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Your 10 Year Old Son Doesn’t Need a DB Trainer

It happens to me at least once a week. I get a call from a father whose son is between the ages of eight and eleven. The young tyke is playing defensive back in little league, and dad wants to get him some training to improve his performance. This is 100% logical and noble, but it’s also the wrong thing to do.

I’ve definitely been there. When your children are this age, you want to do everything to help them succeed and feel good. At this stage of their life, they are really dependent on you to show them the way. Your efforts to get them with a trainer serve two purposes: first, to give them an edge so that they can feel happy at the end of the game; and second, to teach them how to get an edge in life.

The missing part in all of this—something many parents hesitate to admit—is that when the game is over, you want to feel good about your son’s performance too. After all, what he does is a reflection of you. You want to feel proud like some of the other dads whose sons ripped up the Pee Wee football field. I’m telling you from experience: don’t get caught up in that.

We’d all love for our young children to become prodigies in whatever they pursue. It’s great to get a head start in life and be out in front of the pack. A small percentage of kids are just born with it, while others have to do the work. If your son is born with it, you’ll know it. Some parents, though, get fooled. Their sons may show dominance early because of physical advantages or because they’ve had lessons in the offseason. For that latter group, Saturdays are fun—but in reality, they are robbing their sons of their future.

In the early stages of your son’s football career, what’s most important is having fun, becoming a student of the game, and—most importantly—developing into a great athlete.

When the offseason comes, he doesn’t need to see me or any other DB trainer. What he needs is to play other sports and focus on becoming a strong student. Developing into a great athlete comes from participating in different activities that build a wide range of skills.

If he runs track, he’ll develop the physical skill of efficient running and the mental skill of personal accountability. If he wrestles, he’ll learn the physical skills of leverage and balance, as well as the mental skill of endurance. If he plays baseball, he’ll develop hand-eye coordination and the mental skill of patience. Each sport develops a critical physical and mental skill that will give him “superpowers” when he enters puberty.

Sure, if he sees a DB trainer in the offseason, he’ll develop a good backpedal, be able to flip his hips, and play solid press man coverage—as a nine-year-old. But while he’s doing that, he’s missing out on the benefits of track, wrestling, basketball, baseball, soccer, swimming, and more. When he and his peers hit puberty and they’re all learning how to backpedal, flip their hips, and play press man, he’ll be ahead… at first. But eventually, his peers will catch up on technique—and they’ll also have the added advantage of all the physical and mental tools they gained from playing other sports.

When the kids he once dominated in Little League blow past him because they’re more athletic, it can have a profound effect on him mentally. All the advantages gained at age ten will have evaporated. And I haven’t even started on the kids who played defensive back at age ten but grew into defensive ends by age fourteen. How much time did they waste with that DB trainer?

So, to the parents of the ten-year-old: if you really want to help your son and prepare him for the future, put him in other sports when the offseason comes. Later in life, he’ll thank you for the break from football. Encourage him to develop a love for the strategy and schemes of the game. Trust me—that goes a long way in his football career. And make sure he becomes a quality student. While it might seem like education is less of a priority in today’s sports world, nothing will happen in his post–high school career if he can’t handle being a student. Finally, remember: he still needs time to be a kid. He can find that balance now—or he can act like a child later in life because he was never allowed to be one when he was young.

Of course, you can ignore all this and chase the high of being the proud parent of a ten-year-old who snagged an interception against a quarterback barely big enough for his pads—one who most likely will never see a college football field. If that’s what you’re after, there are plenty of trainers willing to take your money. Experience has taught me not to be one of them.

If you want to help your son improve his knowledge of playing defensive back, check out two great resources I have for you. One is my top-selling book 101 DB Tips, packed with information on how to play the position. I also have the All Eyes DB Camp Members Area, where he can learn about coverages, technique, strategy, and more. [Click here to join]

The Art of Disguising Coverage as a DB

Quarterbacks live on information. Every pre-snap look, every defensive movement, and every alignment clue helps them decide where the ball should go. As a defensive back, if you can control what the quarterback thinks he sees, you can control the play itself. This is where the art of disguising coverage comes in.

