The Lockdown U Blog | All Eyes DB Camp

7 Must-Read Books to Elevate Your Defensive Back Skills and Football IQ

**1. 101 DB Tips by Chad Wilson**

Why It’s Great: A complete guide specifically for defensive backs, written by a seasoned coach and trainer. It covers stance, press technique, footwork, backpedal, alignment, and ball skills.

Where to Find It: 101 DB Tips

Who It’s For: High school, college players, and DB coaches.

**2. Take Your Eye Off the Ball 2.0 by Pat Kirwan**

Why It’s Great: While not exclusively for DBs, this book enhances football IQ by breaking down the game’s complexities, including defensive strategies and schemes.
Where to Find It: Amazon or online bookstores.
Who It’s For: Players and coaches who want a deeper understanding of football.

**3. The Art of Smart Football by Chris B. Brown**

Why It’s Great: Focuses on understanding offensive and defensive concepts, helping you anticipate plays and react better.
Where to Find It: Amazon, Kindle.
Who It’s For: DBs looking to improve football IQ and scheme recognition.

**4. Football Skills & Drills by Tom Bass**

Why It’s Great: Covers the essential techniques for all positions, including defensive backs. It includes drills and skills for tackling, coverage, and ball skills.
Where to Find It: Amazon or local online bookstores.
Who It’s For: Players at any level.

**5. Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim Grover**

Why It’s Great: Focuses on mindset, which is critical for DBs who need confidence and resilience. Written by a legendary performance coach.
Where to Find It: Amazon, Audible.
Who It’s For: Athletes looking to develop mental toughness.

**6. Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi**

Why It’s Great: Offers insights into building a winning mentality and understanding how great defenses operate, including DB play.
Where to Find It: Amazon, Audible.
Who It’s For: Players and coaches looking for strategic inspiration.

**7. Building the Best DBs: A Coach’s Manual by Kenny Wilhite**

Why It’s Great: Offers step-by-step coaching techniques for defensive backs, focusing on fundamentals, drills, and situational awareness.
Where to Find It: Online football coaching resources or Amazon.
Who It’s For: Coaches and advanced players.

Bonus Resource: All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area

Why It’s Great: Exclusive access to defensive back-specific training, tutorials, and drills tailored for DBs looking to excel.

Where to Find It: All Eyes DB Camp

Who It’s For: Players and coaches who want premium DB content.

What is a Nickel Back in Football?

In the ever-evolving game of football, defensive strategies have become increasingly complex, with players filling specialized roles to counter high-powered offenses. One of the most important yet often misunderstood roles on defense is the nickel back. So, what exactly is a nickel back in football, and why is this position critical to a team’s success?

The Basics: Defining the Nickel Back

The term “nickel back” refers to a defensive player, usually a cornerback or defensive back, who comes onto the field as the fifth defensive back in a formation. The name “nickel” comes from the addition of the fifth defensive back, akin to the five-cent coin. Typically, the nickel back replaces a linebacker in defensive formations to add more speed and coverage ability when the offense is expected to pass.

The Role of the Nickel Back

A nickel back is a versatile defender with responsibilities that vary based on the defensive scheme and offensive formation. Here are some of their primary duties:

Covering Slot Receivers: Offenses often use slot receivers to exploit mismatches in the middle of the field. The nickel back is tasked with covering these quick and agile receivers, requiring excellent footwork, speed, and coverage skills.
Supporting Against the Run: While primarily a pass defender, the nickel back must also contribute to stopping the run. This often involves shedding blocks from slot receivers or tight ends and making tackles in space.
Blitzing: Defensive coordinators frequently use the nickel back in blitz packages. A well-timed blitz from a nickel back can disrupt the quarterback’s timing and force hurried throws or even sacks.
Playing Zone Coverage: In zone schemes, the nickel back might be responsible for covering the flat, curl zones, or short middle areas, requiring sharp instincts and awareness to track multiple routes.

When is a Nickel Back Used?

The nickel back becomes essential in situations where the offense is likely to pass, such as third-and-long scenarios or when the opposing team uses multiple wide receiver sets (three or more). Modern football, with its emphasis on spread offenses and quick passing games, has made the nickel defense a staple for many teams, often used as much or even more than traditional base defenses.

