Football Definitions Offensive Positions Offensive Formations Offensive Passing Routes Defensive Positions Defensive Formations Defensive Coverage Shells Football Terminology

OFFENSIVE POSITIONS

QuarterbackCenterGuardTackleWide ReceiverHalf BackFull BackRunning BackTight EndWide Out

OFFENSIVE FORMATIONS

I-formation – The I formation is a “traditional” modern offensive formation that gets its name from the I-shaped alignment of the QB, FB and HB. Using 2 backs and, typically, 2 WRs and 1 TE, this formation is conducive to both running and passing plays. When the latter is chosen, the back without the ball—usually the FB—will block for the back with the ball. The I Formation isn’t all that common in the NFL today, as the pro set formation (#7 below) can accomplish pretty much the same thing. However, the I formation is still sometimes used for play-action passes or short yardage running situations.

Single-Back – (also known as the "Lone Setback" or "Singleback" or "Ace" formation or "Oneback" or "Solo") requires only one running back (usually a halfback) lined up about five yards behind the quarterback. There are many variations on single back formations including two tight ends and two wide receivers, one tight end/three wide receivers, etc. The running back can line up directly behind the quarterback or offset either the weak side (away from the tight end) or the strong side (towards the tight end).

Split-back or Pro-set – The pro set formation is another “traditional” modern offensive formation. Like the I formation, the pro set is a balanced formation that usually features 2 backs, 2 WRs, and a TE. The main difference between the pro set and the I is simply that the two backs are on either side of the quarterback. Thus there is a bit of a tradeoff when using the pro set: you lose the blocking of the FB in the I formation, but you gain some uncertainty, as the defense doesn’t know which side of center the ball will go to.

Spread Formation – The spread formation is a particularly aggressive variant of the single set back formation (which is just like the standard shotgun formation, only the QB lines up immediately behind the

C). Where the spread formation differs from the standard single set back is in its use of 4 WRs and 0 TEs. The idea is that this formation spreads out the defense, creating more space. Though typically used for passing plays, the spread formation can also occasionally creates big holes in the DL for effective runs. Also, it’s more common in college than the NFL.

Shotgun – You have a shotgun formation any time the QB lines up about 5 yards behind the center and receives a snap rather than a handoff from the C. Typically, this formation uses only 1 back with 3 WRs and 1 TE, although any variation of players in the backfield is possible. The advantage of the QB’s position on this formation is that he can see the defensive alignment more clearly and has more time to throw the ball. Teams with excellent QBs and an aggressive passing game—like Indianapolis and New England—have used the shotgun as their standard offensive formation in recent years.

Slot Receiver - The basic offensive formation has the tackle and tight end closely positioned and receivers positioned wide near the sidelines. That leaves a gap -- a slot -- between each receiver and the line. When a receiver lines up in that gap, he is called the slot receiver.

OFFENSIVE PASSING ROUTES

OFFENSIVE PASSING ROUTES EXPLAINED

Flare Route - short pass thrown to a back who is running toward a sideline and is not beyond the line of scrimmage.

Screen Pass - a short forward pass in which the receiver is protected by a screen of blockers. During a screen pass, many things are going on at the same time in order to fool the defense into thinking a long pass is being thrown, when in fact the pass is merely a short one, just beyond the defensive linemen. Screens are usually deployed against aggressive defenses that rush the passer. Because screens invite the defense to rush the quarterback, they are designed to leave fewer defenders behind the rushers to stop the play.A screen pass can be effective, but it also can be risky because it is rather easy for a defensive player, even a lineman, to intercept this short pass if a defender gets in between the quarterback and the intended receiver. If the pass is intercepted, there are often few offensive players in front of the intercepting player, thus making it much easier for the intercepting team to earn a large return or to score a touchdown.Screens come in many forms. A screen to a running back to either the strong or short side of the field in the flats is often just called a screen. Screens to wide receivers come in four forms: the bubble screen, middle screen, slot screen, and slip screen.

The bubble screen involves a receiver taking a step forward, then darting toward the quarterback to receive the ball while the linemen release to clear a path for the receiver. The benefit of the bubble screen is it works against zone or man coverage. A downside is that it is dependent on proper timing; a zone blitz or defensive end dropping into coverage can disrupt the timing, and may result in the quarterback being sacked.

The middle screen is like the bubble screen, except instead of being executed to one side of the field or another, the receiver continues his route to the middle of the field. The linemen release up the middle of the field in front of the receiver.

A screen pass is sometimes executed using a shovel pass throwing motion. To throw a shovel pass the quarterback palms the football, and "shovels" the pass directly forward to the receiver, usually with a backhand, underhand or pushing motion. When a designed play calls for the quarterback to use a shovel pass forward to a receiver it is, by definition, also a screen pass. Many times, however, the quarterback will be scrambling or about to be sacked and will shovel pass the ball to a receiver who was not the intended target of the called play. A shovel pass is useful in this situation because of its smaller range of arm motion and quick release. In this instance the shovel pass is not a screen pass.

Wheel Route - run by a receiver or running back. When run by a receiver, the player will immediately run a quick out pattern, then proceed to turn upfield in a curved pattern. Typically this route is run from an inside receiver, with the number one receiver heading inside to exploit coverage in the defense. When run

from the running back position the player will run towards the sideline while looking back at the quarterback as if he is about to receive a pass on a flare route. The running back will then turn upfield at the sideline and run straight down the field.

This route is useful when run from the wide receiver position because the defensive back will expect the ball to be thrown as the receiver makes his first turn and will bite (go for the fake) underneath the receiver (run between the quarterback and the receiver to try to prevent, block, or intercept the pass) to defend the pass and be unable to recover as the receiver turns upfield. In this respect the route is very similar to an Out-and-Up or Chair route, but without the vertical release that the Out-and-Up utilizes. The route is useful when run from the running back position because the defender will assume the ball is going to be thrown to the running back behind the line of scrimmage (the quarterback can use a pump fake to further "sell" this), and will bite underneath the running back only to have the running back turn upfield.

Bootleg - quarterback fakes a handoff to a running back, then sprints out in the opposite direction, looking to run or pass.

Post - Any pass-receiving route that is directed towards the goal posts is called a “post pattern.” For example, a receiver may run down a sideline before angling towards the middle of the field, which in the case of a post pattern is defined by a vertical swath (the width of the goal posts) running from the line of scrimmage to the attacking goal posts. In a skinny post, or a “glance,” the route is shorter in length and quicker than a deep post, which may cover 30 or 40 yards. A color announcer may refer to the skinny post as a "glance in" or a "bang eight."

DEFENSIVE POSITIONS

The strong safety tends to be somewhat larger and stronger than the free safety. However, the word strong is used because he is assigned to cover the "strong side" of the offense, the side on which the big, powerful tight end lines up on offensive plays. The strong safety tends to play closer to the line and assist in stopping the run. He may also cover a player, such as a running back or fullback or H-back, who comes out of the backfield to receive a pass. A strong safety's duties are a hybrid of those belonging to a linebacker in a 46 or 3–4 defense and those of the other defensive backs, in that he both covers the pass and stops the run. Legendary strong safeties include John Lynch and Troy Polamalu.

The free safety tends to watch the play unfold and follow the ball. The free safety is typically assigned to the quarterback in man coverage, but as the quarterback usually remains in the pocket, the free safety is "free" to double cover another player. On pass plays, the free safety is expected to assist the cornerback on his side and to close the distance to the receiver by the time the ball reaches him. Offenses tend to use the play-action pass specifically to make the free safety expect a run play, which would draw him closer to the line of scrimmage, and reduce his effectiveness as a pass defender. Furthermore, quarterbacks often use a technique to "look off" a free safety, by looking to the other side of the field during a pass play, with the intention to lure the free safety away from the intended target receiver on the other side of the field. This phenomenon often tests how effective a free safety's wit and athleticism are at defending long pass plays. If the offense puts a receiver in the slot, then the free safety may be called upon to cover that receiver. Free safeties occasionally blitz as well. When this happens, the pressure on the quarterback is often very severe since a blitz by a defensive back is not usually anticipated. Because of their speed and deep coverage, free safeties are especially likely to make interceptions. Some examples of the greatest free safeties of all time are former Baltimore Raven Ed Reed, Arizona Cardinal Larry Wilson, Green Bay Packer Willie Wood, and Minnesota Viking Paul Krause. [2]

Mike – Middle Linebacker(famous inside linebackers: Sam Mills (Panthers), Willie Lanier (Chiefs), Chuck Bednarik (Eagles), Junior Seau (Chargers), Sam Huff (Giants), Ray Nitschke (Packers), Jack Lambert (Steelers), Mike Singletary (Bears), Dick Butkus (Bears), Ray Lewis (Ravens))

The middle linebacker, or "mike" linebacker, is the central anchor point in any good defense.

