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The best way to approach this is to use the Finder function on your device. CTR+F or Command+F and then search the term. Let me know if there is something specific from one of the main sections I have that is not in here. I will attempt to add it if I can. I plan on adding more trees as I go. I plan on adding more ‘tree’ glossaries as I get them.
Saban/Kirby Smart Terms
Defensive Terms
L.O.S. LINE OF SCRIMMAGE
P.O.A. POINT OF ATTACK
C.P. COACHING POINT
MIKE INSIDE LINEBACKER
SAM OUTSIDE LINEBACKER ON STRONG SIDE
WILL OUTSIDE LINEBACKER ON WEAK SIDE
BUCK INSIDE LINEBACKER IN DOLLAR SUB PACKAGE
MONEY DEFENSIVE BACK/COVER LINEBACKER USED IN OUR TRANSITION OR SUB DEFENSE
MAC MIDDLE LINEBACKER IN SUB DEFENSES
RED AREA AREA OF THE FIELD FROM +20 TO +5 YARD LINE
GOAL LINE AREA OF THE FIELD FROM +5 TO GOAL LINE
WIDE SIDE TERM REFERRING TO THE WIDE SIDE OF THE FIELD WITH THE BALL ON THE HASH MARK
SHORT SIDE TERM REFERRING TO THE SHORT SIDE OF THE FIELD WITH THE BALL ON THE HASH MARK
STRONG SIDE SIDE OF OFFENSIVE FORMATION HAVING THE 2 QUICK RECEIVERS (1 RECEIVER SIDE)
WEAK SIDE SIDE OF OFFENSIVE FORMATION AWAY FROM THE 2 QUICK RECEIVERS (1 RECEIVER SIDE)
TIGHT END SIDE SIDE OF OFFENSIVE FORMATION WHERE THE TIGHT END REMAINS NEXT TO HIS TACKLE OR THE SIDE OF THE 2 QUICK RECEIVERS IN A 3 RECEIVER FORMATION. HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH STRENGTH!
OPEN SIDE SIDE OF OFFENSIVE FORMATION WHERE A NORMAL WIDE RECEIVER IS SPLIT AWAY FROM HIS TACKLE
NEAR BACK BACK THAT LINES UP ON YOUR SIDE
FAR BACK BACK THAT LINES UP AWAY FROM YOU
Coverage Terms
1 ALERT SAFETIES SPIN ON F; ROCKET ADJUST 1 BACK RAZOR EMPTY; CORNERS MATCH-UP ON SLOT.
ROLL IT SPLIT END SIDE ADJUSTMENT FOR LB TO TAKE 1 BACK OR YAR MOTION.
ROCKET SAFETIES SPIN AND TAKE 1 BACK MOTION.
1 BUCK SAFETY DOWN IN BUZZ TO TE SIDE – 4 ON 3 FUNNEL WITH LB’S ON RB’S / TE.
1 SAFETY DOWN IN SKY TO TE SIDE BREAKS / ROLL IT SPLIT END SIDE BREAKS.
RAT ALERT CALL MADE TO ALERT RAT FOR CROSSER ON MOTION OR SPLIT.
PUSH ALERT CALL MADE TO PUSH 1 RECEIVER BEHIND 2 POST SNAP – DB’S SWITCH MEN.
DIVIDER ALIGNMENT BY CORNER ON AN OUTSIDE WR.
SEAM ALIGNMENT ALIGNMENT ON A SLOT WR BY COVERAGE/STAR OR SAFETY ON SLOT RECEIVER.
SPIN SAFETIES SAFETIES EXCHANGE RESPONSIBILITY ON YAC OR UAC MOTION.
RAZOR ADJUSTMENT TO EMPTY – MIKE IS RAT, WILL HAS F, SAM HAS TE, CORNERS MATCH-UP ON RECEIVERS, SAFETY TO HAS HIM OTHER SAFETY IN MOF.
CUT RULES RULES FOR RAT TO CUT FIRST.
TRAFFIC CALL MADE VS 3 MAN BUNCH – TO TAKE RECEIVER ON LOS MAN AND IN/OUT 2 OFF RECEIVERS.
BUMP ALIGNMENT IN COVER 1 – UNLESS ON A SLOT – (Vs 6 YARDS OR LESS ON 3rd DOWN BUMP SLOT).
OFF CALL TAGGED IN HUDDLE CALL TO PLAY COVER 1 FROM OFF.
DOWN LEFT COMMUNICATION TO LB’S FOR DOWN SAFETY IN MAN COVERAGE.
DOWN RIGHT COMMUNICATION TO LB’S FOR DOWN SAFETY IN MAN COVERAGE.
1 INVERT CALL IN SUB FOR SAFETY TO COME DOWN TO 4th RECEIVER (TE IN BLUE).
1 INVERT TREY CHECK TRIANGLE VS TREY FORMATION – IN BLUE; WITH TAG CORNER DO NOT COME OVER – MIKE PLAY TREY ON 2 AND 3.
1 DOUBLE CALL IN SUB MADE FOR A SAFETY TO DOUBLE A RECEIVER; DOUBLE THE RECEIVER AT 14 YARDS AND DROP AT 14 OR VERTICAL ROUTES.
TRIANGLE Vs TRIPS FORMATION CHECK TO PLAY 3 ON 2 VS 2 RECEIVERS WITH MOF HELP.
1 CROSS SAFETY OPPOSITE STAR OR OPPOSITE TRIPS BECOMES RAT (RED PERSONNEL CALL); MIKE HAS RB.
1 CLUE SAFETY AND MIKE FUNNEL RB ON RELEASE – FREE PLAYER BECOMES RAT.
1 FUNNEL CALL IN SUB FOR SAFETY TO COME DOWN OPPOSITE 4th RECEIVER (R IN BLUE).
KEY CALL MADE IN 1 ALERT FOR SAFETIES TO READ F.
9 RAT SAFETY DOWN TO SPLIT END SIDE UNLESS RB OFF-SET TO TE SIDE (GAME PLAN SPLIT BACKS) ROCKET ADJUST 1 BACKS – SAM TAKE TE ON YAC.
9 DOUBLE CALL MADE IN REGULAR FOR SAFETY TO DOUBLE A RECEIVER; DOUBLE THE RECEIVER AT 14 YARDS AND DROP AT 14 ON VERTICAL ROUTES. ROCKET ADJUST ALL 1 BACKS. LB’S FUNNEL REMAINING BACK FREE LB DOUBLE TO CALL SIDE. SAM TAKE R ON YAC.
LOW SHOULDER TECHNIQUE IN MAN COVERAGE INSIDE SEAM AREA.
3 DEEP ZONE
COVER 3 4 UNDER 3 DEEP ROTATED TO TE SIDE OR PASSING STRENGTH ON A STRONG CURL.
COVER 6 4 UNDER 3 DEEP ROTATED TO WEAK SIDE OF FORMATION OR AWAY FROM STAR IN SUB.
RIP / LIZ CALLS MADE IN 3 DEEP ZONE – TO HANDLE 4 VERTICAL ROUTES.
UNDER CALL MADE POST SNAP ON RIP / LIZ CALL TO ZONE OFF TO 3 DEEP PRINCIPLE - #1 / #2 TOOK ROUTE INSIDE.
SAFETY CALL MADE PRE-SNAP BECAUSE OF A 2 MAN STACK OR BUNCH ALIGNMENT – CAN BE CALLED BY MOTION.
RITA COMMUNICATION BY SAFETY TO SIGNIFY RIGHT IN ZONE.
LINDA COMMUNICATION BY SAFETY TO SIGNIFY LEFT IN ZONE.
BUZZ COMMUNICATION BY SAFETY TO TELL LB HOW HE WILL INSERT – BUZZ IS BACKER FORCE FOR LB.
SKY COMMUNICATION BY SAFETY TO TELL LB HOW HE WILL INSERT – SKY IS SKY FORCE FOR SAFETY.
DEPTH AND DIVIDER TERM FOR CORNER WITH #1 VERTICAL AND #2 IN SEAM – DEPTH AND DIVIDER IN 3 DEEP ZONE IS 1 YARD TOP OF NUMBERS.
BUMP ALIGNMENT FOR CORNER – BAIL TECHNIQUE IN ZONE; BAIL EARLY VS OVER SPLIT.
BAIL TECHNIQUE TECHNIQUE FOR CORNER – READ 3 STEP, SEE #2 RECEIVER, #2 IN SEAM GO DEPTH AND DIVIDER, #2 SHORT MAN SQUEEZE #1.
MATCH RIGHT/LEFT CALLS MADE OPPOSITE RIP/LIZ CALL AND EXECUTED THE SAME FOR SECONDARY.
NO COVER ZONE AREA 5 YARDS FROM L.O.S.
SEAM AREA 3 YARDS TOP OF NUMBERS.
DIVIDER ALIGNMENT RULES FOR CORNER IN MOF COVERAGES.
MID-POINT OF THIRD 1 YARD TOP OF NUMBERS.
ROBOT TERM FOR MIKE LB – TO COVER DIG ROUTE ON FLOW PASS Y CROSS – LOOK TO X FIRST.
MABLE CALL FOR TRIPS TO PUSH COVERAGE STRONG AND PLAY MAN ON BACKSIDE (3 BUZZ MABLE).
SKATE CALL FOR TRIPS TO PUSH COVERAGE STRONG AND PLAY MON ON BACKSIDE (6 SKATE).
6/3 CORNER ADJUSTMENT ON Z CLOSE WITH A SAFETY IN SKY FORCE AND NO END OF LINE LB.
FOX CALL MADE IN ZONE – ALERT BUMP – PUTS WEAKSIDE CORNER IN BUMP MAN – SAFETIES READ F.
ZONE ALERT BUMP SAFETIES SPIN OR TILT OF FORMATION BUMP IS ALIGNMENT FOR CORNERS.
CHEAT TECHNIQUE FOR MOF SAFETY – HAS READ FORCE (MAIL) TO 3 MAN BLOCKING SURFACE AWAY FROM DOWN SAFETY.
FIST COVERAGE FOR SPLIT. PLAYS JUST LIKE RIP / LIZ EXCEPT INSIDE DB (SAFETY OR CORNER) DO NO CARRY #2 PAST 12 YARDS.
DOUBLE CALLS CALL MADE FOR CORNER TO MATCH-UP VS SLOT FORMATION.
OVER ALERT CALL MADE IN 3 DEEP ZONE TO ALERT FOR OVER ROUTES – CORNER DO NOT CHASE.
COVER 2
TAG CALL BETWEEN SAM/MIKE TO DEFEND MIDDLE HOOK.
IN / OUT CALL BETWEEN SAM/MIKE TO DEFEND MIDDLE HOOK.
BUMP ALIGNMENT FOR CORNER; RE-ROUTE COVER 2 OVER FADE (USED VS TE/FLANKER SIDE) (USED VS 2 OPEN).
KATHY SIGNIFY COVER 2 AND RAIL TECHNIQUE TO READ #1 RECEIVER (USED VS 2 OPEN RECEIVERS) (USED VS OUTSIDE WR OFF L.O.S.).
CLUB TECHNIQUE USED VS SINGLE RECEIVER.
DOG MAN UNDER TECHNIQUE USED VS FLOW PASS.
ZEKE CALL MADE TO IN / OUT TRIPS.
COVER 8
NAIL QUARTERS TO PASSING STRENGTH SIDE – ZONE MATCHED.
KATHY COVER 2 TO WEAK SIDE – CLUB TO A SINGLE RECEIVER; BUMP TO A TE/FLANKER; KATHY 2 OPEN.
ZEKE CALL MADE TO IN/OUT TRIPS – CORNER OFF IN MEG.
MEG CALL TO STRONG SIDE CORNER ONLY TO PLAY BUMP MAN.
CORA ALIGNMENT FOR KATHY SIDE CORNER TO ALIGN IN UNBLOCKED POSITION – THIS DOES NOT CHANGE PASS DROP.
DOG MAN UNDER TECHNIQUE USED VS FLOW PASS.
FLOW PASS IN ANY SPLIT SAFETY COVERAGE – DOG – THE X ON FLOW PASS. SPLIT SAFETY COVERAGES ARE 2, 5, 7, 8 (FLOW PASS IS 4 STRONG LOAD).
ADJUSTED TAG WITH ANY COVERAGE – NO #4 WEAK PLAY 3 BUZZ MABLE - #4 WEAK PLAY LEAD COVERAGE.
COVER 7
MEG TERM FOR STRONG SIDE CORNER TO PLAY BUMP MAN.
MOD SAME AS MEG EXCEPT DO NOT TAKE ANY ROUTE LESS THAN 5 YARDS (HITCH) – COME OFF.
ZEKE TERM TO IN / OUT TRIPS – CORNER OFF IN MEG.
BOX QUARTERS TO PASSING STRENGTH SIDE – MAN MATCHED.
CONE CALL MADE TO BRACKET OR DOUBLE A SINGLE RECEIVER.
CUT CONCEPT USED ON WEAKSIDE (TE/FLANKER) TO CUT OFF AN INSIDE PLAYER (TE/RB) TAKE UP AND INSIDE AND ON ANY OUT ROUTE CUT AND MAN #1. WEAKSIDE CORNER TRAP FLAT.
CORA ALIGNMENT FOR CORNER IN UNBLOCKED POSITION – ALSO IN COVER 7 TELLS MONEY LB THAT CORNER WILL TAKE #1 BEHIND #2.
PUSH ALERT CALL TO MONEY LB FOR MONEY TO TAKE #1 BEHIND #2.
CLIP SAME AS CUT EXCEPT STRONG SIDE.
DOG CALL MADE TO DOUBLE A RECEIVER IN 2 MAN.
COUGAR FORM OF CUT AND COVER 5. PLAYED VS 2 OPEN RECEIVERS. READ #2 RECEIVER – INSIDE OR UP FIELD PLAY COVER 5. OUTSIDE IN FIRST 5 YARDS CORNER TRAP FLAT INSIDE DB (STAR) CUT TO #1.
TANGO FORM OF COVER 5 – TO PLAY 3 ON 2 ON 2 RECEIVERS IN A STACK.
TRIO FORM OF COVER 5 – TO PLAY 3 ON 2 ON 2nd / 3rd RECEIVERS IN TRIPS.
STUMP CALL FOR TRIPS IN SUB ONLY – READ FOR STAR/SAFETY ON #3 / #2 MAN MATCHED. CONE/MEG/DOG/CUT SINGLE RECEIVER WEAKSIDE – USED IN COVER 7.
STOUT CALL FOR TRIPS IN SUB ONLY – READ FOR STAR/SAFETY ON #3 / #2 ZONE MATCHED. COVER 2 ON WEAK SIDE CORNER PLAYS ½.
STUFF SAME AS STOUT – WITH F/S IN SKY FORCE WEAK SIDE CORNER PLAYS ½.
TUFF SAME AS STUMP WITH F/S IN SKY FORCE WEAK SIDE – CORNER DOUBLE FROM 1/2.
STUBBIE SAME AS STUMP EXCEPT – STRONG SIDE CORNER PLAYS MOD ON #1. STAR CARRIES #2 ON ANY VERTICAL.
POACH SAME AS STUMP – STAR HAS NO CARRY – F/S READ #3 TO #1 ON WEAK SIDE - #3 VERTICAL TAKE HIM #3 SHORT GO BREAK TO #1 WEAK SIDE CORNER MEG SINGLE WR.
SIN 3 BUZZ MABLE VS TREY FORMATION BUZZ SAFETY HAS NOT MATCH.
BRONCO 3 BUZZ MABLE VS TREY FORMATION BUZZ SAFETY TAKE #2 BACK ON SPLIT FLOW.
PINTO TAG FOR TREY FORMATION WITH #4 WEAK. CUT WEAK SIDE AND STUMP TREY SIDE – MAC IS POST PLAYER.
SINBAD TAG ON BLITZERS TO PLAY SIN VS ALIGNED TREY FORMATION.
SLOT COVERAGES
SLOT COVERAGE PLAYED VS SLOT FORMATION – CORNERS PLAY AS COVER 1 – LB’S BRACKET RB/TE.
COVER 4 COVERAGE PLAYED VS SLOT FORMATION – TILTED COVERAGE – KATHY COVER 2 TO SLOT SIDE AREA CALL ON BACKSIDE.
COVER R ROBBER COVERAGE TO SLOT FORMATION F/S READ #2 AND ROB #1 ON SHORT ROUTES AREA CALL ON BACKSIDE.
COVER SPECIAL PLAYED VS SLOT FORMATION ANY 3 ON 2 MATCH TO SLOT SIDE.
IOWA COVER 5 PRINCIPLE VS SLOT. CONE #2 RECEIVERS – SAFETY INSIDE LEVERAGE – BRACKET ON BACKSIDE.
THUMBS QUARTERS PRINCIPLE VS SLOT INSIDE SAFETY DOUBLE 1 OR 2 INSIDE FROM INSIDE OUT – BRACKET ON BACKSIDE.
BOW QUARTERS PRINCIPLE VS SLOT – BOW’S BOX WITH WILL LB.
FIST SAME AS RIP/LIZ – FORM OF 3 DEEP VS SLOT EXCEPT INSIDE DB DEEP #2 AT 12 YARDS.