Key Traits of a Successful Nickel Back

To excel as a nickel back, a player must possess a unique blend of skills:

Quickness and Agility: Slot receivers are known for their speed and sharp route-running, so the nickel back must be able to keep up with them.
Physicality: Despite often being smaller than linebackers, nickel backs must be willing to mix it up in the run game and fight through blocks.
Football IQ: Understanding offensive tendencies and reading plays quickly is critical for success.
Tackling Ability: Open-field tackling is a crucial skill, as nickel backs often face ball carriers one-on-one.

Evolution of the Nickel Back

The nickel back’s importance has grown with the rise of pass-heavy offenses. In earlier decades, defenses primarily relied on four defensive backs. However, as offenses introduced more wide receivers and spread the field, the need for additional coverage players became evident. Today, some teams even use “dime” packages (six defensive backs) or “big nickel” formations, featuring an additional safety in the nickel role.

Famous Nickel Backs in Football

Several players have made a name for themselves in the nickel role, showcasing the value of this position. Names like Kenny Moore, Tyrann Mathieu, Chris Harris Jr., and Mike Hilton are synonymous with exceptional nickel play, combining coverage skills with the physicality to impact both the passing and running games.

The nickel back is a vital component of modern defensive football, bridging the gap between traditional cornerbacks and linebackers. As offenses continue to innovate, the importance of this role will only grow. Understanding what a nickel back does not only deepens your appreciation of the game but also highlights the strategic chess match between offensive and defensive coordinators.

So, the next time you hear a commentator mention the nickel defense or see an extra defensive back take the field, you’ll know exactly what’s happening and why this position is crucial to a team’s success.

I go more in-depth about how to become an elite nickel back with the proper techniques and training in the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area. I also cover a lot of great techniques, tips and tricks for nickel backs in my popular selling book 101 DB Tips, you can get a copy here.

Why Ball Skills Are the Most Important DB Skill in Today’s Game

In today’s pass-heavy era of football, defensive backs face more pressure than ever to be playmakers. Offenses are spreading the field, quarterbacks are more accurate, and receivers are faster and more skilled. As a DB, being “in position” is no longer good enough—you need the ball skills to turn opportunities into takeaways. Here’s why mastering ball skills is now the most critical skill for defensive backs and how you can elevate your game.

1. The Rise of the Passing Game

Football has evolved. Teams at all levels—high school, college, and the pros—are passing more than ever. Spread offenses and air raid concepts force defenses to cover more space and defend more passes.

Stat Alert: In the NFL, teams are throwing the ball nearly 60% of the time, a number that has steadily increased over the last two decades.
What This Means for DBs: Defensive backs are being targeted more frequently. This gives you more chances to make plays, but it also exposes weaknesses in your ball-tracking ability if you don’t take advantage.

2. PBUs Aren’t Enough Anymore

Pass breakups (PBUs) are nice—they prevent completions—but the reality is that PBUs don’t change games. Interceptions do. A PBU means the offense still has the ball. An interception takes it away and gives your team an opportunity to score.

Defensive backs who excel at creating turnovers become difference-makers for their teams.
College coaches and NFL scouts value DBs who can take the ball away because turnovers win games.

The goal should always be to turn a PBU into a pick. A receiver gets two hands on the ball, so why shouldn’t you?

3. Ball Skills Separate Good from Great DBs

There’s a reason why players like Ed Reed, Deion Sanders, Xavien Howard and Trevon Diggs stand out—they make plays on the ball. Ball skills are the difference between being a lockdown corner who simply prevents catches and being a game-changer who creates momentum-shifting turnovers.

Ball skills include:

Tracking the Ball: Being able to locate the ball while in coverage.
Positioning: Knowing how to stack the receiver, adjust your leverage, and put yourself in the best spot to make a play.
Hands: Being able to catch the ball cleanly in traffic, high-pointing it when necessary.
Awareness: Understanding where the ball is going based on the quarterback’s eyes and receiver’s route.

Great defensive backs don’t wait for the ball to hit them—they attack the ball as if they are the receiver.

4. How to Improve Your Ball Skills

If you want to dominate in today’s game, here are four key ways to sharpen your ball skills:

Repetition with High-Point Drills
Practice catching the ball at its highest point. Set up drills where you have to jump and time the ball perfectly, simulating game situations.
Blind Ball Drills
Work on turning your head late to locate the ball. This improves your tracking skills and reaction time, two crucial elements of ball skills.
Use Smaller Balls
Train with tennis balls or lacrosse balls to improve focus and hand-eye coordination. If you can consistently catch smaller objects, catching a football will feel natural.
Play Like a Receiver
Incorporate route-running and catching drills into your training. Understanding how a receiver approaches the ball will make you better at attacking it.