Very similar to a quarterback on offense, the middle linebacker is, quite literally, in the center of all things that happen on 'D.' A mike backer is tasked with stopping the run, but is also involved in coverage and normally locked up man-to-man with running backs out of the backfield, or tight ends. The mike linebacker is also involved in most tackles on defense, either instigating the initial contact, or cleaning it up.

Essentially, the 'MLB' epitomizes the football player persona: He's big, strong, and hard-nosed. He is a key vocal leader in most defensive schemes, calling out formations and strengths, and communicating adjustments. He also is a key communicator for all the linebackers and defensive linemen, as he calls out formation strength and signals.

AlignmentThe mike linebacker lines up about 4-5 yards deep, and head up on the center, in most cases. This alignment allows him to step quickly to the left or right to fill gaps to stop the run.Assignment

The mike linebacker is assigned as primarily a gap destroyer and a run stopper. He will take on any lead blocks and spill the back to his teammates if need be. In the case of a pass, he will drop to his appropriate responsibility, depending on the coverage called. For example, in cover 3 zone, he will drop, read the quarterback's eyes and break on the football.

There are also times where the mike linebacker is assigned to cover the running back out of the backfield on either side.

Key/ReadWith his eyes on the running back, mike sees and keys on the linemen. The back gives him his direction, the linemen tell him if it's run or pass. If the linemen pop up, it's most likely pass, so he'll drop to his responsibility. If the linemen block hard, he reads run and he will flow with the direction of the back and fill his gap to make the tackle.

A mike linebacker has to be big, strong, and able to be a physical tackler play after play. This is not someone who shies away from contact. The average NFL linebacker is over 6 feet 2 inches, and weighs over 230 pounds. Overall athleticism is important, as the mike linebacker will be required to drop in pass coverage, and move laterally with the passing game. But, overall, mike has to be a guy that likes to hit, and can bring down the best running backs out there.

Will – Weak-side LinebackerThe weak side linebacker, or "Will" linebacker, is one of 3 linebackers on a standard defensive crew. Like the other two linebackers (Sam and Mike), he's primarily concerned with stopping the run. But, he quickly transitions into a pass defender as needed, and often ends up assigned to slot receivers, even more than the Sam. The will linebacker has to be quick and agile, and able to move laterally with the ball carrier to force the run inside, but because he lines up on the weak side of the formation, he is often pursuing the play as it goes away from him.Alignment

The will linebacker lines up five or six yards deep, and he usually splits the "B" gap on the weak side of the formation. This puts him in a nice position to stop the run if it comes his way, but also gets him leverage to be able to drop in coverage, or cover the back out of the backfield. If he has a slot receiver to his side, in most cases, he'll widen his alignment to be in position to cover the slot.

AssignmentThe will linebacker is responsible for forcing any outside run to his inside, as well as cutback and reverse plays. He also has a great deal of pass coverage responsibility.

Key/ReadThe will linebacker keys on the linemen, while getting directional keys from the backfield. If he reads a "low hat" run to his side, he'll quickly get upfield and take on any blocks to force the run back to his teammates. If it's run away from him, he'll hesitate and watch for any reverse or cutback play. On a pass play, he'll drop into coverage and cover his appropriate responsibility, which could be a zone, or man up on the inside receiver on his side.

The will linebacker is most likely the most athletic of the three on the field. He has to be able to cover a lot of ground if the play goes away from him, and he is often called on to cover a slot receiver, whereas Sam usually covers a tight end. Will linebackers are not afraid to be physical and tackle. They're smart and able to read plays quickly to determine where to go. They're also good at pass coverage, and can handle the occasional one-on-one pass coverage scenario.

Sam – Strong-side LinebackerThe strong side linebacker, or Sam Linebacker, is a versatile run and pass coverage backer in a 4-3 defense. He needs to provide strong run support and fill his gap on the run, but he also is required to drop in short zones in both cover 2 and cover 3. At times, he will also play man-to-man coverage on either the tight end or the number two or three receiver. Depending on the tendencies of the teams you play, your Sam linebacker might be more of a pass coverage guy, or more of a traditional "linebacker" type. Either way, versatility and speed are critical traits for a good Sam Linebacker.

Alignment

The Sam linebacker will line up on the strong side of the formation, about seven to eight yards back from the tight end, if the offensive formation has one. If there is no tight end, the Sam linebacker will essentially split the space between the end man on the line of scrimmage and the inside slot receiver. This allows him to be in close proximity to stop the run, and in good position to drop in pass coverage if necessary.Assignment

The Sam's responsibilities are to fill his assigned gap (which will be different if the play flows towards him or away from him) on the run. He can't waste any steps in his pursuit of the football. He also has pass coverage responsibilities which vary from covering the tight end, or the back out of the backfield, to dropping to the deep hook/curl zone.Key/Read

The Sam will get his initial key from the tight end.

If the tight end blocks hard, it's an initial run read. If he releases, or looks like he's trying to separate from the defensive end, it's likely a pass read. The Sam also needs to have his eyes to the backfield to see whether it's flow to, or flow away. This will help him determine his assignment as well.

If RunIf the Sam has a run read, he will play good gap defense, and fill his assigned gap, without wasting steps, moving downhill as quickly as possible. If it's flow away, the Sam usually is assigned the cutback "A" gap, flowing inside out and watching for the back to cut back.

If PassIf it's a pass read, the Sam will cover his assigned man, or drop into zone coverage. If it's zone coverage, he will keep his head and eyes on the quarterback as he drops to break on the ball if it's thrown his direction.

Sam linebackers make a huge impact on the game. Like strong safeties, they wear different hats depending on down and distance, and the scheme of the opponent.

DEFENSIVE FORMATIONS

3–4 defense is a defensive alignment consisting of three down linemen and four linebackers. There are usually 4 defensive backs. However, most teams since the 1990s have been using the 4-3 defense, primarily because football is fundamentally a "rush first" game, and the 4-3 defense's 4 down linemen make rushing more difficult by adding one more down lineman to fill gaps. By the same token, fast linebackers, sitting back to survey the offensive set, can key in on an inside ball carrier and "hit the gaps" quickly to offer help to the 3 down linemen when defending the rush. In pass coverage, the 4 linebackers are already in a "sitting back" position, able to see the patterns develop and cover the short/intermediate pass.

The defensive line is made up of a nose tackle (NT) and two defensive ends (DEs). Linemen in 3-4 schemes tend to be larger than their 4-3 counterparts to take up more space and guard more territory along the defensive front. 3-4 defensive ends were usually defensive tackles when entering at first. They must be strong at the point of attack and are aligned in most cases head-up on an offensive tackle. First and foremost, they must control run gaps. Size and strength become more of a factor for linemen in 3–4 defenses than in 4-3 defenses because they move primarily within the confines of line play and seldom are in space using athletic ability.

The 3-4 nose tackle is considered the most physically demanding position in football. His primary responsibility is to control the “A” gaps, the two openings between the center and guards, and not get pushed back into his linebackers. If a running play comes through one of those gaps, he must make the tackle or control what is called the “jump-through”—the guard or center who is trying to get out to the linebackers. The ideal nose tackle has to be much bigger than 4-3 DTs, weighing around 330 pounds or more. The base position of NT is across from the opposing team's center. This location is usually referred to as zero technique. The two DEs flank the NT and line up off the offensive guards. The location off the offensive guard is usually referred to as three technique.

Some 3-4 teams use the three down linemen primarily to occupy the offensive linemen. In such systems the defensive linemen are assigned two gaps to defend. The NT is responsible for defending plays which occur in the spaces, or gaps, between the center and guards. Each of those spaces is called an A gap. Flanking the NT, DEs defend the gaps on either side of the tackle he lines up across from. Each guard-tackle gap is a B gap and the space outside each tackle is called a C gap. Other 3-4 teams primarily make each lineman responsible for only one gap.

