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Stop Dropping the Ball! 6 Ways for DBs to Get their Ball Skills Right

Defensive backs (DBs) play a crucial role in preventing the opposing team’s passing game from gaining the upper hand. To do this effectively, DBs need to possess exceptional ball skills. Ball skills refer to the ability to track, catch, and defend passes, and they are an integral part of a defensive back’s skill set. In this article, we’ll explore some essential techniques and strategies that can help defensive backs improve their ball skills and become game-changers on the field.

1. Focus on Eye Discipline

The foundation of solid ball skills begins with maintaining proper eye discipline. Defensive backs must keep their eyes on the quarterback’s eyes and read his intentions. This allows them to anticipate the throw and react more quickly. Additionally, DBs should focus on the receiver’s eyes and hands as they progress down the field to gain insight into their route and when they might make a break for the ball.

2. Tracking the Ball

The ability to track the ball in flight is paramount for defensive backs. It involves maintaining good body positioning and fluidly moving in unison with the ball’s trajectory. To enhance this skill:

– Stay low and keep your hips down while backpedaling to maintain better balance and agility.

– Keep your arms relaxed and ready to react, extending them as you follow the ball’s path.

– Use your peripheral vision to keep tabs on the receiver while tracking the ball.

– Anticipate the flight path of the ball based on the quarterback’s body language and the receiver’s route.

3. Catching Techniques

Once you’ve tracked the ball successfully, the next step is to secure it. Here are some catching techniques to improve your ball skills:

– High-Point the Ball: When the pass is in the air, strive to intercept it at its highest point, increasing your chances of making a play on the ball. Elevate and attack the pass when it reaches its peak.

– Hands Placement: Keep your hands ready and positioned correctly to secure the ball. Use your fingertips and thumbs to create a basket shape, ensuring the ball doesn’t slip through your grasp.

– Hand / Eye Coordination:  It is important that you see the point of the ball as it is approaching.  Make that your focus and see it enter your hands.  Many defensive backs take this for granted.  Do not assume the catch.  Be sure to actually see the ball enter into your hands to secure it.

– Hand Strength and Coordination: Strengthening your hands and fingers can greatly improve your ball skills. Exercises such as grip strength training and catching tennis balls can help enhance your hand-eye coordination.  Simply gripping tennis or racquetballs repeatedly can do wonders for your grip strength.

4. Ball Disruption

While catching interceptions is a vital aspect of ball skills, preventing completions is equally important. DBs can disrupt passes and break up plays through various techniques:

– PBU (Pass Break Up): Timing is key when attempting to swat away or deflect a pass. Ensure you make contact with the ball right as it reaches the receiver’s hands to prevent the completion.  Or you can deny the ball from the receiver’s hands by placing your off hand in front of the receiver’s hands as the ball approaches.

– Strip the Ball: If the receiver has caught the pass, look to strip the ball from their possession. This can lead to turnovers or incomplete passes.  Work on punching through the basket (the area formed by the receiver’s arms to secure the ball in his possession).

5. Film Study

Improving your ball skills extends beyond physical practice. A deep understanding of offensive schemes, quarterback tendencies, and the receivers you’re covering can be a game-changer. Study film to identify patterns and anticipate plays, enhancing your ability to read the quarterback’s intentions and react more effectively.

6. Practice, Practice, Practice

As with any skill, repetition is essential for mastery. Incorporate regular ball skill drills into your practice regimen. Focus on various aspects, including tracking, catching, and disrupting passes. Repetition builds muscle memory and hones your instincts.  As defensive backs,  blind ball drills are an important part of your ball skills work.  As defensive backs you will not often have the chance to see the ball thrown by the quarterback.  Much of what defensive backs experience is seeing the ball already in mid-flight.  More on ball drills in my book 101 DB Tips.

Defensive backs with exceptional ball skills can be the difference-makers in a game. By focusing on eye discipline, tracking the ball, refining catching techniques, employing ball disruption tactics, studying film, and maintaining a rigorous practice routine, you can take your skills to the next level. The ability to read and react to the quarterback’s passes and the receiver’s actions will not only help you make critical plays but also elevate your status as a standout defensive back in the world of football.

Celebrating the Hardest-Hitting Safeties in NFL History

By: Chad Wilson – Editor All Eyes DB Camp Blog
IG: @alleyesdbcamp

In the world of American football, certain players are known for their bone-rattling hits that can change the course of a game in an instant. Safeties, with their ability to read plays, cover ground, and deliver punishing blows, have often taken on the role of enforcers in the defensive backfield. In this article, we pay homage to the hardest-hitting safeties in NFL history, reflecting on their impact, legacy, and the lasting memories they’ve left on the field.

