cracking against Cover 2 is not ideal because you are blocking someone who is late to

the ball, while leaving the primary run support player free to the ball).

The proper technique to defend the Crack Block is called Crack Replace. The Corner will secure the upfield shoulder o

the blocker and yell, CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! The Corner must communicate this because often, the person getting

cracked cannot see it. Do not allow your teammate to be blindsided! The Safety or Outside Linebacker will youre your

Crack call, identify the blocker, and attack him. This will be his only threat because an offense is not going to dedicate

two blockers to a defensive back (unless someone really screwed up). After the crack block has been secured and theball is crossing the line of scrimmage, plant and re-direct, coming off the ass of the receiver. Look for another blocker or

puller coming at you and become the Primary Force Player. Securing the crack block with disciplined eyes and a proper

upfield position is key. If the Corner does not do this, they susceptible the dreaded Crack n Godouble move route off

of Playaction or the Halfback Pass.

PUSH CRACK: A variation of the crack block is the Push Crack. This block is often seen by Option teams that try to sell a

vertical route, for 5 to 7 yards, and then attempt to crack block the Safety. The mechanics of defending this are the

same as the crack blockhave disciplined eyes, secure the upfield shoulder, and only close down to the LOS when the

ball has crossed it. Teams will not Push Crack us because our Safeties will be so aggressive and close to the LOS that

they will not have time to sell a vertical route and block him.

CUT BLOCKS: In the secondary, Cut Blocks are executed by receivers who are trying to get us on the ground. Unless Cut

Blocks are a primary weapon in an offense (i.e.Option teams), they are a compliment to you; this means the offense is

having a difficult time blocking you and are resorting to diving on the ground to get you blocked. To defend the Cut

Block, you first must identify and see it (cant defeat any type of block if you cant see it!). Shoot your hands and place

them on the helmet violently. Bend at the knees and protect the backside leg (leverage leg). Make sure to push the

receiver down and dont catch him. If you catch the block, he has a great chance of reaching your backside leg and you

will be blocked.

TACKLINGTackling is one of the most important and overlooked techniques in the secondary. Many people think because we like

to run downfield and cover, that we dont like to tackle. This is far from the truth! We will be a physical imposing

secondary that strikes fear into the heart of our opponents. Tackling doesnt start with simply being big, fast, and

strong. These traits certainly help and play a large role. However, tackling starts with desire. Players that want to hit

and thrive being physical are often the best tacklers. After desire, comes technique. The best tacklers have disciplined

technique, no matter what the situation is. Many players see a big hit and become so excited that they forget to use

their technique. The biggest hits and picture perfect tackles dont come from wildly launching your body at a player;

they come from the combination of desire, ability, and perfect technique. The only time you can just tee off on a

ballcarrier is if the player cant see you and you have help nearby. The less help and the more space the ballcarrier has,

the more cautious you have to be (dont confuse cautious with not being physical!).

Picture perfect technique starts with having vision on the ballcarrier, in a bent knee position, with the arms and feet

tight to the body. The power from a tackle comes from the ground upthe force is generated for driving feet and

explosion in the hipsif there is no base, there is no power. We will examine generic coaching points of tackling byexamining the Form Tackle. The Form Tackle is a head-up tackle where the ballcarrier and tackler are face-to-face,

square in the hole.

FORM TACKLE BEFORE CONTACT

The approach of the tackle, before contact, puts the defender in a position to make proper contact with picture perfect,

bone-jarring hit. Here are the coaching points for the Form Tackle before contact.

Head and Eyes Up: Keeping your head and eyes up helps you see the tackle and enables you to change directionif needed. The upper body and lower body are tied together. If the head goes down, the arms get out of


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framework of the body, the feet widen out, and you lose your base of power. More importantly, if your head

drops, you can be seriously injured (neck absorbs the impact).

Guns in the Holster (Arms tight to the hips): Your arms must in a holstered position like a gun fighter in theold West. The arms must be tight in the framework of the body to prevent them from widening, along with you

feet. Keeping the guns holstered helps keep a tight base on the approach and is the means to deliver the power

on contact.

Squeeze the Beach Ball: (Knees bent and slightly in) (Squeeze the Beach Ball)To picture the correct knee andfoot position on a perfect tackle, imagine taking a beach ball and sticking it in between your knees. This willkeep your knees bent to be in an athletic position. Keeping your knees in, prevents your feet from widening out

If your feet widen, you will not be able to change directions or generate power on contact.

Take the Air Out of the Ballcarrier (Chest-to-Chest): When making a tackle, you must take the air out of theballcarrier. This means closing the distance between you and the ballcarrier, getting to a chest-to-chest

position. Many missed tackles come from the defender not being close enough to the ballcarrier, which causes

them to lunge with no ability to change directions or generate power. You should be close enough to the

ballcarrier to spell their breath!

Shimmy DownRight before contact, shimmy your feet, accelerating them at a rapid pace. If your knees are in,and you shimmy down, you easily be able to change direction. For a long time, coaches used the phrase break

down. This is incorrect because it gives you the idea that you want to stop your feet. Stopping your feet will

prevent you from being able to change directions and will not generate power on contact.

FORM TACKLE MAKING CONTACT

The techniques listed, before contact, will put you the perfect position when making contact. These coaching points

should take place simultaneously to create the perfect tackle.

Hit on the RiseWhen tackling the ballcarrier, explode from the ground up. Generate the power from theShimmy and explode your hips through the ballcarrier.