In a 3-4 defense, four linebackers (LBs) are positioned behind the defensive line. The linebacker unit is made up of two inside linebackers (ILBs) flanked by two outside linebackers (OLBs). The OLBs often line up closer to the line of scrimmage than the ILBs, but may also be positioned at the same depth or deeper in coverage than the ILBs (though this is somewhat rare). Strengths of the 3-4 include speedy ILBs and OLBs in pursuit of backs in run defense and flexibility to use multiple rushers to confuse the quarterback during passing plays without being forced into man-to-man defense on receivers. Most teams try to disrupt the offense's passing attack by rushing four defenders. In a standard 4-3 alignment, these four rushers are usually the four down linemen. But in a 3-4, the fourth rusher is usually a linebacker, though many teams, such as the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, use a talented safety to blitz and confuse the coverage, giving them more defensive options in the same 3-4 look. However, since there are four linebackers and four defensive backs, the fourth potential rusher can come from any of eight defensive positions. This is designed to confuse the quarterback's pre-snap defensive read.A drawback of the 3-4 is that without a fourth lineman to take on the offensive blockers and close the running lanes, both the defensive linemen and the linebackers can be overwhelmed by blocking schemes in

the running game. To be effective, 3-4 linebackers need their defensive line to routinely tie up a minimum of four (preferably all five) offensive linemen, freeing them to make tackles. The 3-4 linebackers must be very athletic and strong enough to shed blocks by fullbacks, tight ends, and offensive linemen to get to the running back. In most cases, 3-4 OLBs lead their teams in quarterback sacks.

4-3 Defense

In American football, a 4–3 defense is a defensive alignment consisting of four down linemen and three linebackers. It is probably the most commonly used defense in modern American football and especially in the National Football League. The invention of the 4–3 is often attributed to legendary coach Tom Landry, in the 1950s, while serving as the Defensive Coordinator of the New York Giants, as a way to stop Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown.

In the original version of the 4–3, the tackles lined up over the offensive guards and the ends lined up over the offensive tackles, with the middle linebacker over the center and the other linebackers outside the ends. In the mid-1960s Hank Stram developed a popular variation, the "Kansas City Stack", which shifted the strong side defensive end over the tight end, stacked the strongside linebacker over the tackle, and shifted the weakside tackle over center. At about the same time the Cleveland Browns frequently used a weakside shift. The Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry developed a "flex" variation, that moved standout lineman Randy White all over and set two of the linemen a half-step farther back from the offensive linemen. Now every team has its own variations.

Defensive TacklesThere are two defensive tackles in the 4–3 scheme. Some teams especially in the NFL do have a nose tackle in this scheme, but most of them do not. In a traditional 4–3 defensive set, there is no nose tackle. Instead there is a left and right defensive tackle. When teams don't have a nose tackle, the tackles lined up over the offensive guards. The nose tackle is generally slightly larger and stronger and plays a one technique which means he lines up on either outside shoulder of the center depending on which way the strength of the play is going. The nose tackle's primary job is to stop the run and take on the double team (which is getting blocked by both the center and the weak-side or pulling guard) thus freeing up the linebackers to make a play. The second defensive tackle (simply referred to as the defensive tackle or three tech) is generally a bit quicker and faster than the nose tackle, ideally weighing close to 300 pounds (140 kg) but quick-footed enough to shoot through a gap at the snap.[3] He plays a three technique meaning he lines up on the outside shoulder of the strong side offensive guard. The job of a three tech is to: prevent the run, keep the guard off linebackers, and rush the quarterback on pass plays.

The defensive end's primary role in the 4–3 defense is to get to the quarterback and create pressure. The 4–3 DE's are the smallest of all of the defensive lineman due to their emphasis of speed over strength. They still need to be strong enough to fight their way past offensive tackles, yet quick enough to pursue the running backs on runs to the outside. Ideal 4–3 defensive ends are athletic and agile and their strength is getting up field with quickly, and they usually weigh between 260 and 275 pounds (118 and 125 kg).[4] Right ends, who line up against the offensive left tackle and attack the quarterback from the blind side, are

usually the best athletes on the line, combining a 275-pound body with incredible quickness and agility to outflank blockers who are bigger and heavier.[3] Defensive ends generally play the 1 gap technique, though will occasionally be forced to play a 2 gap in the event of a TE pinching in to block on run plays. In most schemes, they are also responsible for keeping the quarterback from rolling out of the pocket to make big running gains.

Linebackers

Middle LinebackerThere is only one inside linebacker in the 4–3 scheme, so he is called the Middle linebacker, sometimes known as the “Mike” linebacker. He must be as smart as he is athletic, acts as the “quarterback of the defense” and is often the defensive leader.[3] The primary responsibility of the “Mike” is to stop the run, though he will often be asked to fall back in zone coverage in pass protection; man to man pass coverage has him assigned to the fullback typically. The MLB is often the largest and strongest of all of the linebackers.The 4–3 defense relies on having a sure tackler at the middle linebacker spot. Most notably, Tony Dungy's “Tampa Cover 2” scheme makes high demands on the MLB, requiring him to have above-average speed, and additional skills to be able to read the play and either maintain his central position to help the outside linebackers cover short passes, drop behind the linebackers in coverage and protect the zone of the field behind the outside linebackers from 11–20 yards out, or run up to the line of scrimmage to help assist in stopping the runs.[5]

Outside LinebackersAs in the 3–4 defense there are two outside linebackers in the 4–3. These outside backers are known as the Strong-Side and Weak-Side Linebackers. The Strong-Side, or “Sam” linebacker, is so named because he typically sticks to the strong side of the defense, across from the TE. The “Sam” does his fair share of blitzing, however he also needs to play the run and will usually be relied upon to cover the tight end or potentially a back out of the backfield. The Weak-Side, or “Will” linebacker, will generally play on the weak side and has more freedom than the other LBs, often blitzing the QB or guarding against the screen.

DEFENSIVE COVERAGE SHELLS

Cover 0Cover 0 is a strict man-to-man alignment where each defensive back covers one receiver.

AdvantagesCover 0 is an aggressive scheme that allows for numerous blitz packages, as it's easier for players to drop off their coverage and rush the quarterback.

DisadvantagesThe main disadvantage of Cover 0 is that there is no "help over the top"—if a wide receiver "beats" (achieves separation from) his defender, there is no one left in the secondary who can make up the coverage on the receiver, which could result in an easy pass completion and possible touchdown.

Cover 1Cover One is a man-to-man coverage for all the defensive backs except for one player (usually a safety) who is not assigned a man to cover but rather plays deep and reacts to the development of the play.Often the safety will remain in a pass coverage position and play a zone defense by guarding the middle of the secondary, reacting to runs or completed passes and double-teaming a receiver if needed.

In a traditional Cover 1, the free safety plays deep and all of the other defenders lock in man coverage to an assigned player for the duration of the play. Essentially, during the pre-snap read, each defender identifies the coverage responsibilities and does not change the assignment. Some teams play a variant of the Cover 1 called Cover 7. In Cover 7, the free safety still plays deep, but the underneath coverage is much more flexible and the defenders switch assignments as the play develops in an attempt to improve defensive positions to make a play on the ball. Examples of these switches include double covering a certain receiver and using defensive help to undercut a route to block a throwing lane.

Advantages

Cover 1 schemes are usually very aggressive, preferring to proactively disrupt the offense by giving the quarterback little time to make a decision while collapsing the pocket quickly. This is the main advantage of Cover 1 schemes—the ability to blitz from various pre-snap formations while engaging in complex man-to-man coverage schemes post-snap. For example, a safety may blitz while a cornerback is locked in man coverage with a receiver. Or the cornerback may blitz with the safety rotating into man coverage on the receiver post-snap.

DisadvantagesThe main weakness of the Cover 1 scheme is that there is only one deep defender that must cover a large amount of field and provide help on any deep threats. Offenses can attack Cover 1 schemes by sending two receivers on deep routes, provided that the quarterback has enough time for his receivers to get open. The deep defender must decide which receiver to help out on, leaving the other in man coverage which may be a mismatch.