A quarterback’s first few seconds after the snap are everything. Offenses are built on timing and rhythm, and disguising coverage is how DBs disrupt both. If you give away your coverage too early, you’re playing on the QB’s terms. If you hold your disguise just long enough, you force him to hesitate — and that hesitation is where sacks, incompletions, and turnovers are born.

Building Effective Disguises

The best disguises start simple. Safeties often begin in a two-high look, even if they’re rolling into Cover 3 or Cover 1 after the snap. Corners can help by hiding their leverage and avoiding early tells in their stance or body angle. The entire secondary must work together, because a disguise is only as good as its weakest link. If one DB tips off the coverage, the illusion is ruined. Patience before the snap is crucial; a defensive back who shuffles, creeps, or adjusts too early gives the quarterback exactly what he wants. After the snap, safeties and nickels must rotate with speed and conviction, selling the shift as if it were always the plan.

Common Disguise Examples

There are countless disguises a defense can deploy. A common one is showing Cover 2 before rotating into Cover 3. Another is lining up in what looks like Cover 1 press man before bailing into Cover 2 zone. Defenses also like to begin with a quarters shell and then roll into a Cover 2 look, making a deep shot appear open until the safeties close down on it. These rotations work because they force quarterbacks to hesitate, and hesitation is death in a rhythm-based passing game.

How to Train Disguises

Training to disguise coverage well starts in the film room. Defensive backs must understand how different quarterbacks react to certain pre-snap looks. Some are patient and won’t be fooled easily, while others will take the bait every time. Walk-throughs are also vital, because disguises require precise timing and consistency. Even more important is communication. Safeties, corners, and linebackers all have to be on the same page, or the disguise collapses into chaos.

The Impact of Mastering Disguise

When defensive backs master the art of disguise, they flip the chessboard. Quarterbacks stop trusting their first read. Wide receivers lose rhythm in their routes. Offenses second-guess themselves. That’s when turnovers happen and momentum swings.

Final Word

Great defensive backs don’t just cover — they manipulate. Disguising coverage is about patience, discipline, and teamwork. It’s not enough to simply play the coverage that’s called. You have to sell it, hold it, and then strike at the right moment. If you can do that consistently, you won’t just defend passes, you’ll control games.

Want More?
For more breakdowns of disguise techniques, rotations, and film examples, join the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area where I go in-depth on strategy and technique every week.

Safeties! Cover Your Man with These Techniques

When most people think of man coverage, the cornerback immediately comes to mind. Hell, we’ve even named their territory “the island.” But make no mistake — man coverage battles aren’t fought only on the edges. Safeties also play a critical role. In this article, we’ll break down safety man coverage techniques that can help DBs win their one-on-one matchups.

When offenses build game plans, after figuring out how to protect the quarterback, they look for mismatches. One of the most common mismatches in man coverage comes when safeties are forced to line up against wide receivers. And in today’s game, those receivers often include athletic tight ends who are major pass-catching threats.

With safeties being targeted more often in man coverage, it’s essential to master the right tools. Here are three key DB techniques for safeties in man coverage.

Catch Technique for Safeties in Man Coverage

The catch technique requires the defensive back to hold his ground at the snap instead of bailing backward. The goal is to disrupt the wide receiver’s release by striking him, moving him off his line, and then attaching to his hip.

While highly effective, this technique is difficult to execute. Staring down a fast receiver sprinting straight at you while you remain still can be intimidating. Inside the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area, I provide drills and breakdowns to help safeties and DBs master this approach.

Catch technique should only be used when the DB is aligned 4–6 yards off the receiver at the snap. Closer puts you in no man’s land, while deeper allows the receiver too much time and speed.

  • Best Coverage Fits: Cover 1 (with potential help from another defender).

  • Risky Situations: Cover 0 (except in the red zone) or Cover 4 against a slot receiver — both can be dangerous with this technique.

Scooch Technique: Man Coverage for Defensive Backs

The scooch technique involves the safety giving up a little ground at the snap while staying square. The aim is to slowly invite the wide receiver into your space, then make contact to alter his route. This is often the go-to method for DBs who struggle with the catch technique. A full tutorial is available in the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area.