5. The Value of Turnovers in Today’s Game

Coaches preach “takeaways” because they’re game-changers. A well-timed interception can stop a scoring drive, flip field position, and energize your team. Defensive backs with elite ball skills don’t just prevent touchdowns—they create opportunities to score.

College recruiters are actively looking for DBs who can turn defense into offense. Highlight reels showing interceptions will grab their attention more than just good coverage.
In big games, one turnover can be the difference between winning and losing.

Conclusion

In today’s game, ball skills are what separate good defensive backs from elite ones. A defensive back who can track the ball, high-point it, and turn PBUs into interceptions is invaluable to any team.

If you’re ready to take your ball skills to the next level, focus on improving your tracking, catching, and reaction drills. Great DBs aren’t just playing defense—they’re making plays. Start working now, because turnovers are currency in football, and the best DBs know how to cash in.

For more drills, tips, and techniques to develop your ball skills and dominate as a defensive back, join the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area where we break down everything you need to become a game-changer. Click here to learn more!

A Complete DB: What I Look For

With camp season upon us, I want to take a moment to let my readers know what impresses coaches and can catch their attention as you hit the circuit. Part of my coaching experience involved attending many camps where I evaluated athletes for advancement or MVP opportunities. Here are five things I focus on when evaluating defensive backs.

Good eye discipline

This should come as no surprise, considering the name of my company is “All Eyes DB Camp,” but let’s dive into why it matters. I always say you couldn’t play this position blind, and even playing with an eye patch would be tough. However, you could play with an ankle sprain or a broken hand. That highlights how critical your eyes are. Most mistakes a defensive back makes result from having their eyes in the wrong place. When I introduce a drill to a group of athletes, I give clear instructions on where their eyes should be. If they struggle to follow that instruction, it’s a red flag. It’s not a deal breaker, but it does indicate a longer road to reaching their potential. Train your eyes by focusing on the correct spot in every drill—no exceptions. Discipline in this area builds consistency and prevents costly errors.

Quick feet

As they say, “Slow feet don’t eat.” While other positions might allow for slower footwork, defensive back is not one of them. Your contact with the ground must be constant, consistent, and rapid. Quick feet can cover mistakes, close gaps faster, and make offenses pay. A great way to evaluate foot quickness is with a simple backpedal drill. Slow backpedals rarely translate into quick feet during other movements, like crossovers, breaks, or hip flips. A DB with elite top-end speed but slow feet will struggle with consistent separation, often running out of time to make a play.

Solid change of direction

Quick feet don’t always guarantee the ability to change direction efficiently. I’ve seen athletes with exceptional backpedals who struggle to transition out of them. Similarly, some players excel running in one direction but falter when asked to reverse suddenly. Fortunately, this is one of the easier areas to improve, provided the athlete has basic strength and quickness. Proper body positioning is often the key to quick direction changes. I use W drills to evaluate this skill, which involves breaking out of a backpedal, shuffle, and crossover run. Athletes should work on these movements ahead of camp to shine during evaluations.

Quality ball skills

Being in position is great, but it’s meaningless if you can’t take the ball away. Defensive backs often celebrate pass breakups (PBUs), but a PBU is only half the job done—it’s half an opportunity denied and half another opportunity granted. The name of the game today is takeaways. A strong ability to track the ball, position yourself, and complete the catch is a superpower. It’s the skill that earns offers, awards, and contracts. I evaluate ball skills with a series of drills: catching passes while running toward me, away at an angle, or straight away. Blind ball drills, where the athlete must turn their head late to locate the ball in flight, are excellent for assessing this skill. If your ball skills are average or below, get busy sharpening them now. Dropping balls during drills will hurt your confidence and your evaluation.

Confidence and football IQ

I’ve combined these two because they’re often connected. Confidence comes from knowing what to do, and knowledgeable DBs are almost always confident. When you know all the answers to the test, the pressure of the moment feels manageable. Defensive backs operate in high-pressure situations: on the island, in open space, or as the last line of defense. Athletes who study the game thrive in these moments because they anticipate plays and react without hesitation. During camp, I evaluate confidence during 1-on-1 situations. A DB’s technique and demeanor matter more to me than the outcome of the rep. In 7-on-7 portions, I focus on their football IQ—how well they understand basic concepts and how quickly they adapt to new information. Being knowledgeable, curious, and a fast learner leads to long-term success at the position.