A secondary weakness is inherent in its design: the use of man coverage opens up yards after catch lanes. Man coverage is attacked by offenses in various ways that try to isolate their best athletes on defenders by passing them the ball quickly before the defender can react or designing plays that clear defenders from certain areas thus opening yards after catch lanes.

Cover 2In traditional Cover 2 schemes, the free safety (FS) and strong safety (SS) have deep coverage responsibilities, each guarding half of the field.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, and Detroit Lions all run or have run a variant of this defense called the Tampa 2. In the Tampa 2 defense, a third player (usually the middle linebacker) plays a middle zone, guarding an area closer to the line of scrimmage than the safeties but farther out from typical "underneath" pass coverages. The Tampa 2 defense actually originated, at least in its earliest variant, with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s.

Cover 2 can be run from any seven-man defensive front such as the 3–4 and the 4–3 defenses. Various kinds of "underneath" coverages played by cornerbacks and linebackers may also be implemented. For example, "Cover 2 Man" means the two safeties have deep coverage responsibility while the cornerbacks and linebackers follow their offensive assignment in one-on-one coverage. The San Diego Chargers inherited a base Cover 2 Man 3–4 from former coach Wade Phillips. Cover 2 can also be paired with underneath zone schemes: "Cover 2 Zone" refers to two safeties with deep coverage responsibility, but now the cornerbacks and linebackers drop into specific coverage zones where they defend passes only in their assigned area.

In cover 2 the cornerbacks are considered to be "hard" corners, meaning that they have increased run stopping responsibilities and generally defend against shorter passes, although if two receivers run a deep route on a certain side of the field, that side's corner has deep coverage responsibility as well. It also relies heavily on the "Mike" (Middle) linebacker's ability to quickly drop deep downfield into pass coverage when he reads a pass.

A variant of cover two is the Inverted Cover 2, in which either right before or after the snap the corners "bail" out while the safeties come up—in effect switching responsibilities. This strategy may be employed to trick a quarterback who has not correctly interpreted the shift. The main drawback here is that the middle of the field is left open.Advantages

The advantage of cover 2 is that it provides great versatility to the defense as the corners can play run, short pass, and deep pass with the confidence that they have support from two deep safeties.Disadvantages

The main weakness of the Cover 2 shell occurs in the middle of the field between the safeties. At the snap of the ball, many times the safeties will move toward the sidelines in order to cover any long passes to quick wide receivers. This movement creates a natural hole between the safeties that can be attacked. By sending a receiver (usually a tight end) into the hole (in the middle of the field), the offense forces the safety to make a decision: play the vulnerable hole or help out on the wide receiver. The quarterback reads the safety's decision and decides on the best matchup (i.e., which mismatch is better: tight end vs. safety or wide receiver vs. cornerback).

Another disadvantage of Cover 2 is that it leaves only seven men in the "box" (the area near the ball at the snap) to defend against the run. In contrast Cover 1 and Cover 3 usually have eight men in the box.

A potential problem with the Cover 2 is that defensive pressure on the Quarterback must be provided nearly exclusively by the front linemen as all other defenders are involved in pass coverage. If the defensive linemen do not provide adequate pressure on the Quarterback, the offense is afforded plenty of time to create and exploit passing opportunities. Blitzing in the Cover 2 often creates greater areas of weakness in the defense than other coverages. Thus, unsuccessful blitzes can prove to be more productive for the offense than in other schemes.

Cover 3In cover 3, the two corners and free safety each have responsibility for a deep third of the field, while the strong safety plays like a linebacker. This coverage is generally considered to be a run stopping defense as it focuses on preventing big pass plays and stopping the run while giving up short passes.

On the snap, the CBs work for depth, backpedaling into their assigned zone. One safety moves toward the center of the field. The other safety is free to rotate into the flat area (about 2–4 yards beyond the line of scrimmage), provide pass coverage help, or blitz.

AdvantagesOne of the biggest benefits of the cover 3 coverage scheme is the ability to walk the strong safety up into the box with minimal to no changes in the coverage due to the pre-snap center field position of the free safety. This enables the defense to play strong against the run, but still prevent explosion plays such as a long pass or break away run. This advantage is most pronounced versus two tight end sets which naturally creates 8 holes for running backs, whereas in cover 2 schemes there are only 7 defenders in the box leaving 1 hole uncovered, or requiring a defender to cover 2 holes.

DisadvantagesCover 3 schemes are susceptible to short, timed passes to the outside due to the hard drop of both cornerbacks. This puts pressure on the outside linebackers to react to pass plays and get into their drop quickly if they need to cover a receiver.

Another disadvantage of cover 3 schemes is they are relatively easy to diagnose by opposing quarterbacks. Because of this, teams will often employ slight wrinkles in their coverage to confuse offenses. An example of this includes employing man coverage on one side and zone on another or swapping coverage zones between defenders.

Cover 4Also called quarters coverage, Cover 4 refers to four deep defenders, each guarding one-fourth of the deep zone. Cover 4 schemes are usually used to defend against deep passes. (See Prevent defense).

The most basic Cover 4 scheme involves two cornerbacks and two safeties. Upon snap, the cornerbacks work for depth, backpedaling into their assigned zone. Both safeties backpedal towards their assigned zone.

As with other coverage shells, Cover 4 is paired with underneath man or zone coverage in its most basic form.

AdvantagesThe main advantage of a Cover 4 defense is that it is extremely difficult for even the best quarterbacks to complete long passes against it. Therefore, this coverage is generally used as a prevent defense to be used near the end of a game or half, meaning that the defense sacrifices the run and short pass to avoid giving up the big play with the confidence that the clock will soon expire.

Cover 4 also has the advantage of using safeties in run support as opposed to cornerbacks as would be the case in a Cover 2 scheme. This gives the defense nine in the box and the ability to stop the run with an extra defender on either side. The play-side safety would come up in support on a running play while the back-side safety would be responsible for the middle third of the field and the cornerbacks would have the deep outside thirds.

DisadvantagesThe main weakness of Cover 4 shells is the large amount of space left open by the retreating defensive backs. Since the defensive backs are working for depth, short pass routes underneath can enable the quarterback to make short- and medium- length passes, as well as isolate a defensive back on a wide receiver near the sideline with little help.

Cover 6Cover 6 call defensive strength to the Field instead of to the offensive formation or front, and organize personnel by Field-side player and Boundary-side player. The position of the ball on the field therefore dictates strength of the offense. In Cover 6 the field safety and field corner cover fourths of the field, and depend on a field outside linebacker to support underneath them. The free safety covers the boundary-side deep half and the boundary corner plays the flat. Thus the field side of the coverage is quarters, and the boundary side is cover 2.

The Cover 6 gets its name from the fact that it combines elements of the Cover 2 (the strong safety covering half the field) and the Cover 4 on the opposite side. The Pittsburgh Steelers are a Cover 6 team. The quarters play of the strong side safety, like the Steelers' Troy Polamalu, allows him to support on runs quickly. The Tennessee Titans have also been known to use it.

AdvantagesCover 6 blends the best of Cover 2 and Cover 4. On the boundary, Cover 6 uses a Cover 2 corner. The boundary corner sits at 5–7 yards and is in excellent position to attack flat passes and wide runs, as well as blitz from a short field position. The boundary safety plays at 12–15 yards and supports the boundary corner, providing good pass defense over the top, as well as being able to assist on any vertical release by a 3rd receiver from the field side. The field safety plays a hard read technique from 7–8 yards, reading first for run. He will fit hard and fast on run plays. He defends the pass by squatting or dropping over the #2 wide receiver. He will then play vertical patterns and in patterns by #2 then #1, passing off inside patterns. The Field corner plays a quarters deep coverage from 7–8 yards, reading the #1 wide receiver and playing all vertical and outside patterns.

DisadvantagesCover 6 has the disadvantages of both Cover 2 and Cover 4. The field side is generally soft on flat coverage. The field side corner can be left in single coverage deep as well. On runs, the field side may be spread by a tight end and 2 receiver formation, offering an advantage on the edge. The Boundary side is hard behind the corner to the sideline, as well as in the seam between corner and linebacker.

FOOTBALL TERMINOLOGYThe Flats - The flat is the area on the field between the hash marks and the sidelines around the line of scrimmage.