1. Jack Tatum: The Assassin

Jack Tatum, known as “The Assassin,” was a feared and revered safety who patrolled the field during the 1970s. Playing for the Oakland Raiders, Tatum epitomized the hard-hitting style of football that era was known for. His infamous hit on Darryl Stingley left an indelible mark on the game. Tatum’s aggressive style, combined with his willingness to deliver bone-crushing hits, solidified his place in NFL history. Tatum was not a big safety by current day standards.  He delivered his punishment to opponents standing 5’10” and weighing only 200 lbs.  During his time he was as feared a defender as there was in all of football

2. Ronnie Lott: A Physical Force

Ronnie Lott’s name is synonymous with tenacity and hard hitting. His time with the San Francisco 49ers and later the Los Angeles Raiders showcased his unparalleled combination of coverage skills and ferocious tackling. Lott’s willingness to sacrifice his body and deliver hits that resonated throughout stadiums earned him respect as one of the most iconic safeties in the league’s history.  The NFL films archive is littered with highlights of Lott bring ball carriers to a miserable end.  This is all surprising as Lott entered the league from USC as a cornerback.  Early in his career he made the switch to safety and the rest was history as was the memories of many of the opponents he laid into.

3. Steve Atwater: The Smiling Assassin

Steve Atwater’s moniker, “The Smiling Assassin,” speaks to his friendly demeanor off the field and his unrelenting intensity on it. Atwater’s powerful hits were known for jarring opponents and changing the momentum of games. His iconic hit on Christian Okoye remains etched in NFL lore, solidifying his legacy as one of the most feared safeties to ever play the game.  Atwater was an imposing figure in the secondary.  Standing at 6’3” 220 lbs.  he looked odd lined up deep in the secondary.  In his time,  he had the size of a linebacker but athleticism of a defensive back.  His teeth rattling hits become a thing of legend and made receivers far less eager to venture of the middle than those playing the game today.  

4. Kam Chancellor: The Legion’s Enforcer

The “Legion of Boom” era in Seattle was defined by its fierce defense, and Kam Chancellor was at the heart of it. Chancellor’s hard-hitting style and ability to set the tone for the Seahawks’ defense made him a linchpin of their success. His hits were not just tackles; they were game-changing moments that energized his team and the fanbase.  Like Atwater,  Chancellor had an uncanny build for a safety.  Chancellor’s 6’3” 225 lb. frame looked even bigger dressed in the hunter green Seahawk’s uniform and amongst his aggressive teammates.  When Chancellor put his pads on you,  it sure felt like it was coming from someone in the front seven.  As a former quarterback,  turned cornerback morphed into a safety,  Chancellor passed the skills to cover and the instincts to jump routes but his lasting legacy will be as that of an enforcer in the secondary for Seattle.

5.  John Lynch: The Lynchpin of Defense

John Lynch’s enforcer role extended over a storied career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Denver Broncos. Known for his unyielding hits, Lynch’s ability to strike fear into the hearts of opposing receivers was legendary. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to the impact he had on the game.  Speaking of impact,  Lynch built his gold jacket reputation on booming wide receivers, tight ends and running backs.  Unlike most of the big hitters in the game’s history,  Lynch’s tackles would exhibit perfect form while also delivering an unrelenting thud.  Lynch’s ability to hit with amazing force can be attributed to his technique of visualizing two additional players behind the actual ball carrier and attempting the final one.  This allowed Lynch to drive through the ball carrier in textbook fashion to severe their chances of advancing beyond contact. 

The legacy of the hardest-hitting safeties in NFL history extends beyond their physicality. Their hits didn’t just change the course of games; they embodied the essence of football’s physical nature and the grit required to succeed. Jack Tatum, Ronnie Lott, Steve Atwater, Kam Chancellor, John Lynch, and many others left an indelible mark on the league. Their hits are celebrated not just for their ferocity, but for the respect they commanded and the intensity they brought to every snap. As fans look back on these enforcers, they’re reminded of the raw power and enduring impact that these safeties had on the sport they loved.

How to Defend the Slant Pattern: A Guide for Defensive Backs

How to Defend the Slant Pattern: A Guide for Defensive Backs

The slant pattern stands as one of the most efficient and effective routes a wide receiver can run. However, for defensive backs, defending the slant requires a combination of skill, anticipation, and technique. In this article, we’ll explore the strategies and techniques that can help defensive backs excel in defending the slant pattern, neutralizing this potentially game-changing play.

The slant pattern is a quick and direct route where the wide receiver angles across the field, cutting diagonally towards the middle. It’s designed to create separation from the defender and exploit the space between zones in the defense. The goal is to catch the ball in stride and gain yards after the catch, making it a dangerous weapon in the offensive arsenal.  Let’s take a look at six key elements to defending the deadly slant pattern.

1. Anticipation and Film Study

Great defenders are often made in the film room. By studying the opponent’s tendencies, formations, and the receiver’s alignment, a defensive back can gain insights into the likelihood of a slant route. Anticipating the route and recognizing the cues can give the defender a split-second advantage in reacting to the play.  Getting a good bead on the wide receivers behavior off of the line can also give you cues that will allow you to anticipate the route coming.  Since many defenses are designed to take away the fade / go route,  anticipation to defend the slant is a must.  Studying film along with recognizing what you have studied when in game situations will be key in defending the route.