Key detail: the staggered stance does not mean opening your hips and giving the receiver a free run. Stay square, strike when possible, and control the release.  Scooch technique can be used when you are aligned at 4-8 yards off.

  • Best Coverage Fits: Cover 0, where safeties can still play semi-aggressive in an aggressive call.

  • Other Uses: Cover 1, but be ready to break quickly on slants, hitches, and quick outs.

  • Use With Caution: Cover 4 — only if you’ve truly mastered the technique, since the receiver has more space to reach max speed.

Pedal Technique in Quarters and Zero Coverage

Some call this old school, but pedal technique is a core DB skill. It involves using your backpedal and weave to maintain an over-the-top relationship with the receiver while staying square. This gives the safety the ability to break in any direction with discipline and control. Inside the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area, I show safeties how to refine their pedal to match modern offenses.  Pedal technique is best used when you can get closer than 8 yards off of the receiver you need to cover.

  • Best Coverage Fits: Cover 0 (backpedal buys time for the rush and prevents giving up the deep ball) and Cover 4 (common when matched against a slot receiver with no help).

  • Not Ideal For: Cover 1 — since you already have help over the top, pedaling just gives the receiver extra room.

Executed well, pedal technique restricts space, alters routes, and puts you in position to play the ball instead of chasing it.

Conclusion: Stay Square, Stay Disciplined

Whether you use catch, scooch, or pedal technique, the key for safeties in man coverage is discipline. Don’t open your hips and give the receiver a free release. Stay square, apply the technique suited for the situation, and refine it through consistent reps. Over time, these tools will sharpen your ability to neutralize mismatches and cut an offense’s passing game to pieces.

Resources for Defensive Backs

How DBs Improve Tackling Angles to Win in the Open Field

When people talk about defensive backs, the conversation almost always leans toward coverage ability, ball skills, or raw speed. What often gets overlooked, however, is tackling. For DBs, tackling isn’t just about making the hit — it’s about angles. The wrong angle can turn a routine five-yard gain into a touchdown. The right angle, on the other hand, erases explosive plays and proves to coaches that you can be trusted.

Angles matter even more for defensive backs because you usually start the play ten to fifteen yards away from the ball. That distance means you’re often arriving late to the play and don’t always have the clearest picture of the ball carrier’s path. More importantly, you’re often the last line of defense. A linebacker can miss and still have help behind him. If a DB misses because of a bad angle, it usually results in points for the offense.

There are several tackling situations that DBs face, and each one requires precision with angles. The open-field tackle is the one-on-one matchup most players fear. When a wide receiver catches a hitch or a running back bounces outside, it’s you against him. If you come in too fast and too high, he’ll cut underneath you and you’ll be left out of position. The correct approach is to close ground quickly but under control, then break down a few yards away so you can react to his move while staying square.

The alley tackle is another important situation, especially for safeties and nickels. If you aim directly at the ball carrier, you’ll almost always give him the edge. The proper angle is inside-out, forcing him back toward your help defenders who are chasing the play. That way, even if you miss, you’ve done your job by funneling the ball carrier into the pursuit.

Sideline pursuit is another angle DBs must master. When the ball bounces wide, you can’t take a straight line to the runner or you’ll get outrun. Instead, you have to run to a spot ahead of the ball carrier and cut him off. By doing this, the sideline becomes your ally. It acts as a twelfth defender, leaving the runner with fewer escape routes and forcing him into your tackle or into pursuit help.

Improving tackling angles comes down to control and leverage. You can’t sprint full speed blindly at the ball. As you close in, you must break down, shorten your stride, and keep your feet active so you’re ready to adjust. Your head and shoulders must be in front of the ball carrier, not trailing behind him. If you’re the force player, you must maintain outside leverage and keep your outside arm free. And above all, you have to trust that the rest of the defense is running to the football. Taking poor angles for the sake of making a highlight hit often does more harm than good.

To sharpen tackling angles, there are several effective drills:

  1. Angle Tackle Drill: Start ten yards away at a 45-degree angle while the ball carrier runs downhill. Work inside-out and strike through the hip.