Clubs Not CrabsWhen making contact, shoot your clubs (arms) under the armpits of the ballcarrier with adouble uppercut motion, and grab cloth (ballcarriers jersey). If you get under the ballcarrier and try to pick him

up, he cannot move. If your arms get wide (picture a crab), the ballcarrier can easily get out of the tackle. You

will not have power or a good grasp on him. This will also cause your feet to widen, further decreasing your

power.

Bite the BallWhen making contact, put your facemask on the ball (not the top or crown of your helmet. Thiswill help you maintain a low pad level and hopefully cause fumbles.

To and Through ContactWhen you hit the ballcarrier, dont just aim to him drive THROUGH him. Imagineyou are hitting another player behind him. This will cause further acceleration and prevent your feet from

stopping your feet on contact.

Accelerate Your Feet on ContactDriving your feet on contact is one of the most important and forgottentechniques in tackling. You want to move your feet faster when you make contact than you did leading up to

the hit. Your power is generated from the ground, through your feet, to your hips; and when you hit the player,you want to continue to generate power. To illustrate this, imagine a baseball player trying to hit a homerun if

he stopped his bat as soon as he made contact. It simply cant happen!

ANGLE TACKLE (SIDELINE TACKLE)The Angle Tackle is made on a ballcarrier when you are headup with the player and he is running to your left or right.

Most angle tackles will be made from an inside-out position. To make an angle tackle, track the near hip at a 45 degree

angle, staying inside-out. I would rather let the ballcarrier get an extra yard, than have you overrun the ball and have

him cutback. As you approach the ballcarrier, try to keep your shoulders as square as possible to prevent the cutback

(sometimes this is harder to do).


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The point of emphasis for contact is the same as the Form Tacklethe only difference is that the defender will have to

adjust his angle on contact. Take a tight 45 degree and angle aim for the near hip. Get your head across and in front of

the ball, and strike THROUGH the ballcarrier with the same hand and foot. If the player is near the sideline, execute the

same techniques with a heavier inside position. Use the sideline as a 12th

defender; because after all, Sammy Sideline

has NEVER missed a tackle.

Most Angle Tackles will be from an inside-out position. However, if you are outside leverage, maintain the same angle,

outside-in, and execute the tackle.

OPENFIELD TACKLE

This is the most difficult tackle for a defensive player to make. The openfield tackle involves a ballcarrier and defender,

1-on-1. Hopefully we will not see this situation. If we properly leverage the ball and swarm to it, we should be in a

position where the openfield tackle is an afterthought. However, if this situation does arise,be smart. Dont try to be

the hero. Run right at the ballcarrier, keeping your shoulders square. Take the air out of the ballcarrier and get chest-

to-chest. When he goes to make his cut, shimmy down, and get him down by any means necessary. Just because you

are in the openfield, doesnt mean that you need to be desperate. The worst thing a defender can do is take a poor

angle, open their shoulders, and dive at a player. There is no need to leave your feetrun, get close to him, and

execute your angle tackle techniques.

TACKLING A BIGGER PLAYERSometimes, you are confronted with tackling a player who is much bigger than you. This could be a Running Back or aTight End. At first, attempt to execute your proper tackling techniques. If you genuinely feel out-matched, grab onto

the ballcarrier, hold on for dear life, and wait for your teammates to come. If you are in the openfield, and do not feel

you can bring the ballcarrier down by yourself, aim an inch below the thigh pad and take them out. The key point is to

keep your head and eyes up. If you try to cut someone with your head down, they can easily side-step you and continue

running down the field.

BLITZING

MENTALITY

Like tackling, effective blitzing begins with an attacking mentality. When you blitz, be prepared to make a play; expect

that good things will happen. Dont be scared or anticipate bad things happening. Attack 100 miles an hour, and dictate

to the offense what is happening, instead of the other way around.

DISGUISE

Disguising intentions is one of the most powerful tools that a defense has. Sometimes, the threat of the blitz is

sometimes as powerful as the blitz. When we are good at blitzing, we will keep the offense guessing. They will be

reacting to our intensions, worry about what we are going to instead of the other way around. We want to make it look

like we are playing coverage when we are coming, and make it look like we are coming when we are playing coverage.

And if they dont respect our blitz alignments? Their Quarterback will be on his back!

In the secondary, we want to give a consistent look. We want our stance to be the same playing coverage as when we

are blitzing. If we are up near the line of scrimmage, we want a staggered stance with the weight on the balls of our fee

ready to roll off, with our hands ready to fight. We want our feet shoulder width apart; this is because we cant do

anything athletically with your feet widen than your shoulders.

If we are bluffing and showing blitz, be subtle. Dont be overly dramatic (no Harry Highschool!). Take slow and steady

steps while thinking in your head, Im coming after your ass! If we are trying to time the blitz, hold your alignment

until the QB puts his hands under Center. Many Quarterbacks will stand behind the Center, yelling a cadence, but not

have their hands under Center. The Center cant snap it until he puts them under, so make sure to not show your hand

when it isnt necessary. This is also true in the Shotgun. The Quarterback cant catch a snap until his hands are up and

ready to receive the ball. His hands going up may not signal that the snap is coming at that instant. However, I

guarantee you the ball wont be coming if his hands arent up, so dont begin creeping until they do.