Checkdown Pass - when the quarterback attempts to complete a short, accurate pass to a running back or tight end as a last option when the wide receivers are covered. The term means that the quarterback has "checked down" his list of receivers. Because the quarterback does not look for the checkdown pass until after he has scanned for open wide receivers down the field for about 3–4 seconds, the defensive line has had time to enter the backfield and so a checkdown pass is often thrown in the face of pressure from the defensive line. Alternatively, if the defensive team has sent a blitz, with linebackers and/or defensive backs also looking to sack the quarterback, the checkdown may also turn out to be the quarterback's second or even first look. For this reason, the ability to complete checkdown passes, while not as dramatic as longer completions, is often seen as a key sign of an effective and efficient quarterback. These plays often result in significant yardage gain, because most of the defensive players are either in the backfield in pursuit of the quarterback, or deeper in the secondary covering receivers.A screen pass is, in many ways, a scripted checkdown.

Hard Count - is a strategy used by offenses, often to convert on fourth down with less than five yards to go. In this situation, an offense will take the full time on the play clock with the quarterback utilizing an irregular, accented (thus, the term "hard") cadence for the snap count in the hope that the defense will jump offside, giving the offense the five yards needed to convert the first down. However, if the defense does not go offside, the offense will either call a time out or take a five-yard penalty for delay of game and punt the ball away.Some offenses utilize the "hard count" throughout the game in order to confuse the defense. However, the offensive line must be disciplined and in step with the quarterback so as not to false start.

Play-action Pass - In play action, a quarterback fakes a handoff to running back while he's dropping back to pass. The quarterback hopes to slow down the defensive rush and force the defensive backs to make a wrong decision, hoping for them to come up to help stop the run.

Cut and Chop Blocks - A cut block involves a block below the knees, most often used by offensive linemen against defensive linemen and linebackers. Two players double-teaming a defensive player, one blocking high and one blocking low is called a chop block, which is illegal because it can lead to injury.

Underneath Coverage - A defensive scheme in which one or more linebackers drop back into pass coverage, but the safeties remain positioned behind them. If a defense is playing underneath coverage, the quarterback's passing lanes may be filled and he will have to dump the ball off to a running back. “Underneath” the receiver means running between the quarterback and the receiver to try to prevent, block, or intercept the pass.

Mike – Middle Line BackerWill – Weak-side Line BackerSam – Strong-side Line BackerThe strong side linebacker, or Sam Linebacker, is a versatile run and pass coverage backer in a 4-3 defense. He needs to provide strong run support and fill his gap on the run, but he also is required to drop in short zones in both cover 2 and cover 3. At times, he will also play man-to-man coverage on either the tight end or the number two or three receiver. Depending on the tendencies of the teams you play, your Sam linebacker might be more of a pass coverage guy, or more of a traditional "linebacker" type.

Either way, versatility and speed are critical traits for a good Sam Linebacker.

Here's your alignment, assignment and key for Sam Linebacker.Alignment

The Sam linebacker will line up on the strong side of the formation, about seven to eight yards back from the tight end, if the offensive formation has one. If there is no tight end, the Sam linebacker will essentially split the space between the end man on the line of scrimmage and the inside slot receiver. This allows him to be in close proximity to stop the run, and in good position to drop in pass coverage if necessary.Assignment

The Sam's responsibilities are to fill his assigned gap (which will be different if the play flows towards him or away from him) on the run. He can't waste any steps in his pursuit of the football. He also has pass coverage responsibilities which vary from covering the tight end, or the back out of the backfield, to dropping to the deep hook/curl zone.Key/Read

The Sam will get his initial key from the tight end.

If the tight end blocks hard, it's an initial run read. If he releases, or looks like he's trying to separate from the defensive end, it's likely a pass read. The Sam also needs to have his eyes to the backfield to see whether it's flow to, or flow away. This will help him determine his assignment as well.

If Run

If the Sam has a run read, he will play good gap defense, and fill his assigned gap, without wasting steps, moving downhill as quickly as possible. If it's flow away, the Sam usually is assigned the cutback "A" gap, flowing inside out and watching for the back to cut back.

If Pass

If it's a pass read, the Sam will cover his assigned man, or drop into zone coverage. If it's zone coverage, he will keep his head and eyes on the quarterback as he drops to break on the ball if it's thrown his direction.

Sam linebackers make a huge impact on the game. Like strong safeties, they wear different hats depending on down and distance, and the scheme of the opponent.

Alignment -  Used to describe how defender is in relationship to offensive man.  Alley oop -  High-trajactory pass thrown in the end zone where the receiver catches it at the hightest pointAnchor -  1. For a receiver to influence a defense and hold him in that area while another receiver becomes open.               2. For linemen the ability to hold one's ground and not be moved.Angle -  Shortest line to the ball from any route or patternARC -  Term used for QB to pre-read defense looking at Alignment, Rush and CoverageArrow route -  Route at about a 30 degree angle to the sideline, normally used by tight ends, running backs or slotsAudible -  Used by the QB at the L.O.S. to check off to a different playBlind side -  The side of the backfield opposite the quarterback's throwing arm, where he has less than optimal                   vision when setting to throwBack -  Also called a running back.  A versatile ball carrier, blocker, receiver who lines up behind the quarterbackBack Shoulder Fade -  A pass thrown behind the wide receiver when the Corner back is lined up on his up field shoulder

Back side -  Area of play away from the point of attack, routes run that are secondary to the on side pattern or routeBail -  Technique that corners use to drop back quickly in zone coverageBait -  When a defense shows the quarterback something before the snap in an effort to influence where            he'll go with the ballBall control -  Hold onto the football for long periods of timeBall position -  Position between football and defenderBall securement -  Covering both points of the football and keeping it against the bodyBanana - Route where receiver releases outside then bends inwardBandit -  A combination safety-linebackerBanjo -  Used in man coverage when two receivers are within five yards of each otherBase count -   Method used to determine who blocks whom; the count of defensive linemen is from inside outBasics -  Plays that do not require elaborate execution; established foundation of a systemBCR -  Rule for backside defender who is responsible for contain.  Meaning Bootleg, Cut back and Reverse.            When this back side defender forgets this rule he puts himself out of position and is vulnerable to any           of these plays.  Big play -  Any play that shifts the momentum of a game, provides a first down or touchdown, or gets the team                  out of poor field positionBird Dog -  A Quarterback's tendency to keep his eyes glued to an intended receiver throughout his pattern, rather                  than  looking away from him and toward different receivers.  Bird dogging tends to tip off the defensive                    players about where the pass will be thrownBird Dogging - A drill used by the offense were they take one step at a time and freeze.  Just like when a bird dog         see the bird he freezes.  The drill start with the first step.  Then the second step, third, forth and walk it out.  This helps everyone perfect their steps and timing.Blitz -  The Charge of a defensive linebacker or defensive back across the LOS at the snap of the ball in order to           disrupt the offensive flowBlock -  An offensive player moving a defensive man to create an opening for a ball carrierBlue area -   Area on the field between the +45 to the +20 yard linesBody catch -  When a receiver cradles the ball against his body rather than snatching it cleanly out of the air with                      his handsBody lean -  A player with good body lean runs with his body leaning up field so that he falls forward when tackledBody tilt -  Angle that the running back assumes while carrying the football/ demonstrates his weight distributionBracket -  Defenders switch coverage on receivers within their coverage responsibility;

can be used against deep                 or shallow routes.  Also term used to mean two secondary men playing a receiver inside and outside.Break - Any change of direction in a patternBucket step -  Lineman's short step back and to the play sideBull Rush -  A straight ahead power pass rushBump and run -  Tight, aggressive man-to-man cover with defender playing an inside-out techniqueBunch -  Formation that groups three receivers close togetherCenter of gravity -  Running back's weight distribution to determine balanceCheat -  Change the running back's alignment to aid execution of the playCheat step -  Term used to aid the Quarterback when throwing left or right by planting the last step in the correct                     position in order that a reset to throw the ball is not neededCheck pattern, Check release -  Means check pass blocking assignment first before going out on pass routeChip technique -  Blocking a defender's shoulder or hip, then moving on to to another defender or into pass routeChop -  Block on a defensive player below the waist; usually used by tacklesClear the area -  Receiver running a route in order to influence DB away from area to be thrownClimb the Pocket - Term used when the Quarterback aggressively steps up into the pocketCloud - A strong side term where the corner back has flat force and the strong safety has deep thirdCombo routes -  Two or more routes used together to break down coverage and open one receiverComeback -  Relationship a receiver needs to assume to the quarterback; squared-up receiver moving back                     to the quarterbackCommon sense rule -  Guideline for QB to audible when point of attack is covered by defenders at L.O.S. creating                                   a mismatch in favor of defenseConfront -  To take on a specific defensive alignmentCorner route -  To the back of the end zone where the sideline and back line meet; the ball is thrown to this spot                         and the receiver catches it high and over his shoulderCorner back -  Defensive secondary man aligned to the outside of the safety and corner linebacker or defensive endCounter play -  A misdirection offensive play that starts in one direction and comes back the other way, usually                        ran between the tacklesCover 0 -  Man coverage, Expect blitz, code name Vegas because their all in.Cover 1 -  Man to man coverage with a free safetyCover 2 -  Corners roll in outside shade position playing short zone; two deep safeties cover half the filed each