  2. Sideline Leverage Drill: Have the ball carrier run along the sideline while the DB tracks from depth. The DB must cut off the angle before the sideline closes.

  3. Mirror and Breakdown Drill: The DB closes space on a stationary target, then mirrors the target’s side-to-side movements before finishing the tackle under control.

Coverage will always attract the spotlight, but coaches value DBs who can be counted on to make tackles. If you consistently miss because of poor angles, you won’t stay on the field. If you consistently show sound angles and finish plays, coaches will trust you in big moments. Mastering tackling angles prevents touchdowns, builds trust with your teammates, and sets you apart as a complete defensive back.

Coaching Takeaway

Tackling angles are a difference-maker for DBs. Close space under control, use inside-out leverage in the alley, and run to a spot instead of chasing directly to the ball. Rep it in practice with angle and sideline drills until it becomes second nature.

Want More?

Inside the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area, we go deeper with full breakdowns, drills, and video lessons to help you master tackling, coverage, and ball skills. Join today and get the tools to play the game at the highest level.

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3 Key Things to Remember in Press Coverage

As human beings, we tend to complicate things. It’s in our nature to believe things can’t be that simple, or to overanalyze in search of an edge.

When you’re on the football field—especially playing defensive back—overanalyzing can neutralize your physical skills. In short, it can make you a slower athlete, and we all know slow doesn’t work at the defensive back position.

While I’m not here to oversimplify playing press man, it’s important to point out that the less you have on your mind while playing the technique, the faster you’ll be able to react. With that in mind, there are three key things every defensive back should remember while playing press technique.

Leverage Is Your Friend

While we often use the phrase “on an island” to give the impression we’re all alone on the field, that’s never truly the case. The football field has boundaries, and the receiver you’re covering must stay within them. Offenses also need a certain amount of spacing between routes for things to work properly. And in all man-to-man situations, a defensive back has help—whether it’s a safety over the top, a linebacker underneath, a relentless pass rush that forces the ball out quickly, or the sidelines/end lines.

Defensive backs who understand where their help is can leverage themselves to take full advantage of it. If a wide receiver is close to the sideline, aligning inside can help you use the sideline as an extra defender. If you have help in the post or middle of the field, lining up outside and maintaining that leverage can squeeze the receiver toward your help. Always know where your help is and align accordingly.

You Win With Angles

Route chasing is for losers. Defensive backs who simply follow receivers in press man coverage have limited success. With proper eye discipline and angles, you can cut off routes, frustrate receivers, and make plays.

Don’t be the DB who chases a receiver to the sideline on his release, only to have him stack you and run past you for the ball. Learn how to widen a receiver’s release, then take the correct angle to stay above or on his hip downfield. Similarly, when breaking on the ball, aim for the receiver’s hip to avoid missing the pass. Remember: the quarterback is throwing to the receiver, not to you. As simple as that sounds, many young DBs forget this basic truth.

If you can anticipate where the route will end, you can take the proper angle to meet the receiver there. As one of my best coaches used to say: “Meet him there—don’t try to beat him there.” Studying receiver routes will sharpen your anticipation and improve your coverage angles.

We’re Playing for the Ball

It’s easy to focus so much on a receiver’s hips that you forget about the most important thing on the field—the football. Far too often, defensive backs fail to look for the ball when in coverage.

If you’ve done the work to alter the receiver’s route, attach to his hip, and mirror his moves, why not finish the job by getting your head around and finding the football?

Many DBs are uncomfortable catching the ball, and that’s a bad place to be. You can’t make a living only breaking up passes by watching the receiver’s hands. Real playmakers get in position, turn their heads, and become the receiver when the ball is in the air.

Work on catching the football until it’s second nature. The more comfortable you are, the more likely you’ll be to turn your head and snatch an interception when the opportunity comes.

In Conclusion

Football moves fast, and nowhere is it faster than on the outside where DBs and receivers battle. Awareness and technique are key, but overloading your mind will slow you down. Remember: leverage is your friend, you win with angles, and the ball is what we’re playing for. Keep those three things in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the playmaker you’re meant to be.