2. Positioning and Alignment

Proper pre-snap alignment is crucial. Defensive backs should position themselves with an inside shade on the receiver, making it more challenging for the receiver to execute the slant. Being positioned slightly to the inside allows the defender to take away the preferred route while giving themselves the opportunity to use the sideline as an extra defender. Slant routes need space to be successful.  This means that it is one of those routes where a particular split needs to be taken for it to be executed effectively.  A lot of offenses offset this by taking a similar split to also run a go route so that you can not lean heavily on the slant alignment.  Despite this fact,  using proper divider rules,  defensive backs can help themselves by using the proper alignment to deter the slant while using good technique to protect against the go route.

3. Physical Jam at Line

Press coverage is a powerful weapon against the slant pattern. Defensive backs can disrupt the timing by jamming the receiver at the line of scrimmage. This initial physical contact can throw off the timing of the route and create hesitation, allowing the defender to regain leverage.  While it may be possible to mirror the slant and stop it from being completed,  physicality remains your best weapon against it.  This is why you can not live on one press technique alone.  Even if your preference is soft press or a mirror technique,  you still need to be proficient in playing some hard press.  Furthermore,  once you get in the red zone,  you can get taken advantage of by slants if you don’t have the ability to get jams and be physical.

4. Maintaining Hip-to-Hip Positioning

Once the receiver releases off the line, the defensive back must maintain hip-to-hip positioning. This means running in parallel with the receiver, denying any inside leverage and minimizing the separation. Keeping the hips aligned allows the defender to react quickly to the receiver’s cuts.  Since the slant is a part of the quick game for offenses you don’t have a lot of time to close the gap.  Before you know it,  the ball will be coming and you need to be able to defend any part of the receiver’s body.  The only real way to break up the pass or possibly intercept it will be getting hip to hip positioning.  This will allow your arm to reach across his body to get a hand on the ball once it arrives.

5. Reading the Receiver’s Eyes and Hips

As the receiver breaks for the slant, the defensive back should focus on the receiver’s eyes and hips. These indicators can provide clues about the timing and direction of the route. By reading the receiver’s body language, the defender can anticipate the cut and make a play on the ball.  It is crucial not to let your eyes drift up or look inside at the quarterback too soon.  It is important to see the angle of the wide receiver’s hips.  Is he trying to stem you inside to run a deeper route or are his hips moving on a slant route angle.  Keying the hips will allow you to take the proper angle to the receiver to defend the route.  If you eyes drift up too fast,  you could end up allowing too much separation on the receiver going inside thus allowing an easy completion.

6. Quick Reaction and Ball Disruption

Timing is crucial when defending the slant. Defensive backs need to react quickly to the receiver’s break, while also timing their own move to disrupt the play. As the receiver’s hands go up to catch the ball, the defender can use their own hands to knock the ball away or make a well-timed tackle to prevent yards after the catch. If you are able to gain the hip to hip positioning that is crucial then getting your hands across to the ball will be easy.  However,  sometimes we are not quite there as the ball arrives.  Depending on your positioning,  a quick tug on the elbow of the upfield or downfield arm of the receiver could disrupt his ability to catch the ball.  Beware though,  leaving your hand on the elbow for any extended period of time will draw a flag from the officials.  Timing is key when attempting the maneuver and should only be used when you have fallen behind on the receiver as he moves inside.

Defending the slant pattern is an art that requires a blend of football IQ, physical prowess, and technique. By mastering the strategies of anticipation, proper positioning, physicality, and quick reactions, you can effectively neutralize one of the most annoying routes in football. Just as wide receivers perfect the slant pattern, defensive backs must perfect their craft in defending it—balancing instinct, preparation, and technique to ensure success on the gridiron.

The Greatest Press Man Cornerbacks in NFL History

Throughout the storied history of the National Football League (NFL), certain cornerbacks have etched their names into the book of football greatness. Among these extraordinary athletes, a select few stand out as the true masters of press man coverage. In this article, we jump into the legacy of the best press man cornerbacks in NFL history, exploring their techniques, contributions, and the impact they left on the game.

(1) Deion Sanders

Often referred to as “Prime Time”  and now  “Coach Prime”, Deion Sanders revolutionized the cornerback position with his unparalleled speed, agility, and coverage skills. Sanders wasn’t just a cornerback; he was an artist on the field. His press man technique combined physicality at the line of scrimmage with remarkable anticipation and a lightning-quick break on the ball. His ability to mirror receivers and close down passing lanes made quarterbacks think twice before throwing in his direction.  His technique is often critiqued by the new generation citing that some of the things he did in his time would not work today.  Don’t be fooled,  Sanders was so dominant that he would often do things to appear beat to induce a throw from the quarterback.  Some of those things would include having an overly wide stance at the line with his hands on his knees,  allowing a receiver to beat him to the post and then close the gap when the ball was thrown and backing off at the snap to give the receiver space.  True,  some of these techniques should not be deployed by lesser athletic DBs but that does not change Sanders’ mark on the position and the art of press man.  Sanders can be credited with the advent of the quick jam or jump jam where the DB rushes to the receiver at the snap of the ball to get a powerful jam nullifying the route.