These are the five most critical traits I evaluate in defensive backs at camps. While they’re not the only factors, they allow me to make the most accurate forecasts of a player’s future.

Mastering these skills isn’t just about impressing at camps—it’s about elevating your game to the next level. In the All Eyes DB Camp member’s area, you’ll find exclusive drills, techniques, and strategies designed to refine your eye discipline, footwork, ball skills, and more. Join a community of like-minded athletes and coaches committed to being the best on the field. Click here to become a member today!

Why Are You Handsy?

When it comes to man coverage—and press coverage in particular—there’s an order to things. Far too often, defensive backs put the cart before the horse in their press technique, and by that, I mean it becomes hands first. I hate to break it to you, my friends, but just like when you’re with a woman, the hands come last. Allow me to explain.

As I say in my book 101 DB Tips, the hands are the icing on the cake. Before the hands, the eyes must be in the right place. Before the hands, the feet have to put you in the proper position. Only then can we involve our hands in this press-man party.

Far too often, the moment the wide receiver moves, defensive backs activate their hands—and do so at the exclusion of the other two main ingredients. Get ready to put an ugly cake on the table. And I’m pretty sure it’s not going to taste very good either.

Now that we’ve established that the hands are last in the pecking order of the press-man assembly line, let’s talk about how you can get things lined up right.

It Starts with Your Eyes

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, and that applies here. If you’re going to get everything lined up and have a successful press-man rep, you really have to make sure your eyes are right. Find something on the wide receiver to focus on—something on, at, or near his waist. If there’s a logo on his pants, focus on that. If there’s a small spot on his pants or anything else in that area, draw your focus to it. As it moves, keep your eyes locked.

When you practice and train, never begin a rep without doing this. Your eyes start the engine on this press-man car. Don’t attempt to put the car in drive or turn the steering wheel without first starting the engine. Make your eyes the focus. Even when you’re doing drills that don’t involve a partner, imagine that one is there and keep your eyes in the right place.

Marry the Feet to the Eyes

Typically, this happens naturally. When the eyes are right, the feet usually follow—but only when the feet know what to do. So, spend some time learning what the right steps are in press.

For beginners, keep a solid base. Whether you’re using hard press or any number of soft press techniques, it’s important to keep your footwork within your circle. Stepping too far outside your center of gravity will remove both your balance and your power. Your goal should be stepping and replacing, whether you’re in a kick slide or a motor technique. Once you’ve learned this and practiced it enough, your body will do this automatically—if and only if your eyes are in the right place during the rep.

At Last, the Hands

Now that the eyes have made the proper focus and the feet have received the right data to put you on the scene, the hands can be given an all-access pass.

When your eyes aren’t right, they send a distress signal to your feet. The feet panic, get out of balance, and the hands are called upon to save you. There’s typically only one way the hands provide help in this scenario, and that’s with a grab. Now your hands become the enemy.

Because we’re now doing things the right way, our hands not only become our friends—they become the finisher. However, there’s one more hurdle to cross: if we allow our hands to remove our eyes from their focus, the feet will panic, and everything can go haywire. Let’s prevent that from happening.

When you have the receiver lined up and ready to be struck, maintain your eye focus. When you shoot your hands, do so above your eyes. With your eyes still on the receiver’s waist, shoot your hands to his chest. This means your eyes will remain below your hands. You don’t need to see his chest to hit it. If you know where the receiver’s hips are, you know where his chest is. We haven’t reached the point where receivers can detach their upper bodies from their lower bodies during a rep… stay tuned, though, because AI is here.

Strike the chest, keep your eyes down, and watch how your feet keep you in good position. When you’ve given that girl the right look and your feet have pulled you in closer, your hands are now a welcomed addition to the mix. Don’t just grab the girl out of the blue—that tends to draw a flag from people in uniforms. Keep things in order, and win.

I cover this topic and many more in greater detail in my best-selling book 101 DB Tips. It’s the ultimate reference guide to playing defensive back at a high level. Click here to get your copy!