For more tips on playing defensive back like a pro, pick up a copy of my bestselling book 101 DB Tips. Hundreds of players like you have used it to level up their game and become elite playmakers.

The Most Important Skills for Defensive Backs — And How Parents Can Help Build Them

As a parent of a young defensive back, you don’t need to know every coverage call or technique term to be a valuable part of your child’s football journey. In fact, your support off the field can make just as much of an impact as any coach or trainer.

If your child is serious about playing cornerback or safety, there are a few key skills that separate average DBs from great ones. The good news? You don’t need a whistle or a chalkboard to help your child develop these — just time, support, and a little bit of structure.

Let’s break down the most important traits for defensive backs and how parents can help build them.

 1. Footwork & Agility

Why it matters: DBs rely on quick, precise movement to mirror wide receivers and change direction on a dime.

How you can help:

  • Encourage your child to spend time doing ladder drills, cone drills, or jump rope a few times per week.
  • Set up quick backyard workouts that involve shuffling, backpedaling, and turning — even 10–15 minutes goes a long way.
  • Look into a local speed and agility program during the offseason.

 2. Eye Discipline & Focus

Why it matters: Defensive backs must read the quarterback, track receivers, and stay locked in under pressure.

How you can help:

  • Film your child’s games or 7v7 reps so they can study their eye placement and reaction times.
  • Help them watch college or NFL DBs and talk through what they’re seeing.
  • Limit distractions when it’s time to focus on homework, film, or training — focus is a muscle.

 3. Football IQ & Situational Awareness

Why it matters: Great DBs know what to expect based on down, distance, formation, and receiver alignment.

How you can help:

  • Ask questions like: “What was the down and distance on that play?” or “What route did he run?”
  • Encourage your child to study coverages and route trees (resources like our All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area can help).
  • Turn watching football on Sundays into a learning opportunity.

 4. Strength & Physicality

Why it matters: Whether it’s pressing at the line or making tackles, DBs need strength to compete.

How you can help:

  • Make sure your child is fueling their body with enough food and water.
  • Support consistent strength training, especially during the offseason.
  • Focus on bodyweight strength first (push-ups, pull-ups, squats) before heavy lifting if they’re younger.

 5. Confidence & Resilience

Why it matters: DBs will get beat sometimes — the key is how quickly they bounce back.

How you can help:

  • After a tough game, don’t criticize — ask, “What did you learn?” or “What would you do differently next time?”
  • Celebrate effort and improvement, not just stats.
  • Remind them that even NFL DBs get beat — the best learn and move on.

 Final Thoughts

Becoming a great DB takes time, effort, and the right mindset — but your support as a parent can make all the difference. Whether it’s encouraging film study, helping them stay consistent with workouts, or simply being a voice of belief after a tough game, your presence matters.

If you’re looking for a clear, easy-to-follow guide that breaks down the fundamentals of playing defensive back — from technique to mindset — check out my book 101 DB Tips.

It’s written for players of all levels, and it’s the perfect starting point for parents who want to better understand the position and how to support their athlete.

Grab your copy here: 101dbtips.com

Let’s build smarter, sharper defensive backs — one tip at a time.

Let’s keep sharpening the tools — together.

How to Use Coverage Tags to Teach and Execute Match Coverage More Effectively

Match coverage is a powerful blend of man and zone principles that allows defenses to adapt to modern offensive route combinations. But to make it work, your defenders must master two key fundamentals: leverage and landmarks. These elements determine positioning, technique, and ultimately success in matching routes across formations and motion.

What is Leverage in Match Coverage?

Leverage refers to a defender’s positioning in relation to a receiver’s alignment and likely route. It helps dictate how a DB will cover his man if he goes vertical or breaks off the route. There are two types to teach your players:

  • Inside Leverage – Used when the defender positions himself between the receiver and the ball. Great for taking away slants, posts, and digs.
  • Outside Leverage – Defender aligns outside of the receiver. This leverage is ideal for pushing routes toward inside help (like linebackers or safeties) and for taking away out-breaking routes.

Choosing the right leverage is based on the coverage call, the receiver’s split, and route tendencies. A well-coached unit understands the “why” behind their leverage — not just where to line up.