High Interception Season: 7 (1994)

(2) Darrelle Revis

Known as “Revis Island,” Darrelle Revis was a lockdown cornerback who dominated the league during his prime. Revis’s mastery of press man coverage was a sight to behold. He excelled at jamming receivers at the line of scrimmage and consistently maintained tight coverage throughout routes. His quick footwork, impeccable timing, and understanding of route concepts allowed him to effectively shut down even the most elite wideouts.  Unlike Sanders,  Revis would engage in textbook technique with nearly every rep.  He was not about inducing a throw from the quarterback.  Instead,  he engaged in the practice of smothering a receiver so much that the quarterback was compelled to go elsewhere with the ball.  Revis came up in a time where stats were kept on PBUs,  catch rate, etc.  This was not a part of Deion’s era so Revis was incentivized to not have receivers get action during a game.  In Revis’ era,  no one did it like him.  At his peak,  the league’s best wide receivers would see a steep drop off in production in games where they had to line up in front of him.  Revis would essentially strip the quarterback of his safety blanket.  This would lead to mistakes being made throwing to guys and routes they weren’t used to.

High Interception Season: 6 (2009)

(3) Champ Bailey

A true technician on the field, Champ Bailey possessed the rare ability to shut down an entire side of the field. His press man technique was founded on a combination of physicality and anticipation. Bailey’s understanding of receiver tendencies allowed him to disrupt routes and cut off passing lanes. His smooth transitions, along with his ability to turn and locate the ball, resulted in numerous interceptions and highlight-reel plays.  If anyone embodied a combination of both Sanders and Revis,  it was Bailey.  Not quite as athletic as Deion and not quite as technical as Revis,  Bailey was the best combination of both.  Bailey did not rely solely on his 4.2 speed.  He made it a point to be technically sound as often as possible to.  Bailey’s time playing offense until college gave him the ability to anticipate the offense’s strategy and take chances on plays.  He was a lights out player for two franchises in the NFL.

High Interception Season:  10 (2006)

(4) Mel Blount

Regarded as one of the pioneers of press coverage, Mel Blount left an indelible mark on the game. With his imposing physicality, Blount redefined the cornerback position in the 1970s. His strength and size allowed him to disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage, often throwing them off their routes. Blount’s press man technique became so dominant that it led to rule changes aimed at restricting the physicality of defensive backs.  We can all thank Blount for the number of penalties that are thrown on defensive backs in coverage these days.  He showed everyone just how dominant you can be at the position.  The NFL realizing that points sell tickets,  restricted his physical play to give wide receivers a chance to operate.  At 6’3” 205 lbs. with great athleticism,  just lining up across from Blount was enough to make a receiver forget the play.

High Interception Season: 11 (1975)

(5) Willie Brown

Brown is considered the father of bump and run coverage.  His name is not widely known by the newer generations.  However,  when the Oakland Raiders decided to deploy this new technique in the late 60’s,  Brown led the charge.  What ensued was a complete power outage of passing attacks when they faced the Silver and Black.  Brown,  a converted tight end and a reject from the Denver Broncos found new life when the Raiders slid him over to defense and said bump the receiver at the line of scrimmage.  His power,  technique and tenacity upset receivers on a weekly basis.  His bump and run style made teams one dimensional and was instrumental in the Raiders being annual playoff participants as well as Super Bowl champs in 1977.  Brown was also a big cornerback at 6’1” 200 lbs.

High Interception Season: 7 (1967)

The legacy of the best press man cornerbacks in NFL history continues to shape the game and inspire the next generation of defensive backs. From Deion Sanders’s speed to Darrelle Revis’s shutdown ability, Champ Bailey’s technique, Mel Blount’s physicality, and Willie Brown’s tenacity,  these players have left an enduring impact on the way the cornerback position is played.  There are many others who are worthy of being on a list of top press man cornerbacks like Rod Woodson, Lester Hayes, Albert Lewis, Richard Sherman and more.  However,  the ones listed here I believe are the top 5 in the category.  What do you think?  Did I get it right?  Comment below.

4 Big Mistakes You Are Making in Zone Coverage

By: Chad Wilson
IG: @alleyesdbcamp

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just line up in man coverage all the time without getting tired or having the offense do things to beat it? Of course, that would be simple but it’s not reality so every defense has to be able to run zone coverage.

