By: Chad Wilson
IG: @alleyesdbcamp
In the intricate game of football, the fade pattern serves as a potent weapon in an offense’s playbook. Designed to exploit a receiver’s height and or speed advantage, this play involves a deep pass to the corner of the end zone. For defensive backs, defending the fade pattern demands a combination of skill, timing, and positioning. In this article, we’ll explore the art of defending the fade pattern, offering strategies and techniques for defensive backs to effectively counter this challenging play.
The Anatomy of the Fade Pattern
The fade is the most feared route in the receiver’s route tree. The pattern is executed when a wide receiver lines up wide, often near the sideline, and runs a straight route towards the end zone. The quarterback aims to throw a high-arcing pass to a spot where only the receiver can make a play on the ball. This play is especially effective when the receiver has a size advantage over the defending cornerback.
Key Strategies for Defending the Fade
1. Understanding the Situation
Successful defense starts with situational awareness. Recognize the down and distance, as well as the field position. In the red zone, the likelihood of a fade pattern increases, so defensive backs should be prepared to adjust their technique accordingly. Aligning according to your help increases your chances of successfully defending the route. If you have help inside, making a solid effort to keep outside leverage could help you change the shape of the pattern and move the receiver closer to the sideline if he insists on getting outside. Being aware that there is no help vs the pattern can allow you to adjust your alignment and technique to play inside out and most likely play the hands versus the route.
2. Physical Jam at the Line
Jamming the receiver at the line of scrimmage disrupts the timing of the fade. By applying pressure and redirecting the receiver’s release, the defensive back can throw off the intended path and buy time for teammates to provide support. The fade is typically a pattern that requires the QB to release the ball quickly. If the timing is disrupted, it could lead to the QB holding the ball longer or making a throw that is off timing. Also, reducing the space to place the ball can lead to a poor throw.
3. Attach to the Hip
Once the receiver releases, maintain close proximity and mirror their movements. Effective footwork is key in staying on the receiver’s hip, denying separation, and preventing an easy catch. The goal is to stay in a position where you can contest the catch point. Remember the ball typically comes out quick. After disrupting the release, getting to the receiver’s hip and crowding his space is key. When the ball arrives, it is best to be up against the receiver’s body in an effort to be able to reach a throw placed anywhere on the body.
4. Timing the Jump
As the pass is released, focus on the receiver’s eyes and hands. When the receiver begins to extend their arms to make the catch, it’s time for the defensive back to time their jump. Jumping at the right moment increases the chance of disrupting the receiver’s ability to make a clean catch. This often overlooked point leads to a lot of catches that shouldn’t be. Many times you will see the defensive back jump early and be on his way down as the ball arrives. This allows the receiver to go up and over the defender for the easy catch. Other times the DB will jump too late which also results in an easy catch for the receiver.
5. Locating the Ball
Locating the ball while maintaining tight coverage is essential. Turn your head at the right time to locate the flight of the ball. While doing so, maintain contact with the receiver and be prepared to adjust your body positioning to make a play on the ball. This key element is where a lot of defensive backs go wrong. Know what type of QB you are playing against. If you are playing the type of that throws line drives on the fade then turn around early because the throw will be low. If the quarterback is an air under the ball type of guy then maybe you look later in the route or prepare to play the hands as the receiver bends to the sidelines for the ball.
6. High-Pointing the Ball
When making a play on the ball, aim to “high-point” it—meaning you reach for the ball at its highest point to minimize the receiver’s ability to make a clean catch. Timing and leaping ability are crucial for achieving this technique successfully. Some defensive backs will try to defend an under thrown ball by just running. This should be avoided. Do yourself a favor and leave Earth to get the football. For starters, it may block the vision of the receiver. Second, he will likely jump and there’s a chance that he’ll reach over you. That can be a particularly embarrassing situation. Always seek to high point the football and catch it away from your body. Beat the receiver for the football.
Defending the fade pattern is a challenge that requires a unique blend of athleticism, awareness, and timing. By understanding the situation, employing physicality at the line of scrimmage, and executing proper techniques like mirroring, timing the jump, and high-pointing the ball, defensive backs can effectively neutralize the fade pattern. In the high-stakes world of football, mastering the art of defending the fade empowers defensive backs to rise above the challenge and make game-changing plays that can turn the tide in favor of their team.
Chad Wilson is the owner of All Eyes DB Camp and author of "101 DB Tips". He played college football at the University of Miami and briefly in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks. Over his 15 year high school football coaching career, he tutored over a dozen Division I defensive backs and as a trainer has worked with NFL All Pros, first round draft picks, college football All Americans and Top 10 ranked high school football prospects.