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BLITZ TECHNIQUEWhen blitzing, make sure to have the weight over the front foot, ready to roll off and attack on the snap. On the snap o

the ball, come 100 miles an hour and hit the edge or your gap. Get ready to use violent hands! When taking on

blockers, choose a sidedo not take a blocker down the middle (rush half a man). The side you blitz is usually is

determined by your leverage. Do not take a blocker down the middle. Refuse to be blocked! Dont blitz like its freeze

tag! (Oops, I got blocked Im out!) Use the block destruction escapes and keep rushing the passer.

There are two types of blitzers: Contain blitzers and Spill blitzers. Contain blitzers aiming point is the deepest shoulderof the deepest back. They are responsible for containing outside runs and the Quarterback and take on all blockers with

their outside leg and arm free. Contain blitzers never bite inside because there are other players responsible for the

inside gaps. Continue to climb high and turn everything inside.

Spill blitzers are responsible for pushing the ball outside. On all runs, they will take the blockers on with their outside leg

and arm, keeping the inside half of their body free. On passes, they have a little more freedom. If a offensive player

attempts to pass block them, they have a two-way go. They can pick a side and rush hard. However, they must be in an

inside position to make a play if the Quarterback steps up from outside pressure.

CORNER BLITZ

On a Corner blitz, the Boundary Corner will blitz. Generally speaking, he will be an outside, contain rusher aiming for thedeepest shoulder of the deepest back. The base alignment will be to show Press, with feet and shoulders square. Do

not peak in at the Quarterback too much or you may give away that you are coming. Right before the snap of the ball,

the Corner will begin to creep down the line of scrimmage, keeping his shoulders square. The timing of this is extremely

important. If he shows it too early, the Quarterback can check the play and throw a Hot route to the receiver he is lined

up on. If the offense quick counts or if he gets caught, roll off the inside foot and come from width.

On the snap, he will roll off of the inside foot and blitz, aiming for the deepest shoulder of the deepest back. As the

Quarterback drops, climb high and continue rushing at a wide, 45 degree angle. If a back shows to block you, rush the

outside shoulder, escape, and tomahawk the Quarterbacks throwing arm. A sack isnt good enough we want the sack

and the ball! The only time a Corner can come underneath on a spill path is if the End or another blitzer gets too high up

the field. This is not an ideal situation, but if the other blitzer is up the field, there is probably someone blocking him,

and no one blocking you. Adjust your angle as you rush and set your sights on the downfield shoulder of theQuarterback.

We can play around with our disguises when we good at executing the blitz. For example, we can make Show calls. If

a Show call is made with no other call, it means to show the blitz and bring it. However, if two calls are made (Show

Corner blitz, Cover 4), we will show that we are coming, and then bail to coverage. When bluffing the Corner blitz, know

the accompanying coverage call to determine the point at which you need to pop out. Disguising is great, but make sure

to never align, or disguise yourself, out of doing your job. For example, if we callShow Corner Blitz Cover 2,we are

trying to bait the Quarterback into making the quick (Hot) throw to the WR. We are calling Cover 2 because we think

they will throw a Hitch or Slant to #1. Since you have the Flats in Cover 2, you can pop out on the snap. However, if we

think they will check to Fade, we will call Show Corner Blitz Cover 4. Now, you have to pop out pre-snap because you

have the Deep Outside 1/4. Experienced Corners will be allowed to play around with their alignments even if a call isntmade. But to do this, you have to earn that right through proper execution, disguise, and understanding of the game.

There are two issues that may happen if a Corner blitz is called and adjustments must be made. These adjustments will

be based on gameplan. However, here are some generic options for us. The first is if you get 2 Wide Receivers into the

boundary. We can still bring the blitz from the outside, align the Corner in the Slot, or call the blitz off altogether. The

second situation is a running back running a Flare route into the boundary. We can either have Corner peel off with it,

have the Inside Linebacker to your side read out of the blitz and cover it, or bring both you and ILB and rally to it if its

thrown.


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Cover 4 Safetiesmust stay square to rob routes, pursue the ball not allowing

cutback and to be able to tackle

TAKING THE BALL AWAYImportantits not a turnover, we are taking the ball away from them, whether they like or not

ROUTES MAYBE INCLUDE SOMEWHERE ELSE?!

PLAYING OFF w/ SAFETIES

Let him come to youdont false step know his skill Fight over the top of picks Get on upfield shoulder on vertical routes If you are in the Slot, expect Corner routes first

IDENTIFYING SPLITS/FORMATIONS/ETC.

OTHER TECHNIQUES/DISGUISESBlanket/SticksBLANKET

Alignmenteveryone lines up at 10 yards (great weapon); In the Red Zone, Blanket is at 7 yards Like to play Blanket on 3rd& Medium 4 Blanket

o At the snapCorners XXX, Safeties shuffle and sit flat 2 Blanket

o At the snapCorners creep up and see the 3 step; drive down as soon as you see your guy go flat,Safeties get depth

STICKS

Less than 3rdand 10, make STICKS call line up @ Sticks and dont let them pass you


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PRESS & BAIL TECHNIQUES

PRESS AND BAIL

Press coverage (also known as bump and run coverage) is an aggressive man-to-man technique where the defensive

back plays tight to the receiver. The goal is to disrupt the timing of the routes. This is key because the passing game is

all timing. Bail is a technique used in zone coverage, where the defensive back shows that he is playing press man

coverage, and bails to a zone.