As true as that previous statement is, the fact remains that many teams are unable to run zones for a variety of reasons. In this article, I’m going to go over the four biggest mistakes that players and teams make when running zone coverage

Not Communicating

This is the biggest problem that teams have when playing zone. As stated in the book 101 DB tips, in zone, you cover with your mouth as opposed to covering with your legs the way that you do when playing man. Zone coverage requires you to most often be dedicated to a certain zone on the field. Once the offense snaps the ball and the routes start to unfold, it is crucial for the defenders, especially in the secondary, to communicate to one another where the routes are coming from. We only have two eyes and often times they are focused on a variety of things. When the secondary communicates with each other, each defender essentially has more than just two eyes. They are now receiving information from each other about who is entering their zone thus allowing them to be in the proper position should the ball be thrown there.  it is essential for players and coaches to emphasize communication heavily when teaching and playing zone coverage.

Not Aligning Right

As the old saying goes, it starts with your alignment. Players can put themselves at a disadvantage in zone coverage before the ball is even snapped if they are not aligned correctly. This is one of those details that are very important as a defensive back. Not aligning with the proper outside or inside leverage can allow a receiver to attack your zone and receive the ball before you are able to get there.  Aligning too shallow or too far off can allow either an easy completion in your zone or a big play in your zone because you were not at the proper depth. Take your alignment seriously when you are playing zone. Some players think zone coverage is a time for them to be lazy because they are not going to be chasing a receiver. However, you can fall asleep in zone and give up a big play that hurts your team. Alignment before assignment, should be your motto.

Eyes In the Wrong Place

Again, some players think zone is the time to take a play off. One of the biggest areas where players will slack off is not reading their keys in zone coverages. You are required to read one receiver to determine where another receiver will end up. Failing to key on that receiver that you are supposed to be watching will allow the other receiver to attack your zone without you knowing it. Failing to read your keys will strip you of your ability to anticipate a route coming to your zone which in turn makes you late to the ball when it’s thrown.  Make it a point to have your eyes on the proper key. If you were supposed to be reading a wide receiver, have your eyes there. If you are supposed to be reading the quarterback, make sure you lock your eyes in on what he’s doing. Reading your keys gives you the ability to anticipate. The ability to anticipate leads you to interceptions.

Chasing Routes

If you want to get benched by your coach in a hurry, chase routes in zone coverage. Zone coverage is just that zone coverage. You are responsible for a zone, not a man. Players, who can’t differentiate  between the two and chase players leaving their zone wide open, are often pulling splinters out of their rear end from sitting on the bench. Lock in on what coverage you are in and what your responsibility is. Also, know the responsibility of the others around you in zone coverage. Knowing this will prevent you from chasing routes that you are not supposed to be chasing. Knowing what you are supposed to do is one thing, but knowing who has the other zones will prevent you from getting tricked by routes getting run by the offense.  Study your playbook, take notes and ask questions about the different zone coverages if you do not have a full understanding of them. A full understanding means knowing your job plus everyone else’s job.

Staying away from these four big mistakes can allow you to be a master when it comes to zone coverage. Often times zone coverage gives a defender more opportunities to make interceptions. It’s cool to be a lock down man-to-man defender. However, also being great at zone makes you More valuable to your team and an overall better player.

For more information on how zone coverages work, check out the All eyes Db Camp members area. I have videos in there that break down several of the zone coverages that your team may be running right now. Click here For more information on the All eyes Db Camp members area.

A Guide for Defensive Backs in Defending the Fade Pattern

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.

Mastering the Art: How to Read the Quarterback as a Safety in Football

Safeties serve as the last line of defense, responsible for safeguarding against deep passes and providing crucial support in various coverages. One of the key skills that sets great safeties apart is their ability to read the quarterback’s intentions. By studying the quarterback’s body language, eyes, and tendencies, safeties can anticipate plays, make crucial interceptions, and impact the outcome of a game. In this article, we’ll look into the art of reading the quarterback as a safety and offer strategies to help elevate your game to the next level.

Understanding the Quarterback’s Intentions

The quarterback is the linchpin of the offense, making split-second decisions that dictate the flow of the game. As a safety, your ability to read the quarterback’s intentions can be a game-changer. By observing his pre-snap adjustments, watching his eyes and body movement post-snap, and understanding the offensive scheme, you can position yourself strategically to make impactful plays.

Key Strategies for Reading the Quarterback

1. Pre-Snap Reads

Begin your analysis before the snap. Study the offensive formation, personnel, and tendencies to gain insights into potential plays. Pay attention to the quarterback’s cadence, as certain plays might be indicated by his rhythm and vocal cues.  Also,  beware of the location of certain key players.  Some teams run plays through a certain individual on the offense.  So a key player can be lined up in the backfield,  at wing, at Z or at X on any given play.  Locate the key player.

2. Eye Tracking

Once the ball is snapped, focus on the quarterback’s eyes. They are often a reliable indicator of his intended target. If his eyes lock onto a receiver, he’s likely to throw in that direction. However, be cautious of quarterbacks who use pump fakes or deliberately look off defenders to deceive you.  Film study really helps you hone in on what the QBs eye tendencies are.  Some stare down receivers,  others tend to look one way then throw the other.  Get a bead on what the tendencies are and rely on them once the game comes.  Don’t second guess yourself if you have put in the work of studying.