Linebacker Terms
1/2 CALL TO FRONT TO GAP NOSE vs TRIANGLE RUN TO BUBBLE SIDE
ABLE CALL TO BLITZ A-GAP
AREA ZONE PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE IN WHICH 1 OUTSIDE LINEBACKER & MIKE BACKER COVER THE 2 WEAKSIDE PASS RECEIVERS
BENJI CALL TO BLITZ B-GAP
BANJO MAN/MAN DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH 2 LINEBACKERS PLAY MAN/MAN
(2 ON 2) ON 2 RECEIVERS BASED ON THEIR RELEASE
CHANGE CALL TO DL TO CHANGE PASS COVERAGE RESPONSIBILITY
CHARLIE CALL TO BLITZ C-GAP
CHOKE TECH ON L.O.S. WITH C-GAP RESPONSIBILITY & MAN/MAN ON TE
CORE AREA FROM TE TO OT BOX
DIRECT READ INSIDE LINEBACKER READ; BACK & BALL ATTACKING YOUR GAP
FAST READ LINEBACKER READ; BOTH BACKS & BALL GOING IN SAME DIRECTION
FIRE CALL TO SAM TO TAKE SAFETIES COVER
FUNNEL MAN/MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE IN WHICH 3 DEFENDERS
(3 ON 2) (USUALLY LINEBACKERS) PLAY 2 RECEIVERS
GREEN DOG LB BLITZ ON COVERAGE RESPONSIBILITIES BLOCK
H & S SIGNAL BY MIKE TO CHECK TO COVER 2 OUT OF MAN/MAN OR BLITZ COVERAGE
HAWK BOTH OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS RUSHING
KEY BLITZ TERM TO ENGAGE & TAKE RB ON BLOCK OR PEEL TECHNIQUE
LION CALL TO END TO LION UP FIELD
LOCK MAN/MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH 2 DEFENSIVE BACK &
(2 ON 2) (2 ON 2) 1 LINEBACKER PLAYING MAN/MAN ON 2 RECEIVERS BASED ON THEIR RELEASE
RAMBO MAN/MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH 2 DEFENSIVE BACK &
(2 ON 2) (2 ON 2) 1 LINEBACKER PLAYING MAN/MAN ON 2 RECEIVERS BASED ON THEIR RELEASE
RINGO/LUCKY CALL TO TELL FRONT WHERE ZONE PRESSURE IS COMING FROM
ROY/LEE CALL TO SEND FRONT RIGHT OR LEFT
SLOW READ LINEBACKER READ; BACKFIELD ACTION IN COUNTER, SPLIT, DELAYED, CROSSING ACTION, OR UNDERNEATH BALL HANDLING
SOFT CHOKE TECH ON HEELS OF DE WITH C-GAP RESPONSIBILITY & COVERAGE CALLED
TEAR CALL TO FRONT TO STUNT NOSE TO 2i & DE TO 7 TECH vs SAM DISPLACED
Fronts
BASE BASE 3-4 (NOSE = 0; ENDS = HEAVY 5)
UNDER BUBBLE TO TE SIDE
OVER BUBBLE AWAY TO TE SIDE
SINK DOUBLE EAGLE FRONT
ULTRA SINK WITH MIKE MUGGED – UNDER
OZZIE SINK WITH WILL MUGGED – 40
40 BASE 4-3 (NOSE = 2i)
POINT SAME CHOKE ON TE
48 – 8 MIKE & WILL MUG IN GAPS
41 BASE 4-3 (NOSE = TILT)
SPLIT BUBBLE TO TE SIDE WITH 2i NOSE
FIELD BUBBLE TO FIELD
STACK BUBBLE TO BOUNDARY
UNDER ADD 3 TECH, 5 TECH, 9 TECH TO TE SIDE
SOLID HEAVY 3 TECH, 9 TECH TO TE SIDE
STATE BUBBLE SET LIKE STACK
Sub Fronts
EVEN TWO 3 TECH, TWO 5 TECH
ODD TWO 5 TECH, 0 TECH IN $
OKIE BUBBLE AWAY FROM TE OR STAR WITH NO TE
UNDER BUBBLE TO TE OR TO STAR
40 3 TECH SET TO TE (TITE RT/LT)
RUBY MAC MUGGED IN BUBBLE
FLEX FRONT WITH 3 TECH AND 2i
—
Kirby Smart
» Cover 3/6 Terms:
3 Thru: Tech For Hook Droppers Vs 2x2 While Playing Rip/liz Match
3 Up Is 3:Technique For Wk Hook Dropper Vs 3x1 - Man Turns 3 Vertical
4/1st:Backside Dropper Off Back(#4), Match Him Wk, If Back Goes Str Take First Crosser
Area: Pre-snap Communication By Secondary Based On Tight Splits By Receivers Puts You In A Zone Concept Instead Of Match
Auto:Adj In Str 3 Vs 2 Open Wk, Jack Becomes Ralph/larry To Boundary Side
Banjo: 2 On 2 Read, With Inside And Outside Leverage
Bonus Drop: Wk Hook Drop In Flood, Opens Wk Before 3 Up Is 3
Buzz: Saf Dropping Inside The Star, Backer Force ("Rita"/"linda")
Ck R: Adj To Strong Coverage, Nub Or Stanford, Saf Super Rotate
Corner Crank: Z Close Align- Send Corner In Bass Ck
Easy: Edge Rusher Plays D Gap- Easy=edge
Flood: Empty Adj Vs. Cover 3 Or 6
Iso: (Dl) Over And Flex Fronts - Pop And A-jam
Jack Banjo: Played With Is And Os Player (Played Between Jack And Lb Vs Up Te)
Liz Sky: Saf Down Left (Str) Playing Cover 3 (Safety Force)-- Ex: Super
Mable: Skate Out Of Buzz (Ex: Rita Buzz Mable)
Mule: Trey Adj In Super, Similar Coverage Concept As Bronco, Used In 3 Down Fronts
Poach: Backside Db Looking For Vert From Strong Side, Vs 3x1
Pull: 4 Str Load, Trips, Stanford, Makes Tackle Pull To A 5 Tech (3 Down Front)
Ralph/larry: Indicates 4th Edge Rusher In 3 Down Fronts
Rip Sky: Saf Down Right (Str) Playing Cover 3 (Safety Force) -- Ex: Super
Robot: Tech By Wk Backer Vs 4 Strong Load , Looks Up Dig From Backside
Roy Lee: Communication To Move Front In 3 Down (Can Roy Lee Triangle Formation Runs)
Skate:True 3 Deep Zone Coverage, No Rip/liz Match
Skinny: 3x1 Adj In 3 Deep Where Rip Liz Still Applies To 2 Strong
Tuna: Front Adj Out Of 3 Man Front Vs Empty, Front Becomes 4 Down - "Tuna Lt" Like A Tite Call
Red-red: 4 Open Adj That Keeps The Star From "Matching Up" Into The Boundary, Treat All Eligibles As Recievers
Sky Force: Safety Is Force Player, And Perimeter Support
Short And Deep: 2 On 2 Technique, In Blitz Coverage
Area: Call Made In 3 Deep Zone If Splits Are Close; Automatic Under Call
Fist: Adj In Bass Vs Slot
Track Call: Olb Vs Te C Gap Vs Run, Contain Rush Vs Pass
Fox: Safeties Read Flow Of Fb To Determine Rotation
Duo: Cover 2 Adj Vs Slot And Trey, Potential In/out
Leach: Lb Or Star Carries #2 Vertical In Cover 2, You Have Him Up Not Back
Backer 9: Olb Alignment When In Backer Force Vs Te
Cage: Tackle/end To Hvy 5 Vs I/ifr Slot
Cam: Plays Like Super, There Is No Backer Go Vs 3 Open, Cam Stays On, Plays As Stubbie Vs Trey
Over Front: (Dl) Tite Set To Te, No Te Attached Set Call To The Fld Vs 4 Open 2x2
» Bunch Checks:
Bingo: (4/7)bunch Adjustment Vs Quarters Coverage, Star/sam Matches First To Flat, Corner And Safety Playiing Vert Of #1 And Or #2, Backside Of Bingo Plays As A Match
Hammer:8) Bunch Adjustment Vs Cover 8, Frontside Plays The Same As Bingo, Backside Plays As A Zone Concept// (Ex: Cov 8, Money Can Pass One Back)
Traffic: Bunch Adjustment Vs Man Coverage, Press And Man The Point, Banjo The Release Of #1 And #3
Sort: Bunch Adjustment Vs Cover 2 // Corner Split Zone To The Flat, Star Play I/s And Underneath Final #2, $ Play Final 3, Safety 1/2 Technique
3 Way: Bunch Adjusment Vs Blitz Coverage,
Safety: Bunch Adjustment Vs Firezone// C 1/3, $ Hook 3, Ss Flat (3 Deep, 3 Under)
Skate: Bunhc Adj Vs Cov3 Or Cov6, Star Match First To The Flat , Corner Deep 1/3, Ss Spins On The Call
» Cover 1 Terms:
Trade Call: Star And Safety Can Make Mod Look And Star Play Te (Disguise)
Traffic: Cov 1 Bunch Concept
Push Alert: (Pre-snap Communication By Dbs To Alert #1 Off The Ball, Aligned In Cov 1 Rules For Leverage)
Top-hat: Pre Snap Communication To Alert #1 Directly Behind In A Stack, Point Player Has The Off Ball Rec, Off Db Has The Rec On The Point
Lock: Pre Snap Communication By Dbs To Alert #1 On The Ball, Align In Cov 1 Rules For Leverage - Corner Man On 1
Clue: 4 Open Adj, Called In Dime, 2x2 Down Saaf Away From Back, 3x1 Down Saf Away From 3 Man Side
Rocket: Regular Term, Used To Say The Rotation Of The Safeties Ex: "Rocket Rt", Similar To Down Rt/lt
Omaha: Empty Ck In 1 Alert / Gets Us To 4 Down,
Tear: Any Time The Sam Is Removed- Means Nose Is A 2i, End Moves From A 5 To A 7
5-man Pressures & Cover 0 Terms:
Easy: Means You Are The Edge Player Typically 9 Tech
Banjo Rush: Stands For Blood Path Stay Underneath // Play C Gap Vs Run, Contain Vs Pass
Ned: Dl Movement) Called Away From Back, Nose Pick Guard To The Call Side, End Loop To Back Into Opposite A
Stick: Mof Safety Becomes Man On Rb, Or Involved In A Funnel
Plug: Mac Rush A Gap Away From Back
Combo: I/s Would Take Te Veritcal As Opposed To Banjo Where The Os Player Could Take Him Up
Tube: Cut Split By X // Talks To Hook 3 Player// Corner Can Pass Off The Tube Route// Corner Replaces "Low Hole Rat, Or 3 Hook" Responsibility// Cov 1 Or Fz (Tunnel)
Stab Plug: Plug Away From Call // Bunch = Traffic
Will Able: Call Vs I/ifr Move To A Hvy Away From Able Call
Mike Pop: Call To Mike To Puncture B Gap Vs Inr// End Becomes 5 Tech
Natural: (Dl Movement) That Can Appear To Be Like A Pop Jam Or Tom, Where 1 Dl "Covers" Another To Balance The Rush Lanes
Rac: Rac Coverage (Lbs On Backs// Dbs On Te And Wrs)
Tom: 3 Tech Pick Center Nose Loop To Opposite A
Charlie: Tells J Or E To Crash And Mac Blitz Contain Except 4 Open Back Away From Te Then $ Go
Ultra Bitz Path For Mike In Backer Shoot, Puncture B Gap
Roscoe: Jack And $ Opposite - Easy Call Unless Back To You
» Fire Zone Terms:
Mud: Safety Dropping Hook 3
Sling-shot: Safeties Swift Rotation On Rocket Motion, Typically Occurs On Fib, Star Replaces Fs Responsibilty, Fs Rolls To The Field, Ss Rotates Down
Mix: Cover 7 Adjustment, Technique And Assignemtn Very Similar To Mod In Cov 4
Cat: Corner Blitz, Typically From The Bndry
Oscar: Thin, Safety Comes Down To Be The Adjuster, So End Doesn’t Have To Run With Slot Receiver, Also Play When Mac Go
Spin: Safeties Exchange Responsibility Agaisnt Yac Or Uac
Straight: Slant A Gap Opposite Of Straight Call
Fz Stay: No Spin
Hard: Call Made By Corner As An Adj To Single Width, Or Trey
» Cover 4 Terms:
Ray/lou: Lb Technique (M/$), 2-way Read Blitz On The Guard Typically Out Of Mint Fornt
Poach: 3x1 Technique By Fs In Mint 4 Mod, Carry The Vertical Of 3 An Dfit Off Y N The Run Game
Mini: 3x1 Open Check (Cov 4), Frontside Coverage Will Play Similar To Stubbie In Cov 7
I'm Here: Fs Or Corner Call To Lbs Alerting Them That They Have A Gap In The Core, Lbs Should Plus Or Minus
Post #3: Zone Eyes On #3, No Carry Vertical
Pass 1 Back: Vs. Loaded Set, Post #3 Player Does Not Have To Carry Under Route (Ex: Cov 6 Or Cov 8)
Patty: Term Used In Back 7 To Pass Off Under And Switch Concepts
Mustang: Stud With Penny/regular Pers
Slide: Over Front To A Mint Front
Ck Mod: Ck Mod On 2x2 Pro Formations, Typically Played With Mint Front)
Mule: Trey Adj Vs 3 Down Front, Will Play Similar To Bronco In Frontside Coverage
Rita/linda Buzz: Safety Inserting Into The Box And Typically Dropping On #3
Iso: Empty Ck For D-line: Jam And A Pop
Rodeo: Fib Coverage Adj
» Cover 7 Terms:
"Cut" Coverage: Variation Of Cov 2 Used On Weakside
Cut Tech: Used In Cov2 Trap Concepts, Cut Anything Inside And Carry Vertical
Bracket: Tech Used In Cov7, Star And Safety Read The Release Of #2 Corner Meg On 1
Spoke: Safety And Star Rotation (Star Man Motion)
Mix: Same As Mod Cov 7 World
Mac In The Cut: 2x2 Rb In The Bndry, Mac Pushes To 4 Vert With Fast 3
Corner Box: Adj To A Cut Split By Alignment Or Motion, Allowing The Corner To Play At Run Support, Cover 2
Sack: Empty Coverage Adj Stubbie And Switch
Seahawk: Split Saf Coverage Fib Check , 4 Boxer, Star And $ Will Play In/out
Meg/cone: Split Of X Determines Meg Or Cone Pre Snap -- The Initial Stem Of The X Determines Whether The Corner Will Get Help Or Not (Inside = Cone) (Out Side= Meg)
Cowboy: Empty Fib Adj Ck Clamp To Field And Seahawk To The Boundary
Rope: Fib Adj To Cover 7 Rules, Will Play Seahawk To Bndry, Can Also Be Used In Big 12
Box Te: Just Saying Play Qtrs
Roy/lee: Dl Term Used Primarily In Reg Personnel, To The Tilt, Dl Will Slant
Plug: Term Used For Lb As A B Gap Penetrator
Zeke: In/out
Tuna Flood: Empty Adj.. Tuna = Term To Adj 3 Man Front To An Over Front, Flood = Empty Coverage With Wkside Rotation
Half: Call Moves Nose To A 2i
Box: Qtrs To Passing Strength
Clip Coverage: Played Same As Cut But Strong Side
» ‘Beavers’ Terms:
Mac In The Cut: If Back Is Wk 2x2 The Mac Is In The Weakside Coverage, So "Cut"
Cut Dog: For Mac --- If Back Releases To Flat He Plays Cut -- If Back Late Release We Are Playing Dog "2 Man"
Post #3: Reroute #3 And Zone Turn // No Carry
Mix: True Qtrs Concept Play Very Similar To Mod, Played In 7 Brkt Not 4
Cover 7 Fire Zone, Cb Blitz, Or Boundary Fz Terms:
Screw: Adj In Corner Blitz Vs 2x2 // Becomes A Fz With Mof Player
Pluck: Adj In Chop -- Pull Rules For Jack
Greendog: Rush To The Back, If Back Releases Man The Rb
Hvy Rules: If Fld E Has Te 3 Man Surface Go Fro 4i To Hvy 5, Typically Used In Reg With Base Front
Woody: Adj In Corner Blitz Vs 4 Open, Corner Doesn’t Go -- Jack And Will Go
Backer Go: Adj To A Formation, In Pressure That Prevents Db From Blitzing And Allows Backer To Replace Him
Ck Sting: In Corvette Call Changes To Hds Y Sting Vs Gnr Trey Or Gnr Flex
Big 12: 5 Man Pressure With Cover 7 Coverage To Field And Blitz Covergae Weak
Alert 2 Way: Alert For An Adj For Dbs In Blitz Coverage
Charlie: Called Away From Tite Call In Switzer/rac - Back To The Call Blitz Contain
Baker: Called Away From Tite Call In Sooner -- Back To The Call Puncture B Gap
» Cover 2 Terms:
Set: Over Front With Poncho Calls
Poncho: Pop From A 2i
Leach: Cover 2 Technique Played By Star Or Sam, Leach Player Has 2 Vertical And Not Back
In/out: Anytime There Is A 3 Vertical Player And 2 Dropper, Must Replace The 3 Underneath Cover
Buster: Dog Coverage Based On The Release Of #2 -- Corner Takes The Out
Squat Cutter: Squat Is A Corner Alignment At 8 Yards Off
Club Tech: Technique Used By Corner In Cover 2 Concepts, Press And Outside Leverage, Club In Spl Zn
Cut Dog: Dog Coverage Based On The Release Of #2 -- Corner Takes The Out, Typically Used On The Backside With A Rb And An X
Dog: Playing 2 Man (Cover5)
Bump: Alignment For Corner; Re Route Cover 2
» Cover 8 Terms:
Kathy: Signify Cover 2, Club A Single Receiver , Bump A Te/ Flanker Combo, Kathy 2 Open
Nail: Qtrs To Passing Strength Side - Zone Matched
Clamp: 2 To 1 Read By Corner And Safety, Star Reroute #2 (No Carry)
Stud: Corner And Safety Read 2 To 1, Star Reroute #2 (No Carry), $ In/out
Trap 2 Terms:
Bail Trap: Inside And Deep, Show Cover 3, Bail On Cadence Settle At 7 Yards
Key 1/2: Tells Corner To Play Deep 1/2 Vs 2x2 But Will Match The Deepest Vertical (Ex: Sonic Or Shake, Spurs)
Nose Spy: If The Back Flares The Nose Drops And Protects The Middle (Shake) (Spurs)
Bench: Tells Jack To Align To The Bndry
Tango: Previously Known As Push Alert
Bird Out: Empty Ck, Tells Jack To Matchup On 4 Wk, Pressure Stays On The Frontside, (Ex: Sonic Or Shake)
Crash/blood: Underneath First Player That Looks To Block You
Slice #1: Played By Olb, Get To The Flat To Cover Quick Game
Red Zone (Red Area) Terms:
Oklahoma: Bracket (Safety Outside Of 2), Vs 2 Recievers, Inside The 10 Yd Line
Indy: 3x1 "Trio" Safety Inside Of 2 (Inside The 10 Yd Line) Brkt On #2
Switch: Man On #2, Help Deep And O/s, Plays Like 2 Man
Trio "Stack": Played Vs Trips, Saf Split 2/3, Corner All Of #1, $ Takes First In
Trio "Indy": $ All Of #3, Ss Inside, Star Outside, Corner Man, Inside The 8
Read Release Of X (Fs): Looking To Make Meg Or Cone Call Based Off Split/release, If O/s Release Look To Help Str
Stump: Stubbie With The Corner Playing Off In 1/3
Cut Read It: Based On Release Of #1, Play Inv Cov2 If O/s And Clamp If Inside
Difference: Hammer Vs Bingo, If Zone Backside Then You Can Pass One Back, If Not Then Money Match It Back
Cop: Trey Ck, Fs Has A Gap, If One Route Fs Poach And Corner Match It
Post #3: Collision 3 Vert And Take Anything Back
No Zone: Man
Stick: High Hole Player Down Away From The "Down" Saftey,
"Red" Tag: Mof Saf Cutting All Crossers
Muschamp Terms
» Run Support
Primary Force – Player That Has Turn Back On Blocker Or Ball.
B = Backer
Sky= Safety
Cloud = Corner
Contain = Dl
Secondary Force – Player That Has 2nd Force To Side Of Ball. This Player Has Pass Responsibility First And Will React To Run Second.
Backer Force – Lb That Is Primary Force.
Sky Force – Safety That Is Primary Force.
Cloud Force – Corner That Is Primary Force.
Hammer – Player That Leverages Ball Inside And Spills Blockers Outside.
Alley – Mof Safety That Takes Inside Out Angles To The Ball Carrier And Plays Qb To Pitch On Option.
Read Force – Backer, Sky, Or Cloud Force Based On Release Of Tight End
Replace – Technique By Secondary Force Player That Replaces Primary Force Player If Blocked
Full Flow – Both Rb’s Moving To Passing Strength
Webb Flow – Both Rb’s Moving Away Passing Strength
Split Flow – One Back Moves Strong And One Back Moves Weak.
Passing Identification
P 90 – 3 STEP DROP BY QB(QUICK GAME)
P 50 – 5 STEP DROP BACK PASS
P 800 – SPRINT OUT ACTION BY QB TO THE TIGHT END SIDE
P 900 – SPRINT OUT ACTION BY QB TO THE SPLIT END SIDE
P 144 – RUN ACTION PASS TO THE TIGHT END SIDE
P 344 – RUN ACTION PASS TO THE SPLIT END SIDE
NAKED – TAGGED AT THE END OF 144 OR 344 TO SIGNIFY QB ROLLING OUT OF THE POCKET AWAY FROM THE PLAY FAKE
NAKED UNDER – NAKED PLAY FAKE WITH AN ELIGIBLE RECEIVER COMING BEHIND THE LINE SCRIMMAGE AND RUNNING TO THE FLAT
BOOT O – TAGGED AT THE END OF 144 OR 344 TO SIGNIFY QB ROLLING OUT OF THE POCKET AWAY FROM THE PLAY FAKE WITH THE BACK SIDE GUARD PULLING TO HELP IN PROTECTION
WEST COAST – TAGGED AT THE END OF 144 OR 344 TO SIGNIFY THE QB ROLLING OUT OF THE POCKET TO THE SAME SIDE OF THE PLAY FAKE
P SLOW SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A SLOW SCREEN
P TB SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A THROWBACK SCREEN
P BUBBLE SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A BUBBLE SCREEN
P QUICK SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A QUICK SCREEN
P JAIL B SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A JAILBREAK SCREEN
P SLIP SCREEN – SIGNIFIES A SLIP SCREEN
Trap 2 Terms
“1/2" – TELLS HALF FIELD DEFENDER TO PLAY #1 ON TOP OF THE CORNER
“2/3” - TERM FOR PLAYER TO CUT FINAL #2 STRONG (IF NO #2 STRONG, CUT #3 WEAK) “3/2” - TERM FOR PLAYER TO CUT FINAL #3 STRONG (IF NO #3 STRONG, CUT #2 WEAK)
“SNATCH & HUG” - TERM FOR DEF. LINEMAN TO PLAY THE RB IN THE CORE MAN TO MAN. IF THE RB FLARE RELEASES, LOOK FOR A CROSSER FROM THAT SIDE (“CROSS DRESSERS AND DRAG QUEENS”)
“PEEL” - EDGE RUSHER TO BOTH SIDES IN ALL 2-TRAPS HAVE PEEL ON THE BACK
“BUZZ” - POSSIBLE CHECK VS ALIGNED OR MOTION TO EMPTY (BY GAMEPLAN)
“CUT” - COVERAGE CONCEPT FOR 2/3 AND 3/2 PLAYER VS ASSIGNED COVERAGE **VS VERTICAL OR INSIDE RELEASE – MAN TO MAN (LOW AND INSIDE LEVERAGE) **VS OUTSIDE RELEASE IN 1ST 5 YARDS – MAN TURN TO #1
“COMBO” - COVERAGE CHECK VS 2 MAN STACKS
“HAIL” - POSSIBLE CHECK VS ALIGNED OR MOTION TO EMPTY (BY GAMEPLAN)
“SQUIRM” - TELLS CORNER / FLAT DEFENDERS TO TAKE BACK ANY EARLY INSIDE BREAKING ROUTE FROM #1 AND HALF FIELD DEFENDER TO MAN #1 ON TOP (NOTE - LB’S AND BUCK WILL NOT PLAY SQUIRM)
D-Line Terms
GAP- GET VERTICAL PENETRATION IN YOUR ASSIGNED GAP.**ATTACK AN AREA, NOT A MAN**
“CROSS”(PERTAINS TO THE NOSE)-TELLS THE NOSE TO CROSS THE CENTER’S FACE TO OPPOSITE A GAP ON SNAP.
“STILL” STEM TO A 3 TECH PRE-SNAP AND PLAY TECHNIQUE.
“TAG”-STILL AND SPIKE.STEM TO A 3 TECH PRE-SNAP, SPIKE TO A-GAP ON SNAP - TAG (TACKLE ACROSS GUARD)
STAB- get vertical penetration in your assigned gap.**attack an area, not a man**
“LONG STICK”-STUNT TWO GAPS TO A GAP ON THE SNAP OF BALL.
“SIN”Alignment- 6 TechniquePENETRATE THE C GAP**if TE cuts you off you must fill the C gap with his body**
“CRASH” 9 TECH ON TE AND “BLOOD” TO A 7 TECH. WIN IN THE C GAP. ON DOWN BLOCK END BECOMES A “CHASE” PLAYER.
“CHASE”TELLS THE END TO SCREAM FLAT DOWN THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE ON DOWN BLOCK FROM OT AND GO UNDER ALL BLOCKS. TAKE DIVE ON ZONE READ.
BLOOD (9 TECH TO A 7 TECH) – BUCK ALIGN IN A 9 TECH AND ON SNAP ATTACK TE AND WIN INSIDE. BUCK IS RESPONSIBLE FOR C GAP ON A “BLOOD”.*SAME AS CRASH TECH BUT OUT OF 2 PT STANCE*
“DENT” ATTACK DOWN MIDDLE OF BLOCKER WITH HAT AND HANDS. GET VERTICAL MOVEMENT AND WIN INSIDE.
“PUP”- PIN THE HIP AND UP - EDGE RUSHER VS ACTION AWAY; MEANS PIN THE HIP AND UP. STAY SQUARE, SHUFFLE TO HIP OF OT. QB TO CUTBACK VS ZONE READ.
“BACKER”ATTACK BLOCK WITH INSIDE POWER FOOT AND KEEP OUTSIDE ARM FREE. KEEP SHOULDERS SQUARE TO LINE OF SCRIMMAGE
“BOOM” STEP WITH NEAR FOOT (POWER FOOT) TO V OF NECK OF MAN MOVING TOWARDS. MAINTAIN SAME GAP THAT YOUR ALIGNED IN.
BOOST – BUBBLE SIDE ADJUST TO “C‟ AREA PLAYER - Boost alerts D-line to boost side to move one technique over.
TICKLE THE TACKLE-TECHNIQUE MOST FREQUENTLY USED BY A TRAIN END. AGGRESSIVELY SELL PASS RUSH TO ALLOW INSIDE RUSHER TIME TO WORK TO CONTAIN.
“JOLT”- ATTACK THROUGH THROAT OF O-LINEMAN, WIN INSIDE AND/OR WORK TO NEXT GAP OR GAPS OVER
CHA CHA - INFLUENCE THE O-LINEMAN AWAY FROM WHERE THE PICKER IS COMING FROM.