Cover 3 -  Three-deep zone with strong safety rotated to formation strengthCover 4 -  Four deep three under or could be three man rush and four underCover 5 -  Two deep, man underCPR -  Term used to help Receiver remember what to do as the ball is coming in their direction, Catch, Protect, RunCrack -  Block from split position inside on a defender, attacking a linebacker, safety or defensive endCradle -  Catching the ball with both hands in either armpitCross -  Deeper route receiver use behind linebacker depth across the middle of the fieldCrossover Step -  Bring one foot over the other foot on the first step, usually a short step; used by a quarterback                            on his dropCrowd the ball -  Offensive linemen line up as close to the football as possible without being offsideCup Blocking -  Pass blocking by the offensive line sealing off the quarterbackCurl -  Route in which the receiver stops,k squares up and sinks inside; ranges in depth from 12 to 15 yardsCushion -  Distance between players or between a receiver and the defensive backs; may vary from one to three yardsCut back -  Quarterback's path changes from one direction to another to beat pursuitCut block -  A block below the knees; defensive players who frequently "get cut" are, in other words,                    having difficulty avoiding cut blocksCut the vertical -  Term use for the quarterback's throwing motion as he rotates his index finger downward through                            the footballDEA'S -  Term used to help QB with reading the what the Corner is going to do. He looks at the Corner and reads              Depth, Eyes, Alignment and StanceDeep -  Any pass that is over 20 yardsDefensive Conflict -  This is when the offense puts the defense in a position that what ever they do is wrong.                                 For example a defensive end who is not sure to play the inside for off tackle play or                                 outside for option play.  Defensive Conflict equals offensive success.Delay -  Pass play that does not begin until the under coverage has dropped; there is about two seconds of delay before the pattern developsDig -  Cross route from one side of the formation to the otherDime -  Situational pass defense featuring six defensive backs.  An extra DB is referred to as the nickel back,             so two extra DBs are two nickels, otherwise known as a dimeDisguise -  Defense hides its intended coverage through its initial alignmentDouble Cadence -  QB calls out signals as if going to run play this forces the defense to show their alignments.                            Then QB reads and adjust play via audible or Omaha (play to opposite side)

Double cover -  Two secondary defenders cover one receiver; can be from a man or zone cover packageDown blocking -  Stepping with the inside foot and blocking inside to wall off the defenderDown the pipe -  Middle of the playing fieldDownhill -  Forth quarter; used as a form of positive psychologyDrag -  Shallow receiver route at linebacker depth or shorter across the middle third of the field; no more            than 10 yards deepDrive -  Series of playsDrive Block -  Block used to create up field movement on a defenderDrop -  Steps and depth QB gets from L.O.S. on pass playsDrop -  Position and depth of a secondary player; usually connected to zone coverDual Read -  When a blocker usually a running back is responsible for the inside and outside linebackers if one comes on a blitz.  If both blitz then he takes MDM, most dangerous man.  Dump the ball off -  Passing  usually to running back after QB has checked for Receivers down fieldEagle -  Where defensive men switch alignments.  Usually a Linebacker and a defensive linemanEagle shade -  Tackles shade inside; usually used in 50 front defenseEast/West -  From sideline to sidelineEat the football -  When QB takes a loss rather than throw the ball away and risk an interceptionEnd over -  Put both ends on the same side of the formation, normally the wide side of the fieldExchange block -  Two offensive linemen switch assignments; sometimes referred to as a cross blockExchange point -  Place where the quarterback and running back meet and the quarterback hands the ball off to the running  backEleven to one rule -  There are eleven of them on defense and one of you; when in doubt block someoneEye Manipulation -  Used by the Quarterback to influence a DB to get him to move in a different direction .  An example would be if the QB wants to throw to his left down the middle he would first look right to get the Free Safety to move right and the the QB would quickly throw back to the open area to the left.Fade -  Action on deeper routes of adjusting body position to flight of ball while maintaining position defenderFalse step -  Jab step by QB in opposite direction of intended movementFBI -  Football IntelligentsField distribution -  Using the whole field length and widthField position -  Area of the field where the offense begins its driveFill -  Block a hole left by a pulling offensive lineman, a running back usually fillsFire zone -  When a linebacker or defensive back blitz while a defensive lineman drops into zone coverageFirm pass pro -  Protection with the objective of b locking along the front without giving

ground; used when throwing short or intermediate passesFirst sound -  Ball is snapped on the first word barked by the quarterback after the team has set for one second.Flagging -  Carrying the football with the elbow away from the bodyFlair control -  Running back flows to one side or the other to influence the linebacker's coverageFlash influence -  Show pass pro quickly and go to assigned block on linebacker or safetyFlex -  Call used for the Tight End to indicate a 4 yard spread between himself and the tackleFlood -  When two or more receivers are sent into one area of the defensive secondaryFlood -  Two or more receivers in one zone; almost always flood patterns are run in the outside third of the fieldFlow -  Direction of pursuit or coverage; almost always flow will be to the footballFly -  Same as fade vertical route deep, with outside releaseFold blocking -  Block that brings an offensive lineman up inside the next offensive lineman; can be a tackle inside guard or guard around centerFootball position -  knees-bent, buttocks-down position assumed before contact or in a head-up movement of backs and receivers on defendersFormation -  Type of alignment in which offensive players position themselves at the on set of a playFour points on the ball -  How the football should be carried with all four points of the football covered with the index finger, bicep, forearm and ribcageFour-down area -  Area on the field when a punt on fourth down is not likely to occur; between +40 yards and opponents goal lineFramework of the offense -  Center, guards, and tackles; also called interior lineFree release -  A back coming out of the back field without any blitz pickup responsibility.G scheme -  Onside Guard pulls and leads or trapsGet off -  Accelerate from stance on count to drive block normallyGo -  Up field vertical routeGo to guy -  Receiver the quarterback is most likely to throw to because of the receiver's proved abilityGood Luck Hand Off, The -  Term used when the Quarterback just gives the ball to a running back and turns to watch without carrying out his fake.  QB's must anchor or make defenders hesitate by carrying out all fakes after handing off.Green area -  Area of the field from the team's own goal line to the -20 yard lineGunner -  The farthest outside position on special teams and typically the first man down to cover a kickH Back -  Blocker, fullback, or tight end used by most teams in short yardage situationsHalf field -  Safeties' responsibility; two-deep tactic used mostly in zone coverageHanging -  Refers to the strong safety not going to the strong flat until the offense has a receiver in or near that areaHard count -  Quarterback changes his voice pitch and head movement in an attempt to draw the defense offsideHelp -  Call another lineman to help double block a defender