Understanding Zone Coverage: How to Defend Your Space Effectively

Zone coverage is one of the most fundamental concepts in football, especially for defensive backs. Unlike man-to-man coverage, where each defender is responsible for covering a specific player, zone coverage requires defenders to cover designated areas of the field. This approach demands strong communication, situational awareness, and disciplined positioning. Let’s break down the essentials of zone coverage and how defensive backs can excel in this system.

What is Zone Coverage?

In zone coverage, defenders are assigned specific areas, or “zones,” to cover rather than individual players. The goal is to defend the entire field by dividing it into manageable sections. Zone coverage is particularly effective against offenses that rely on quick passes or try to exploit mismatches with pick routes and rubs.

The Key Elements of Zone Coverage

1. Awareness

One of the most critical skills in zone coverage is spatial awareness. Defensive backs must understand:

Their Zone Responsibility: Know exactly where your zone starts and ends.
The Offensive Alignment: Recognize where threats to your zone are likely to originate based on the offensive formation.
Route Combinations: Anticipate how routes will develop in your area.

The best zone defenders can quickly process what’s happening around them, identify threats, and react accordingly.

2. Communication

Zone coverage requires seamless communication between teammates. Defensive backs must work together to pass off receivers moving from one zone to another while ensuring all areas are adequately covered. For example:

If a receiver runs a crossing route, the cornerback may pass the receiver off to the linebacker or safety in the adjacent zone.
Defensive backs must alert each other to potential mismatches or offensive tendencies they notice pre-snap.

Effective communication prevents blown coverages and ensures that no offensive player is left unaccounted for.

3. Positioning

In zone coverage, positioning is everything. Defensive backs must maintain a balance between:

Depth: Stay deep enough to prevent big plays but close enough to contest short and intermediate throws.
Leverage: Use the sideline as an extra defender when playing outside zones. Stay inside the receiver in zones closer to the middle of the field to guard against seam routes.
Vision: Keep your eyes on the quarterback while maintaining awareness of the receivers in your zone.

Proper positioning allows you to react quickly to the ball and make plays without leaving your zone vulnerable.

4. Discipline

It’s easy to get caught out of position by focusing too much on one receiver or biting on a quarterback’s pump fake. Great zone defenders stay disciplined by:

Reading the Quarterback’s Eyes: While maintaining awareness of nearby threats, read the quarterback’s body language to anticipate where the ball might go.
Trusting Teammates: Avoid chasing receivers into other zones. Trust your teammates to cover their responsibilities while you hold your ground.
Maintaining Patience: Don’t abandon your zone early. Offenses often design plays to lure defenders out of position.

Common Types of Zone Coverages

1. Cover 2

Structure: Two safeties split the deep field, while cornerbacks and linebackers cover the underneath zones.
Strengths: Protects against deep passes and short, quick throws to the flats.
Weaknesses: Vulnerable to intermediate routes, especially in the middle of the field.

2. Cover 3

Structure: Three defenders (usually two cornerbacks and a safety) divide the deep field into thirds, while linebackers and a safety handle the underneath zones.
Strengths: Balanced defense that limits big plays and supports the run.
Weaknesses: Susceptible to passes in the flats and seams.

3. Cover 4 (Quarters)

Structure: Four defenders split the field into quarters, each covering a deep zone.
Strengths: Excellent against deep passing attacks and balanced offenses.
Weaknesses: Can be exploited with short passes and underneath routes.

4. Cover 6

Structure: A hybrid coverage with one side playing Cover 4 and the other side playing Cover 2.
Strengths: Combines the strengths of Cover 4 and Cover 2, offering flexibility.
Weaknesses: Requires precise communication and can leave seams open if players are not disciplined.

Tips to Excel in Zone Coverage

Film Study
- Learn the tendencies of the opposing offense.
- Identify their favorite routes and formations against zone coverage.
Practice Footwork
- Smooth transitions between backpedaling, shuffling, and breaking on the ball are critical for reacting quickly.
Master Your Reads
- Focus on the quarterback’s drop and release timing to anticipate the throw.
- Recognize when the offense is trying to overload or manipulate your zone.
Stay Physical
- Use press techniques at the line (if allowed in your scheme) to disrupt receivers’ timing before they enter your zone.
Leverage Help
- Understand where your help is coming from—whether it’s a safety over the top or a linebacker covering the flat.