“RELATIVE CONTAIN”- Edge rusher away from flow stay at depth of ball
“STEER” STAB AND READ BLITZ
*“FLASH” - Occupy Guard and work to contain
2-Man Stunts
TOPS - BOTH TACKLES CROSS THE GUARDS FACE
“CAGE”- CRASH & WEDGE
“WEDGE” BUBBLE SIDE= END STUNT B-GAP NOW NOSE-WRAP ON PASS
POP-3 TECH- STAB END- READ OUT
NUT - Nose 1st (Cross/Pick), Tackle 2nd (loop)
“SLAM” IS A END, NOSE AND TACKLE STUNT (ENT).
“TACO” - Crash + Tops
“PIRATE”6 TECH- SIN3 TECH- TAGSHADE- WRAP OPPOSITE ON PASSVS 2 MAN SURFACE- END STAY IN C GAP
4-Man Game
“RALPH/ LARRY” FROM BASE ALIGNMENT (2 4'S AND A 0) PLAY TECHNIQUE AND ON PASS WORK TOWARDS THE CALL (AWAY FROM THE 4TH RUSHER)“RALPH”- WORK RIGHT ON PASS“LARRY”- WORK LEFT ON PASS
LeBeau Defensive Terminology
FRONTS
A.BALANCED
1.TITE 3-4 ALIGNMENT WITH ENDS IN 5 ALIGNMENT AND NOSE IN 0.
2.TUFF 3-4 ALIGNMENT WITH ENDS IN 5 ALIGNMENT AND NOSE PLAYING BACK DOOR.
B.OPEN REDUCTIONS
1.EAGLE PLUS OPEN REDUCTION WITH OPEN END IN 3 ALIGNMENT, NOSE IN A PLUS, AND THE CLOSED END IN A 5 ALIGNMENT.
2.EAGLE WIDE OPEN REDUCTION WITH OPEN END IN 3 ALIGNMENT, NOSE IN A GAP ALIGNMENT, AND CLOSED END IN A WIDE 5 ALIGNMENT.
C.CLOSED REDUCTIONS
1.SPARROW MINUS CLOSED REDUCTION WITH CLOSED END IN 3 ALIGNMENT, NOSE IN A MINUS, AND THE OPEN END IN A 5 ALIGNMENT.
D.SUB FRONTS
1.BASE A BALANCED FRONT WITH EQUAL NUMBER OF RUSHERS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE CENTER.
2.SHADE EVEN FRONT WITH TACKLES IN A 3 AND 1 ALIGNMENT ON THE GUARDS AND WITH THE END TO THE TE IN A 7 ALIGNMENT.
Coverage Terms
ALERT RUN – WHEN WE TAG A DEFENSE WITH AN “ALERT RUN” THE CORNERS WILL RUN AND MATCH THE TWO WR’S IN THE GAME. “ALERT RUN” TRUMPS ALL FIREZONE RULES.
SPECIAL – WHEN WE TAG A DEFENSE WITH “SPECIAL” THE CORNERS WILL RUN AND MATCH THE TWO WR’S IN THE GAME.
STAY CONCEPT: ANY TIME WE HAVE AN EVEN, FIREZONE, OR DOUBLE DIGIT COVERAGE CALLED, THE CORNERS WILL ALIGN RIGHT AND LEFT AND BUMP ALL MOTION ACROSS THE FORMATION. THE SS WILL ALIGN TO PASSING STRENGTH AND THE FS WILL ALIGN WEAK WITH ANY EVEN COVERAGE CALL.
DOUBLE CALLS AND FIREZONES CORNERS ALIGN RIGHT AND LEFT AND BUMP ALL MOTION ACROSS THE FORMATION. SAFETIES MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO WR MOTION.
Defensive Terms
RUN SUPPORT
FORCE THIS TERM DESCRIBES THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MEETING THE END RUN IN ITS FORMATIVE STAGE AND MAKING THE TACKLE OR FORCING THE CUTBACK, OR FORCING THE BALL CARRIER DEEP SO THAT HE IS VULNERABLE TO PURSUIT.
PRIMARY FORCE THIS PLAYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR FORCING THE END RUN.
SECONDARY FORCE THIS PLAYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PLAY ACTION PASS, RUN, PASS, AND DELAYED RUN SUPPORT.
PLUG THE AREA BETWEEN THE FORCE MAN AND THE FIRST PURSUIT MAN (INSIDE OUT ON BALL.)
FILL DEFENSIVE BACK THAT HAS INSIDE OUT SUPPORT IN THE PLUG AREA.
SKY (SAFETY FORCE) COORDINATED END RUN SUPPORT WHERE THE SAFETY IS THE PRIMARY FORCE MAN.
CLOUD (CORNER SUPPORT) COORDINATED END RUN SUPPORT WHERE THE CORNER IS THE PRIMARY FORCE MAN.
BACKER (BACKER FORCE) COORDINATED END RUN SUPPORT WHERE THE OUTSIDE LINEBACKER IS THE PRIMARY FORCE WITH ZONE COVERAGE.
READ (KEYED FORCE) KEYED FORCE USESD TO DETERMINE FORCE ON THE NUB SIDE.
OUTSIDE LINEBACKER RUSH STUNTS
BULLETS CALL GIVEN TO PUT BOTH END AND OUTSIDE BACKER IN HARD INSIDE CHARGES INTO B AND C GAPS. END MUST BE IN A 5 AND OUTSIDE BACKER IN A 6.
EXIT OPEN SIDE STUNT WHERE OUTSIDE LINEBACKER STARTS UPFIELD AND HITS SEAM BETWEEN GUARD AND TACKLE. END STARTS AT GUARD AND STAYS ON HIM UNTIL OUTSIDE BACKER COMES UNDER TACKLE.
X STUNT WILL INVOLVE THE OPEN DEFENSIVE END AND THE OPEN OUTSIDE BACKER, AND CAN BE RUN FROM A ‘3’ OR A ‘5’. THE BACKER WILL GO FIRST - THE END EXECUTING ‘ENGAGE AND CONTAIN’.
FREEZE EAGLE END SLANTS INTO ‘A’ GAP. 4TH RUSHER WILL COME UNDER ALL PASS BLOCKS. NOSE PLAYS NORMAL RUN TECHNIQUE BUT CONTAIN RUSH TO THE SIDE OF THE 4TH RUSHER.
INSIDE LINEBACKER RUSH STUNTS
GAP (MAC) NOSE AND OPEN SIDE END ANGLE CHARGE AWAY FROM OPEN CALL.
VERBAL ALERTS AND CALLS
PLAY IT CALL ALERTING THE SECONDARY AND LINEBACKERS TO REMAIN IN THE COVERAGE CALLED.
CLOUD A CALL TO DIRECT OUR SECONDARY TO PLAY CLOUD SUPPORT. (VERTICAL HOOK AND ½ FIELD PLAYER)
LOCK A CALL TO DIRECT OUR SECONDARY TO PLAY CLOUD SUPPORT. CORNER AND MAC WILL PLAY 2 MAN ON THEIR DESIGNATED COVERAGE.
RALPH SECONDARY ROTATION TO OUR RIGHT WITH RIGHT SAFETY PLAYING HOOK-CURL. (BACKER FORCE)
LARRY SECONDARY ROTATION TO OUR LEFT WITH LEFT SAFETY PLAYING HOOK-CURL. (BACKER FORCE)
LEE SECONDARY ROTATION TO OUR LEFT WITH LEFT SAFETY PLAYING SEAM TECHNIQUE. (SKY FORCE) (FIREZONES)
ROB SECONDARY ROTATION TO OUR RIGHT WITH RIGHT SAFETY PLAYING SEAM TECHNIQUE. (SKY FORCE) (FIREZONES)
MATCH TERM TELLING CORNERS TO LINE UP ON WIDE RECEIVERS. CORNERS OVER VS SLOT. RUN RT/RUN LT.
WALK CALL MADE TO OLB IN ZONE COVERAGE TELLING LINEBACKER TO SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WIDE RECEIVER AND THE OFFENSIVE LINEMAN.
BUMP TERM ALERTING PASS DEFENDERS ON MOTION THAT DEFENDERS WILL SLIDE ONE MAN OVER TO ADJUST TO MOVEMENT.
LOU/ROY TERMS DENOTING STRENGTH OF THE FORMATION. LOU LEFT/ROY RIGHT
LIZ/RIP L.O.S. CALLS ALERTING THE LINE AND LINEBACKER THAT THE LEFT/RIGHT OUTSIDE LINEBACKER IS RUSHING.
BOS TERM REFERRING TO BACKER MOVING HIS ALIGNMENT STRONG. (BOS = BACKERS OVER STRONG)
BOW TERM REFERRING TO BACKERS MOVING HIS ALIGNMENT OVER WEAK. (BOW = BACKERS OVER WEAK)
RAY/LEXTERM ALERTING CORNER TO THE SIDE WE ARE PLAYING CLOUD.
LINEBACKER TERMS
BUZZ TECHNIQUE USED BY A DEFENDER REFERRING TO A FLAT RESPONSIBILITY WITHOUT 6 OR 7 CUT RESPONSIBILITY.
MY SIDE
YOUR SIDE A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH TWO LINEBACKERS PLAYING IN/OUT ON AN OFFENSIVE PLAYER.
SAMBO A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH A DB AND A LB PLAYING MAN TO MAN ON TWO RECEIVERS BASED ON THEIR RELEASE.
BANJO A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH TWO LINEBACKERS PLAYING MAN TO MAN ON TWO RECEIVERS.
LOCK A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH TWO DEFENDERS PLAYING MAN TO MAN ON TWO RECEIVERS REGARDLESS OF THEIR RELEASE.
I/O 2 ON 2 COVERAGE BETWEEN TWO LIKE BODIES.
SWITCH CALL MADE TO EXCHANGE RESPONSIBILITIES BETWEEN A LB AND SAFETY IN SUB PACKAGE.
SCRAPE ALIGNMENT AND TECHNIQUE USED BY AN INSIDE BACKER BASED ON FLOW. FLOW TO = C TO D GAP. FLOW AWAY = A GAP ALERT TO FALLBACK.
DEFENSIVE LINE AND LINEBACKER TERMS
CHECK TUFF NOSE PLAYS BACK DOOR TECHNIQUE, END PLAYS 4 TECHNIQUE.
LIZ/RIP L.O.S. CALL ALERTING LINE AND LINEBACKERS THAT THE LEFT/RIGHT OUTSIDE IS RUSHING.
I’M GONE CALL MADE BY OUTSIDE LINEBACKER ALERTING THE DEFENSIVE LINEMAN. CLOSED END IN WIDE 5 AND NOSE IN A ‘GAP.’
OPEN L.O.S. CALL ALERTING LINE AND LINEBACKERS THAT OPEN SIDE OF THE FORMATION IS LEFT OR RIGHT.
CLOSED L.O.S. CALL ALERTING LINE AND LINEBACKERS THAT THE CLOSED SIDE OF THE FORMATION IS LEFT OR RIGHT.
MOVE CALL GIVEN TO DOWN LINEMEN ALERTING THEM TO STEM THEIR ALIGNMENT.
RELOAD CALL ALERTING DEFENSE THAT OFFENSE HAS SHIFTED AND WE WILL RESET OUR DEFENSE THE OTHER WAY.
PASS COVERAGE TERMINOLOGY
3 WAY 3 ON 3 WITH THREE DEFENDERS.
SLIP TECHNIQUE BY SLOT DEFENDER WHO PLAYS I/S MAN INITIALLY, THEN TRANSFERS TO O/S LEVERAGE ONCE A ROUTE IS VERTICAL DOWN FIELD.
HOLE A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TERM TELLING A DESIGNATED DEFENDER TO COVER AN AREA FROM TACKLE TO TACKLE UP TO SIX YARDS DEEP.
SWAP AN EXCHANGE IN COVERAGE RESPONSIBILITIES BETWEEN TWO DEFENDERS.
CUT DOUBLE TECHNIQUE ON WIDEST WIDE RECEIVER.
SLUFF MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE IN WHICH A DEFENDER FREES UP FROM HIS ORIGINAL COVERAGE TO GO HELP ON ANOTHER RECEIVER.
CHINA CALL GIVEN TO ALERT A DELAYED UNDERNEATH ROUTE COMING FROM OUTSIDE INTO HIS ZONE.
SPY RUSH TECHNIQUE WHERE DEFENDER WILL HESITATE TO LET THE FIRST WAVE OF RUSH CLEAR THEN PICK HIS OPEN AREA AND RUSH IN THE FACE OF THE QB.
FLOW FOUR RECEIVERS TO THE STRONG SIDE OF THE FORMATION.
FLOOD THREE RECEIVERS TO THE WEAK SIDE OF THE FORMATION.
ZONE IT TECHNIQUE WITHIN QUARTERS WHERE 2 RECEIVERS ARE WITHIN 3 YARDS APART AND WE ZONE THE DEEP QUARTERS.
TOP HAT A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE TECHNIQUE WITH TWO DEFENDERS ON #2 STACKED RECEIVER WHERE THE DEFENDER WHO IS PRESSING THE POINT WILL TAKE THE STACKED WR (#2).
RUSSIA A MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE ON #2 STACKED WR WHERE THE DEFENDER WHO IS PRESSING WILL TAKE THE WR ON THE BALL.
BUNCH TERMS
POINT COMBO MAN TO MAN ON THE POINT; IN & OUT COVERAGE On THE #1 AND #3 WR.
ACE COMBO MAN TO MAN ON THE #1 WR; IN & OUT COVERAGE ON THE #2 AND #3 WR.
TREY COMBO MAN TO MAN ON THE #3 WR; IN & OUT COVERAGE ON THE #1 AND #2 WR.
CUT SPLITS/TIGHT FORMATION TERMS
OSCAR MAN TO MAN PASS DEFENSE Z OR X CUT SPLIT. FASTUNDER- POST SAFETY TAKES SHALLOW; CORNER REPLACE IN POST.
ZOMBIE ANY SINGLE HIGH DEFENSE. VS RACE ROUTE: POST SAFETY TAKES THE RACE, CB REPLACES IN THE POST.
PLASTER CALL GIVEN TO ALERT DEFENDERS THAT THE QB IS SCRAMBLING AND WE SHOULD LOOK TO MATCH UP ON THE DEEPEST RECEIVER IN OUR ZONE.
BUNCH ALERT THAT THREE RECEIVERS ARE IN THE PROXIMITY.
PUSH CALL MADE BY THE FS TO ALERT THAT HE IS GOING TO TRIPS.
MATCH TERM USED TO TELL DEFENDER TO COVER A FLAT ROUTE. ALERT TO COVER THE FLAT AND UP.
CARRY TERM USED TO TELL DEFENDER TO COVER A VERTICAL ROUTE.
DELIVER TERM USED TO TELL DEFENDER TO COVER A CROSSER UNTIL CALLED OFF.
I GOT HIM PHRASE USED TO INDICATE COVERAGE ON A MOVING ELIGIBLE RECEIVER.
VERTICAL MAN INSIDE ON #2 EVERYWHERE BUT OUT,
HOOK ONCE HE GOES OUT, LOOK UP #1.
BOX TERM USED TO GO 4 ON 3 TO A BUNCH
SLASH TERM USED TO ALERT SEAMER A FAST UNDER IS COMIMING FROM #1 OUSTSIDE OF HIM AND HE CAN DROP HIS #2 IF #1 COMES UNDER.
FANGIO DEFENSIVE TERMINOLOGY
**Compiled by HonestNFL
—
BASE MAN
DOG 1 = 5 Rush / 5 Under / 1 Deep man coverage with both EDGE men rushing.
COVER 0 = 6+ Rush with man coverage behind it and no deep safeties. (Nickel Dig, Nickel Shovel, Nickel Fox, Nickel Blast, Nickel Bubble, Nickel Candy, Nickel Beatles)
DOG 1 SPECIAL = Red Zone call. Same as DOG 1, but the Middle ⅓ safety will double a WR or TE by formation or game plan. May double a WR regardless of side sometimes. Safety may show double but fall off to play anywhere based on formation and game plan.
BASE ZONE
*NOTE: For coverage calls, EVEN numbers are MIDDLE-OPEN coverages and ODD numbers are MIDDLE-CLOSED coverages
WILL 6 = 4 Rush / 4 Under / ¼, ¼, ½ zone. Will is 4th rusher. Roy/Lou (6) call for ½ side rotation.
WILL 2 = 4 Rush / 5 Under / 2 Deep Buster zone with Will rushing.
BEE = Same coverage mechanics and basic front principle as “WASP,” but with Mike as the 4th rusher on a B Gap path.
WASP = 4 Rush Either/Or coverage. Jack is 4th rusher. Versus Twin sets (2x2) & Empty (3x2) play QUADS. All other formations, play SALLY/ROSE to strongside. “BIRD” fronts = Under fronts (Hawk, Falcon, Eagle etc.
WILL/MIKE/JACK 4 = 4 Rush / 3 Under ¼’s coverage. Will, Mike, or Jack can be tagged as the 4th rusher.
CHICAGO = 4 Rush Tampa 2
CUBS = Aggressive form of Cover 2 with a Middle Run LB.
PILLOW = 3 Rush / 5 Under / 3 Deep zone with Ralph/Larry (3) rotation. “CLOUD” tag may apply.
ROLL LUGGAGE = Call to specific # or direction for the secondary rotation (“roll” to [# or L/R]). Wide formations = Roy/Lou (6) and Nub formations = River/Lake (2) rotations.
RED TITE WILL 6 = Red zone rules.
RED BIRD WASP = Red zone rules.
BASE EITHER/OR
BONE = Versus Slots/Exchanges/Bunch, play PILLOW. All other formations, play DOG 1.
SHEPHERD = Versus Slots/Exchanges/Bunch, play TUFF SWILL PHILLY. All other formations, play DOG 1.
NICKEL ZONE
9 = 4 Under / 3 Deep Match Zone without 2-to-1 read Corners vs. normal splits. Rotation is AWAY from the Nickel (weak rotation).
STUFF (6) = ROY/LOU coverage to the weak side away from the Nickel. Changes if Nickel runs with C.O.S. motion. “Stuffing” a designated jersey # or side of the formation is basically to play Cover 2 over them. A squat CB, deep ½ safety, and a Vertical Hook man to wall the middle.
8 = ROY/LOU coverage to the side of the Nickel. Weak Safety TRIX vs. Trips (See #3 & 2)
QUADS (4) = Quads coverage across the board. Possible adjustments: Box, Buster, Squat, Trix. Possible Racquet weakside with EDGE.
BROOKLYN = 4 Rush Tampa 2 from Nickel with Tampa coverage to both the Nickel side and away. Corners play Smash technique with safeties over top playing Tampa 1/2 technique.
DODGERS = 3 Rush Tampa 2 from Nickel. Same as “BROOKLYN,” but with a LOW 3 Edge dropper away from RIP/LIZ call instead of a 4th rusher.
WILD (2) = 5 Under / 2 Deep Match Zone coverage.
52 = 4 Rush / 5 Under / 2 Deep Buster Zone from Nickel that plays Buster to the Nickel side and Halves away
CELTIC = 3 Rush Cover 2. Same as “WILD” but with a LOW 3 Edge dropper instead of 4th rusher
ZEUS [Jersey #] = Zone defense determined by a jersey #’s alignment. Jersey # at number 1, Roy/Lou to them. Jersey # inside as 2 or 3, Quads. Side away from jersey # is Quads. Final coverage will be STUFF, 8, or QUADS based on the jersey #. Racquet calls can apply.
RED STUFF (6) = Red Zone rules. Same coverage mechanics with Squat technique changing to Red (Soft) Squat technique vs. outside/upfield release by #1. Squats: Force outside release! ROY/LOU call away from Nickel.
RED QUADS (4) = Red Zone rules. Flat defenders are outside leverage on #2. Safeties are inside leverage on #2 or splitting between #2 & #3 in Trips. Quarter Hook defender takes #3 vertical with no under route showing. TRIX can be utilized still.
RED ZEUS [Jersey #] = Red Zone rules. Call will end as Roy/Lou/Quads based on alignment of jersey #.
RED 9 = Red Zone rules. Adjust the alignment and technique of Middle ⅓ Safety vs. Trips. No key reads by Weak Safety and Weak LB unless plan called for it.
SPLIT 9 = Red Zone rules. Plays as Red 9 with a Split Adjustment vs. 3x2 Empty by Safeties, Nickel, and LBs. Middle Safety split away from Rob/Lee.
WHIP = 4 Rush / 4 Under Cover 3 simulated zone pressure away from the Nickel side.
SLUG = 4 Rush / 4 Under Cover 3 simulated zone pressure from the Nickel side.
MIAMI = 4 Rush / 5 Under Cover 2 simulated pressure from the Nickel side.
NICKEL MAN
ROBBER = 4 Rush / 6 Under Cover 1 M/M coverage with low and deep middle help. Low hole responsibility determined by release of RB between Weak Safety and Mike.
LURK = 4 Rush / 6 Under Cover 1 M/M coverage with a Linebacker in low hole & safety deep middle post.
STEALER = 4 Rush / 7 Under M/M coverage with man alignments to be used in Red Zone to double a designated WR. Safety to jersey #’s side doubles him with Nickel or Corner. Safety away from him works with LBs on the core eligibles from the other side.
THIEF = M/M coverage with double Rat.
HOLE = 4 Rush Cover 1 M/M with a deep middle safety and the other safety rotating down into the hole.
1 DBL = 4 Rush / 6 Under Cover 1 M/M coverage with a double on designated jersey # to play in/out or trail/over.
POUNDER = 4 Rush Man Coverage from M/M alignments with Quarters safeties. Same Split Safety tools as FIST apply. Pre-snap look is important.
FIST = 5 Under / 2 Deep M/M coverage. Possible callls and/or Techniques/Tools within the coverage: Cut, Buster/Box/Squat vs. Bunch, Triangle/Nail vs. Stack, Trix vs. Trips, Trap, and Hit. (also DIME personnel)
RING = Man coverage with M/M alignments determined by jersey # alignment. Jersey # Wide at #1, play FIST to him / POUNDER away. Jersey # inside at #2 or #3 or Close to #2, play POUNDER. Adjust to # going in motion. If jersey # is in a 3-man bunch, play POUNDER with Pounder tools. Split Safety tools apply. (Same idea as ZEUS, but with M/M concepts instead of zone)
FINGER = Split Safety Man coverage with M/M alignments. To Nickel side, play FIST with Fist tools including TRAP to Trips. Away from Nickel, play POUNDER with Pounder tools.
BRACKET = Man coverage with concepts used to In/Out designated alignments (see Coverage Terms below) primarily called in the Red Zone.
(CHEAT) STOCK = Adjustable call based on formation. Play ROBBER vs. all formations except Empty, Speed, and 10 (Y Detached) looks or exchanges. Plays as LURK would vs. 10 with a zone look. (Corners are always on #1 vs. initial formations. Vs. Empty, ILB may be on #1 if it’s an RB. Once in the call, it plays out vs. motion. DL is in Cheat front. Vs. Empty, play Rush front.