PHILOSOPHY OF USING PRESS AND BAILPlaying Press and Bail lets us dictate to the offense which routes can be run, instead of the other way around. These

techniques are perfect compliments to each other. When you play Press technique, it is harder to complete short or

routes that break back to the ball. Because of this, the offense will try to run Slants and Fades. Conversely, when you

Bail, you can take away those routes (depending on the coverage), but are softer against Curls, Comebacks, Digs.

If you mix up Press and Bail techniques, you dictate to the offense what routes you are allowing them to have. The

deadly part is right until the ball is snapped, they both look the same. This drives Quarterbacks crazy and you can

sometimes frustrate them into making bad decisions. For example, if we have been playing a lot of Press and the

Quarterback sees that, he will audible to a Fade route. The Quarterback comes up, sees you pressed, checks Fade, snapthe ball, takes 3 steps, and lets it fly. The problem? You have bailed and are 4 yards on top of the receiver in a perfect

position to intercept the ball. The disguise can be enhanced by tricking the Quarterback into thinking you are playing

man, when you are really playing zone (and vice versa). For example, to mess with Quarterbacks,you can yell I have

number 19 when you are playing

The other advantage of playing Press and Bail is that it forces your eyes to be disciplined. When you Press, you can only

see the receivers belt buckle. In Bail, you are looking at the Quarterbackand feeling your man out of the corner of

your eye. Conversely, when you play off-man, you have too much to see. You have to slowly backpedal while looking at

the Quarterback and then your receiver. Meanwhile, the receiver gets a free release and can run any route he pleases.

Also, you are susceptible to a defensive backs worst night mare the double move. When you play off, you are reacting

to him! When you Press and Bail, they are reacting to you! They never know which technique you are doing (which iswhy disguise is of the utmost importance!).

PRESS TECHNIQUE (BUMP AND RUN)

PHILOSOPHYBump and Run is the most effective tool for a Corner. It allows you to play tight to the receiver, be physical, and disrupt

the timing of the route. If it wasnt effective, the NFL would not have banned it past 5 yards. It makes the receiver react to

you, rather than you react to him. Instead of coming off the line uncontested and simply thinking about his route, he now has to

think how he is going to try to beat you. Plus, we all know receivers dont like to be touched. TALK MORE ABOUT THIS XXX

MISCONCEPTIONS OF PRESS

Many coaches think playing Press is more difficult than other techniques like playing Off-Man. This is simply not true. Infact, playing Press is easier than Off-Manit lets you play tight with the receiver with your eyes on him and only him.

When you play off, you must transition your eyes, backpedal, and turn while judging his speed from a distance. By

playing tight, we dont have to practice all the extremely difficult techniques needed to play Off-Man and focus on the

most important aspect of playing in secondaryplaying the deep ball!

These same coaches also think you need a superstar player with special ability and athleticism to play Press. This is not

truethese coaches either dont believe in it, or dont know to coach it. These aforementioned traits make a good

player even better, but they are not a necessity. Playing Press has nothing to do deep speedit is about being

technically sound and playing with no wasted steps. In fact, anyone can play Bump and Run initially with disciplined

eyes and good angles. The players ability doesnt come into play until you


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are down the field (which is a factor in any coverage technique). If you are getting beat in Press, it is mostly because of

undisciplined eyes or bad angles.

OVERVIEW MAKE SURE I HAVE INCLUDED EVERYTHING XXX

The overall technique depends on the player. Some players play more with their feet and some use their hands more.

Regardless, of the style of play, playing Press techniques is all about eyes, hands, and then feet. It all starts with

disciplined eyes, a functional stance, and an inside leverage alignment. On the snap of the ball, the defensive back

must keep their shoulders square for as long as possible, while denying the inside. Playing press is like drawing a charge

in basketballthe emphasis is on bringing the feet, cutting the receiver off, then bringing your hands. Down the field,the defensive back wants to get hip-to-hip with the receiver and once he has cut him off, pin him and look for the ball.

These phases are important because defensive backs get beat in Press coverage in three ways: 1) at the line of

scrimmage, 2) in transition, and 3) at the point of attack.

PRE-SNAP

STANCE: The stance is the first part of the pre-snap plan. In a good Press stance, the defensive back has bent knees wit

their feet and shoulders parallel to the line of scrimmage (no stagger). They have a good body lean with the weight on

the inside of the balls of the feet.

ALIGN: The goal of press coverage is to take away the inside of the receiver. The base alignment in press is to split the

inside crotch of the WR. Depending on the players comfort and ability, they can move more inside (your outside foot totheir inside foot) or tighter to the receiver (more experienced players can align their outside eye to the inside eye of the

receiver). They should take as much of the ball as they can, aligning as tight to the line of scrimmage as possible.

However, this depends on the height and arm length of the defensive back. For example, defensive backs with longer

arms want to play a little farther off (but not much). This is because if they get too tight, they wont be able to delivera

punch with full extension. This will cause the arm to get jammed in, the feet might stop, which will cause their weight to

get back on their heels.

Based on a certain call or coverage, you can stem your alignment from outside to inside, and vice versa.

ASSIGNMENT: In Press, you have your man with inside leverage all over the field (except certain coverages where we

play Press and peel off on certain routes; i.e.Cover 4 Press). If your man motions, you take him all over the field. We

call this Rodeo Rules in the Rodeo, you ride the bull you ride. You dont get to swap, trade, etc. That is the same

with this defense. When you banjo and bump, it ends up being the Buddy system somebody is always open!