Why Zone Coverage is Important

Zone coverage isn’t just about defending your area; it’s about working as a cohesive unit to shut down offensive schemes. It allows defenses to disguise intentions, prevent big plays, and force offenses to earn every yard. For defensive backs, mastering zone coverage adds versatility to their skill set and increases their value to any team.

Zone coverage is an art that requires awareness, communication, positioning, and discipline. By mastering your responsibilities and perfecting your technique, you can become a reliable defender who consistently shuts down passing lanes. Whether it’s Cover 2, Cover 3, or a hybrid scheme, your ability to defend your zone effectively can make or break your team’s defensive success.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into zone coverages, including detailed breakdowns of Cover 2, Cover 3, Cover 4, and advanced hybrid schemes like Cover 6, check out the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area. It’s packed with in-depth resources for players, coaches, and parents to help improve defensive back play at every level. For more information, visit https://alleyesdbcamp.com/sign-up/. Take your understanding of zone coverage to the next level today!

Defensive backs who master zone coverage not only elevate their game but also become indispensable assets to their team. Start focusing on these fundamentals today, and watch your game reach new heights.

Prime Time Made it Cool to Play Cornerback

“Chad, I think you should play cornerback.”
Those words from a childhood friend in 1986 lit a fire in my belly.

“Man, I’m a running back,” I fired back. I was going to be the next Eric Dickerson. I had my neck roll, my upright running style, and if they hadn’t given me headaches, I would’ve worn the Rec Specs goggles too.

I couldn’t really name any cornerbacks back then. I knew Leroy Irvin because he played for my favorite team, the Los Angeles Rams. Of course, everyone knew Lester Hayes because he was one part skilled and one part half-crazy. Other than that, there wasn’t anyone inspiring me to hug the sideline and chase a receiver around the field for an entire game. Running backs got the ball, made sweet moves, and scored touchdowns. They got their faces on TV. Cornerbacks, in 1986, weren’t doing that.

By 1987, I was 15 years old. I wasn’t the biggest guy on the football field, but I could run with almost anyone. Eric Dickerson was 6’3” and 220 lbs., and it wasn’t looking like I was going to get there. Plus, running backs took a lot of hits. I didn’t want to play corner, but what about wide receiver? That was the plan until I saw this guy wearing #2 for the Florida State Seminoles.

This guy wasn’t playing cornerback like anyone else. I watched him swoop in on Andre Rison of Michigan State, jump over him, intercept the ball, pop up, and point to the sideline, telling Rison to get off the field. I saw him intercept Brett Favre from Southern Mississippi and high-step like Walter Payton—except Walter Payton never high-stepped for that long. Who was this dude?

The Bobby Bowden Show aired locally in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area in the ‘80s, and every week, Bobby talked about this “daggum Deion Sanders.” Week after week, Sanders did something spectacular—running back punts with pizazz, chasing down speedy backs with confidence, making ridiculous interceptions, or putting top-ranked receivers on the back of a milk carton. I started thinking, Hey, maybe playing cornerback isn’t that bad.

By 1988, I was sold on playing cornerback. Besides, most coaches who saw me thought I’d be good at it. By then, I had moved to California to finish high school, bringing my Florida/Prime Time swag with me. I still played running back but started playing cornerback too. Running back was fun, but I wanted to be Prime Time. Out came the headband around the neck. I couldn’t high-step because it was a penalty, but I’d sneak one in now and then.

During a game against our cross-town rivals, I broke into the open field on a kickoff return and raised the ball over my head for the last 35 yards to the end zone. It took all my willpower not to high-step. An assistant coach met me on my way back to the sideline. “Don’t you ever hold the ball over your head like that again,” he screamed, cycling through shades of red. Full of Prime Time confidence, my only thought was, He said ‘again,’ so he knows I’m going to be scoring a lot. That was the Prime Time in me talking. From that point on, every time I scored, I placed the ball in the end zone with a unique style inspired by Neon Deion.

I carried that energy into college when I signed with Long Beach State. I arrived ready to play as a freshman because that’s what Deion did. It made me work hard, play hard, and guess what? I played a lot as a freshman and started several games. By my second year, though, Long Beach State felt too small for the star I thought I was. I wanted to transfer—to be on TV, like Prime. I called Florida State University, sent my highlight tape, and informed Hall of Famer Willie Brown, my head coach, of my plans.

The next day at practice, Coach Brown ordered seven consecutive go routes against me. The first pass was caught, and the whole team mocked me with the Tomahawk Chop. The next six passes were incomplete, one of them intercepted. I proved my point, and I was thrilled.