NASCAR = Adjustable call. Vs. Speed (3 WRs aligned on same side), play LURK with Zone alignments. (*When in Lurk, free LB get depth to help on deep inside routes.) (“Nascar 9” = 9 unless Trips open, then play Lurk).
VEGAS = 5 Rush / 5 Under Cover 1 M/M coverage with DIME LB as the 5th rusher. Safety will cover DIME’s usual man assignment.
BUBBLE = 6 Rush / No Deep Cover 0 M/M coverage with both LBs attacking the B-gap and both Ends using a contain rush. Safeties cover #2 & #3 on the weak side like Penny Max. Against 2-Back looks or TE Off with the RB, convert to Rush Brooklyn.
COUGAR = 5 Rush / 5 Under Cover 1 M/M pressure with the LB away from the back as the 5th rusher.
PENNY ZONE
SAM 8 = LIZ/RIP call to front side. Play 8 (Roy/Lou) to the Nickel.
SAM QUADS = LIZ/RIP call to the passing strength (Nickel’s side). Play QUADS across.
SAM BOSTON = LIZ/RIP call to the passing strength (Nickel’s side). Play Cover 2 across.
PATRIOT = 3 Rush / 6 Under aggressive Tampa 2 coverage. Corners play Smash technique. Nickel and Will play Reroute Curl technique.
SPREAD = 3 Rush / 5 Under / 3 Deep zone coverage structure with ROPE/LASSO rotation away from Nickel. CB to the call plays 2-to-1 Read unless there is a “Switch” call.
RED WHISKEY = LIZ/RIP call to the front away from the Nickel.
RED SPREAD = Red Zone rules. Same as Spread except the middle safety plays the same as in Red 9.
PENNY MAN
YANKEE = 5 Rush / 5 Under Cover 1 M/M concept.
MAX = 6 Rush / 5 Under Cover 0 M/M concept with zone alignments. Possible In/Out.
BANDIT = 4 Rush / 6 Under Cover 1 M/M concept with Mike as the 4th rusher. Will & Sam drop and play Lurk/Thief pass techniques.
JUMBO FRONT
TITE/TUFF = 6-man GL front with both Ends at 5i-technique and both Tackles at 1-technique. Ends can adjust to 6-technique by game plan.
TAPE = 6-man GL front with both Ends at 4-technique and both Tackles in the A-gap shading the Center.
“LEO/RANDY” ALERT = End to the call plays 6-technique, End away from the call plays 4-technique. Tackle to the call slants to the inside OG, Tackle away from the call slants into the Center.
GAPS = 6-man GL front with the Ends and Tackles aligned in their gaps. Backers align in C-gap by game plan.
53 = 5-man GL jam front with 3 stacked LBs. Interior uses 3-0-3 alignment with a 9-technique to each side.
SOLID = The End and both Tackles to the RAY/LEWIS call will jam the Center, Guard, and Tackle to their side with a 0-2-4 alignment. End away from the call plays 4i-technique. Both sides flanked by 9-technique OLBs.
BISCUIT 0 = Play called front. Use the same M/M coverage pickups as Dog 1. Possible Manbo.
53 BISCUIT = Play 53 front mechanics with Biscuit 0 coverage.
GOAL LINE BANJO = Goalline defense with 4 DL & 2 OLB penetrating and rushing. ILB, Corners, and Strong Safety will Banjo the 5 eligible receivers.
GOAL LINE OUTLAW = Goalline defense with both ILBs in the rush and OLBs in the coverage. Against #2 detached to one side, check to Banjo.
DIRECTIONAL CALLS
ROY/LOU is a Cover 6/8 call telling the deep ½ Safety where to rotate.
GOLD LT/RT is a call to declare the BUSTER side.
RIVER/LAKE is a Cover 2 call telling the deep ½ Safety where to rotate.
SALLY/ROSE is a Cover 3 call telling the split safeties where to rotate.
ROB/LEE is a Cover 3 call declaring the weak side where the rotation is directed.
LIZ/RIP is a front mechanics call to declare which EDGE is the 4th rusher and the opposite side drops.
LEO/RANDY is the directional call for Cover 1 variant to determine passing strength and the relevant rotation.
RINGO/LUCKY is the directional call for safeties to rotate away from the Nickel in a Cover 3 sim pressure.
ROPE/LASSO is the directional call for safeties to rotate away from the Nickel in drop 8 Cover 9.
RICHIE/LENNIE is the directional call that denotes which side of the formation plays Halves for the safety to roll to and which side plays a “READ” concept.
COVERAGE TERMS
MAN ALIGNMENTS = Denotes a pre-snap coverage alignment, directing defenders to align on like people regardless of where they align and run with all motions. “Like people” means speed on speed, size on size, skill on skill. CBs align with WRs, Safeties & LBs align with TEs & backs.
ZONE ALIGNMENTS = Denotes a pre-snap coverage alignment, directing defenders to align based on zone drop responsibility with consideration for formation splits.
MAN PICKUPS = Denotes a method of route distribution directing defenders to pick up the route of the receiver they align over immediately upon the snap.
ZONE PICKUPS = Denotes a method of route distribution directing defenders to drop to their landmarks with vision to the QB while feeling receivers and picking up routes as they come into their zone.
MATCH PICKUPS (MATCH ZONE MECHANICS) = Denotes a method of route distribution directing defenders to read their assigned key(s) and pick up routes accordingly relative to the rules of the called coverage. “Match rules” allow for more sound vertical rules within traditional zone structures by reading releases and distributing routes with advantageous depth & leverage maintenance.
CUT = Double #1 (Corner outside/Safety inside). Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
CONE = Double to #2 (Nickel or Dime outside/Safety inside). Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
INC = Double to #2 (Nickel or Dime inside/Safety outside). Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
CONNIE = Double to WR in motion (Safety and cover guy take logical leverage). Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
TRIO = Double to #3 in Trips. Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
SANDY = Double to a TE. Used as a BRACKET tag and in other M/M concepts by plan.
BUSTER = A Cover 2 match coverage concept in which the 3 underneath defenders to the strong side (Corner, SLB/Nickel, MLB) play Sink, Buster, and Middle Read techniques to read & match up.
TRIX = Split-Safety tool for weak side of 3x1 formations that allows him to help over to the passing strength and take #3 vertical so that Mike does not need to be a “3 Receiver Hook” defender against a #3 who is on the line of scrimmage.
BOX = Quarters call against any 3-man bunch with the Flat defender playing Flat/7 technique. Next inside underneath zone player takes 1st inside low route factoring in Flow or no Flow. Corner and Safety play inside-outside on upfield route. Defending two upfield routes, Corner plays outside vertical and Safety plays inside vertical.
”SQUAT” = 4-over-3 Bunch check in which the CB takes #1 Low, Nickel/Apex matches #2, and Mike matches #3 with the Safety over top. (Mechanics are equivalent to Saban’s “SORT” concept).
TRIANGLE = Coverage call over the 2-man side that plays 3-over-2 with routes being distributed amongst them with proper depth and leverage.
NAIL = Coverage call over a 2-man Stack with “Read” principles.
BOOK = Split-Safety tool to a 3 man side with a Nickel vs. Normal splits. Lock #1, play “READ” on #2 & #3 between the Nickel, LB, and Safety.
MATCH ZONE = Key-read zone coverage that utilizes M/M principles with defenders seeing releases of specific receivers (usually #2 and/or #3) in order to read patterns and distribute routes among defenders with proper depth and leverage.
“AREA” CALL = Split Safety tool to handle a 3x1 formation or an open side 2x2 with routes distributed by area of release.
”TOP” = Check used with POUNDER coverage that converts the Weak Safety from ¼ Technique to a Deep ½ technique when #3 is not an immediate threat to the weak inside ¼ of the field. He can roll to work over the top of the X receiver.
TRAP = Technique between 2 cover guys & Safety where Safety works over top to #1 & Corner TRAPS outside routes by #2. Man on #2 plays higher.
HIT = Call for the Contain Rusher to CHIP an RB, TE, or tough #3 assignment. Can also be used against bunches by game plan.
COP = Call by LB against tough coverage assignment signaling for his near End to be a Bonus Hook dropper and DT to Contain On Pass.
SWITCH = Three-deep zone check between Safety & Corner to a side that converts the Safety from a Curl to a Seam/Flat responsibility and the Corner from a Deep 1/3 with a 2-to-1 read to a Tite 1/3 responsibility. The Safety becomes responsible for #2 vertical so the Corner can play a Tite 1/3 with a focus on #1 vertical instead of splitting between #1/#2 as a typical Deep 1/3 role.
“CLUE” = Three-deep match zone check that converts it into a true zone vs. condensed splits and bunches. Corner has a 2 to 1 read again with routes distributed by area.
“STRAP” = Cover 9 variation for Trips, 2-Back, and 4x1 Empty.
“SITE” = Cover 9 check vs. Twin with TE or #2 in backfield that keeps the inserted Weak Safety high and the Weak LB takes any flat route instead.
TECHNIQUES & READS
DEEP 1/2 = A deep zone responsibility in which the defender is playing outside-in over a Squat defender with a key read beginning on #1 and progressing in to #2, #3, then to QB. If #1 is vertical, work over to squeeze their space. If not, eliminate them and look to squeeze #2, and so forth. Landmark is typically ≈1 yard inside the top of the numbers or the midpoint of a condensed split.
TAMPA 1/2 = A deep zone responsibility in which the defender is playing with width over a Smash CB knowing that the Middle Run defender is working to close the middle. The key read for Tampa 1/2 is #1 to #2 with a #1 vertical responsibility. If not, look to squeeze #2. Landmark is typically ≈1 yard outside the bottom of the numbers.
DEEP 1/3 (2-to-1 CB) = A true Deep 1/3 defender responsible for reading #2 to #1 so that if both are vertical, they can split them and be in position to squeeze either. If #2 is not vertical, the defender eliminates that route and focuses on #1 while zoning their 1/3rd.
OUTSIDE 1/4 (MOD 1/4) = A match Quarters Corner responsible for playing #1 on any outside or deep routes like man-to-man and converting to a Zone 1/4 CB if #1 route is shallow or under. (MOD = Man Outside & Deep)
INSIDE 1/4 = A Quarters Safety responsible for #2 vertical past 10 yards or they can convert to Robber technique helping to squeeze #1. Otherwise, they will zone their 1/4. They play inside-out with 2-to-1 reads.
TRIX (#3 to X) = A Free Safety technique responsible for keying across the formation to the Final #3 and matching any vertical route by them. If #3 is not vertical, they will work back to play Robber technique by squeezing the X WR (or Y TE in Trey). Must be able to see both #2 & #3 to execute cleanly.
TIGHT 1/3 = A technique in three-deep match zone coverages in which the Corner is responsible for #1 unless they release inside under 5 yards, which would then convert them to a vision Deep ⅓ zone defender.
TIGHT 1/2 = A Deep 1/2 technique in any Cover 2 concept in which the defender is not responsible for #1 vertically, so they can play tighter over #2 and #3. Works in conjunction with a Sink CB (a la “Buster”).
READ #2 (CB) = A Key Read & Pattern Match technique used within “READ” in which a Soft Squat CB reads the release of #2 to determine coverage responsibility.
READ #2 (SAFETY) = A Key Read & Pattern Match technique used within “READ” in which the safety reads the release of #2 to determine coverage responsibility.
READ #3 (NICKEL) = A Key Read & Pattern Match technique used within “BOOK” in which the Nickel reads the release of #3 to determine coverage responsibility.
READ #3 (SAFETY) = A Key Read & Pattern Match technique used within “BOOK” in which the SS reads the release of #3 to determine coverage responsibility.
READ CURL (LB) = A coverage technique within ”READ” or ”BOOK” in which the Mike LB is looking to re-route the inner threat of the concept and key through them to the outer threat to determine final coverage responsibility.
LOCK #1 (MEG) = A coverage responsibility within ”BOOK” that locks the outside CB onto #1 in man-to-man so that the 3 cover men inside can play “Read” on #2 & #3. “LOCK” denotes a defender in MEG technique with no direct safety help.
MEG 1/4 = A technique within a Quarters concept or “Trix” check in which the Corner is responsible for all of #1 no matter the route or release. (MEG = Man Everywhere He Goes)
TRUE 1/4 = A Deep 1/4 technique in any Quarters concept in which the defender zones their 1/4 with a Landmark & Vision drop technique rather than the typical zone match technique. Rarely ever used aside from end-of-game (or half) scenarios.
SQUAT = A Cloud Corner technique in any Halves concept in which the flat defender funnels #1 from outside-in. Works in conjunction with a Deep 1/2 Safety or Cloud 1/3 Safety.
SINK = A Cloud Corner technique in any Halves concept in which the defender matches #1 vertically. Works in conjunction with a Tight 1/2 Safety (a la “Buster”).
SMASH = A Cloud Corner technique in any Halves concept in which the defender aggressively re-routes #1 from inside-out and carries them until the ball brings them back to the flat. Works in conjunction with a Tampa 1/2 Safety.
BUSTER = An Apex defender technique in any Halves Strong concept in which the Buster will align to #2 and match the final #2 while playing physical, outside-in re-routing technique. Depth & width are dictated by the release of the matchup. Works in conjunction with a Middle Read Mike LB.
MIDDLE READ (“BUSTER”) = A Mike LB technique in Buster coverage in which the defender plays the inside and carries the deepest of #2 & #3 to the Tight 1/2 SS. Works in conjuctjon with a Buster Nickel/Sam defender.
POST-CURL = Inside 1/4 technique and mentality of an Inside 1/4 defender vs. 2+ WR side. Think Post threat first as the routes develop and the full design shapes up, then work to the Curl zone and squeeze #1 if no Post threat.
CURL-POST = Inside 1/4 technique and mentality of an inside 1/4 defender against a single detached WR side (#2 is in the core). Think Curl zone and convert to Post mindset to squeeze #1.
“GONE” = A check used with reduced fronts to tell the End to move head-up on the TE with a C gap responsibility. (“GONE” = Get ON Edge)
PRESSURE TERMINOLOGY
CREEPER = A “creeper” pressure is when a select player(s) rush from a typical coverage presentation on a predetermined rush path.
SIM = A simulated pressure is when the defense presents a pressure look to the offense, then drops most of it into coverage as a select few rushers follow their predetermined rush path.
WHIP = a 4 Under, 3 Deep creeper pressure out of Nickel with Will as the 4th rusher and the strongside End dropping.
SLUG = a 4 Under, 3 Deep creeper pressure with the Nickel rushing from the strong side and the weakside End dropping. Nickel and the strongside End will Target rush.
MIAMI = a 5 Under, Tampa 2 creeper pressure with Mike as the 4th rusher and the weakside End dropping. Possible Target Rush between Mike and strongside End.
TARGET RUSH = a rush pattern between an End and an outside blitzing DB or LB.
FIRE ZONE = a designed pressure with a match zone coverage behind it.
MAGIC BELT = A simulated pressure out of Nickel with 6 men crowding the LOS, then dropping into the same coverage as WHIP with 4 rushers. Designed to stress protection and waste offensive linemen to create 1-on-1 matchups.
Aranda/Ron Roberts Terms
» Defensive Terminology:
At Home: Remaining Back Aligned Behind The Center
Blitz:Any Combination Of A 6 Man Rush With Man Coverage
Closed Side:The Side Of The Formation The Tight End Remains On Next To His Tackle Or The Side Of The Two Quick Receivers In 20 Personnel. Note: Not A Strength Call
Cp:Coaching Point
Dime:Extra Defensive Back Or Lb’er In Sub Defense
» Dropback Action:
3 Step: Qb Sets At 5 Yds. To Throw Quick Routes. (Slant/hitches)
5 Step: Qb Sets At 7 Yds. To Throw 10-12 Yd Routes. (Firm/timing)
7 Step: Qb Sets At 10 Yds. To Throw 15-18 Yd Routes. (Deep Routes)
Far Back:The Back Who Lines Up Away From The Tight End.
Dog:Any Combination Of 5 Man Rush With A Dl/olb Dropping Into Coverage.
Goal Line:Area Of The Field From The +3 To The Goal Line Based On 22 Or 23 Personnel
Los:Line Of Scrimmage
Mac Ilb:Inside Linebacker On 3-4 Defense
Rover Ilb:Inside Linebacker On A 3-4 Defense
Near Back:The Back Who Lines Up To The Tight End
Nickel:5th Defensive Back In A Sub Defense
Open Side: The Side Of The Formation With A Receiver Split Out From The Tackle
Poa:Point Of Attack
Pro Set: Regular Formation With Z And Y On The Same Side With X Aligned Opposite
Red Area: From The +25 To +4 Yard Line
Remaining Back: Single Back Aligned In A One Back Set
Field Olb: Outside Linebacker In A 3-4 Defense
Short Side: Term Referring To The Short Side Of The Field When The Ball Is On The Hashmark
Slot Set: Any 21 Formation With Both Receivers Aligned On The Same Side.
Bench Olb: Outside Linebacker In A 3-4 Defense.
» Run Support Terms:
Backer Force: A Coordinated End Run Support Where The Olb Is The Primary Force Man
Chase Defender: The Player Assigned To Follow The Football For “Windback” Run, Qb Boot, Or Reverse
Cloud Force: A Coordinated End Run Support Where The Corner Is The Primary Force
Crack Replace: A Support Adjustment By The Corner To Replace The Primary Force Man If He Gets Blocked And Loses Force Of Leverage
Easy Force: The Defensive End (9-tech) With Scif Responsibility Or If He Is Playing Blitz Peel Tech. He Is Primary Force Man
Fill (Plug): The Defensive Player Who Is Responsible For The Inside Off Tackle Cutback Area Or Deep Outside Bounce By A Running Back(alley)
Force: This Term Describes The Responsibility If Meeting The End Run In Its Formative Stage And Either Making The Tackle , Forcing The Cutback, Or Forcing The Ball Carrier So Deep That He Is Vulnerable To Pursuit.
Leverage: The Technique Used By Defender To Contain The Football Note: Keep Outside Arm Free
Primary Force Man: The Player Responsible For Forcing The End Run
Pursuit: An Aggressive And Fast Action Toward The Ball To Stop Forward Progress. Note: Always Pursue Inside-out And Close To Near Shoulder Of Ball Carrier
Read(key Force): A Coordinated End Run Support Where A Secondary Player Or Lb Is The Primary Force Man To A Nub Tight End. The Lb Is Reading #2 To Determine If He Should Force Or Fold
Scrape Force: Ilb Technique When The Primary Force Lb Spills Down A Block And The Scrape Lb Becomes The Force Player
Secondary Force: The Player Responsible For Pass Defense First And Delayed Run Support Second.
Sky-force: A Coordinated End Run Support Where The Safety Is The Primary Force Man
Splatter: A Technique Used By A Defender To Force The Ball Carrier Deep And Out Of The Running Lane. Never Trade One-for-one When Splatter.
D-line & Lb Terms:
Big Contain: A Technique Used When There Is Inside Pressure And The Ball Is Expected To Spill Outside. Ends Widen, Emphasize Outside Hand Free And Contain.
Bull: Call That Tells The D-end To Get In A 4 Technique And Bull Rush The Tackle Straight Back.
Cage: A Level And Balanced Pass Rush.
Exchange: Pattern In Chop Dog Where Bench Goes Up The Filed For Contain And The Corner Comes Underneath.
Flush: Pattern Where Hard Inside Moves From Both Ends Push The Qb From The Pocket.
Gauntlet: A Technique Utilized When The Offense Aligns In A Wing Set And The D-gap Defender Secures His Gap By Rushing Through The Facemask Of The Wing.
Indian: Coordinated Exchange Of Pass Rush Lanes Where Inside Man Works For Contain 1st And Outside Loops In 2nd.
Leverage: The Technique Used By Defenders To Contain The Football. Keep Outside Arm Free.
On: Pattern Where The Defensive End Rushes The B-gap And The Outside Rusher Comes Off The Edge For Contain (Best Utilized On Running Down Situations).
Ox: Coordinated Exchange Of Pass Rush Lanes Where Outside Penetrates 1st And Inside Loops Out 2nd For Contain.
Peel: A Technique Where The Widest Rusher Covers The Running Back That Crosses His Face To The Flat.
Scissors: Coordinated Exchange Of Pass Rush Lanes Where The Inside Rusher Loops Outside For Contain 1st And The Outside Rusher Shoots Underneath (It Is A Delayed Stunt Best Utilized On Obvious Pass Situations).
Splatter: A Technique Used By Defenders To Force The Ball Deep And Outside The Running Lane. Never Go 1 For 1.
Stab: Outside Linebacker Plays The C-gap From Outside Alignment On The Te (9-tech).
Stem: Where The D-line Will Align In A Predetermined Front And Shift To The Huddle Call On A “Move” Call.
Texas: Coordinated Exchange Of Pass Rush Lanes Where The Front Runs An Ox To The Field And An Indian To The Boundary.
Track Blitz: A Technique Used By Defenders To Draw His Blitz Line Off The Hip Of The Ot.
Twist: Coordinated Exchange Of Pass Rush Lanes Between The Two Inside Tackles.
Up: Tells The Blitzing Linebackers To Align In There Gaps Before The Snap And Blitz From The Line Of Scrimmage.
» Verbal Alerts:
Hammer: Technique In Quarters Where Olb Covers The Flat And Corner Plays Man To Man On #1 And The Safety Plays 1/4.
Nail: Adjustment In Quarters Vs. Twins Where #2 Has An Inside Split. It Is A Soft Cover 2.
Gold: Quarters Check Vs. Any 3x1 Set. Olb Away From Trips Has Rb Man To Man Vs. Any Vertical Or Outside Routes.
Solo: A Man Coverage Adjustment To 1 Back Where Ilb’s Read It On The Back, Olb Covers The Te And Safeties Cove The Fb Or Extra Te.
Hole: A Man Coverage Adjustment Where The Tite Te To The Strength Side Steps Off The Ball And Motions. The Olb To That Side Steps Back Makes A “5” Call To The End And Plays 4 On 3 Or 3 On 2.
Yellow: A Man Coverage Adjustment Vs. Empty Where Rover Goes Out To Cover The Rb With Man Free Coverage. Dl Runs A Reno Stunt.
Key: A Man Coverage Adjustment Vs. 2 Backs Or Wing Tite. Ilb’s Play 2 On 1 On The Back And The Safeties Play 2 On 1 On The Full Back Or Off The Ball Te.