High point -  Where the receiver and ball meet when the football flight begins descentHitch -  Stop route that receivers use versus zone cover, usually run 5 to 10 yardsHole -  Designated area between two blockers through which a running back carries the ballHot -  Receiver or back who needs to look for the football immediately after the snap because the quarterback faces a linebacker, usually unblocked and must get rid of the ballHuddle -  Grouping of the team in-which  a play is calledHurry up "O" -  Attempt by the offense to get more plays run; see lengthen the gameImpact -  Player or strategy that changes the circumstances in a gameInfluence -  For a receive or back to move toward a defense and have that defender cover him in order that an other receiver will become open.  Influence direction -   Lineman moves in a direction away from the hole being run, setting up the defender to be blocked by someone else, Action designed to give a defender a false read as to the nature of the playInternal clock -  A clock in the Quarterback's head that tells him how long the play is taking to developIntermediate routes  -Receiver runs behind linebacker drops and in front of deep coverage, about 13 to 20 yards deepInside Out Technique -  A pass protection technique used by backs to pick up an inside blitz first, and , if there is no inside blitz, then check for an outside blitz.Into the boundary -  Area from the near hash mark to the sideline; in high school football, it means one third of the fieldIso -  Play designed to attack a designated defender with a back leading on the linebackerJunction -  When one receiver attempts to get into a position to prevent a defender from covering a teammateKeying -  Quarterback looks at a defensive secondary player to determine where to throw the ballKick out -  Inside out, chest high block, usually used on a contain defenderKick step -  First step of an offensive tackle blocking a wide rush; short drop step with angle of interception to rusherKill the clock -  Quarterback throws the ball into the ground to stop the clockLaunch point -  The place in the pocket where the Quarterback will throw the ball.   This is the area that the Linemen will try to protect.Lead -  One running back goes in front of another to the hole or in front of the play; used mostly on sweeps and iso plays.  Also called Lead Man or Lead BlockerLead play -  Most featured or used play in an offenseLengthen the game -  Use legal methods to stop the clock and gain more chances to make plays; strategies include getting out of bounds, moving in and out of the huddle quickly, throwing the football more than running it and using time outsLive color -  Part of the quarterback's call on the line of scrimmage; when the live color is called, it triggers a change from the called playLock -  form of man to man cover with all defensive backs assigned to someoneLog -  Block outside leg of defender; normally used by pulling guard on defenderLong count -  Holding or lengthening the count beyond the normal count; often used in an attempt to draw the defense offsideLong trap -  Trapping the last defender on the line of scrimmage; normally done by the

off or back side guardLook ball in -  Eye focus on point of football until it meets the handsLOS -  Line of scrimmageMake the play -  Get the job doneMan off coverage -  Man to man press coverage when a defender is backed off the line of scrimmage as opposed to tight bump and run coverageMan protection -  Pass protect blocking with assigned defenders to be blockedMatch ups -  Head to head battles within a game between specific players; an offense can shift its players to create more desired match ups by countering strong defenders with strong offensive personnelMedium -  Area between 12 yards and 20 yards down fieldMike -  Another name for the  middle linebackerMilk the clock -  Take as much time as allowed to run each playMove the pile -  Running back hits the line of scrimmage at maximum speed and delivers sustained contact to the opposition, getting under the defensive players shoulder pads and driving them up fieldMoving pocket -  Quarterback protection for a half roll or waggle action passNear foot technique -  Used as first step on most blocks or pull leadsNet -  Receiver's finger position on the front end of the football when catching itNeutral zone -  Area from one tip of the football to the other, extending to the mid line along the length of the football on the line of scrimmage before the snap; neither the offense nor the defense can invade the neutral zone until after the snapNickel -  Situational pass defense featuring five defensive backsNo Huddle -  Set a the line of scrimmage without a huddle and execute a speed-up offenseNonrhythmic Cadence -  The spacing or pause between digits and or words is irregular and unevenly timedNorth/South -  Form goal line to goal lineOccupy -  Another term used for influence or anchor where a receiver will try to make a defender cover him in order to open up an area for another receiverOff and Soft -  When corner backs in coverage line up at least 7 yards deep on the receiverOff set -  Same as broken I; the fullback sets behind the guard to one side or anotherOff Side -  The side of the line opposite that which the play is being runOmaha -  Used by the QB to audible same play but to the opposite sideOn side -  The side of the line to which the play is directedOver the top -  Running back leaves his feet and goes over the linemen; used in short-yardage and goal line situationsOver strong -  When the defensive front is shifted to the strong sidePass action -  Direction of throwPass off rusher -  Blocking defensive lineman temporarily and then giving him to someone else to blockPass pro -  Type of pass protection used on any given passPass Run Option -  This is the option given to the QB any time he rolls or sprints outPassing Alley -  Vertical lane between the underneath coverage and deep coveragePassing lane -  Area in which QB finds in order to throw the ball between the linemen

Passing Seam    Horizontal area or width between two defendersPeel    Lead blocker moves to the inside and blocks while leading the play up fieldPenetration    When the defense pushes through the offensive line in an attempt to get the quarterback or disrupt the playPerimeter    Edge of the offensive formationPick    Two receivers working together against man coverage to cut off the defenderPicking up the blitz    Running back steps up to block a blitzing linebackerPirate stunt    Involves three defensive linemen two crashing down inside and the nose tackle looping outsidePit the ball    Used to describe where the football should be as the quarterback drops back to pass with the ball about armpit highPitch    Live, underhand passPlant    Pushing off of one footPlateau -  Term used for offensive line when on a double team one of the linemen releases off the double team to block usually a linebacker on the next levelPlug Linebacker    Linebacker who steps up and comes through a gap, assigned or unassignedPocket      Area from which the QB will throw a drop back passPocket protection    Pass protection around the quarterback's throwing position, usually manPoint of attack, POA    Area or player the play is directed to go; a hole in the defense toward which the play is directedPost    Route with a stem of six to eight yards and cut to goalpost; also a block used by one offensive lineman using a drive technique while a teammate squares up and helps drive the defender up fieldPre-Read    Determining coverage before snap by relative positions of the defensive backsPress     Leaning into the defender and maintaining contact with him.  Usually done on goal line patternsPress coverage    Corner jams on the detached receiver on or near the line of scrimmagePre-stance    Tow-point position used before getting into the three-point football positionPrevent Defense    A defense designed to prevent the long pass.   This is a deep zone coverage where the secondary men play much farther from the line of scrimmage, usually allowing short pass completions but not the long passProgression reads    The systems used by most teams wherein the quarterback, in deciding which receiver to throw to, reads defensive keys in a specific sequence, such as beginning down field and then progressing back toward the line of scrimmage or vice versaProtect ball    Cover the ball with the fingers over the point and the ball in the armpit, with one forearm over the ballPull    Player moves from formation alignment behind the line of scrimmage to his designated placePump    Fake throw by the QB to get the defender to move in a particular directionPush concept    Entire line gets movement on the defensive line; get offQuarterback drop    How the quarterback pulls away from the center; this drop can be one, three, five or seven steps

Quick screen    Pass in which there is no delay in the quarterback throwRadar Defense    When nine or more defenders are standing and walking around before the snapReach technique    Blocking to the outside gap, stepping first with the near foot to the outsideRead trap    Running back runs as close as possible to the buttocks of the man trappingReading    Quarterback looks to an area or group of secondary defenders to decide where to throw the ballRed area    Area on the field from the +20 yard line to the opponent's goal lineRegroup    Come together to unite the team and focus on the plan of actionRelease    The movement off the L.O.S. and down fieldRoll out    When QB sets up behind the tackles.Roll-up Corner    Zone coverage with one or both corners rolling up in the face of the receiverRoute relationship    Distance between receivers and the sideline or defenderRub    Receiver brushes in front of a secondary player to allow another receiver to get openRun around    Technique used to push pass rushers beyond the quarterbackRun into good looks    QB job to audible to opposite side if defense is stacked to the area where play is calledRun through the Football    How the Receiver should catch crossing patterns running through the ball on strideRunning with authority    Being physical and hard to tackle, keeping legs moving and using high knee actionSafety valve    Going to a predetermined place and waiting for a pass, usually a running back routeScoop block    Step with the onside foot to the defender and block him on the way to cutting off the linebacker; normally involves the guard and centerScramble block    Block on all fours at the legs of the defender while moving arms and legs in order to cut off position of defenderScramble Rule - Rule for Receivers that tells them what to do once the Quarterback starts to scrambleScraping linebacker    Linebacker flows to play via quickest route, penetrating B or C gapsSeal    maintain a position between the defender and football; usually used by lineman when play goes outsideSecure    Block assignment before continuing on to a secondary assignmentSeparation    Ability of a Receiver to put distance between himself and the defender on a pass patternSeparation    Distance between the defender and receiver; term normally used against man coverSet up    Stopping the back pedal in QB drop under control in position to deliver ballSettle    Sink into a hole in coverage, stop and square up, always from the outside inShifting the ball    Moving the football from one arm to the other, usually away from the defenderShort arm    Pulling down with the elbow and lack of complete arm extension and