What are Landmarks?

Landmarks refer to imaginary or fixed points on the field that guide a defender’s drop, zone depth, or coverage responsibilities. In match coverage, landmarks ensure defenders are in the right place to match routes as they develop. Common landmarks include:

  • The Hashes – For safeties and inside zone defenders to align and recognize route stems.
  • Numbers – Used by corners and outside defenders to maintain spacing and understand when they must carry a vertical route or pass it off.
  • Top of the Numbers – Often used as a break point for out-breaking routes or zone drop targets for linebackers.

Without a solid understanding of these landmarks, defenders often drift or find themselves “in space” rather than being where they need to be.

Drills and Coaching Tips

  • Walk-throughs with Cones – Use cones to represent hashes, numbers, and landmarks. Teach defenders how to use them to guide their drops and coverage angle.
  • Film Sessions – Show players where their leverage broke down or where a missed landmark allowed a completion.
  • Route Recognition Reps – Simulate route stems that test leverage (slants, corners, digs, fades) and force defenders to adjust in real time.

Final Thoughts

Teaching leverage and landmarks isn’t flashy — but it’s foundational. The best match coverage units operate with clarity and speed because they trust their positioning and understand their spatial cues. As you install match coverage this season, build in time to teach, re-teach, and rep leverage and landmarks until it becomes second nature.

If you’re a coach looking to take your DB group to the next level, our All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area has dozens of videos and resources breaking down match coverage, leverage strategies, and practice drills. Join now for a 7-day free trial.

Pattern Matching 101: How to Simplify Rules for Young DBs

One of the biggest barriers to running match coverage effectively at the high school level is overcomplication. Coaches install pattern match principles that sound good in theory but fall apart on Friday nights because the DBs are swimming in rules, unsure of what to do post-snap.

The fix isn’t dumbing things down. The fix is clarity and structure. In this article, we’ll break down how to teach pattern matching simply, focusing on common routes, clear rules, and repeatable language that allows your DBs to play fast and confident — not confused and reactive.

What Is Pattern Matching — In Simple Terms?

Pattern matching is zone coverage that turns into man once receivers declare their routes. Think of it like “man rules within zone structure.” You’re not dropping to grass and reacting late — you’re matching threats and route combinations based on alignment, depth, and release.

But for it to work, DBs must have clear rules that tell them:

  • Who they’re responsible for

  • What to do when routes break off or cross

  • Where their help is

The Problem: Too Many If/Then Rules

Let’s say you’re teaching a Quarters scheme. Most high school DBs get stuck with coaching like:

  • “If #2 goes out and #1 goes vertical, then you’re locked.”

  • “But if #2 goes vertical inside and #1 curls, then zone off.”

  • “Unless it’s Trips and you get 3 verts — then you poach.”

That sounds great in a clinic talk. On the field? It’s information overload.

The Solution: Anchor Everything to Route Distribution Rules

Here’s a better approach: simplify coverage responsibilities around 3 core decisions that every DB must make post-snap.

1. Who’s Threatening Me Vertically?

Teach corners, safeties, and overhangs to first identify vertical threats.

Basic rule:

“If your key releases vertically past linebacker depth, match him.”

Examples:

  • Quarters Corner: If #1 goes vertical → match.

  • Safety: If #2 goes vertical → match.

This one rule already clarifies 70% of match scenarios.

2. Did My Receiver Go Inside, Outside, or Short?

The second key decision: Where did my man go and what’s the next threat?

Use easy triggers:

Route Release Action
Inside Under 5 yds Zone off & look for the next threat (often a dig or crosser)
Outside under 5 yds Pass it, then find work
Vertical Match
Inside over 5 yds Carry unless replaced by another route

Phrase to teach:

“Match vertical, pass shallow, carry deep inside.”

That single sentence simplifies 90% of their post-snap reaction.

3. Where’s My Help?

Once your DB knows who’s vertical and where their man is going, they need to understand who else is in the picture.

Coach it like this:

  • “Corners have outside leverage help in Quarters.”

  • “Safeties have inside help from the Mike in 2 Read.”