One: A Man Coverage Adjustment Where The Up Corner Covers The Point Man In Stack Man To Man.
Two: A Man Coverage Adjustment Where The Up Corner Covers The Off The Ball Wr In A Stack Man To Man.
Lib: A Man Coverage Adjustment Vs. A Truck Set. The Field Olb Takes The Point Man The Corner Takes 1st Out Cut And The Safety Takes 1st In Cut.
I Got 1st: A Zone Dog Adjustment To Truck Set Where The Scif Defender Has 1st To The Flat, The Middle #3 Defender Has 1st Inside Route And The Deep Thirds Defender Has 1st Vertical.
3 Call: A Zone Dog Adjustment To A Tight Split Tandem Or Wing Set. The Scif Dropper Matches The Short Route The Deep Thirds Defender Matches The Deeper Route.
Pickle: A Man Adjustment Vs. Read Option Threats. Tells The Ilb’s That They Play The Read Running Back And Play Inside The Box. The Play Side Safety Will Take The Pitch Threat While The Backside Safety Plays The Post.
Bomb: An Adjustment In Field Dog Where The End Plays The B-gap And The Linebacker Blitzes The A-gap.
Spear: A Zone Dog Pattern Where The Olb Runs A Track Blitz Of The Edge And The Mac Loops Around For Contain.
Lake / River: A Call Made In Nickel Man To Set The Front. Call Made To The Te, If There Is No Te Call Made Away From The Rb.
Tin: An Adjustment Made In Nickel Man Where The Two Inside Dl Align In 2 G-techniques And Have A-gap, The Ilb’s Have B-gaps.
Left / Right: A Call Made In Back Dog Telling The Front Where The Blitz Is Coming (Call Is Made To The Tilt Of The Back).
Dagger Lt / Rt: A Call Made In Dagger Peel To The Side Of The Back.
Ram / Lion: A Defensive Line Slant To Right (Ram) Or Left (Lion).
Ray / Lou: A Nose Guard Slant To The Right (Ray) Or Left (Lou).
Larry / Roger An Adjustment Made In The Tite Front To Unbalanced Sets, Moves The Center Over One Man According To The Call.
Bow: An Adjustment To Trips Into The Boundary. The Guard To The Boundary Side Becomes The New Center Defense Adjusts Alignments Accordingly.
Spy: An Adjustment In Quarters Vs. Empty, Olb’s Play Hammer To Both Sides.
Box: An Adjustment Made Vs. Truck Sets In Quarters Coverage. The Defense Plays 4 Over 3. As Soon As The Safety Gets A Non Vertical Route He Will Jump In The Box.
Cut: A Call Made In Man Coverage By The Hole Player When He Overtakes An In Cutting Route. If There Is A Pre-snap Threat Of Needing Hole Help An “Alert Cut” Call Can Be Made.
5 Call: An Adjustment With The Under Front Where The De Aligns In A 5 Technique To Improve His Ability Hold / Rush The Edge (Call Is Made Anytime The Te Is Displaced).
Reno:An Adjustment To Empty In Under-1 Where The Interior Dl Twist.
Tite Lt / Rt A Call Made By The Outside Linebacker In Under 1 Telling The Front Where To Align.
Go: An Adjustment In Drop Coverage That Tells The Linebackers To Account For The Safety Inside The Box For Run Fits.
Flat: An Adjustment In Drop Coverage That Trades The Field Olb Responsibilities With The Safety. Call Is Made When #2 And #3 Are In The Backfield.
Gopher: An Adjustment In Sub Bracket / Minnesota Coverage’s Vs. Truck Sets That Tells The Point Man To Jam The Wr On The L.o.s., And Drop Straight Back To Play Low Hole. Cb And Nickel / Dime Have 1st Wr There Direction And The Safety Has Any Vertical Route.
Stacks: An Adjustment In Sub Bracket / Minnesota Coverage’s Vs. Stack Receivers. Corner Takes The Point And The Safety And Nickel / Dime Cover The Remaining Receiver.
Pinch: A Stunt In Nasty Where The Front Aligns In A 20 And 40 Alignment And Slants To The Inside Gap On The Snap.
Gaps: A Stunt In Nasty Where The Front Aligns In There Gaps And Shoots Through There Gaps On The Snap (Used In Goal Line Situations).
Flood: A Call Made In Packer Coverage Vs. 4x1 Sets. The Backside Corner Moves Inside To Play The Slant And The Inside Linebackers Push To #4 And #3.
Triangle: A Call Made In Red-5 Coverage Vs. 2 Tite Receivers. Call Puts The Defense 3 Over 2.
Away, Away: A Call Made To Alert The Backside End That The Offense Has A Sling Or Wing Offender Off The Ball. Call Alerts The Backside Of The Defense For The Away Run And Away Boot.
Gut: A Call Made In Crazy Dog Where The Scif Defender And The Middle 3 Dropper Switch Responsibilities.
Orange: An Adjustment In Man Coverage Vs. Empty In The Goal Line. F/s Comes Down To Play Hole With The Mac Linebacker.
2 For 2: A Call In Man Coverage With 2 In The Backfield Where The Ilb And The Safety Will Take First Out There Side Or Second Away.
I’m Here: Corner To A Nub Side Gives Call To Tell The Rover That He Is Now Spilling To The Corner.
Push: Vs 4x1 Sets Rover Pushes To The First Inside Release.
Pass Coverage Terms:
Fox The Post: A Technique Used By The Safety When His #2 Has No Chance Of Going Vertical In Quarters.
Rock N Roll: A Technique Where The Post Safety Takes Motion Wr Man To Man And The Other Db Runs The Post.
Trade: Adjustment Where Middle #3 Dropper Replaces A Blitzer And The Blitzer Drops Off Middle #3
Scif 2: Zone Pressure Coverage Responsibility Where The Defender Must Carry Final #2 Vertical For 10-12 Yds. Anticipate And See Any New #2 Coming To The Flat.
Middle 3: Zone Pressure Coverage Responsibility Where The Defender Will Play The Inside Zone Determined By The Final #3.
Hammer 2: Technique Of The Pass Defender Where He Relates To The Widest Of 2 On #3.
Vertical Hook 3: Zone Coverage Responsibility Where The Defender Carries The Final 3 To The Safety
Cloud: A Hard Cover 2 Corner, The Call Is Made Any Time There Is 1 Wr On Air.
Vertical Hook 2: Zone Coverage Responsibility Where The Defender Carries The Final #2 To The Safety.
Buzz 7: A Zone Coverage Technique Where He Defender Plays Fast To The “Flat” And “7” Route Area.
Combo: A Man Coverage Technique With A Tight Split On Wr’s Defender Can Combo. Inside M/m Defender Takes 1st In Coming Route And Outside M/m Defender Takes 1st Out.
Trail Technique: A Man Coverage Technique Where Defenders Will Collision And Disrupt The Routes Of The Wr’s, And Then Assume Inside And Underneath Position On All Routes.
Viking: A Man Coverage Adjustment Where The Corner On A One Receiver Side Can Play Trail Technique Because He Has Safety Help Over The Top.
Dallas: A Man Coverage Technique Between Two Defensive Backs Playing “In And Out” On A Slot Receiver.
Funnel: A Man Coverage Technique Between Two Defensive Backs Playing “In And Out” On A Z Or X Receiver.
Tulsa: A Man Coverage Technique Between Two Defenders Playing “In And Out” On A Te.
Lock: Adjustment Where Defensive Back Runs With All Motion With No “Rock N Roll” Help From The Safety.
Squeeze: A Zone Coverage Technique Where The Corner Plays The Flat From An Inside Leverage Position On #1. The Deep Half Safety Plays #1 Vertical.
Basic Distribution: Creates Three Receivers To The Strong Side And Two Receivers To The Weak Side.
Flow Distribution: Both Backs Moving To Create 4 Receivers To The Strong Side Of The Formation.
Webb Distribution: Both Backs Moving To Create 3 Receivers To The Weak Side Of The Formation.
Curl Flat: A Zone Coverage Technique By Defenders To Hold The Curl Zone Area, The “7” Route Area And Break Up On Any “Flat” Route.
Hook Curl: A Zone Coverage Technique Where The Defender Drops 10-12 Yards In Depth To A Landmark And Is Alert To The Qb’s Intentions.
Outside Man: A Man Coverage Technique Where The Defender Holds An Outside In Leverage Position On Receiver Throughout The Route
Inside Man: A Man Coverage Technique Where The Defender Has No Help In The Middle Of The Field, The Defender Must Deny The Inside Release.
Plaster: A Call Alerting The Pass Defenders That The Qb Is Scrambling. Defenders Should Match Up To The Deepest Receiver In Their Zone.
Press: A Coverage Technique Used By The Corner To Force The Receiver To Flatten His Release At The L.o.s.
Hug Rush: An Aggressive Rush Used By A Linebacker Or Secondary Defender With Man To Man Coverage Responsibilities When Your Man Blocks Or Run Fakes.
Dividers: Landmarks Used By Cornerbacks To Align Inside Or Outside The Receiver In Zone To Best Use His Help In Order Best Use His Help In Coverage.
Bone: A Term Used To Describe A Defensive Rusher Disrupting A Backs Release In Pass Rush.
tit*: A Term Used To Describe A Defensive Rusher Disrupting A Te’s Release In Pass Rush.
Blanket: Coverage Used On The Last Play Of The Game From The +15 To +30.
Packer: Pack Cover 2 Vs. Trips With Cornerback Playing Man To Man On #1 To The Trips Side. Everyone Else Playing Cover 2 With No Defenders Inside #1.
Screw: Adjustment Made In Quarters Where Olb Align Outside The #2 Receiver.
» Zone Areas In Coverage:
Flat: Area From Tight End To Sideline To A Depth Of 1-7 Yds.
Hook: The Normal Area Over Where A Tight End Aligns Up To A Depth Of 9-15 Yds. It Is Horizontally From A Tight Ends Alignment To The Nose Of The Offensive Tackle.
Hole: Area From One Offensive Tackle To The Other Up To A Death Of 12-15 Yds.
Seam: Area Over Which Tight End Normally Aligns That Lies Between You Two Designated Zones In Our Defensive Coverage.
Out: Area 8-15 Yds. In Depth Directly Outside Of The Wide Receivers Qalignment Extended Outside To The Boundary.
Curl: Area 8-15 Yds In Depth Directly To The Inside Of Any Wide Receivers Alignment Extending Inside A Point 2 Yds Outside Of The Normal Alignment Of A Tight End.
Strong Deep Outside Third
Area To Strongside Of The Formation That Extends 3 Yds. From Inside Edge Of Numbers To Boundary. Area In Depth Runs 16 Yds. To Goal Line. The Width Of The 1/3 Will Vary By Formation.
Weak Deep Outside Third
Area To Weakside Of The Formation That Extends 3 Yds. From Inside Edge Of Numbers To Boundary. Area In Depth Runs 16 Yds. To Goal Line. The Width Of The 1/3 Will Vary By Formation.
Middle Deep Third
Area That Extends 3 Yds. From Inside Edge Of Numbers To 3 Yds. The Opposite Set Of Numbers. Area In Depth Runs 16 Yds. To Goal Line. The Middle Deep 1/3 Will Vary By Formation.
Outside Half:
Area That Extends From The Middle Of The Field To The Sideline. Area In Depth Runs 16 Yds To Goal Line. Halves Will Vary By Formation.
Todd Orlando (Aranda-Adjacent)
Front: Stunts & Adjustments Terminology
Tite
Ends in 4i Tech and must secure B Gaps; Outside Contain against Pass
Nose in a 0 Tech and must secure backside A Gap; Outside Contain against Pass
WLB in 30 Adjust; plays the Play side A Gap to C Gap depending on flow
MLB in 30 Adjust; plays the Play side A Gap to C Gap depending on flow
OLBs play Backside C Gaps or Play side D Gaps depending on flow
Insert
WLB blitzes on a Pass read
Ram/Lion
Front slants to the Strength on the snap. Makes the Front stronger vs the Run
Lou/Ray
Tells the Nose with way to go on the snap of the ball
Larry/Roger
Adjustment to Unbalanced Sets. Moves the Center over one man according to the call.
Bow (Bump Over Weak)
Call is made any time you get a form of Trips to the Boundary. Guard to the Boundary becomes the new Center. Adjust the Front accordingly.
Fire Right/Left
Any time the Offense aligns or motions to an X-Over Formation, make a Fire call to that side. Fire tells the OLB to the TE side to Blitz off the edge. The rest of the Defense plays Robber Coverage.
Vice
WLB does not Blitz vs Pass. Drops in coverage and helps the BLB on the RB vs Gold and MLB on #3 vs all other drops
Boss (Bump Over Strong)
If the offense aligns with 4 skills players to the Field, “Boss” the Front. Boss tells the D-Line to slant strong.
Gaps
D-Line stems to their gaps right before snap. Used with Nasty 0 blitz.
Indian
“X” Stunt with Front. Inside guy goes 1st. Outside goes 2nd.
Pinch
Align in normal stance “20” or “40” and stunt to the inside gap.
Tite (need another word since this one already means something else)
Interior D-Line stem to 4i’s and G’s. FLB and WLB blitz off the edge.
Cut
The Hole player makes a “Cut” call when he overtakes an in-cutting middle route. If there is a pre-snap threat of needing hole help, make an “Alert Cut” call.
5 Call
If the TE is split wide, the FLB must go out and cover the TE man-to-man. Make a “5 Call” to the end to improve his ability to hold/rush the edge.
Truck
Tell the D-Line to align in their gaps. The call is made in any Truck formation or wing near set.
Stem
Stem Odd – Align in Under front and move to Odd front.
Stem Even – Align in Odd front and move to Under front.
Stem Bear – tells the Ends to stem down to the Bear front.
Reno
Inside twist by the interior D-linemen. This call is made every time a “Yellow” coverage check is made.
Bull
FLB will make a “Bull” call to the End if there is no TE. Bull tells the End to get in a 4 Tech and Bull Rush the Tackle straight back.
B
FLB will make a “B” call to the End if there is no TE and the offense is in Empty. Tells the End to get in a 4 Tech and rush the B Gap.
Stab
BLB plays Stab technique with a TE set to the BLB side. Cancel out the C Gap.
Bomb
B-Gap Blitzer can make a “Bomb” call to the End. “Bomb” tells the End to blitz the B Gap and the LB will blitz the A Gap.
Spear
FLB Spear blitz off the edge. MLB loops around for Contain.
Pick
MLB blitzes the B Gap and picks the OT. DE works up field and then goes to A Gap. OLB blitzes outside contain.
Sonic
FLB does Spear technique. MLB does Contain blitz.
Lake/River
Call made to set the Front. The call will be made to the TE. If there is no TE, the call will be made away from the RB and then to the Field (if RB is aligned directly behind QB).
Over
3 Tech to the Tite call, G to the Open side.
Heads
Interior D-Linemen align in 2 Techs.
Tin
D-Linemen align in 2 G Techs and have the A Gaps.
Inside LBs have the B Gaps.
Link
BLB has Man Coverage on the RB. If the RB blocks, come underneath. ILB to that side will have Contain.
Latch
Tells the BLB to cover the TE M/M. The BS will blitz the D Gap into the boundary.
Jet Game Rules
Even
“You” = River/Lake (3rd & 6+)
Cage (3rd & 5 or less) – look at Jet 6 in playbook to see diagram of Cage
Odd
“You” = River/Lake (3rd & 6+)
Cage (3rd & 5 or less) – look at Jet 6 in playbook to see diagram of Cage
Flush (Minnesota/Cuff)
Bingo
If the offense has Twins to the boundary, the WLB replaces the corner on the blitz and the Corner has D/3.
Essentially, pushes blitz inside one man (same as JAG)
Up
Goes with Blast Zero. “Up” tells the blitzing LBs to move to the line of scrimmage and blitz from there if the Offense motions to Empty.
Face Stunt
D-Linemen will cross the face of one offensive lineman over from their alignment. (e.g. Nose aligns in a Zero and crosses face of the Guard, depending on the direction of the stunt)
Cross
A blitz in the A Gaps where the two blitzers blitz opposite from the side of the ball they line up on.
Safety Left/Right
Call made by the Safety dictating where he is dropping in the box.
State Call
Gap exchange between the End and Safety (used on Lightning Man)
Dagger Left/Right
Backers make a Dagger Left/Right call to the RB. If the offense flips the RB, flip the blitz. Used in Dagger Peel/5 Across
Coverage Terminology
Hammer (Curl/Flat on a non-detached #2 side)
OLB relates to the widest of the inside core receivers.
Corner covers #1 M/M unless he runs a Hitch or Under
Safety reads #2. If #2 is vertical or works into your area, you have him. If #2 goes immediate Out or Under, work through #1.
Catch (Curl/Flat on a detached #2 side)
Read off of detached #2. Vs inside or vertical route, play Hammer. Vs immediate Out cut less than 5 yards, play Cloud. (essentially Curl/Flat)
Screw
Adjustment made vs Trips.
OLB aligns inside #2, flat foot read. (AKA Seam technique)
Vegas (AKA Chico)
Adjustment made in Empty to the 3 receiver side.
Corner plays a D/3
Safety Poaches #3 to #2
FLB plays Seam Tech and must get a strong re-route
Curl
Boundary coverage that relates to #2. If #2 is vertical, trail him.
Gold
Make the check vs any 3x1 set. OLB away from trips has RB M/M vs any vertical or outside routes
Box
Adjustment made vs Bunch sets. As soon as the Safety gets a non-vertical route, he will jump the inside box.
Buzz (Need a new word for this or the Lightning Coverage. Trap?)
Flat technique from an inside alignment – Trap 2
Examples include the BS in 6 Sky or Cover 8, OLB in some FSL formations
Or is this just a Curl/Flat technique?
Hash
Work the stem of any quick #2, then get to the Hash and read the eyes of the QB.
SCIF
Curl/Flat player. Must reroute #2.
Cloud
Hard corner in 2 Deep coverage
Change
Read off of detached #2. Vs inside or vertical route, play Hammer. Vs Out curt, play him M/M.
Only called to the Field
Push
Vs 4x1 sets (Ranger). Tells the WLB to push over to the Trips side and anticipate first In route.
Mix
Adjustment made in Empty to the Trips side.
Robber Coverage
Basically 3 Under 3 Deep “Dog Coverage”
Chop Switch
BS and Corner switch responsibilities.
Lib
In a Bunch Formation, the defender that has the point man M/M comes up tight and plays press. The other M/M defenders take first inside and first outside routes.
Combo
With a tight split on WRs, defenders can Combo. Inside M/M defender takes first incoming route and outside M/M defender takes first out.
Rock & Roll
Post Safety takes motion WR/FB M/M. Safeties just invert responsibilities if motion.
Solo
Two inside LBs read it on the RB.
Safeties cover the FB or extra TE.
OLBs cover the TE on the LOS.
Hole
When the TE to the strength call gets off the ball and motions, the OLB gets back to a 40 alignment and plays 3 on 2 with the ILBs
3 LBs have the A and B Gaps
Yellow
Vs Empty, WLB goes out to cover the RB.
Check to Man Free coverage.
D-line Stem into two 5s and two 2s.
Interior D-linemen run a Reno stunt.
Key
ILBs will play 2 on 1 vs the RB and the safeties will play 2 on 1 vs the FB or off-the-ball TE.
One
Vs stacked WRs, up Corner covers the point man M/M
Two
Vs stacked WRs, up Corner covers the off-the-ball WR M/M
I Got 1st
If the offense has Truck or Bunch to the boundary, the #2 SCIF defender to that side aligns outside the Bunch and has 1st out to the Flat.
Middle #3 (Hook) defender would have the first inside route
Deep 3rd defender has first vertical
3 Call
vs Tandem or Wing sets, #2 dropper matches short route
#1 dropper matches the deeper route
Trade
The MLB and WLB can trade responsibilities if the MLB has better positioning to cover the WLB’s pass responsibility
Nose Left/Right
Tells the Nose to drop directionally to #3. Call is made vs an Empty Set (used in ____)
2 for 2
With 2 RBs in the backfield, the MLB/WLB and Safety can make a “2 for 2” call. Tells them to take first or second away.
Funnel
Double Team on #1
Dallas
Double Team on #2
Cross (Need another word)
Double Team on #3
Tulsa
Double team on an attached TE between the Safety and LB
Stacks
Vs Stacked WRs, Nickel takes the point and the Safety and Corner/Dime cover the remaining WR.
Trap
When WR motions across the formation, “Trap” tells the Safety to roll down and bracket outside switching responsibilities with trailing DB and putting that double to the motion side to a single.
Good example on Nickel Bracket page in playbook
Cuff
Trail Man vs every route except Out cut on Nickel.
Flood
Vs 3x1 near formations.
Backside Corner aligns inside of the #1 WR.
Safeties bump over.
2 ILBs relate to #3.
Packer
Corner has M/M on #1 WR to 3-wr Side and N/D will play Cloud.
Cloud corner to Boundary.
Basically, Cover 2 but will Cut out #1 WR to trips side.
Cover Down
Call made by the inside LB when the offense aligns or motions to Empty.
Tells the B to drop over #3 (Hook).
Gut
SCIF dropper and 3 dropper switch responsibilities
Lock
Run with all motion. No Rock & Roll with the Safeties
Cut
The Hole player makes a “Cut” call when he overtakes an in-cutting middle route. If there is a pre-snap threat of needing hole help, make an “Alert Cut” call.
Sonic
Vs #2 removed to the Field. FS plays Vertical Hook on #2, MLB replaces on the blitz.
East Coast 3-4 / App. State
COVERAGE ADJUSTMENTS
“BACKER” - ANCHOR IS THE FORCE PLAYER AND CURL FLAT.
SAFETY IS HOOK CURL PLAYER.
“BACKER SLING” - CALLED vs WIDE 3x1 TO THE FIELD. FIELD CB
HAS A 1/3, FS HAS THE POST, BOUNDARY CB HAS MAN 1/3
TECHNIQUE. ANCHOR IS THE CURL FLAT DEFENDER AND FORCE.
SS IS THE HOOK CURL PLAYER. WILL PUSHES THE WINDOW OF
#3. DOG WORKS FOR #2 WEAK AND #4 STRONG.
“BANJO” - THE CORNER AND SAFETY BRACKET THE #1 WR. THE
OKIE OLB AND OKIE ILB COMBO TO THE BACKFIELD AND TE.
“BONUS” - A TECHNIQUE THAT THE ANCHOR PLAYS WITH A HOLD
CONCEPT BEHIND HIM. THE ANCHOR IS A BONUS PLAYER IN THE
COVERAGE, DENYING ANYTHING INSIDE.