KEYS/EYES: Pre-snap, the defensive backs eyes must be on the receivers belt buckle or bottom of the numbers. This is

because the receivers will try all sorts of releases to juke you and get you to give up your leverage or open up your

shoulders and hips to make their release easier. If your eyes comeup and focus on the receivers eyes and/or shoulders

they will be able to fake you without moving their hips, which HAVE to move for them to move (especially vs. foot fire

release). Thus, you must focus on the hips. Because like Shakira said, they dont lie!

AT THE SNAP

The goal of playing press is to disrupt the timing of the receiver while keeping your hips and shoulders square to the line

of scrimmage. This is accomplished by having disciplined eyes and feet first, and then using your hands second. This wilhelp you be successful at the line of scrimmageand the better job you do at the line, the better job you will do down

the field.

EYES: Again, the defensive back must keep their eyes down on the hips (belt buckle). If the eyes come up, not only will

you possibly take a fake away from your leverage or open up, but your body can come up (where they eyes go, the body

will follow) and your weight will be on your heels, instead of one the balls of your feet. This will make transitioning very

difficult.

FEET: Playing press is eyes, feet, and then hands. The common misconception is that playing Press technique is a super

physical technique where the defensive back simply tries to beat up the receiver. It doesnt mean we wont have violen


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There are only so many releases that receivers can make at the line of scrimmage versus Press coverage. These include

releasing directly at the defensive back, inside towards the ball, or outside and away from the ball (tight and wide). Off

of these main releases, there are variations and counter moves such as foot fire, 1 and 3 steps out and in. Because we

are inside leverage, the two most common releases are tight outside and wide outside (for Slants and Fades). The key to

defending these various releases is film study. A receiver will not execute every one of these. The defensive back must

understand the receivers body type, the offenses favorite routes, and the defensive coverages strengths and

weaknesses to determine the release they will see.

AT YOU: Bigger receivers will use this release against smaller defensive backs. They will try to drive you off the ball, getyour feet to stop and/or weight on your heels instead of the balls of your feet, and get you to lunge forward to engage

them. To combat this, match his steps backwards with a good base as you punch (picture an Offensive Lineman blocking

a Defensive Lineman). Do not punch first, or lean. This will stop your feet and enable the receiver to use your

momentum against you, allowing him to easily release. Conversely, do not back up too fast and take more steps than he

does. If you do, this will cause separation and he will have an easier time releasing and getting into his route.

Remember, Press is just like drawing a charge in basketball (feet then hands). Picture Muhammad Ali boxinghe was

able to step back and punch with full force because he had a good base and his hips were coiled.

FOOT FIRE: Foot fire is a release used by smaller and quicker receivers. The receiver will quickly chatter his feet and

hands to get the defensive back to have undisciplined eyes, back up pre-maturely, or stop their feet altogether (hopping

in place). Defending this release begins with disciplined eyes. If your eyes are on the hips/belt buckle, the shimmy of

the hands or shoulders will not affect the defensive back. This is because all the action is happening away from the one

body part that has to move for the receiver to make a movethe hips. Conversely, if the eyes come up, the defensive

back will be affected. This will cause him to either lunge, stop the feet, back up, or open up pre-maturely for no reason.

INSIDE: If the receiver steps inside right away, sit down, stay square, and be patient. You can be a little late reacting

because you are already inside. If he continues to go inside and attempts to cross your face, get your hands in the

breastplate and the tricep. Ride him down the line of scrimmage and flatten him out. An inside release lets you break a

few of the key rules of Press coverage. This is the only release you can use two hands and be physical. The defensive

back can even peek for a second because all of the action (QB and ball) is inside of you. However, if you peek and the

ball hasnt been thrown, get your eyes back to the receiver. This is to protect you from the Slant and Go (Sluggo). Again

this release isnt as prevalent because you are in an inside position. If the receiver wants to get inside, he will usually

give an outside move to try to open you up, to get back inside.

TIGHT OUTSIDE: A receiver releases tight and outside for a few reasons. First, he may be running a vertical route (Post,

Curl, Comeback, Dig, etc.). The other reason he may release outside is to try and open you up to go back inside (Slant).

If the receiver releases outside, tight to you, stay square for as long as possible. Your footwork, angle of hips, and punch

will depend on the width of the outside release. If the receiver releases tighter, punch with your outside hand and step

with your outside foot, and drag your inside foot, simultaneously replacing it.

If the receiver releases a little wider, use the same footwork and punch with your inside hand to help you open your hip

if he continues to go outside. However, do not hinge and open up too quickly. This will give the receiver a free release

and not disrupt the timing of the receiver, which is the purpose of the technique. Also, do not hop outside with your

first step on an outside release. If you do, you open the inside and the receiver can easily get back across your face. Youare aligned inside for a reasonbe patient and dont give up your leverage.

WIDE OUTSIDE: The main purpose of a wide, outside release is to run a fade. The defensive back must recognize the

difference between a tight, outside release (to run a vertical route or to come back inside to run a Slant) and a wide,

outside release (for the fade). You will be able to tell it is a Fade, because the receiver will basically run away from you.

If this happens the defensive back wants to roll over, open up at a 45 degree angle with the inside hand hitting the near

breastplate and the outside foot drop stepping. The goal is to cut the receiver off down the field, intersecting his route

hip-to-hip, and eventually widening him towards the sideline and hopefully out of bounds, in a position to become the

receiver (Pin Drill).