3. Route Recognition

Familiarize yourself with common route combinations based on offensive formations. This knowledge will help you predict where the quarterback might target the ball. Recognizing the relationships between receivers’ routes can give you an advantage in positioning.  This could be the most important key of all.  It’s also why quarterbacks and receivers make good safeties when they are sent to the defensive side of the ball.  They come with a built in understanding of how routes mesh together as well as how a quarterback’s footwork coincides with the routes that are run.  If you have not had the fortune of playing offense much or at a high level then seek to gain a high level understanding of route combinations and quarterback timing with routes.

4. Recognizing Dropbacks

Different quarterback dropbacks provide clues about the depth of the pass and the type of play. A deep drop might indicate a deep pass attempt, while a quick drop could signal a shorter throw. Adjust your depth accordingly based on the situation. Like route combinations,  getting a deep understanding of the quarterback’s footwork can enhance your anticipation of what is likely to come.  Not all play action fakes are the same.  What matters is the footwork that comes after the fake.  Not all rollouts are the same and of course,  there are varying types of straight pass drops.  Each one means something and it’s in your best interest to learn what they mean in terms of routes being run and who is likely to be targeted for a pass.

5. Offensive Tendencies

Study game film to learn about the opponent’s offensive tendencies. Some quarterbacks have favorite targets in specific situations. Understanding these tendencies can help you anticipate where the ball is likely to go. Quarterbacks are creatures of habit.  When they get caught in sticky situations,  they will tend to gravitate to what they believe in the most.  Often times that is a specific receiver.  Sometimes that can be a certain route or throwing to a particular side of the field.  Learn the habits and make the quarterback pay for having them.

6. Film Study

Break down film of your upcoming opponents. Analyze the quarterback’s behavior in different situations and learn to recognize patterns in his decision-making.  All of the information discussed in this article is derived from film study.  If you truly want to be an elite safety with playmaking ability,  a love for and dedication to film study is a must.  Pick any elite safety in the game at any level and I can guarantee you that they are avid film watchers.  The more clues you can pick up in your film research each week,  the slower the game will move for you on game day.  Once that starts happening you are on your way to becoming the ballhawk that your team needs you to be.

Mastering the Art of Press Man Coverage

Mastering the Art of Press Man Coverage: Techniques Used by Elite Defensive Backs

In the fast-paced world of the football, defensive backs play a pivotal role in disrupting the rhythm of opposing offenses. One of the most effective techniques in a cornerback’s arsenal is the press man coverage. This technique requires precise timing, physicality, and keen awareness to effectively neutralize even the most prolific wide receivers. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of press man coverage, exploring the top techniques employed by elite NFL defensive backs that make them true masters of the art.

Understanding Press Man Coverage

Press man coverage is a defensive strategy where a cornerback lines up close to the line of scrimmage and engages the opposing wide receiver with physical contact at the line. The goal is to disrupt the receiver’s route timing, preventing a clean release off the line and forcing them into unfavorable positions. This tight coverage technique requires a blend of skills, from physical prowess to football IQ.

Key Techniques Employed by Elite Defensive Backs

1. Jamming at the Line

The initial point of contact in press man coverage is crucial. Cornerbacks often use a quick and powerful jam to disrupt the receiver’s release off the line of scrimmage. The jam involves using the hands to redirect the receiver’s path and throw off their timing with the quarterback. Timing is paramount here; mistiming the jam can lead to separation and big plays for the offense.  This part of the game has been a lost a little bit over the years as receivers have become more skilled at releasing off of the line of scrimmage.  However,  their increase in knowledge should not be a deterrent for defensive backs.  As the receiver’s skill increases,  so too should that of the defensive backs.  Double down on training your eye discipline and studying your technique.  Free releases should not be a constant thing when playing press man coverage.

2. Mirror and Shuffle

Once the initial jam is successful, elite defensive backs transition into a mirror and shuffle technique. This involves staying in close proximity to the receiver, moving laterally to match their movements, and preventing any separation. The cornerback’s eyes are locked onto the receiver’s hips, allowing them to react quickly to changes in direction.  Some defensive backs elect to engage in this technique instead of the jam at the line of scrimmage.  This is ok so long as you pair this up with some hard press techniques as well.  Quick receivers will eventually eat your lunch if you constantly play a foot game with them.  They will plot against your soft press and beat you to the spot.  Change things up with an occasional hard press.  If you are going to mirror, be sure to train your feet to be efficient and your eyes to be disciplined.  You will need those elements.