“BOX” - CHECK AGAINST A TIGHT BUNCH. OKIE OLB IS LOW AND
OUTSIDE, OKIE ILB IS LOW AND INSIDE, CORNER IS HIGH QUARTER
AND OUTSIDE, SAFETY IS HIGH QUARTER AND INSIDE.
“BUZZ” - THE CORNER IS NOW MAN ON #1. OKIE OLB TAKES THE
TE OUT AND THE SAFETY TAKES THE TE VERTICAL. MESH RULE
APPLIES AS WELL, THE OKIE ILB HAS HELP OVERTOP BY THE
SAFETY.
“CAP” - COMBO TECHNIQUE VS STACK BETWEEN THE SAFETY AND
THE CORNER WITH THE CORNER LINED UP CLOSER TO THE LINE OF
SCRIMMAGE CREATING DIFFERENT LEVELS.
“CLOUD” - CORNER IS A FORCE PLAYER, WITH HANDS ON. HARD
COVER 2 CONCEPT. SAFETY IS A 1⁄2 TECH. READING THE QB
INDICATOR. OKIE OLB/REDUCTION ILB IS A WALL CARRY PLAYER.
“COMBO” - WHOEVER BREAKS OUT TO ME RIGHT NOW I’LL TAKE IT.
INSIDE/OUTSIDE ON NOW BREAKING ROUTES.
“COMMANDO” - CALLED TO THE REDUCTION SIDE VS A WING
SET. READ WING, IF WING STAYS FRONTSIDE, THEN PLAY ZORRO,
AND FIT LIKE CLOUD VS RUN. IF WING GOES AWAY, THEN PLAY
CUT.
COWBOY – CB BLITZ, HALF-FIELD ZONE. QUARTERS AWAY, MAN TO
“CUT” - CALLED BY THE FS WHEN THE RB IS TO THE FIELD. FS
WORKS DOWN TO ABOUT 6 YARDS AND IS PRIMARLY THE RUN
FITTER AND FORCE AGAINST RUN TO HIM. IF RUN AWAY, WATCH
FOR CUT BACK AND REVERSE. IF PASS, WILL BACKER WILL HANDLE
RB IF THE RB GOES TO THE BOUNDARY. FS WILL HELP WITH ANY
DIGS AND TOP DOWN
DROPPER – DROPPERS COVER THE BACK OR ANY QUICK GAME OF
#2 TO THEIR SIDE.
“EXCHANGE” - CALLED TO 3 WIDE. THIS TELLS THE MIKE TO TAKE
THE ANCHOR’S RUSH RESPONSIBILTY. SS IS NOW DROPPING ON
TOP OF #3 AND IS THE HOOK TO CURL PLAYER, WHILE THE
ANCHOR IS NOW THE CURL FLAT DEFENDER RIGHT INSIDE OF #2.
SS IS RESPONSIBLE FOR QUICK GAME OF #3.
“FISH” - ALL 3X1'S THE FS WILL FISH NUMBER 3. FS HAS THE #3
VERTICAL.
“FLOW” - CALLED TO THE OKIE SIDE VS A WING SET. IT IS LIKE
PLAYING ZORRO WITH THE SAFETY AND THE CORNER. ANCHOR
FITS THE CREASE AND CORNER IS THE EDGE.
“GREEN” - THE CORNER AND SAFETY BRACKET THE #1 WR. THE OKIE
OLB AND OKIE ILB COMBO TO THE BACKFIELD AND TE.
“HOLD” - #2 TO #1 PATTERN READ. IF #2 BREAKS OUT BEFORE 5
YARDS THEN THE CORNER THROTTLES DOWN AND WILL TOP
DOWN THAT ROUTE. THE SAFETY WILL TAKE #1. OKIE OLB WILL
HOLD THE CURL. BOTH VERT PAST 5, LOCK YOUR MAN
“KICK” - CALLED WITH 3 SPEED TO THE FIELD AND THE RUNNING
BACK IS TO THE TRIPS. FIELD CORNER PLAYS TRAP TECH. SS HAS A
1/3 TO THE FIELD. FS HAS THE POST. BOUNDARY CORNER HAS
THE 1/3 TO THE BOUNDARY. ANCHOR IS A HOOK CURL PLAYER.
“KICK DRIVE” - 3x1 CHECK. KICK COVERAGE TO THE TRIPS SIDE,
THE BACK SIDE NOW HAS THE DOG DRIVING OUT TO THE
NUMBERS LIKE HE WOULD IN COVER 3. HE IS THE FLAT DEFENDER
TO THE BOUNDARY.
“LOCK” - SAFETY HAS MAN ON #2 AND CORNER HAS MAN ON #1.
OKIE OLB HOLDS THE CURL IF THERE IS NO RB TO MAN UP
“MAGGIE” - CORNER MAN #1, “MINI” BETWEEN MIKE, STRONG
AND FREE SAFETY. WILL BECOMES HOT. CALLED VS 3 SPEED.
“MINI” - 3x1 SPEED CHECK. ANCHOR NOW PLAYS AS A HOLD
CORNER ON #3 AND #2. IT IS A PATTERN READ COVERAGE
BETWEEN THE ANCHOR, MIKE AND SS ON #2 AND #3.
“MUG” - CHECK AGAINST A BUNCH SET. THE NICKEL/CB/DIME HAS
THE POINT MAN IN PRESS-MAN, THE OTHER TWO DEFENDERS
COMBO THE BACK TWO IN THE BUNCH.
“NAIL” - CHECKED TO ALL 3x1 SPEED. FS HAS THE HOT OF #3,
FIELD CORNER PLAYS A TRAP TECHNIQUE. THE SS PLAYS A BIG 1⁄2
TECHNIQUE.
“PUSH ALERT” - #2 AND #3 ARE TIGHT, WHEN THEY CROSS, THE
OKIE OLB WILL PUSH THROUGH THE CURL TO THE FLAT. THE OKIE
ILB HOLDS THE CURL.
RE ROUTE – C/F DEFENDER GETS HAND ON #2
“ROLL” - A COVERAGE CHECKED VS A TIGHT 3x1. FS ROLLS OVER
TO BECOME A WALL CARRY TECHNIQUE TO THE 3 WR SIDE.
PLAYING CLOUD TO THE FIELD (3 WR SIDE). ANCHOR IS PLAYING
BONUS.
“SHADOW” - COMBO TECHNIQUE VS STACK BETWEEN THE SAFETY
AND THE CORNER WITH THE SAFETY LINED UP CLOSER TO THE LINE
OF SCRIMMAGE CREATING DIFFERENT LEVELS. CORNER TAKES BACK
WR ON VERT RELEASE.
“SHARK” - SAME CONCEPT AS FISH ON THE FRONTSIDE, 1⁄4’S
TOOLBOX TECHNIQUE BY THE OKIE OLB CORNER AND SAFETY.
HOWEVER THE MIKE WILL TAKE ALL OF #3. BACKSIDE IS TRAP.
ONLY CHECKED TO A 3x1 GUN LOADED SET.
“SKY” - SAFETY FORCE AND SAFETY IS A CURL FLAT DEFENDER IN
A COVER 3 CONCEPT.
“SKY SLING” - VS TREY SETS, SS IS A FORCE C/F DEFENDER. ANCHOR IS
A H/C DEFENDER.SAME AS BACKER SLING, BUT THE ANCHOR AND SS SWITCH
RESPONSIBILITIES.
“SLICE” - SAFETY IS NOT A PART OF THE BOX, READING #1 & #3.
CORNER HAS ALL OF #1 UNLESS HE GOES UNDER RIGHT NOW.
“SPLIT” - CALLED WITH 3 SPEED TO THE FIELD AND THE RUNNING
BACK WEAK. THE SS IS SPLITING #3 AND #2. THE CORNER IS
SPLITING #2 AND #1. IF ANY OF THE 3 WR’S DEVIATES THEN THE
CORNER AND SS THICKEN TO THE OPP WR. I.E. IF #3 BUBBLES,
THEN THE SS WILL THICKEN TO #2 AND THE CORNER WILL
THICKEN TO #1. ANCHOR IS A CURL FLAT DEFENDER.
“SWAP” - CALLED BY THE ANCHOR FOR A SPEED 3X1 SET. THIS
TELLS THE MIKE TO TAKE THE ANCHOR’S RUSH RESPONSIBILITY
AND THE ANCHOR WILL TAKE THE MIKE’S PASS DROPPING
RESPONSIBILITIES. THE SAFETY IS STILL MAN ON #2. ANCHOR IS
NOW MAN ON #3.
“SWITCH” - TYPICALLY CALLED WITH A 1⁄4 TECHNIQUE SAFETY
AGAINST A PRO SET ON THE REDUCTION SIDE. SAFETY HAS #2
(MOST LIKELY A TIT OR TE) OUT AND UP. CORNER HAS ALL OF #1.
“TRAP” - CORNER PLAYS A STATUE TECHNIQUE. SAFETY IS A
TAMPA 1⁄2 PLAYER.
“ZONE IT” - A TECHNIQUE THAT THE ANCHOR PLAYS WITH A
COVER 4 CONCEPT BEHIND HIM WHERE HE KNOWS THAT HE IS
THE PRIMARY CURL DEFENDER.
“ZORRO” - TRUE QUARTERS BY THE SAFETY AND CORNER. OKIE
OLB / REDUCTION ILB IS A CURL FLAT DEFENDER.
—
FRONT ADJUSTMENTS
“ANGLE” - REDUCTION OLB IS NOW THE SPILL PLAYER AND IS
RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIVE.
“CHASE” - OKIE DEFENSIVE END CHASES THE RB IF HE IS LINED
UP TO HIS SIDE. AN AUTOMATIC GAP EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE
MIKE AND THE OKIE DEFENSIVE END.
CHECK DOG – 6 TECHNIQUE PLAY C - GAP vs RUN, HIP TO BURST OFF
THE TACKLE.
Iowa State - Jon Heaco*ck (3-high)
Noc New Offensive Center (Vs. Army Formation)
Alley Opening Or Lane To The Ball Carrier.
Backside Side Opposite The Flow Of The Ball.
Ball A Call To Denote The Ball Is In The Air Or There Is A Loose Ball.
Ball On Hash Whenever The Ball Rests Outside The Goal Post Or On The Hash Within 2 Yards.
Long Scoop End Takes A Flat Step With An Aiming Point Inside Eye Of The Guard. Usually Takes 2 Gaps.
Back Step Term Used For Box Players To Step Laterally Opposite The Front Angle Or Slant
Blaze 4 Under 2 Deep Fire Zone From The Boundary
Bos Or Bow The Lb Will Bump Over Strong Or Weak To The Formation.
Bootleg When The Qb Goes Away From The Play Action Or Flow Of Backs With The
Ball And Carries It Outside The Tackle Box. With A Pulling Lineman.
Bubble Side With The 2i/shade And 5-technique. (B Gap Bubble)
Burn 3 Deep, 3 Under Fire Zone Coverage With A Safety Coming Down On The Weak Side.
Buzz Switch Between Lb And Safety In Pass Coverage. Safety Buzzes Down Inside Lb.
Cathy Technique Flat Defender. Read #2, Cover 2.
Cleo Technique 2x5 Inside Alignment Into Boundary Heavy Run Supporter. Emol Reads!!!
Cloud Flat Defender. Hard Cover 2 Tech. Emol Read!!!
Crack An Inside Move By A Wr To Block An Inside Defender, Lb Or Saf.
Cutback, Qb, Edge Defender, Ball Flow Goes Away From Me. My Job! Reverse, #4
Blitz Add When We Are Playing Man And Your Man Sets To Block Then You Have To Go Ahead Blitz/rush Through Your Man.
Drop When D-linemen Drops Back Into Pass Coverage.
Drop Back Qb Dropping Straight Back While Staying In The Tackle Box. (3, 5, 7 Step Drop Back)
Emol End Man On Los
Fire Zone Blitz Pressure, Zone Coverage.
First Inside Lb Term For First Wr/te On An Inside/crossing Route.
Flat Passing Zone From The Hash To The Sideline 5 Yards Or Less.
Flood An Overload Of Receivers Into A Zone At Different Levels. 3 Level Flood
Flow Side Of The Flow Of Flow Or The Play. Opposite Is Backside.
Fold Technique Given To Player Away From Blitz Who Can Fit Inside Contain To Play Counter, Bootleg, Reverse– Beyond The Los.
Force The Defender Has To Keep The Ball Carrier Inside Of Him. (Backer/sky/
Nail/read/kick/solo) Box Or Leverage
Front Side Side To Which The Ball Is Going. Direct Opposite Of Front Side Is Backside.
Funnel 3 On 2 Coverage In Cover 1 Vs. 2 Backs.
Fsl Strength Of Formation Into The Boundary.
Mof Away From Strength Call.
Gaps Area Of Responsibility. (A, B, C, D, E)
Green/red Alerts Dl That A Stunt Is On ( Green ) Or Off ( Red ) Or The Front Has Changed,
Moving The 2i To A 3 Or Vice Versa On The Snap.
Hammer Adjust Made By Lbs To Formation Into The Boundary.
Hip Alignment 5x2 Alignment Off The End Man On The Los.
Hollywood Pretend All Out Blitz
Jam Tag Added To Call. Focus Is On Jamming Reroute Eligible
Gap Charge Step Made By The Dl For A Single Gap Movement
Left/right Sets The Strength Of Secondary. Left, Left/right, Right Calls (Sam/*)
Leverage Maintain Outside, Horizontal, And Vertical Position To Force The Ball Carrier To Your Help Or Box
Linda Safety Coming Down On The Left Side Of The Defense.
Liz Call Made By Lb To Set Leo And 3 Tech. "Left/right".
Load Lb Term To Alert 3x1 Set With Rb Strong=4x1.
Los Line Of Scrimmage. An Imaginary Line Drawn Through The Front Tip Of The Ball, Extending From Sideline To Sideline.
Loose, Loose Adjustment That Moves The 3 Tech To A 4i And The Leo To A 9 Tech. (Yy Adjust)
Louie, Loud Term To Alert Dl The Side They Are Cutting To—left.
Man Side Man Side Of The Ol Protection Or Coverage.
Man Turn Defender Opens Body To The Man.
Match Defenders Pass Responsibilities Based From Wr Routes.
Mesh Charge Bring A Player To Mesh To Disrupt Backfield
Activity. Half Qb/half Rb. Tackle The Rb!
Mof Middle Of Field.
Nail Safety Force Call In Cover 4.
Squeeze A Negative Alignment By A Wr.
Neutral Zone Length Of The Ball. Area Between Offense And Defensive Los.
Oskie Call To Signify A Pass Interception. (Native American Term For Take-away)
Oscar, Oscar Term Used To Alert Dl Of Te Flopping Sides. Rip/liz Has Changed. Resets The Front.
Pack It Back Drive For Depth In Your Zone. Pass Coverage. 5 Yard No Cover
Pass Zone Designated Passing Areas On The Field.
Poach Bonus Run Support Weak For Safety Away From Passing Strength.
Press Jamming The Wr On The Line Of Scrimmage Or As An Alignment Term.
Read Safety/corner Key #2 In Cover 4. Corner Could Be Flat Defender, 1St Underneath Guy Is A 2/seam Defender.
Scrape Lb Technique To Flow Fast And Tight Off A Double Or Down Block Or Across The Formation
Cathy Technique Corner Will Key #2 Wr With 1x7 Outside Alignment On #1 Receiver. Tells Corner How To Play #1.
Sugar Lb And Safeties Give Blitz Look.
Red Zone Zone From Our 20 Yard Line To The 5 Yard Line.
Reduction Side Away From The Bubble, Which Include The 3 Tech And The Leo Or When A Formation Adjusts A Lb To Play In An Apex Alignment.
Re-route Jam And Force Wide Receivers Off Their Routes In Order To Disrupt The Timing Of The Play.
Right/left Directional/strength Call Made By */Sam. Determined By Hash, Passing Strength.
Rip Call Made By Lb To Set The Leo And 3 Tech. "Right"
Rita Safety Is Coming Down To The Right Side Of The Defense.
Rock Back Lb Scrapes Downhill And Changes Direction Vs. Cutback Or Forcing A Puller Or Lead Blocker Back Inside.
Roger, Reggie Term Used To Alert Dl Of Side Cutting To--right
Scramble A Qb That Is Forced Out Of His Normal Course Or Pattern.
Seam The Area 2 Yards Inside The Hash To The Top Of The Numbers. 12-17 Deep Show Disguise.
Solo 3x1 Coverage Adjust-safety Reads Strong/weak Side #3. Lb S Adjust Weak. Will Is Force Defender Weak.
Slot Alignment Of Wr Between End Man On L.o.s. And #1 Wr.
Spill The Ball Forcing The Ball Into The Leverage/force Player.
Split A Term To Describe The Width/yardage Of Wr S Alignment, Ol Alignment
Spot Drop Landmark On The Field Where The Defender Drops.
Sprint Out Qb Rolling Out With The Running Back Blocking The Front Edge.
Squat Technique Head Up Alignment On #1 Wr, Flat Defender. Funnel Either Way.
Stem A Shift By The Defensive Front From One Alignment To Another. Execute Our Move Command.
Stretch Sam Stays Outside Of #2 And Both Sam/safety Have 3-2 Read. Keeps Mike In Box Vs. Run.
Shock And Shed Using Your Hands To Take On A Blocker And Disengaging.
Tear End Moves Into A 6 Tech (C-gap Player) And Nose To A 2i. (Shade/5 To Te)
Trade Where Te Adjusts To Opposite Side Of Formation.
Apex When Lb Has Two Wr S Outside Of Him, He Will Split The Difference Between The #2 Wr And The End Man On The Los Or Between #2 And #3 Vs Trips Sets.
Wing (Yy) An Offensive Player Aligned Off The L.o.s. Just Outside The Tight End.
Zone Side (Pro) Zone Side Of The Ol Protection Or Coverage.
Zone Turn Defender Opens Body Away From Wr/te To The Ball.
High-low Rush De/leo High Rush With De/leo Low Rush
Echo Call Given To De/leo To Gap Charge The B-gap.
Ex On Twist With De And Dt. De 1St And Dt Works To Contain.
Wing Adjust The Will Becomes Our Adjuster To A 9-technique Vs Wing Sets.
Matchquarters
» Coverage Terms:
1st/4th Overhang Away From The Passing Strength Has The 1st To The Flat Or 4th Wr (Crosser)
3-drop Work Off The #3 Wr (Usually The Rb Or Te - 20p)
Apex The Midpoint Between Two Landmarks - Ex. The Hash & The Top Of The Numbers
Bail Technique Used By The Cb That Gives The Illusion Of Press Only To Sink Post-snap
Cap Defender Who Is The Deepest Cover Man In That Zone
Cap The Fit Term Used To Describe The Safety As The +1 Fit. Leverage Defenders Will Have Ouside &
Inside Shoulder Of The Runner.
Carry Term Used To Tell The Overhang To Match A Route Vertically & Deliver To The Cap Defender
Carry Term Used To Tell The Defender To Match Any Vertical & Deliver It To The Cap Defender.
Cover Down Term Used To Describe The Proximity Of The Overhang To The #2 Wr When Removed From The Box
Cut A Term Used To Describe An Underneath Zone Coverage Working To The Near Hip Of The 1st Wr Outside.
Drop Technique By The De On Passing Downs - Step To The Ot To Engage Then Drop Into Coverage
Fast-3 Rb Or Te Work To The Flat Immediately After The Snap
Hard Technique By The Cb Where He Will Work Through The Wr In Cloud Coverage Once #2 Breaks Out
Hole Work Vertically Through The Middle Of The Field Looking For Deep Crossers
Invert Safety Works Down In Sky (Sink Tech.) - Thumbs From Depth
Load Flow Term Used To Tell The Overhang To The Passing Strength That He Can Release Any Under Routes To The Next Man Inside.
Loose Technique By The Secondary In Long Yardage - No Cover Zone <5 Yds
Meg Man Everywhere He Goes - "Lock"
Mes Man Except Short - No Cover Zone = <5 Yds
Mod Man Outside Deep - No Cover Zone = <5 Yds
Out Call Made In Qtrs Coverage Vs A Smash Concept To Call The Overhang Out To The Stop Route
Peek Technique Used By The Cb In Cloud Press - Looks Like Man, But The Cb Will Look Back Inside Once In-phase
Poach Technique By The Safety Vs 2-back. Safety Is Responsible For The Te & Will Take Him Vertically If He Releases
Push In Qtrs Coverage, Call Made When The #3 Wr Pushes Flat - Become The Wall-2 Player
Push Alert Alert To The Overhangs That The #3 Wr Is To Their Side
Rat It! (De) Call To The De To Alert Him That The Overhang Is Outside The Box & The De Will Assume The 3-drop
Rat It! (Lb) Call By The Lb When He Is Removed From The Box - The De Will Work As The #3 Dropper (Hole)
Robot Technique By The Lbs When Alert To A Crosser. With A Push By The Rb + An Under Route, The Lb Will Rotate To The Middle Of The Field
Sink Technique Used Vs A Te Or H-back By The Safety. Inverted Sky Coverage
Sling-2 Technique When The Overhang Blitzes & The Box Backer Must Assume The Wall-2 From Inside
Split Flow Term Used To Tell The Wak Side Overhang That #3 Is Away From You & Will Need To Takeback Any Under Routes
Stab Call By The Safety That He Is Working Into The Box - De Now Can Cut To The #1 Wr (1st/4th)
Swipe Call By The Cb To The De Telling Him To #1
Switch Coverage Used Vs 2-wr Stacks - Plays Like Cloud
Trail Technique Were The Db Will Settle In The Low Hip & Play Underneath The Wr - Used With A Cap Defender
Travel Technique By The Safety When He Is Attached To The Te In The Box - Fit Butt-side
Under Any Route Under 5 Yds That Works Across The Field (Crosser) Vision Drop Through The Mof With Eyes On The Qb Looking For Crossers
Wall-2 In Qtrs A Technique Used To Work The Seam - Capped By A Safety
Wk Hook In Buzz Or Spin, The Backer Away From The Passing Strength Will Work The Vertical Hook
Front Seven Terms:
Close C Works Away, The Nose Will Close The Oppo A
Double When Two O-linemen Work On One D-lineman
Heavy De's Technique To The Nose Side
Hover On In Creeper, The De Will Read Run-pass Before Droping Into Coverage
Nose Cross The Center's Face & Work Flat Down The Line Of Scrimmage Pin Hold Your Gap
Rip Technique By The Heavy De When The Ot Bases Out To Him - "Rip The B"
Station On A Down Block By The Ot, The De Will Work The Heel Line
Tam 3t Will Cross The Guard's Face Into The A-gap & Work Flat Down The Line Of Scrimmage
Trace Against Any Puller, The De Can Fold Back Inside Trailing The Puller
Drop Technique By The De On Passing Downs - Step To The Ot To Engage Then Drop Into Coverage
Rat It! Call By The Lb When He Is Removed From The Box - The De Will Work As The #3 Dropper (Hole)
Stab Call By The Safety That He Is Working Into The Box - De Now Can Cut To The #1 Wr (1st/4th)
Swipe Call By The Cb To The De Telling Him To #1
"9" 9-call Tells The De To Align In A 9t When A Te Is Present - Usually Vs 11p 2x2
"5" 5-call Tells The De To Align In A 5t When A Te Is Present - Usually Vs 11p Trey
Jam-6 Alignment For De When A Te Is Present & The Nose Will Cop B -> C - Jam Te & Hover In The C-gap
C-read Dl Reads The Block Of The Center - To = Cross-face/away = Work Butt-side
Cop (B -> C) Contain Presser -- "B -> C" Is When The 3t Or Nose Is The Cop - Work Through The B-gap Reading The Ot
Exit De Rips Inside 2st While The Dl Engages Before Copping
G-read Dl Reads The Block Of The Guard - To = Cross-face/away = Work Butt-side
Man Nose + Mike Through The Oppo A-gap
Nob Nose To "B"
Nose Nose Crosses The Center's Face
Tam 3t To "A"
Tex 3t Cops 1st While The De Engages The Ot Then Folds Inside
Lb Terms
10/30 Alignment By The Box Backers When Te Is In The Core
10/40 Aliment By The Box Backers When The Te Is In A Slot Position
30/30 Alignment By The Box Backers When Running Creepers (Qb)
Cheat Lbs Will Plus Their Alignment To The 2 Wr Side By One Gap (B/a) Vs 11p 2x2
Field Check Call To Set The Front To The Field - Usually Reserved For 10p 2x2
Fold Overhang Will Work Back Into The Box Vs Run
Hip Alignment By The Overhang To The Boundary Or To A 3x1 Setting
In Fit When The Rb Is Away From An Overhang He Can "Fast-fit"
Out Of Fit When The Rb Is To The Overhang He Has A "Sit-fit" - Don't Go 'Til You Know!