follow through on QB deliveryShort arm    Quarterback does not follow through with his delivery; usually happens when he does not step up to throwShort field    In the defense's territory on the plus side of the 50 yard lineShort step    Normally used by the guard on his first or last step of a blockShort trap    Crossing over one offensive position to trap a defenderShorten the game    Use as much time as possible to run down the clock, limiting the number of plays that can be madeShot Gun    Formation in  which the QB lines up 6 yards behind center to receive the ballShoulder Roll    Used by the Quarterback to influence a DB that he is going to throw the ball.  Used for stop and go, hitch and go, side line and up, Sluggo route Slant and goShoulders square    Body position in which the shoulders are parallel to the line of scrimmage (for example, the position the running back takes when carrying the football or blocking).Sideline rule    On deep routes receivers must allow 5 yard cushion for opportunity to fadeSight adjustment    Receiver and quarterback work together with signals to take advantage of the alignment of a defensive backSink    Receiver stays wide and slides back to the quarterbackSky    A strong side term where strong safety had flat-force and corner back has deep thirdSky    Receiver goes up for the football; usually used in the back of the end zoneSlant    Outside receiver's route directly to the inside; quarterback can throw the ball quickerSlide    Used by the receiver once he has found an open area to stay open.  Normally used on the curl patternSlide    Quarterback action that refers to his movement from the setup position; technique receivers use after hooking or curling to the inside or outsideSlide protection    Offensive linemen blocks in the same predetermined directionsSlot back    Running back or receiver lines up inside the widest receiver and at least a yard deepSlow play    Strategy used to run time off the clock (for example, the offensive back carries, then stays on the ground after being tackled until he has to get up).Snap Count    Signals called by the Quarterback while under center to camouflage from defense when ball will be snappedSoft hands    Absorption technique to make a soft catchSoft pass pro    Giving ground in exchange for time during pass protection; used with longer pass playsSpeed cut    Technique used when the defender is playing soft; a rounded corner cutSpeed-up offense    Getting the team in and out of the huddle and getting the play off as quickly as possible; strategy for conserving time on the clockSpill    Quarterback has to run out of the pocket because of a break down in protectionSplit adjustment    Spaces between guards and the tackle and center and guardSpread Formation    Two or more detached receivers are placed on opposite sides to widen the fieldSprint out    5 step depth, 2 step width and attach corner with pass-run option

Stack    A defensive alignment in which one or more of the Linebackers plays directly in back of the defensive linemenStack    Two or three receivers line up in tandem, normally detached from the primary formationStack alignment    Defensively, when linebackers set up behind guards or tackles; offensively, when one receiver sets up behind anotherStalk Block   Blocking technique for Receivers.  Drive off L.O.S. and break down in front of defensive back.  Widen base, remain up and mirror man's movement shielding him from the runnerStem    Action in route prior to primary breakStep up    Quarterback moves forward into a passing lane to throw the ball; also used by the quarterback to get inside or outside the pass rushersobjectiveStop    Timing pass route in which the receiver stops and turns inside or out and looks for the footballStop route    Running back runs out of the backfield to the sideline, stops and faces the quarterbackStraight    Normal alignmentStretch field    Strategy that allows additional room for the play to be runStretch horizontally    Route that widens the coverage toward the sidelineStretch vertically    Depth of the receivers provides more space between them and the line of scrimmage toward the goal lineStrong alignment    Defensive linemen over shift to offensive strong sideStrong Side    The side of the offensive line where the tight end  is lined up, making for more in line blockers than on the opposite (weak) sideSubmarine    Low knee block used in short yardage and on goal line, firing out with extremely low profile and getting under opponent's shoulder padsSurge    Offensive line comes off the  ball and creates up field movementSwap    Two receivers switch routes; used to defeat a specific coverageSwim move    Technique used to get by a defender; normally wide receiver against cornerSwing    Pass route usually run by a running back to one side behind the line of scrimmageSwitch ball    Move the football from one hand and arm to the otherSync    Blend plays to produce the best resultsSystem    Offense or Defense that plays a certain way.  The Wing T, Double Wide and Spread are offensive systems.  Where as the 5-2, 4-3 and 4-4 are defensive systemsTAG  Code name which means both the Tackle and the Guard are going to pull to the Point of Attack.Take it to them    Get in and out of the huddle and be aggressiveTarget    Best place on a defender to make initial contact when blocking; normally shoulder to a number or to hip of defenderTempo    Pace or rhythm of the team's performance; can be fast or slowThird hand    Term use for the quarterback as he takes the ball from center and brings the ball with both hands close to body.  Third-down area    Area on the field when punting is likely on fourth down if a first

down is not made; between own goal and +40 yard lineThrottle    Running under control before making a breakThrottle down    Slow a receiver; used between zones to get in holes of coverageThrow to open    Throw ball away from defender and into an open spot for the receiverThrowing Trajectories    The QB has three basic types of throws which influence the release point of the ball. The Seam throw is thrown with velocity between two defenders.  The Alley throw is thrown between a short defender and deep defender.  The Fly throw  is a deep pass beyond the deepest defender.Thrust    Run through a defender, accelerating at contact pointTime of possession    Amount of time an offense has the ball during a gameTo the field    Going to the wide side, from the placement of the football to the sidelineTop shelf the ball    Used to describe where the football should be as the quarterback takes his gather step and prepares to throw.  Moves the ball from pit to shoulder high.Toss    Dead, two handed flipTouch    Ability to drop ball into the zone or loft over defendersTrack    Line or path a running back takes to the exchange pointTracking    Term use when the QB follows the path of the football rather then look at the spot or receiverTrail technique    Used by defensive backs in man cover; normally one yard inside and one yard behind the receiverTrap Block    When a guard or tackle uses a short pull technique and blocks a defensive lineman who has crossed the line of scrimmageTrey block    Two linemen block two defenders, but two block one first; then one lineman comes off and blocks a secondTrips    Three detached receivers are placed to a given side of the formationTrust & Throw    Once QB makes his drop he has to trust his reads/progressions and throw. Only developed with drills and practice.Turn back    When the entire offensive line drops outside and blocks the first man away from the playTurnover    Offense loses the football to the defense because of an interception or fumbleTwins    Tow detached receivers are split to the same side of the formationTwist line variation    Two defensive linemen switch alignments on the moveTwo deep zone    A type of zone coverage in which each safety is responsible for half of the deep portion of the fieldTwo minute drill    When the offense is attempting to score in the two minutes just before halftime or at the end of the game; strategies include operation without a huddle and focusing or passes instead of runsUnbalance    Place more offensive linemen on one side of the ball than the other in initial formationUnder cover    Area in front of the linebacker and secondaryUse the clock    Quarterback takes as much time as possible to get plays off; strategy for running time off the clockWaggle action -  Quarterback moves in one direction and changes to another; used on run or pass playsWalk Away - Usually refers to a Linebacker who splits out wider than normal and

slightly deeperWall -  Position block high, keeping the body between the ball and the defenderWeak alignment -  Defensive linemen over shift to the offensive weak sideWeak Side -  The side of the offensive line opposite where the tight end lines up.  The Tight End is usually                     considered the strong sideWedge technique -  Step with inside foot and drive block area to inside up fieldWheel -  Route that allows an inside receiver to run out and up,  done by running backs many out of back field              or Wing positionWheel technique -  Block made after linemen checks on the line of scrimmage, then turns to block back side;                              turn back position is one yard behind line of scrimmageWhite area -  Area on the field from the -10 to the +45 yard linesWiden base -  Stand with feet wider than shouldersWing -  Running back aligns one yard behind the line of scrimmage and at least one yard outside the offensive tackle             or tight endZone Coverage -  Each defensive linebacker and secondary man has a certain area of the field to cover rather                           than a specific manZone protection -  Pass protectors blocking area, usually from outside shoulder of blocker to outside shoulder of teammate lined up to the inside