Post Views: 1,511 The fade ball is the fear of almost every defensive back. It’s the one ball that you just never want to give up. Playing defensive back involves a great deal of amount of pride and giving up the 9 ball can put a dent in that pride. When it comes to defending the ‘9’ ball, there is an art to it. Obviously, positioning is key and in the video I have posted below, I put you up on game when it comes to staying over the top of and in control when a wide receiver is trying to take you to the cleaners on the fade. This video includes not only an example from when a defensive back lost on a fade route but includes a drill to teach you how to stay in good position vs. this particular route. If you have ever done good work at the line of scrimmage but still got beat by the wide receiver on a fade then this video is definitely for you. Since that has happened to most defensive backs then all of you including those of you who coach defensive backs should take an interest in what it is I am pointing out in the video. Football is a game of inches and when you play in the last line of defense, it is important that you don’t give any of those inches away. Check out the video below and feel free to leave a comment, rate the article and send me an email with any questions to: cwilson@alleyesdbcamp.com – As always, thank you for being a member. Author Recent Posts alleyesdbcampOwner at All Eyes DB CampChad Wilson is the founder of All Eyes DB Camp and a former standout defensive back for the Miami Hurricanes. After an elite collegiate career, Wilson spent a season with the Seattle Seahawks before transitioning into coaching. A 3-time Florida state champion defensive coordinator, he has spent over 20 years developing the "All Eyes" blueprint that has produced NFL All-Pros and stars like Xavien Howard, Patrick Surtain II, Tyson Campbell, Minkah Fitzpatrick and more. His coaching system is proven at the highest levels—his own sons, Quincy and Marco Wilson, both excelled as starters in the SEC before being drafted into the NFL.Chad is the author of "101 DB Tips"—The Ultimate DB Reference Guide. You can find more information on the manual and how to order your copy in the sidebar and footer of this page. Latest posts by alleyesdbcamp (see all) The Secret to Elite DB Play: Striving for Technique Perfection - March 17, 2026 The Alien Era: How Defensive Backs Can Win vs Athletic Tight Ends - March 4, 2026 These 4 Drills Will Drastically Improve Your Off Man Coverage - February 25, 2026 Related Posts:Want to Be A Good DB? Find Yourself A WeaveDefend the Fade DrillDB Drill Series: Weave N Stay SquarePlay the Fade Drill Post navigation Route Combos You Need to Know – Part I Route Combinations You Need to Know – Part II