Over Set The 3t To The Strength
Squeeze Lbs Will Plus Their Alignment To The Te Vs 11p 2x2 - Overhang To The 2 Wr Side Is A Fold Player
Under Set The 3t Away From The Strength
Zero Alignment By The Box Backer Over The Center
1st/4th Overhang Away From The Passing Strength Has The 1st To The Flat Or 4th Wr (Crosser)
3-drop Work Off The #3 Wr (Usually The Rb Or Te - 20p)
Fast-3 Rb Or Te Work To The Flat Immediately After The Snap
Hole Work Vertically Through The Middle Of The Field Looking For Deep Crossers
Push In Qtrs Coverage, Call Made When The #3 Wr Pushes Flat - Become The Wall-2 Player
Push Alert Alert To The Overhangs That The #3 Wr Is To Their Side
Rat It! Call To The De To Alert Him That The Overhang Is Outside The Box & The De Will Assume The 3-drop
Sling-2 Technique When The Overhang Blitzes & The Box Backer Must Assume The Wall-2 From Inside
Wall-2 In Qtrs A Technique Used To Work The Seam - Capped By A Safety
Wk Hook In Buzz Or Spin, The Backer Away From The Passing Strength Will Work The Vertical Hook
Vision Drop Through The Mof With Eyes On The Qb Looking For Crossers
Cross In Allen & Manning, The 1st Insert Will Auto Cross The Center's Face
Man Nose Stunt + Box Backer To Oppo A-gap
Knife Edge Pressure With Rules - Rb To Me = I Have Qb -- Rb Away = I Have The Rb
Mama Mike To A-gap
Wham Will To A-gap
Mob Mike To B-gap
Wobble Will To B-gap
Mickey Mike To C-gap
Wick Will To C-gap
Schiano Tree (Belichick-Adjacent)
GENERAL OFFENSIVE TERMS
2x2 SET One back set with 2 Receivers to each side.
3x1 SET One back set with 3 Receivers to one side.
BOOT QB fakes to the Back in one direction and he goes the other with an OG pulling in front of him with pass/run option.
CLUSTER SET Three Receivers aligned close together.
CRS CNTRY/OVER Illustrates deep crossing route by receiver behind LB’s.
CORE Part of the formation that is connected to the OL.
DETACHED Any FB, RB, TE aligned 3+ yards outside the box.
DROP BACK ACTION QB drop straight back and sets up behind the OC.
3 Step – Quick Routes, QB = 5 yards
5 Step – Timed Routes (10-12 yds), QB = 7 yards
7 Step – Deeper Routes (15-18 yds), QB = 9 yards
EMPTY NO BACKS in the backfield.
FLIP SET Any slot formation with X and Z aligned on the same side where the inside receiver is on the L.O.S.
FLOW Both backs attacking in the same direction. (Flow strong or Flow weak)
KING/ACE Any RB/TE displaced to TE side/displaced Split side.
NAKED QB fakes to the Back in one direction and he goes the other, with a pass/run option.
NUB Side of offensive formation where TE is in the core and no WR’s are outside of him.
PRO SET Any formation where the WR’s (X and Z) are aligned on opposite sides of the formation.
QUADS 4x1 Empty Alignment.
SIGHT ADJUST QB & WR reaction to pressure.
SINGLE Back that aligns in a position behind the Center in a one formation.
SLOT SET Any 2 WR formation where the X and Z are aligned to the same side.
SPLIT FLOW Backs go in opposite directions. (3/2 split or 2/3 split)
SPLIT SIDE The side of the offensive formation opposite of
where the designated Tight End (TE) aligns.
SPRINT Pass action in which the QB attacks the perimeter
of the defense with pass/run option.
SPRINT ROLL QB shows drop back pass then sprints right or left.
STRONG SIDE The side of the offensive formation having the two quick Receivers (2 Receiver side).
TERRY TE in 2 hole (Tackle Over).
TITE SIDE The side of the offensive formation where the
Tight End (Designated TE) aligns.
TRIPS 3 WR’s to an open side with back side nub TE.
WEAK SIDE The side of the offensive formation away from the two quick Receivers (1 Receiver side).
DEFENSIVE IDENTIFICATION
SAM Outside Linebacker that aligns to the call.
WILL Outside Linebacker that aligns away from the call.
MIKE Middle Linebacker
NICKEL (STAR) Refers to the 5th Defensive Back in Sub defense.
DIME (DOLLAR) Refers to the 6th Defensive Back in Sub defense.
PENNY Refers to the 7th Defensive Back in Sub defense.
GENERAL TERMINOLOGY
L.O.S. Line of Scrimmage.
P.O.A. Point of attack.
C.P. Coaching Point.
E.O.L. End man on Line of scrimmage.
G.P. Game Plan.
BUC THUD Live football; butt, wrap, release, everyone stays off the ground.
SCOUT THUD Live football; butt, wrap and run back, everyone stays off the ground.
TAG Tempo of play in a team period where defender tags hip of ball carrier while in tackling position with two hands.
STICKS Refers to the distance needed for 1st Down.
DOWNTIME At the end of the game when the defense is instructed to go to the ground immediately after gaining possession of the ball.
DEFENSIVE INFORMATION
ALIGNMENT
BOS Backers over Strong (TE).
BOW Backers over Weak (Split).
CORNERS OVER Term telling Corners to line up on wide receiver. (Corners over vs. Slot)
COVER DOWN Vs. a #2 detached, describes the alignment between #2 and next offensive player inside.
KEY Defender Point TE.
OFF Alignment in which the DB lines up in a normal 7-10 yard alignment postion off of a receiver.
SHOW Disguise by the LB’s and DB’s that looks like we are going to run BLIZZARD.
SLIDE (RT/LT) Adjustments made to Terry formation that moves the defense one gap to the RT or LT.
SPIN Safeties exchange responsibilities vs. rec. motion.
SUGAR Word used to tell 2nd level defenders to move around.
UP/WAG Alignment by LB’s on line of scrimmage.
GENERAL DEFENSE
LEVERAGE Maintain proper position on an offensive blocker, receiver or ball carrier.
MAN BLITZ Combination of 5 or more players pressuring the QB with MAN coverage behind the pressure.
MATCH Zone Pressure that consists of 5 rushers, 3 short defenders and 3 deep defenders.
ZONE BLITZ Combination of 5 or more players pressuring the
QB with ZONE coverage behind the pressure (Defensive linemen will be involved in the drop).
DEFENSIVE INFORMATION
COMMUNICATION
“5” DE moves from 4 Tech to 5 Tech.
BIRDS Call to alert pass.
COP Call that tells Nose to drop into coverage.
COWBOY Call used to check out of a blitz = Cov. 2.
CUT Alert to a minus split by a WR.
DOWN Adjustment in front which DE moves back to a 4 technique.
EMPTY Call made by LB to defensive front vs. a no back set, denoting a line twist.
FUZZ Call that tells the DT to drop into coverage.
HALF A call used to move the front to a 2i Tech and a 7 Tech.
HOGS Call to alert run.
MOVE Call made to execute a change of alignment in the defensive front.
ORBIT Term used to call off stunt, game, or blitz.
OSKIE Interception alert.
PLAY IT Call made by MLB/SAF to alert the defense to stay with the huddle call.
PREFIX Defensive audible system.
RESET Call to reset the defense (DL – LB’ers and Safeties adjust.
RIGHT/LEFT Call made by MLB to set the front “Right” and “Left”.
RINGO/LUCKY Directional call telling NT which A gap to rush.
RIP/LIZ Call made by Safeties to tell who is adjusting down in Cover 3/ Match coverage.
RIP/LIZ BUZZ Call made by Safeties to tell who is adjusting down in Cover 3/Match coverage.
SHOVE Backside Rule: If no vertical route by #1 weak, corner “shoves” safety.
SLIDE (RT/LT) Adjustments made to Terry formation that moves the defense one gap to the RT or LT.
STEM/METS A call alerting Front that we will change alignments after the offense sets their formation to the Defense called.
PERIMETER RUN SUPPORT TERMS
FORCE (SET THE EDGE) The responsibility for constricting the outside run by meeting it and making it cut back inside.
Types of Force: (Outside the block of #2)
A. Backer – OLB has force.
B. Sky – Safety has outside Force. – 5x5 vs. TE.
C. Cloud – Corner has Force.
D. Read – Read of TE by DB. If “Y” blocks, DB has support.
E. Easy – Defensive End has Force.
SECONDARY FORCE The support is given by a deep defender who has passed responsibility first. After eliminating pass possibility, reacting to run from outside-in, and becoming the force if primary force man is Cracked.
ALLEY The area between the outside force and the inside pursuit.
PRESS THE HIP (CUTBACK) When the ball is run away from the defensive strength. Players responsible for pursuing backside hip of ball, eliminating any cutback.
CUT OFF (KEEP ALL RECEIVERS INSIDE AND IN FRONT) Refers to the furthest defender on the side away from the end run taking a deep pursuit angle to save a touchdown. Must be careful to deny/defend the ball carrier if he cuts back.
RUN SUPPORT TERMINOLOGY
ALLEY The area between the outside force and inside pursuit.
BLANKET Secondary player in Man Free Coverage that alerts inside defender of run support vs. outside runs.
BOX Technique of a run defender that he contains any play to him and play cutback on any play away.
CHASE/CONTAIN End Man on LOS (EOL) responsible for cutback, boot, and containing the pocket.
FORCE The responsibility of meeting the end run outside
#2 and forcing a cutback or deep bounce path by the
ball carrier.
PLUG Run technique used to box inside runs and spill outside runs.
READ SUPPORT 1/3 CB run support on back side of slot.
REPLACE Technique executed by the defender responsible for Secondary force. When an offensive player (#1) blocks the defender who has force, the defender in coverage replaces him.
RIO Run inside out on the ball. Swarm while pressing the hip.
SCRAPE LB path vs. perimeter run.
SET THE EDGE The run contain defender prevents the ball from (FORCE) getting outside #2. Turn the ball back to the defense.
SLICE Call made by Corner to Safety in Cover 2 to alert him of run support responsibilities.
SPILL Run support by a defensive player designed to force the ball outside.
FRONT/DEFENSIVE LINE TERMINOLOGY
“5” DE moves from 4 Tech to 5 Tech.
“C” Call Side End is C gap responsible from a 4 tech.
COP Call that tells Nose to drop into coverage.
DOWN Adjustment in front which DE moves back to a 4 technique.
EMPTY Call made by LB to defensive front vs. a no back set, denoting a line twist.
FIN Call where the normally aligned 5 technique to the bubble side of a defense aligns in a 4 technique.
FINEE Play “Fin” vs. Run. Vs. Pass, End rushes B gap and Nose wraps for contain.
FUZZ Call that tells the DT to drop into coverage.
HALF A call used to move the front to a 2i Tech and a 7 Tech.
HEADS DT’s align in 2 Techniques.
RINGO/LUCKY Directional call telling NT which A gap to rush.
SHADE Any half man alignment.
STEM/METS A call alerting Front that we will change alignments after the offense sets their formation to the Defense called.
STUNTS Predetermined snap charge by DL to gainpenetration and assist in run defense or pass rush.
TUFF Indicates that it is a one back set and DL and LB’ers each have one gap.
PASS RUSH
BUTCH Rush technique of hitting a receiver (RB or TE) to Disrupt his release or route.
CONTAIN Vs. Pass: Man responsible for keeping the QB inside the pocket with outside leverage.
COVER Call by LB to DT to be alert for screen. “Cover” game for End.
GAMES Coordinated exchange of pass rush lanes by DL.
GO Tells rush players to penetrate and play pass 1st – run 2nd
LATE Rush technique where defender will hesitate to let the first wave of the rush clear then pick his open lane to rush in the face of the QB.
SPY A rusher who is responsible for the QB vs. Pass.
RUN BLOCKING TERMS
BASE Fundamental Block that is the base of the run offense. Signifies an offensive lineman blocking the middle of the man over him; on or off the L.O.S. at the P.O.A.
REACH A Technique Block used by offensive lineman or TE hitting the defenders out side number through the armpit trying to control the defenders outside shoulder at the P.O.A.
CUTOFF A block where an offensive lineman or TE hits defenders inside number to prevent backside pursuit. (Backside block away from P.O.A.)
DOWN (Veer) A block where an offensive lineman or TE blocks inside towards the ball on the first man or gap inside, on the L.O.S. at the P.O.A.
ACE Double by center and guard on Nose to LBer.
DUECE Double by guard and tackle on 3T back to the LBer.
TREY Double by the TE and tackle on the 5T back to the LBer.
SLIP A zone blocking scheme between two lineman AWAY from the play
SCOOP A zone blocking scheme between two lineman to the play
FAN A block where an offensive lineman or tight end pass sets on the L.O.S. drawing you upfield and outside to open running lanes inside.
‘O’ Refers to offside guard pulling across the center other than trap.
‘G’ An assignment block where onside guard pulls away from the ball to kick out, or lead up on the LBer. (at the P.O.A.)
TUG An assignment where backside tackle pulls behind backside guard.
‘C’ Onside pull by the center to the playside.
‘TC’ Onside pull by tackle and center to playside.
‘GC’ Onside pull by guard and center to playside.
‘TG’ Onside pull by tackle and guard to playside.
‘OY’ Blocking scheme where playside offensive lineman blocks down and the offside guard and TE pull to kick out and turn up in the hole: comes with Counter play.
LOG Block used by pulling lineman to block a defender in rather than kicking him out.
TED Cross block by tackle and end in which outside man crosses first.
TRAP (VEER) Blocking scheme where onside guard down (veer) blocks and the offside guard or tackle pulls across the ball and blocks inside out. (at the P.O.A.)
TRAP (INFLUENCE) •Blocking scheme where your key quick pass sets or pulls out to influence defender upfield for trap. Offside guard or tackle pulls across ball and blocks inside out. (at the P.O.A.)
BACK An assignment block for an lineman to fill for pulling adjacent lineman. (away from P.O.A.)
WHAM An isolation block by a back on an interior defensive lineman.
WEDGE All blockers form apex at P.O.A.
ARC (TE/OT) A block where an offensive lineman or TE outside releases for the support defender.
COVERAGE SYSTEM
2 – 2 DEEP
33 (BUZZ) – 3 DEEP STRONG SAFETY FORCEOR BUZZ
6 – 1⁄4 TO CALL, 1⁄2 AWAY
MATCH – ZONE PRESSURE – MAN FRE(CALL, AWAY, SEAM, HOOK)
DOUBLE DIGIT CALL:
CORNERS STAY
1ST DIGIT VS. PRO (X/Z OPPOSITE)
2ND DIGIT VS. SLOT (X/Z TOGETHER)
SINGLE DIGIT CALL: DB’s/LB’s – ALIGN (BUMP) ON NUMERICAL RECEIVERS (1WK, 2WK, 3, 2STR, 1STR)
ZONE BLITZ TERMINOLOGY
2nd MAN THRU Used by a defender in Zone Blitz in which he blitzes but reads key to determine whether to continue or abort.
BINGO Technique used by contain rusher to cover any RB release outside the OT.
CAT Call made by Safety in Zone Blitz to tell defense that Corner is blitzing.
CHIEF Call made to check into Blizzard.
BINGO CONTAIN Blitz off the edge, aiming point 2 yds outside nearest deepest Back.
CORNER Call by Corner telling Seam player to cover the TE. Corner and Hook adjust to the release of King and RB.
COX Call made by the Corner to a NUB side in a Zone Blitz. The AE has the TE and the Corner becomes the Seam.
EDGE Call made by Sam to Call Side End that exchanges their responsibilities in Split Saw.
FAST Call made by Safety in Zone Blitz to tell defense he is blitzing.
GREEN DOG CONTAIN Tells contain rusher to take RB fast across his face.
HARD Technique used by blitzer vs. a man on line of scrimmage.
HOT SIDE Where the QB throws the football versus pressure.
LOCK Call made by two defenders in Zone Blitz to say they have to read the TE and wing to determine their run and pass responsibility. The AE as the TE M/M.
OSCAR Call made in Match coverage by Safety changing the Hook/Seam player coverage responsibilities.
OTTO CAGE Technique used by Hook player in Zone Blitz to Cage all runs.
OTTO PLUG Technique used by Hook player in Zone Blitz to Box all inside runs and spill all outside runs.
SEAM Pass drop off #2 unless #3 fast now or Wall call.
SNOW Call made by Sam to tell the Mike that he is Hard technique and Sam is contain rusher.
SWAP/CHANGE Call in any defense where two defenders exchange coverage assignments.
WINTER Call made by Sam to tell Will he is the contain rusher. Sam is now the Hook player.
WRAP Technique used in Zone blitz when your man goes to the blitz and blocks, you continue to QB.
ZONE Coverage adjustments to Cluster formation in Zone Blitzes.
ZONE COVERAGE TERMINOLOGY
3 FINAL Technique of a MLB where he relates to the final #3 to the front side of Cover 6.
ALERT CHINA Call to alert flat defender that two receivers are close together and we will switch based on their releases.
BODY POSITION Defender that aligns or drops to provide help to another defender while keeping vision on his responsibility. (Ex: Working to get in the throwing lane of a route to WR)
BOND A corner’s deep 1/3 technique, starting in press alignment, opening to QB on snap.
BUZZ FLAT Drop technique direct to flat, bypass curl window.
CARRY Technique of running with a vertical route.
CATCH Technique used in pass coverage that tells defender to collision the WR.
CHINA Call to alert flat defender that an outside WR has run a China/Sink route.
CHOKE Call to put Corner in Trail M/M on the ‘X’ WR with Safety playing over the top (Deep 1⁄2).
CURL FLAT Coverage technique of a pass defender where he will take a drop angle 10 yds. in depth and 1 yd inside #1 receiver.
CUT Call to alert inside defender of a tightly aligned receiver and to him pick up when crossing into his zone. “TALK”
DEEP 1⁄2 The deepest zone on the field from the sideline to middle of the field. (2yds inside #’s)
DELIVER Coverage technique where the pass defender will match with the receiver on an inside release until another defender calls him off. (I’ve got him)
DUAL 3 over 2 coverage.
FUNNEL Technique used by a Cover 2 corner to re-route #1 inside.
HOOK Pass drop off final #3.
HOOK CURL Coverage technique of a pass defender in 3 deep zone where he drops and relates 10 yards in depth and 1yd inside the #2 receiver. (See QB-Feel Rec.)
I GOT HIM Call made by a defender to indicate an accepting of coverage responsibilities during the play.
KEY BLITZ Technique used by defender covering TE and an outside rusher based on block/release of TE.
KICK Technique played by the corner when backed up by a deep outside 1/3 defender.
LATCH Technique in Cover 2 in which the short dropper and Pipe switch responsibilities.
LONG Call to designate the 1⁄2 side of coverage.
LONG DROP Technique where the defender denies the final #2 inside and carries him vertically to the safety.
MIDDLE 1/3 The deep center zone of the field. (Midpoint widest receivers)
NO CHINA Call made where the CB will play China route.
NO COVER ZONE Area designated to pass off all shallow crossingroutes rather than deny crossers (8 yds from LOS).
OUTSIDE 1/3 The deep outside zone. (3yds outside #’s)
PATTERN READ The ability of a defender to read combination routes
and maintain proper position (Leverage).
DEFENSIVE INFORMATION 42
PIPE In Cover 2 the Deep Middle Run Thru defender is as deep as #2 or #3 rec. dictates.
PLASTER Call given to alert defenders that the QB is scrambling and should look to match up on the deepest receiver in their zone.
PUSH Used to move linebackers over in coverage.
QUARTERS CB Defender responsible for deep outside 1⁄4 where he plays WR M/M on all upfield routes and can expect post help if #2 does not run a vertical route. Use “China” call.
QUARTERS FLAT Technique of a pass defender where he relates to the widest of #2 or #3 to the front side of Cover 6. We will collision and drop any vertical route 8-10 yds. and will deliver #2 with #3 away.
QUARTERS SAFETY Technique used by Safeties when they are playing an inside 1⁄4 of the field. Always play with vertical seperation over #2.
RADAR Coverage technique by LB off of play action/boot.
RE-ROUTE Technique of hitting receiver to disrupt route or release.
RIP/LIZ Call made by Safeties to tell who is adjusting down in Cover 3/ Match coverage.