  • “Overhangs have no help — handle the flat or carry vertical.”

Use visual installs, whiteboard walkthroughs, and call out “Who’s your help?” during practice to build understanding and anticipation.

Match Coverage Simplified: An Install Example

Let’s take a 2×2 Quarters formation and walk through simplified pattern match rules for your secondary.

For Corners:

  • Key #1: If he goes vertical → match him.

  • If #1 runs a hitch or out → break and drive it.

  • If #1 runs a dig or curl and #2 goes vertical → zone off and midpoint both.

For Safeties:

  • Key #2: If he goes vertical → match him.

  • If #2 goes under → zone off and rob curl/dig.

  • If both WRs go vertical → midpoint between 1 and 2 (Bracket concept).

Tips for Coaches: Teaching Match Without Confusion

  1. Start with Trips and 2×2 separately
    Don’t blend it all at once — isolate and master each.

  2. Use route trees in install
    Teach each common combo: Smash, Drive, Vert Switch, Mesh.

  3. Name combos, not coverages
    “Drive = cross and dig. Here’s how we play it.” This sticks better than abstract coverage names.

  4. Use film cutups often
    Show how these rules apply with actual game clips. Visual > verbal.

  5. Call out the rules in practice
    In real time, yell: “What did #2 do?” or “Was that vertical or under?” to reinforce post-snap reads.

Final Thought

You don’t need an NFL-level playbook to coach match coverage effectively. You need rules that stick, language that’s repeatable, and confidence that’s built through clarity.

Simplify your installs, emphasize verticals, shallow releases, and help responsibilities — and your young DBs will go from guessing to reacting like pros.

Want Pre-Built Match Coverage Installs and Cutups?

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Zone Eyes vs. Man Eyes: A DB’s Guide to Visual Discipline

One of the biggest challenges for defensive backs at every level is understanding where to put their eyes — and keeping them disciplined when the action starts. Whether you’re playing press-man, off-man, or zone coverage, the difference between making a play and getting beat often comes down to your eyes.

This article breaks down the difference between “zone eyes” and “man eyes” — and how mastering both can elevate your game instantly.

What Are “Man Eyes”?

Man eyes are used when you’re playing man-to-man coverage. Your primary visual focus is on the receiver — specifically, his hips, which give away movement and change of direction.

Key Points of Man Eyes:

  • Eyes are locked on the receiver, not the QB.

  • Watch hip level, not head or shoulders.

  • Don’t peek at the QB until you’re in-phase (hip to hip).

  • Used in: press-man, off-man, or match coverage once a man is declared.

❌ Common Mistakes:

  • Watching the quarterback too early and losing the receiver.

  • Watching the head and getting faked out on releases or double moves.

  • Switching to zone eyes in the middle of a man assignment.

What Are “Zone Eyes”?

Zone eyes are used when you’re responsible for an area, not a specific man. Your eyes should help you see threats entering your zone and read the QB to anticipate routes.

Key Points of Zone Eyes:

  • Vision starts on the QB, then snaps to route threats.

  • Key the shoulders, hips, and drop of the QB to anticipate timing.

  • See the big picture — multiple routes and route combos.

  • Used in: Cover 2, Cover 3, quarters (zone versions), cloud, etc.

❌ Common Mistakes:

  • Getting too locked in on a receiver and missing crossers or curls.

  • Losing vision of the QB and reacting late to throws.

  • Abandoning zone responsibility and chasing receivers like it’s man.

When to Use Each — And Why It Matters

Your ability to switch between zone eyes and man eyes depending on the coverage is what separates good DBs from great ones.

Coverage Type Eye Discipline Needed
Press-Man Man Eyes
Off-Man Man Eyes
Cover 2 Corner Zone Eyes
Cover 3 Corner Zone Eyes
Quarters (MOD) Zone to Man Eyes
Match Coverage Zone Eyes → Man Eyes

In match coverages or combo schemes, you may start with zone eyes and then convert to man eyes once a specific route or threat declares. Knowing when to make that switch is next-level stuff — and it takes practice, film study, and reps.