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The 45 degree, patient cut off angle is important. The first mistake defensive backs make when playing the wide,

outside release is taking a 45 degree angle that is too fast down the field to cut the receiver off. If this happens, the DB

can get too high on the receiver, allowing the WR to easily cut back across the defensive backs face, opening up the

Slant route inside (remember the receivers want to get you to open up against your leverage to get to where they need

to go).

The second mistake a defensive back makes on a wide, outside release is hinging and opening up at 90 degree angle. If

the defensive back steps in the hole at a 90 degree angle, he will open up perpendicular to the line of scrimmage and threceiver will be able to run straight up the field. This will not disrupt the timing or path of the route (will not widen him)

Also, this can open the Slantthe defensive back will be in a position that will be difficult recover back to the inside.

Conversely, the third common mistake defensive backs make against the wide, outside release is chasing the receiver

laterally. Avoid staying square for too long, reaching and going flat down the line of scrimmage. If this happens, your

hips will lock, and you will be in a trail position, unable to cut the receiver off and get hip-to-hip. If the receiver quickly

releases away from you, there is no point in chasing him down the line of scrimmage. No route is executed 3 yards

outside of the receiver, 3 yards down the field.

Here are some diagrams of proper and poor angles versus the wide, outside release:

DRAW PROPER EXECUTION VERSUS AN EARLY 45/90 DEGREE DROP STEP/GOING TO FLAT

COUNTER RELEASES

In addition to the main releases, there are two main counter releases that we will see. Because we are playing inside,

receivers will try to release outside to get us to open up, and then come back inside. Also, if we get good at defending

outside releases (tight and wide), receivers will try to release inside for a step or two, then go outside.

When executing counter releases, the receiver will use some sort of move when changing directions. The two most

common moves are the swim and the rip. In general, bigger receivers will try and swim over the defensive back by

striking the DB with the inside hand and then swimming over with the outside hand. Smaller receivers will rip under

the defensive back by striking with their inside hand and uppercutting with the outside hand.

1 OUT AND IN: The most common route we will see playing inside Press technique is the Slant (especially if we areblitzing). Since we are inside, the receiver will have a difficult time immediately running towards the ball. Because of

this, he will try to release outside first to open our shoulders pre-maturely, and then rip or swim the defensive back to

come inside.

On the initial outside step, take a proper 45 degree angle, dropping your outside foot, while sliding your inside foot to

replace it. Punch with the opposite (inside) hand to the inside breastplate of the receiver to open your hips. Once the

receiver comes back inside, drop your inside foot straight back and slide with your outside foot. You will then punch

with the outside hand to replace the initial hand and open your hips to the inside at a 45 degree angle, while keeping

your eyes on the belt buckle.

If you open your shoulders at a 90 degree angle, and the receiver releases back inside, immediately opening back up tothe inside is not an option. You must execute a speed turnthis technique is when the defensive back plants off of

whatever foot is in the ground, and spins back around to the inside. To help facilitate this, the defensive back must rip

their elbow to get their hips around and snap their eyes back towards the receiver as quickly as possible. This is a less

desirable technique than simply opening back up because it takes longer and the eyes come off the receiver for a split

second. This is why executing a proper 45 degree angle is a must.

3 OUT AND IN: Like the previous release, the goal of the receiver is to get the defensive backs hips and shoulders

turned and beat them back across their face. The receiver will take three steps (stride length depends on the receiver)

and will try and swim over or rip under the defensive back. This is a less common release because it takes more time.

This will be executed when the defensive back has done a good job defending the1 Out and Inrelease. The coaching


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points for defending this release are the same as the previous release. The only thing difference is the footwork becaus

the receiver is executing three steps instead of one.

1 IN AND OUT: This release is used when the defensive back has done their job and properly defended tight and wide

outside releases. The receiver will release directly at the defensive back and then execute a move to get back outside.

The goal of this release is to facilitate a free release for the receiver by getting the defensive back to pop or stop their

feet, lunge forward, back up, or turn their shoulders. If the defensive back pops or stops their feet, the receiver can

freeze them (much like Foot Fire) and make a quick escape. If the defensive back lunges, the receiver can use the DBs

forward momentum against him to easily release off the line. If the defensive back pre-maturely turns his shoulder, thisopens the gate and the receiver can release straight up the field. This is why disciplined eyes, patience, and proper

footwork is key when playing the Press techniquethe goal is to disrupt the timing and make the receiver go through

you to get to where he wants to go.

OPENING UP

As we have seen with each release, the key to a taking proper angle at the line is to match the receivers hips: if the

receiver is square (at you or foot fire), you stay square; if the receiver releases inside, you step down inside with him; if

he goes tight outside or wide outside, you cut him off and match his angle based on the width of his departure; and on

counter moves, the appropriate angle is made by matching his first move and mirroring the second move.

After the defensive back has shown patience at the line of scrimmage and executed the appropriate reaction to thereceivers release, he has to be able to open up and run down thefield. This is done by using the receivers momentum

to help open up your hips. This is especially true if the receiver is bigger. The defensive back can make his job easier by

using the receiversbig body to his advantage. For example if the receiver wants to take vertical path with an outside

release, the defensive back will step and deliver a punch on the first tight, outside move. The defensive back will use the

receivers second, vertical step to further open him up and get in aposition to run down the field, hip-to-hip.