3. Hand Placement

The placement of the hands is crucial throughout the press man coverage. Defensive backs need to keep their hands on the receiver, without grabbing or interfering illegally. The hands are used to redirect the receiver’s route and maintain leverage. Correct hand placement enables the defender to control the receiver’s movements while remaining in prime position to make a play on the ball.  This is an underrated part of press man.  Many defensive backs don’t give much thought about exactly how and where to place the hands.  Hard jams that does not involve lunging are preferred.  The wide receiver must feel the jam and be affected by it.  Furthermore,  striking the proper part on the wide receiver can do wonders in disruption.  I am not one for striking the receiver’s hips.  Hips are the strongest part of the body.  Instead,  strike the chest when at the line of scrimmage and the shoulder as you head down the field.  Be leery of keeping your hand on the receiver as you move down the field as they can either use it to throw you by on a route or it can draw a flag from the officials.

4. Hip-to-Hip Positioning

As the play develops, maintaining a hip-to-hip relationship with the receiver is vital. This positioning denies the receiver any space to create separation and effectively reduces the available throwing window for the quarterback. It requires a combination of footwork, balance, and body control to stay in sync with the receiver’s route.  This is a key element.  Space away from the receiver is ok before the ball is thrown.  However,  once the ball is released,  every effort should be made by the defensive back to get hip to hip with the receiver.  This allows the DB to defend a ball thrown to any part of the receiver’s body.  This includes balls thrown high and above the defender’s head.

5. Head Turn and Locate

Once the receiver makes his move, a skilled defensive back will execute a smooth head turn to locate the ball. This action allows the cornerback to play the receiver’s eyes and make a play on the ball at the optimal moment. It’s a high-risk, high-reward move that can result in an interception or a pass breakup.  One of the biggest mistakes defensive backs make is not looking for the ball.  Some DB’s get nervous or forget that the goal is to get the turnover or at the very least prevent the receiver from catching the ball.  Both of those outcomes become more likely when the defender can get his head around and see the ball approaching.  Understand the situation,  your location and if you have help on a play.  These factors should cue you in on when you can look for the ball during a route.  Grab those interceptions.

6. Recovery Techniques

Press man coverage doesn’t always go as planned, and receivers can occasionally get a step on the cornerback. Elite defensive backs are adept at recovering from these situations using techniques like the “trail technique” or “hip pocket” technique. These methods involve regaining positioning by getting back in close proximity to the receiver, minimizing the chance of a big gain.  When you have an IQ that allows you to understand routes and know the defense,  you can improve your recovery techniques when things go wrong.  If you are beat to the corner of the end zone in Cover 0,  you understand that you must now play the wide receiver’s hands.  When you are beat in Cover 1 with a route going to the middle of the field,  you realize that there’s an opportunity to undercut a route.  Keep this in mind when you are playing press.

Press man coverage is an art that requires a combination of physical prowess, football IQ, and technique mastery. Elite defensive backs utilize a variety of techniques, from jamming at the line to hip-to-hip positioning to stifle even the most explosive wide receivers. The precision and skill involved in executing these techniques effectively are what separate the good from the great in the world of defensive backs.  Effective studying and honing of your techniques will develop you into an elite defensive back that can use press technique to neutralize the best wide receiver’s that the offense will send your way.

Help Defensive Backs Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes

Defensive backs play a critical role in a football team’s defense, but like any other position, they are susceptible to making mistakes. Recognizing and addressing these common errors can help defensive backs improve their performance on the field. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most prevalent mistakes made by defensive backs and provide coaching insights on how to correct them. By understanding and learning from these errors, defensive backs can elevate their game and become more effective contributors to their team’s success.

Lack of Proper Technique in Coverage

One of the most common mistakes defensive backs make is a failure to execute proper coverage techniques. This includes issues such as sloppy footwork, incorrect hand placement, and poor hip rotation. These technical flaws can result in missed assignments, separation from receivers, and the inability to make plays on the ball. Coaches should emphasize the importance of sound technique in coverage, focusing on areas such as proper stance, backpedaling technique, mirroring receivers, and utilizing leverage to maintain position.

Poor Eye Discipline

Defensive backs must maintain proper eye discipline to read and react effectively. A common mistake is getting caught looking into the backfield or losing sight of the receiver. This can lead to late reactions, allowing receivers to gain separation or make uncontested catches. Coaches should emphasize the need for disciplined eye control, teaching defensive backs to focus on the receiver’s hips or midsection while maintaining peripheral vision on the quarterback and the rest of the field. Coach every rep that involves poorly directed eyes,  it’s a challenging habit to break once it forms.

Inadequate Communication

Communication breakdowns among defensive backs can lead to coverage lapses, blown assignments, and missed opportunities. It is crucial for defensive backs to effectively communicate with each other, ensuring proper zone coverage, passing off receivers, and making adjustments in response to offensive formations and shifts. Coaches should emphasize the importance of clear and concise communication, encouraging defensive backs to be vocal leaders on the field and to develop a common language and set of signals.