Training Eye Discipline

Eye discipline isn’t just mental — it’s physical and must be trained. Here are a few ways we work on this in the All Eyes DB Camp:

  1. Mirror & Match Drills – To reinforce reading hips in man coverage

  2. Zone Vision Break Drills – Starting with eyes on QB, then breaking on routes

  3. Film Study Breakdown – Slowing down plays to analyze eye mistakes

  4. Route Recognition Work – Pairing eye placement with route combinations

Coach’s Corner

As a coach or trainer, you should be constantly asking:

  • “Where were your eyes on that rep?”

  • “Who were you reading?”

  • “What triggered your break?”

Film your players and pause clips mid-play. Ask them: “What are you looking at right here?” You’ll be amazed how many reps get blown not because of feet or hips — but because of eyes.

Final Thought: Eyes Make or Break You

A defensive back’s greatest asset isn’t just speed or agility — it’s discipline. And nothing reveals discipline more than eye placement.

Know your job. Know your coverage. And keep your eyes where they belong.

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Reading Route Triangles in Match Zone Coverage

Unlocking Smarter DB Play Through Route Recognition

In today’s pass-heavy game, defensive backs are no longer just covering grass — they’re processing route combinations, reading threats, and making real-time decisions. One of the most important tools a DB can develop is the ability to read route triangles in match zone coverage.

If you want your DBs to thrive in quarters, palms, or any match-based coverage, they need to understand how routes develop in their zone and how to respond.

Let’s break it down.

What is a Route Triangle?

A route triangle is a concept used to describe the three threats that typically emerge in a defender’s zone during a pass play — usually one short, one intermediate, and one deep. These threats can come from different receivers, depending on formation and motion.

In match coverage, defenders aren’t dropping to spots; they’re reacting to routes within their space. The triangle helps them identify priorities.

Examples of Route Triangle Threats by Position

  • Cornerbacks (in Quarters or Palms):

    • Deep: Fade/post by #1

    • Intermediate: Out or dig by #2

    • Short: Bubble/swing from #3 or a quick out from #1

  • Safeties:

    • Deep: Post or seam by #2

    • Intermediate: Dig/cross by #3

    • Short: Under route or hitch from #2

  • Nickels/Overhangs:

    • Deep: Wheel route from #3

    • Intermediate: Out/in by #2

    • Short: Flat route from #3 or screen

Understanding where those threats come from allows DBs to anticipate combinations like Smash, Flood, or Dagger before the ball is even released.

How to Train Route Triangle Recognition

  1. Film Study with Intent
    During film breakdown, isolate triangle threats by watching how the offense layers routes in specific areas of the field. Use slow motion to pause and ask:
    “If I’m the safety, who are my three threats here?”
    “Which route tells me the ball might go short?”

  2. Install Triangle Concepts into 7-on-7
    Instead of generic 7-on-7, have your offense run common triangle concepts like Levels, Snag, or Mesh. Teach your DBs how to read high-to-low or outside-in depending on their assignment.

  3. Chalk Talk & Pattern Recognition
    Use whiteboards or tablet apps to walk through triangle combos. Quiz your players:

    • “What if #2 goes vertical and #3 runs to the flat?”

    • “How does that change your leverage?”

  4. Call & Response Drills
    In practice, run route stems and have DBs call out their triangle threats in real time. This promotes communication and fast processing.

Common Match Coverage Mistakes with Route Triangles

  • Biting on the first break without processing the route stack

  • Losing sight of #3 in 3×1 formations — especially when #3 runs the wheel

  • Over-committing to the flat too early in Palms, leaving a corner route open

  • Not communicating the route switch when two threats cross zones

Teaching your DBs to see the big picture rather than just reacting to one route will elevate their play — and reduce explosive plays.

Why It Matters

College offenses are packaging route combos better than ever. If your DBs aren’t taught to diagnose route triangles, they’re simply guessing in the secondary. By implementing triangle recognition into your match coverage, you’re giving your defense the mental advantage it needs to shut down layered passing concepts.

Want More Advanced DB Concepts Like This?

Get exclusive access to in-depth film breakdowns, coverage clinics, and weekly DB tutorials in the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area — your go-to resource for taking your DB room to the next level.

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