IN THE OPEN FIELD

In the open field, the defensive back must continue to keep good body position on the receiver, staying hip-to-hip, and

on the upfield shoulder (the shoulder down the field). They want to be tight to the receiver with their eyes on the

receivers belt buckle and their arm securing and controlling the receiver. In college football, the defensive backs can be

as physical as they want (this includes pushing the receiver down as long as he is in front of you) until the ball is in the

air. Being physical is good, but the defensive back must not get too concerned with wrestling with the receiver where

his eyes become undisciplined. This can cause separation which will make the receivers job of catching the ball easier.

IN AND OUT OF BREAKS

When the receiver breaks, his hips will usually drop. The key to making breaks in man coverage is to keep your eyes on

the receivers belt buckle. If you peek back towards the Quarterback, separation occurs, and this is how you will get

beat. The angle that the defensive back maintains in and out of his breaks depends on the route.

AT THE POINT OF ATTACK

Finishing at the point of attack is the single most important skill that a defensive back must master. He must secure

proper body position on the receiver before playing the ball. In general, he wants to stay on the receivers upfield

shoulder. In man-to-man, the defensive back cannot come underneath the receiver to make a play on the ball unless he

is 100% sure he can make the interception. This is because he may not have safety help, and if the receiver gets behind

him and catches the ball, it could be a touchdown. The receivers position and accompanying technique depends on the

length of route (short, intermediate, or deep) and the direction of the break (in, out, up, or back).

SHORT/INTERMEDIATE ROUTES: The defensive back wants to finish through the upfield shoulder to the ball. He must

finish on the upfield shoulder to prevent the double move. This is even more important if the route is an outside

breaking route (Out/Comeback). Finishing on the upfield shoulder on an outside breaking route is more difficult

because the defensive back is playing with inside leverage and can be easily baited into undercutting a route. If this


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happens, the defensive back is susceptible to biting on a double move. This is the hardest thing for a defensive back to

defend because it uses their aggressive nature against them, and can lead to a big play.

DRAW EXAMPLESHitch/Slant/Out/Curl/Dig/Comebackthree lines of 2

CROSSING ROUTES

When you play a lot of Press coverage, the offense will start to run Crossing Routes. If the receiver runs a Crossing route

(either short or deep), climb high and go through all of the trash. Maintain disciplined eyes on the belt buckle of the

receiver and an upfield shoulder position.

DRAW EXAMPLESDrag (Drive), and Deep Crossing Route

DEEP ROUTESPOST/POST DIG/CORNER ROUTES: On these routes, the defensive back must secure the upfield

shoulder. The defensive back wants to cut the receiver off and play through the upfield shoulder to the ball. Again, he

cant come underneath the route unless he is 100% sure he can make the interception.

POST/POST DIG/CORNER ROUTE DRAWING

DEEP ROUTETHE FADE (BOMB): On the Fade, the defensive backs technique is different. He is not breaking up

towards the Quarterback. In this situation, the defensive back wants to cut the receiver off, secure proper position onhim, lean into him, and fade him out of bounds. This makes the Fade, which is a low percentage pass to begin with, and

even more difficult throw to execute. The defensive back must keep his eyes on the receiver until he is hip-to-hip with

him with his elbow on his hip. Once this happens, the defensive back can then look back for the ball. When the

defensive back runs forward and looks back, he will slow down. Because of this, the ONLY way he can look back for the

ball is if he is truly hip-to-hip and leaning into the receiver.

If there is any separation, the defensive back must snap his eyes back to the receiver. If the receiver gets behind the

defensive back, he must keep running and play through the eyes (when they get big) or the hands of the receiver (when

they come up to catch the ball). If the defensive back is running forward while looking back, and is not leaning into the

receiver, he will slow down. To illustrate this, imagine running the 100 meters looking straight ahead. Now imagine

running the 100 meters looking over your shoulder.

Even if the defensive back is running down the field next to the receiver, he must be hip-to-hip and leaning into the

receiver to look back at the ball. If he does not do this, he will create separation and the receiver can catch the ball. He

will have no point of reference and the receiver can fade wider or worse, run past him. Getting hip-to-hip and leaning

into the receiver also helps protect against one of the more difficult situations a defensive back encounters: the

underthrown deep ball.

FADE ROUTE DRAWING

FINISHING ON ALL ROUTES: If the receiver catches the ball, the defensive back must finish with VIOLENCE!!! If the

receiver catches the ball, he must punch and rip at the football with violent hands, while securing the tackle. This

mentality will be developed in practice, where we will finish on every throw, whether it is individual drills, 7-on-7, and

team periods.

WHERE SHOULD I PUT ROUTES? GENERAL OR SEPARATE BY MAN AND ZONE?

PLAYING PRESS IN THE RED ZONE

In the Red Zone, the route tree is cut down because the length of the field is reduced. The top three routes we will see

are: 1) Slants, 2) Fades, and 3) Fade Stop/Backshoulder Fade. Once, the receiver takes more than three steps, it is

either Fade or the Fade Stop. Because the field is reduced, the defensive can look back quickerhe wants to make


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violent contact, roll into the receiver, and look back quickly. The defensive back must make sure to be hip-to-hip and

lean into the receiver. If separation occurs, the defensive back is susceptible to the Backshoulder Fade.