Overcommitting and Getting Beat Deep

One of the riskiest mistakes defensive backs make is overcommitting to a receiver or biting on double moves, resulting in deep completions by the offense. This can occur due to a lack of discipline, poor recognition, or an eagerness to make a big play. Coaches should stress the importance of maintaining proper depth and leverage, teaching defensive backs to stay patient, read the receiver’s intentions, and react accordingly. Additionally, working on techniques such as “eyes on the hip” can help defenders stay disciplined and avoid being beaten deep. A special emphasis should be put on doing “your job”.  Defense is a team situation involving all 11 players on defense.  This is true whether playing zone or man coverage.

Tackling Technique and Physicality

Defensive backs are often the last line of defense, responsible for making open-field tackles. A common mistake is poor tackling technique, including improper form, lunging, or failing to wrap up properly. This can result in missed tackles and additional yards gained by the offense. Coaches should emphasize the importance of tackling fundamentals, teaching proper technique, leverage, and the importance of physicality. Regular tackling drills and emphasis on proper body positioning can help defensive backs become more reliable tacklers.  Teaching proper tackling technique can also cut down on injuries from tackling.  Losing top players for extended periods of time can hurt the overall performance of the secondary and defensive unit.

As a coach, it’s essential to identify and address the common mistakes made by defensive backs. By focusing on improving technique, eye discipline, communication, avoiding overcommitment, and enhancing tackling abilities, defensive backs can elevate their performance on the field. Encouraging a commitment to detail, discipline, and continuous improvement can help defensive backs minimize these errors and become more reliable and impactful contributors to their team’s success. By acknowledging and learning from mistakes, defensive backs can develop into well-rounded players who make a positive impact in their team’s defense.

Mastering the Art of Film Study: A Guide for Defensive Backs

Film study is a crucial aspect of success for any defensive back in football. It allows players to gain a competitive edge by understanding opponents’ tendencies, recognizing formations, and anticipating plays. In this blog post, we will explore the essential steps and strategies to enhance your film study as a defensive back. By developing effective film study habits, you can elevate your game, make more impactful plays, and become a formidable force in the secondary.

Establish a Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to studying film. Establish a regular routine that works for you. Allocate dedicated time each day or week to focus solely on film study. Treat it as a non-negotiable part of your training regimen. By setting aside specific slots for film study, you prioritize its importance and ensure it becomes an ingrained habit.  Just as practice starts at a certain time each day,  so too should your film study period.  It is as important a piece of the puzzle as anything else.

Analyze Formations and Pre-Snap Reads

Begin by examining the offense’s formations and pre-snap cues. Identify the alignment of receivers, tight ends, and running backs. Pay attention to their splits, positioning, and any motion they may use. This analysis can provide valuable insights into potential routes, blocking schemes, and overall play tendencies. By recognizing patterns in formations, you can anticipate the opponent’s intentions and react more quickly during the play.  While watching the film,  constantly ask yourself why? Why is the RB aligned on one side or the other?  Why is the tight end standing up on this play and in a 3 point stance in another? Why is the Z receiver now lined up at X?  Seek answers to your questions to develop an understanding of what the offense is seeking to accomplish.

Focus on Key Players and Routes

Once the play is in motion, shift your attention to specific players and their routes. Observe the release of receivers from the line of scrimmage, their footwork, and their breaks. Identify the primary targets and their preferred routes. Understanding the tendencies of key players and recognizing route combinations allows you to position yourself effectively and make impactful plays on the ball.  Take notice of where receivers started and where they end up as that is an important part of offensive football.  The use of space is everything to an offense.  Take note of how they use and exploit it.

Study Quarterback Tendencies

Analyzing the opposing quarterback’s tendencies can be highly advantageous. Take note of their pre-snap reads, cadence, and overall decision-making. Pay attention to their favorite targets, throwing mechanics, and preferred areas of the field. This knowledge enables you to anticipate their intentions, jump routes, and disrupt passing plays. Look for cues in their footwork and body language that may reveal their intended target or type of throw.  Look for any little quirks in their stance, foot positioning or pre snap glances to give you a clue as to what may be coming.

Develop a Personal Database

Create a comprehensive database to track your film study findings. Organize your observations, formations, routes, and tendencies of opposing teams and players. Use video editing software or specialized apps to annotate plays and tag them with relevant information. This personalized database becomes a valuable resource for future reference, allowing you to refresh your memory quickly before facing specific opponents or reviewing your own performances.

Seek Feedback and Collaborate

Don’t limit your film study to individual efforts. Engage with your coaches and fellow defensive backs. Share insights, observations, and questions. Collaborating with teammates and coaches can provide alternative perspectives and help refine your understanding of the game. Foster an environment of open communication and constructive criticism, enabling everyone to benefit from shared knowledge and experiences.

Studying film as a defensive back is an art that requires dedication and attention to detail. By establishing a consistent routine, analyzing formations and pre-snap cues, focusing on key players and routes, studying quarterback tendencies, creating a personal database, and collaborating with teammates, you can take your film study to new heights. Elevating your understanding of the game through comprehensive film study allows you to make better-informed decisions on the field, react faster, and become a more impactful presence in the secondary. Embrace the power of film study and watch your performance soar.

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