As fate would have it, Long Beach State dropped football, and I ended up at the University of Miami. Even though I was playing for Prime Time’s arch-nemesis, I was thrilled to be a Cane. That didn’t stop me from emulating Prime’s pizzazz and striving to reach his level.

In 1995, I watched Deion practice on our University of Miami field while the 49ers prepared for the Super Bowl against the Chargers. I was stunned by his work ethic. Nobody worked harder than Jerry Rice, but the second-hardest worker on that field was Prime Time. That day, I learned that “success is not an accident” and that “talent has its limits; work ethic makes you the best.”

Wanting to be like Prime Time pushed me to work hard on my skills as a cornerback. I imagine that’s true for thousands of kids inspired by this legendary figure. Now he inspires an entirely new generation of players but also coaches as the leader of the Colorado Buffaloes football program.

From Technique to Teamwork: 5 Ways the All Eyes DB Camp Supports Defensive Backs

When it comes to developing top-notch skills as a defensive back, the right training and support can make all the difference. The All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area is designed to help players and coaches alike take their game to new levels. Here’s a look at the top five benefits of joining this specialized community, created for athletes serious about excelling in the defensive back position.

1. Access to Exclusive Drills and Technique Guides

In the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area, members gain access to a wealth of carefully curated drills and techniques specifically designed for defensive backs. These aren’t generic drills you might find with a quick search; they’re tailored to cover the nuances of footwork, hand placement, backpedal techniques, and specific coverage strategies. Whether you’re an athlete refining your skills or a coach guiding players, having targeted drills can fast-track skill development and build confidence in essential areas.

2. In-Depth Analysis of Defensive Schemes

Understanding and executing different defensive schemes is a core part of becoming an effective DB. The Member’s Area provides detailed breakdowns of key schemes, such as Cover 1, Cover 2, and man-to-man press coverage. These guides go beyond the basics, offering insights into positioning, timing, and player responsibilities. With this knowledge, players can develop a deeper understanding of the game, and coaches can better instruct their athletes on making smart, tactical decisions on the field.

3. Community of Like-Minded Athletes and Coaches

Becoming a member of the All Eyes DB Camp means joining a community of passionate defensive backs and coaches. Here, members can share insights, ask questions, and support one another. This network provides a valuable space to learn from others’ experiences and challenges. The Member’s Area makes it easy to connect with people who understand the game and want to help each other succeed, creating a unique support system in an often competitive environment.

4. Regular Updates and Advanced Training Techniques

Football is an evolving sport, and defensive back techniques are always advancing. The All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area provides regular updates, keeping members on top of the latest strategies, workout routines, and performance tips. Members receive exclusive access to cutting-edge training methods, allowing them to stay ahead of the curve. This is particularly valuable for players who want to remain competitive and for coaches who strive to give their athletes an edge on the field.

5. Direct Access to Expert Insights and Advice

One of the biggest perks of the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area is having direct access to expert advice from experienced DB coaches and trainers. Members can submit questions, seek feedback, and gain insights that are hard to find anywhere else. Having experts on hand means players and coaches receive real, actionable advice that can be applied directly to their training and coaching routines.

Conclusion

The All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area is a one-stop resource for defensive backs and coaches who are serious about excelling. With exclusive drills, tactical breakdowns, a supportive community, up-to-date training techniques, and expert advice, this Member’s Area provides the tools and support needed to take your game to the next level. Joining the All Eyes DB Camp isn’t just about training harder; it’s about training smarter and becoming a more effective, versatile, and knowledgeable defensive back or coach.

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What Happens If a Cornerback Can’t Tackle?

There was a time in football when you could get away with not being able to tackle as a cornerback. That time is gone.

About 25 years ago, when offenses primarily focused on forcing the ball downfield to their top wide receivers and relied on a ground game centered around runs between the tackles, a cornerback could stay on his island and be hit-or-miss as a tackler. In this new era of football, a cornerback who won’t tackle is a liability to the defense.

Offenses today have found creative ways to get the ball to their top pass catchers. This can come in the form of an endless variety of screens, quick throws out of stacks and bunches, or rub routes that create separation.

Cornerbacks nowadays are not just covering the traditional route tree. A corner with great skills could be all over routes one through nine in the tree and never have to tackle. However, with the creativity in modern offensive schemes, if you’re not a tackler, you’re a target.