RIP/LIZ BUZZ Call made by Safeties to tell who is adjusting down in Cover 3/Match coverage.
SHORT DROP Technique used by curl defender in Cover 2. (See QB-Feel rec.)
SHOVE Backside Rule: If no vertical route by #1 weak, corner “shoves” safety.
SINK Check in Cover 6 vs. #2 detached, adjusted 1⁄2 Coverage based on the release of the #2 receiver.
SOLO Call to designate the 1⁄4 side of Cover 6.
SPECIAL Cover 6 adjustment vs. 3x1 wide formations.
UNDER Call to alert inside defender of a receiver crossing into his zone. “TALK”
VERT ALERT Call used to alert Curl-Flat defender to carry “seam” route by #2 receiver.
WINDOW Area between QB & receiver.
MAN COVERAGE TERMINOLOGY
BAIL A technique used by the corners to play top down, starting in a press alignment, turning belly button to the rec.
BANJO In & out coverage between 2 DBs.
BLUE Call made in Man Free Coverage to a 2 RB set that tells 3 defenders that they are responsible for the 2 RBs and the low-hole.
BUNCH Coverage adjustments to Cluster formation in Man Free Coverage. (Moon)
DUO Call made between W/M, in Man Free Coverage to a single RB. When RB comes to you, you take him man, away means you become help to hole.
GDC/BINGO Technique used by a pass rusher/blitzer to cover a releasing back.
LADDER Technique used by 2 defenders on stacked receivers.
LEVELS Technique used by 2 defenders on stacked receivers.
LOW-HOLE 8-10 yards (Sticks) over the Quarterback.
HUG Technique used by a defender covering RB man to Man. If he blocks, bull rush him to QB.
KEY Call/technique where the point defender works with the outside rusher. TE blocks rusher, point defender rush, rusher covers the TE.
MY MAN Call made (vs. motion) to identify who is covering the (motioning) receiver.
PRESS M/M technique from a press alignment in which the pass defender JAMS the receiver at the LOS and runs with him.
SLOW HUG Delay until DL game occurs, then Hug your man.
SWITCH Call in M/M made to exchange coverage responsibilities between two defenders.
TRAIL M/M coverage technique from a press alignment in which the defender collisions a receiver and covers him M/M in an inside/underneath position.
TRIO Technique used by 3 defenders on a 3 receiver bunch.
WALL Call made by a defender to indicate an accepting of coverage responsibilities during the play.
Gregg Williams Defensive Terminology
Man to Man Pressure Terms
Add- Term used to describe when a Man to Man defender in a pressure defense “adds” into the pressure in response to his coverage pass blocking. C.P. - any adders must be at normal LB depth pre-snap in order to add.
Hover- Safeties and corners aligned deeper than LB depth, will free up & play Rover technique when their pass coverage has blocked in the protection.
Take The Air Out- Term used to describe the tech. when the edge/ contain blitzer goes underneath the 2nd level Pass blocker (RB) and effectively takes the air out of the block and the step up lane in the pocket.
Dig- Blitz adjustment that tells the edge/contain rusher to go inside/under any 2nd level pass blocker. It is a communicated term between the Edge blitzer and the man to man adder. It is an acronym meaning Dogger Inside Guy.
Doug- Blitz adjustment that tells the edge/contain rusher to go outside any 2nd level pass blocker and contain the pocket. It also tells any 2nd inside blitzer to an overload pressure side to go under all 1st and 2nd level pass blocks and the adder will fit in the natural alley/gauntlet that is formed between them. It is a communicated term between the Edge rusher(s) and the M/M adder(s). It is an acronym meaning Doggers Outside and Under Guys.
Blitz Entry Pattern – This refers to the rush pattern at the point of attack for any of our 4-to-a-side overload pressures. We can change the rush pattern at the point of attack w/ a term in order to make ourselves look more multiple and complex to the Offense w/ out changing up the whole defensive scheme. * I.E. (Jet Stream)
Jet Stream- Term used to communicate DE to be contain rusher and the Blitzer's rush will be inside.
Yugo- Communication made between LB’s/DB’s to exchange blitz responsibilities and coverage. Usually vs. a detached #2 to the call side.
Simoneau Rule- An automatic yugo with MLB’s coverage when necessary in order to keep the MLB in the Box.
Hit Call- A call given by a coverage defender to an outside rusher alerting the rusher to re-route a fast release by a RB. Force the RB to go inside.
Take Call- When an edge rusher assumes coverage on a chowed RB releasing in the passing game. Original man responsible for the cover guy now assumes blitz responsibilities.
Train- Coverage on a back which means you have him if he steps to your side. The only time you don’t have him is if he goes away – medium up-field rush intensity. (Rush your responsibility)
C.H.O.W. -It’s an acronym that means Cheated Out Wide. It is a term we use to describe the alignment of a player who is aligned in the backfield, but in an abnormally wide alignment. We use the term CHOW to anticipate and communicate a potential “free release” by the CHOWed player. If a Chow is alerted, then a “Hit/Take” call should also be communicated to the edge rusher to the CHOW side depending upon scheme, position, game plan, game situation, etc.
Snag- Term used to describe the situation in any of our M/M Pressure and Add defenses when the edge blitzer gets out blocked by an on-the-line TE. When this happens the blitzer will maintain his outside leverage position to the TE, while also grabbing and “snagging” him. IF the TE tries to release on a delayed pass route, then the “snagger” buys him and assumes coverage responsibility on him. This technique allows the player who was originally in M/M coverage to not get into a Run/Pass or Add/Coverage conflict by allowing him to quickly and confidently fit inside on run or add vs. pass.
Front Alignment Adjustment Terms
Heads- Alignment and technique where a player is aligned head up on an OL or TE and is playing physical “knock em back” run tech. while being responsible for the inside Gap.
Grizzly- Tech for the NT in a Zero Heads alignment to aggressively strike and neutralize the Center. Play backside of any block.
Crease Tech- When a defensive player aligns in a 9 tech. alignment to a big wing to penetrate and neutralize D-Gap.
Taco- Adjustment made by a 3 technique to move to a 4i, and a defensive end to move to a 9 technique, usually vs. a Twin formation.
Gone- Adjustment vs. 3 man surface that takes a shade to a 2i and a 5 to a 7 tech.
“G”- Term Used to widen a Shade in a 4-Man Front to a 2i.
Tuff- 9 Tech with track rush & the LB/DB is in the press tech on the TE.
Apex- Term that refers to the alignment of the Cover 2 poacher to a slot side that has to Slot adjust at the middle point (Apex) between the Slot and E.M.O.L.
Run Support Terms
Box- A technique used by a defender forcing the ball inward, when taking on a lead blocker.
Spill- Run fit technique where a player fits inside on a blocker in order to force the ball carrier to bounce outside the block to a free hitter.
Cap- Deep defender who has pass first, run 2nd responsibility. Cap defenders should “Cap” (TopDown) the ball from a “Force” (Outside-In) angle.
Cleo- Outside contain/force responsibility (corner force). A rotation by the corner to the flat or divider from an inside technique. Force the WR to take an outside release. The Cleo corner has deep or ½ help.
Cloud- Outside contain/force responsibility (corner force). A rotation by the corner to the flat or divider from an outside technique. Force the WR to take an inside release. The Cloud corner has deep or ½ help.
Sky Force-Down Safety force. When a safety rotates down into the box and has Edge responsibility in the run front.
Backer Force- When a LB has edge responsibility in the run front.
Easy Force- When a DE has edge responsibility in a run front.
CBR- Trail responsibilities by L.O.S force Defender vs. Cutback / Boot / Reverse
Field Landmarks
No Cover Zone- The land mark on the field in Zone defense stretching from the L.O.S. to 5 yards on the defensive side, and sideline to sideline. This is the area that we will not occupy until the QB is forced to dump the ball there. This is where we want to force the ball to be thrown in Zone defense.
Mid Point- The area exactly half way in between the outside edge of the hash and the inside edge of the #’s.
Low Hole- Area from one offensive tackle to the other offensive tackle to a depth of 5-8 yards on the defensive side of the ball.
Divider- The area exactly half way in between the sideline and the outside edge of the numbers (#’s) on the field (6 yards from sideline).
Defensive Check Terms
Tokyo- Code Word used by the MLB at any time to check the defense to that packages version of Cover 2.
Hot- A check to a Wide/Jet Over front where the closed side DE goes to a co*cked 9, the 3 Tech loosens to a B-Gap charge, the shade widens to a 2i, and the 5 Tech loosens and co*cks to get in their best pass rush alignments vs. anticipated pass.
Adjust and Play It-Term used to describe how we have to handle motion or trick shift. We can not check or reload our defense on motion. Therefore, we must adjust our defensive alignment as need be and play the “Original” huddle call.
Reload- Term alerting defense that the offense has shifted and that the defense must reset accordingly.
Zone Defense Terms
Poach- Coverage technique by hook/hash dropper who Keys QB after initial drop and compresses the field to the side the QB is looking. Poach Area = 10-14 yards deep from the Hash to Mid Point.
Middle Read- The Mike’s tech. in Cover 2 where he is responsible for the area between the hashes from the No Cover Zone to the Goal Post. The middle reader is responsible for “closing” the middle of the field by staying on top of #2 to passing strength and staying inside the hashes unless breaking to make a play on the ball.
Spider- NT play run 1st then drop to Shallow Middle Hook. Key #3 in Pass Coverage.
Widow- LB play run 1st then drop to Shallow Middle Hook. Key #3 in Pass Coverage.
Press Bail- Technique in which the Corner or Strong Safety will leave the line of scrimmage just prior to the snap from a bump and run alignment, maintain outside leverage or position on receiver. Must not be played by outside corner if the #2 receiver’s split is wide. Ex: Slot
Ability Align- Term used to describe the alignment of any player in any defense. Each player’s ability is different from the others and therefore each player may need to take a slightly different alignment in order to functionally do what he is being asked to do in the given defensive call.
Danger- Call used in Cover 2 vs. 1-Back sets to alert for 4 verticals.
Rail - Call used in Cover 3 vs. 1 Back sets to alert for 4 verticals.
Yankee- A term used in 3-deep Zone to mean a Middle of the Field switch when a single WR “X” runs a deep over route. The Deep 1/3 defender will drive top down to assume responsibility of the Deep over while the outside 1/3 defender to that side replaces him by sprinting through the deep MOF while reading the QB’s intentions. C.P. Yankee should be communicated Pre-snap between Safety and Corner, and corner must deepen up Pre-snap.
Flow - Action by backs where they both release to the strong side of the pattern (4 Strong).
Flood - Action by backs where they both release into the weak side of the pattern (3 Weak).
1 to 2 or 2 to 1 Read- The read by a Corner or Safety as he drops to 1/3’s or ½’s coverage. If #2 is threatening deep, the defender must keep working for depth on top. If #2 is not threatening, then the defender can squeeze and focus on #1 receiver.
“2nd Man Thru”- Applies to zone coverages if #2 receiver to either side runs flat and up or wheel route. The widest area dropper must carry him up the sideline. Don’t let him cross you face.
Man to Man Coverage Terms
Thumbs- A double coverage technique where the corner will open and go to halves coverage, utilizing a 2 to 1 read. Man to man help is coming from inside-out to the #1 receiver. The thumbs technique is widely used throughout the scheme and involves the secondary as well as the linebackers. The defender who is looking up the #1 receiver must close the width immediately and then assume inside trail technique on any over or in breaking routes
Swipe- Can apply to any coverage defender where both defenders are playing thumbs technique on 2 receivers. The corner usually has deep half with both defenders playing inside out. (Double Thumbs)
Triple Swipe –The 3 underneath cover people execute a thumbs tech. on #1/2/3 in the formation to their side. While Corner plays ½ field deep and over the top of the 3 receivers.
Fist- call and technique where the man to man defender plays inside press and even. Inside position must be maintained as the defender has help deep and outside.
Slice- a double coverage technique. It is sometimes referred as a “bracket” where one defender drives through any outside break and the other drives through any inside break.
Fist/Slice- a press technique where by the receiver is forced outside away from the ball at the snap. The defender will cross over behind the receiver and work to a position 3 yards outside and even with the receiver. Defender has the inside and deep help from the Safety. Upon any inside move from the receiver defender must get on top!
Cut- A call between a corner and safety to his side to handle minus receiver splits and inside routes by the WR. The safety drives down and assumes man coverage while the corner drops to replace his coverage.
Vice- A bracket coverage technique described as a violent slice tech. where the two defenders get up on the L.O.S. in a double press tech. and destroy the release of the doubled receiver.
Lock- A call that commits a defender to a receiver. When a “Lock” call is made there will be no exchanges or Zebra made. You are locked up one on one.
Zebra- Call between two defenders alerting for the potential for an exchange of coverage assignments between two eligible offensive players. Example: Sam and Mike have the TE and Strong back depending on the release of the two. Any time two eligible offensive players are within 3 yards of each other and defenders are in man or blitz coverage's, the potential for “Zebra” exists.
Bump- A term used by DB’s/LB’s where the defenders will move coverage responsibility from his receiver to the next receiver. This situation will occur as a result of motion.
3-way/Cross Fire- An alert call in man to man coverage that alerts 3 defenders to be alert for play action strong. If play-action occurs the defenders will sort out the action with Sam on the 1St back strong, Mike over-runs the 1st crosser (pass off to the Will). Mike takes the middle of the three. (Note: “Zebra” involves the potential exchange of 2 receivers. “3-way” involves three eligible Backs or Receivers)
Single X- Term used in our 5 man Single Pressures when we want to send our Post Player (FS) to a committed double on an offensive player. The “X” refers to the fact that we are X-ing out that player, meaning he Can Not catch the ball. i.e.- Single-X slot, Single- X #80, etc…
Single Robber- Coverage used in the low Red Zone on our single pressures. Instead of Single X, if we say Single-Robber that tells the MOF safety to Free Up, hover and Rob to the QB’s intentions. This term lets all M/M defenders know that they are now in Solo coverage and must adjust their alignment, technique and thought process accordingly.
Call_____- A coverage where we are playing M/M defense but also have a committed double on a designated player. i.e.- Call Slot, Call #80
Top Hat- Press, Jam, Re-route on-the-line receiver from inside leverage and catch, man cover the off the line receiver. The DB that is catching and waiting behind the press DB will cover the WR that has been jammed and re-routed to him.
Tail Pipe- Tech for handling “traffic” problems in M/M defense vs. an offensive concept w/ underneath crossers designed to “pick”/ “knock” off coverage. The defender on the most underneath crossers should get on the backside of the underneath hip of his coverage as he crosses the formation while the defender on the upper crosser takes the path of free access over the top to his coverage. C.P. When in doubt, both tail pipe to avoid collision
Solo- A term used to indicate defensive player has inside man to man responsibilities without help.
Spy- Term where a low hole defender plays his underneath coverage responsibility w/ eyes on the QB. If he starts to scramble, then the spy player will abort his low hole to go tackle the QB
Stalk- Term where a defender is put in M/M responsibility on the QB. When daylight presents itself, the stalker is to go get the QB.
Down Safety Terms
Down (RT/ LT)-Call made by the SS in Single Coverage to tell the LB’s where he’s coming down.
Dog (RT/ LT)-Call made by the SS in Single coverage to adjust coverage to a non-WR displaced from the core. This tells the LB’s to bump their gaps and coverage to the 2 available Gaps/eligible receivers left.
Ralph/Larry- Term in 1/3’s coverage that tells the defense which side the safety force and numbers drop is. Ralph=right side; Larry=Left side.
Rita/Linda- Term in 1/3’s coverage that tells the defense which side the safeties are rotating for a hash (Buzz) drop. Rita= right side; Linda= left side. (Inside insertion)
Start Down Stay Down- Term used for safeties/LB’s as a reminder to bump motion. (Do not rotate)
Pass Rush Terms
Daylight- Term used to describe the separation in any given pass protection as the play develops.
Dead Zone- Area 3 yards deep or more directly behind both OG’s and the OC in pass pro that we must own w/ our pass rush to effect the QB.
Furnace- The area from the L.O.S to Less than 3 yards deep behind the OG’s and OC. This is the area we do not want to be in when the ball is released. It is a descriptive term that describes the fact that if all of our pass rushers get stuck in the furnace zone and none get in the Dead zone, the entire defense will burn!
Fence Post- Term used to describe the point that we must set, own, yet not exceed at the top edge of both sides of the pass protection pocket by the contain rushers to each side. The fence post is to exist no deeper than a step past the QB’s depth at any given time, and as close/tight to the QB as possible.
Cardinals Defensive Terms
Jet- Code word we use to communicate pre-snap that we are anticipating pass from the offense.
Rally- Code word we use to communicate pre-snap that we are anticipating run from the offense.
Stunt- The movement of one or more defensive lineman from one gap to another vs. the run. C.P.- all stunts become a “Game” if pass shows.
Game- A term used to describe the coordinated movement of 2 or more DL’s in pass rush.
Directional Defense- Any defensive call that can be set as a whole and played to any given direction called (Closed, Open, Left, Right, to RB, Away from RB, etc) i.e. Strike Closed, Strike Open, Strike LT, Strike RT, etc
Empty- When a 5 wide formation is formed via “Motion” out of the backfield that effectively “empties” the previously occupied backfield. We can not check or reload to empty formations. We must Adjust and Play it!
No Back- Any formations where the offense aligns or mass shifts to form a 5 out spread formation w/ only the QB remaining in the backfield. Different from Empty, we can check or reload the Def. to “No Back” if we so choose.
Bogey- A term used to tell the entire defense to show one look and play another.
Bluff/Sugar- A term used to tell a player or combination of players to show a particular look and play another.
Ball Disruption- An attempt by the defense to disrupt the flow of the offense by applying pressure to the football on every play.
M.O.B.P- Acronym meaning Missed Opportunity for a Big Play. This is where on any given play, the coaching staff determines that given the scheme, coaching points, game plan, position or action of the defender the defender should have made, but failed to make any of the following Big Defensive Plays: (Interception, Fumble Recovery, Sack, TD Saving Tackle).
A.F.C- Acronym meaning Automatic Front and Coverage. It is used to describe a package of calls that the MLB can choose from given the offensive formation by game plan. There will always be a pre-determined, pre-check defense that we will align in to prevent getting Quick Counted, and we will play this until the MLB checks us to another defense.
B.T.F-Acronym meaning Blitz The Formation. It is used to describe a package of calls that the MLB can choose from given the offensive formation by game plan. There will always be a pre-determined pre-check defense that we will align in to prevent getting Quick Counted, and we will play this until the MLB checks us to another defense.
Rush Zone- Any of our “2-trap” defenses where we blitz 5 defenders and play our Middle of the Field open Silver White coverage’s.
Offensive Terms
Mike/Re-Mike- Every Offensive run play or pass play is set, and ruled out for the offensive players on who they determine the “Mike” is for them on that given play. Often times this is the same player as our true MLB as we see it, but this is not always the case. One of the big goals of our multiple look, multiple blitz, attacking defense is to force the offense to “Mike” and then “Re-Mike” our defense and to cast doubt into the QB as well as the blocker’s mind in order to regain the advantage of surprise in our favor.
Core- Term used to describe the area encompassing the theoretical “box” that includes all of the offensive players that are within the area of the offensive lineman and any closely aligned (attached) TE’s/RB’s. Usually if a player is available to the offense to be in the primary blocking scheme for the run front or the pass protection the he is considered as being aligned in the “core”.
Kill- An offensive term used to describe when an offense comes to the L.O.S. w/ 2 possible plays (1- Primary and 1- Secondary i.e. “the kill play”). Often one of these plays is a run and one is a pass but they can also be both runs or passes. The offense will come to the L.O.S w/ the primary play in mind and based on what they see pre-snap from the defensive alignment they may choose to “Kill” or switch the play to the secondary option.
Opposite Opposite- This is an offensive tool/concept that they can use when they are in a balanced/mirrored offensive formation. In this concept the offense calls a run scheme one direction, but based on the pre-snap defensive alignment they choose to change/opposite the run direction to the other side. Because of the balanced formation the offense can do this and it still stay the exact same run scheme (hence: “opposite” vs. “kill”) by just going the direction that gives the offense the best advantage .
Now- An offensive concept or tool in the run game where the QB sees there is a potentially unblocked/unaccounted for defensive player in the run front and instead decides to throw a very quick predetermined throw to a WR removed from the core of the run blocking scheme. (this is not to be confused w/ a Hot or Sight Adjustment).
Hot or Sight Adjustment- Offensive concept on a pass play in reaction to unaccounted for pressure by the defense where the Hot/Sight receiver runs an impromptu hot or quick route in the void vacated by the blitzer where the QB attempts to throw it quickly before the pass rush can get to him
Defensive Zone Areas In Coordination With Coverage
WIDE (FLARE): Area from ball to sideline behind Line of Scrimmage.
FLAT: Area from Tight End to sideline to a depth of 1-7 yards.
HOOK: Normal area over where a Tight End aligns up to a depth of 9-15 yards and horizontally from the Tight End’s alignment to the nose of the Offensive Tackle.
HOLE: Area from one Offensive Tackle to other Offensive Tackle, up to a depth of 12-15 yards.
SEAM: Area over which Tight End normally aligns that lies between two designated zones in our defensive coverage.
MIDPOINT: Area exactly halfway between outside edge of hash and top of the numbers.
OUT: Area 5-17 yards in depth directly outside of the Wide Receiver’s alignment, extending outside to the boundary.
CURL: Area 8-15 yards in depth directly to the inside of any Wide Receiver’s alignment, extending inside to a point 2 yards outside of the normal alignment of a Tight End.
STRONG DEEP Area to strongside of formation that extends 3-1/3 yards from OUTSIDE 1/3 inside edge of numbers to boundary. Area in depth runs 16 yards to goal line. Width of outside 1/3 will vary with formation.
WEAK DEEP Area to weakside of formation that extends 3-1/3 yards from OUTSIDE 1/3 inside edge of numbers to boundary. Area in depth runs 16 yards to goal line. Width of outside 1/3 will vary by formation.
MIDDLE DEEP 1/3:Area that extends 3-1/3 yards from the inside edge of numbers to 3-1/3 yards inside the opposite set of numbers. Area in depth runs 16 yards to goal line. Middle deep 1/3 will vary by formation.
OUTSIDE ½:Area that extends 5 yards from inside edge of numbers to 5 yards inside opposite set of numbers. Area in depth runs 16 yards to goal line. Halves will vary with formations.
NOTE: Strong, weak and middle 1/3 listed above represent the field divided into 3 equal parts by yards. These thirds will change by formation. The same applies to halves.
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