OTHER PRESS TECHNIQUESThere are some supplemental techniques that experienced players may use in addition to the traditional Press

technique.

QUICK JAM: This technique is set up with a well played Press and Bail technique. If an offense begins to key on your Bai

technique and adjust their routes, you can enhance your disguise with the Quick Jam. The defensive back will showPress, open towards the Quarterback by dropping their inside foot back and opening up at a 90 degree angle without

actually backing up. On the snap of the ball, the defensive back will square back up, aggressively punch the receiver, and

pop back to play with their feet. They key is to time up the jam, not allow separation, and to be able to play back and

mirror the receiver. If the defensive back lunges or creates separation between him and the receiver, the receiver will

have an easy time releasing.

TWO HAND JAM: This technique is used on aggressive coverages such as Cover 2 Zone and Man Under. The defensive

back will aggressively use both hands and be more physical than the regular Press technique. You can be more

aggressive because you have help over the top, and are either playing zone (Cover 2) or trailing the receiver (2 Man

Under).

BUMP TECHNIQUE (BUSTER): This technique is used when a defensive back is playing the Press technique in zone

coverage such as Cover 4. The defensive back will play man-to-man on the receiver, using the regular Press technique,

unless the receiver runs a Drag route inside. In this case, the defensive back will communicate by yelling In, In, In,

open up to the Quarterback, and continue to get depth while identifying the #2 threat. If the receiver runs a Hitch, the

defensive back will play tight to the receiver, and look back to the Quarterback. If he his shoulders are down and wide

to the receiver, be ready to break to the receiver in front of you. If he is looking down the field, and his shoulders are

high, get ready to open up and play the deeper route.

CHECKLIST

Have list of Dos and Dontsseparate by pre-snap/at the line/down the field by subtopiceyes, feet, hands, etc.

BAIL TECHNIQUE

PHILOSOPHYBailing allows the defensive back to be in a position to become the receiver. After you have beat up the receiver at the

line of scrimmage and he is fixated on how to get off of the Press, you bail and run his route for him. It gives a

consistent look, disguising your intention to the receiver and the Quarterback. It allows the defensive back to open up

and run, instead of having to transition from a square to a flipped position (one of the most difficult techniques).

PRE-SNAP STANCE AND ALIGNMENT

Make sure your alignment and stance is the same for Bail as it is for the Press technique. We want to make the offense

think we are playing Press every snap to confuse them and control the route tree.

PRE-SNAP CREEPING OUTDuring the cadence, flip your hips open towards the Quarterback with your back to the sideline. As you creep, get

outside and gain width. Make sure to time the bail (this will be emphasized during deep ball drills), so when the

Quarterback starts talking, you start walking. Begin creeping in a bent knee position with your pads over your toes.

Make sure your creep is confident. Bail like a pouncing, kick ass wildcat, not like you had too much gin and you came

home to see Mamas light is on and now you are trying to sneak in; you gotta bail like a tiger, not like you just stepped in

dog shit.

BAILING ON THE SNAP


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When the ball is snapped, bail under control with your pads over your toes and a good body lean. Make sure to get

width and have depth with a 3 to 4 yard cushion. This is so you can see the Quarterback and feel the receiver out of

your peripheral vision. If you have to bail inside, you must gain even more depth. This is because now, the receiver will

behind you. If you only maintain 3 or 4 yards of depth, you wont be able to see him and you will lose your peripheral

vision on the receiver.

PLAYING ROUTES EDIT XXX

The technique and aiming point in Bail is the same as Press. The only exception is the Fade. If the receiver runs a Fade,

widen out and fade with him, still eyeing the Quarterback. Maintain your depth and secure the upfield shoulder. Whenyou bail, you will see a lot of inside routes and routes that break back to the Quarterback. If the Quarterback drops the

ball, keep bailing. Dont stop running and let the receiver behind you.SCRAMBLE DRILL!!!

AT THE POINT OF ATTACK MAYBE MERGE WITH GENERAL TECHNIQUES!

Playing the ball at the point of attack comes down to getting on the upfield shoulder, closing the separation, and

finishing at the highest point. Keep running, attempt to square up to the ball, go up, and get it! Take initiative because

the ball is yours! This is the most important skill that a defensive back has!

PLAYING ROUTESdraw them from Press position (releases), Bail position???

Caveat: In Cover 4, you have the freedom to press or bail based on the situation. For example, if you just had

to run 50 yards to cover a Fade and Press is called and you are tired, you can Bail. Just make sure to let the

coach know between series. Lastly, if you dont get a call or you are unsure what to do, bail to the Goal Line!

IDENTIFYING SPLITS

SAMPLE OF COVERAGE TEACHING SHEET?


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SAFETY FOOTWORK

Cover 4

Man-to-Man


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Kansas State University Defense

COVER 4DESCRIPTION:

Cover 4 is a 4 Deep, 3 Under, pattern matching zone coverage. Cover 4 is the best overall coverage in football

because it has the smallest holes, is great against the run, play action, and the deep ball.

RUN SUPPORT:Read Support (Safety Force)

STRENGHTS:

Vertical passing game Run Support9 in the box Playaction Pass

WEAKNESSES:

Strong Flat Out routes by WR Isolate RB 1-on-1 with Middle Linebacker

COVER 4 DRAW

DISGUISES/SUPPLEMENTARY CALLS:

4 Press: Press with Corners and pee

121401921 2010 kansas state university secondary manual

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