If you’re one of those cornerbacks who thinks your only job and value to the team is to cover the opponent’s top receiver downfield, be prepared to rarely see the routes you want to defend.

Once you’re identified as a player who won’t or can’t tackle, say goodbye to the fade routes, curl routes, and post routes you prefer to defend. Say hello to quick hitches that force you to come up and make a tackle, and get ready for screens and shallow routes.

On top of those frustrating routes, be prepared for tosses, jet sweeps, and tight end screens coming your way. Covering is your strength, but if you’ve ignored your tackling, guess what? They’re going to make you tackle.

At some point, you’ll become such a liability that you’ll have to be taken off the field. If your backup doesn’t cover like you, then guess what’s going to start happening? You got it—here come the curls, fades, and posts that you were supposed to be covering.

If you want to see those deep routes that allow you to be a playmaker, start getting serious about learning how to shed blocks and make solid tackles. If you kill enough screens for minimal or negative gains, the offense has no choice but to start pushing the ball downfield into the interception zone.

Perhaps you’ve heard me say, “Tackling is a part of this game.” This entire post explains what I mean. You can’t be a one-trick pony as a cornerback in 2024. Work on your whole game so you can get what you want from the offense.

For more info on making tackles, covering routes, and being a playmaker, pick up a copy of my top-selling book, 101 DB Tips. It’s the ultimate guide to becoming an elite DB—click here now for more info.

You Keep Getting Pass Interference Penalties, and Here’s Why

Sure, if you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you’ve seen me occasionally criticize referees for pass interference calls. No doubt, the game is changing, and what you are allowed to do as a DB in coverage is shrinking. However, some of you are racking up pass interference penalties, and it has to do with things you are and aren’t doing. Here are some of those things:

1. You Don’t Trust Your Technique

Most pass interference penalties start at the line of scrimmage. When a defensive back doesn’t trust his press technique, he will often make false moves at the line. Typically, this is either opening the gate or missing the jam at the line of scrimmage. When this happens, you are in chase mode. When you’re in chase mode, you are not relaxed and are more likely to make false moves. This often results in bumping into the receiver while the ball is in the air, face-guarding, etc.

My advice: Work on your technique consistently and make daily improvements. As you improve, so will your confidence, and you will find yourself in better position from the start.

2. You Are Scared of Getting Beat

I always say it matters what’s in your mind as you are covering a wide receiver. If fear is dominating your mind, your body will react to that. How will it react? By grabbing the receiver’s arms as you’re running down the field or tugging on his jersey the moment he makes a break. If you’re scared of getting beat, it will be impossible to make a play. Grabbing the arms or tugging on the jersey while the ball is in the air is an easy call for the referee to make.

My advice: Get rid of the fear. If your coach put you on the field, that means he thinks you can play. Whether he thinks so or not, you are out there, and your biggest weapon is your confidence. Hopefully, you’ve been working on your technique, you know the defense, and you’ve studied. Whether or not you have, play with confidence. Run with the receiver, don’t grab him. When he breaks, plant your foot in the ground and close the space using your feet and not your hands.

3. You Don’t Have Any Ball Skills

You simply haven’t practiced catching the ball enough, so you’re not confident in your ability to track a pass and catch it. Because of this, you rarely look for the ball. If you’re not looking for the ball and a collision occurs before the pass arrives, you can expect to see a flag on the ground. Many DBs think they can get by just watching the receiver’s face and trying to play his hands. This may work occasionally, but more often than not, it results in untimely contact and a flag.

My advice: Start spending more time catching the football. Take some time before or after practice to develop this skill. Be sure to work on tracking throws, getting into position, and catching the football. The more you do this, the less you’ll panic when the ball is in the air. As your confidence in catching the ball grows, the more you’ll want to look for it so you can make a play. If you don’t practice catching the football, why would your mind tell you to look for it in a game? Increase your time working on this skill, and watch how many plays you make on the ball.

Experience has taught me that these are the three major reasons why guys rack up pass interference penalties. Yes, it’s easier to get these penalties nowadays, but take the steps above to try and limit them.

I have a ton of details and tips on improving in these areas, which I’ve covered in my all-new All Eyes DB Camp Members Area. If you haven’t joined yet, I highly recommend you do. Click here to join the All Eyes DB Camp Members Area.

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