Football is a tactical game, and defense is one of the most important facets of the game. The defensive line is in charge of preventing the other team from scoring and, hence, winning the game. There are numerous defensive tactics that can be used, and each has advantages and disadvantages. The Cover 7 defensive, Cover 5 defense, Palms coverage, and pattern match coverage will all be covered in this article.
A safety divides the field into four equal halves, and each safety is in charge of their own portion of the field in the Cover 7 defense, often known as quarters coverage. While the linebackers defend any receivers in the middle of the field, the cornerbacks drop back to cover the deep outside receivers.
The Cover 7 defense is advantageous because it offers superior pass coverage, with each defender in charge of a particular section of the field. However, because linebackers often play further back, the defense is weak against the run game. What is a Cover 5 Defense, exactly?
A defense called the Cover 5 defense, commonly referred to as man-free coverage, uses five defenders in covering, with one safety playing deep and the other in the box. The receivers are covered man-to-man by the cornerbacks and linebackers, with assistance from the free safety over the top.
The Cover 5 defense has a benefit in that it offers superior pass coverage, especially if the cornerbacks are adept at playing man-to-man. However, the defense is susceptible to the run game, particularly if the opposition has a quarterback who can move around. How Can I Avoid Palms Coverage? A defensive strategy known as “palms coverage” comprises the safeties covering the middle of the field while the cornerbacks play man-to-man coverage on the outside receivers. The offense must run crossing routes over the middle of the field to avoid Palms coverage since this will throw off the safety and open up space for the receivers. What is Pattern Match Coverage, then?
A defensive strategy called pattern match coverage includes matching the receivers’ routes with the defenders. Linebackers and safeties defend any receivers in the middle of the field, while the defense normally plays man-to-man coverage on the outside receivers.
It is preferable to use pattern match coverage because it offers superior protection against both the run and the pass. If the defenders do not correctly match the receivers’ routes, the defense is susceptible to misunderstandings and blown coverages. How Do I Teach Palms Coverage, Then?
The coach must stress the value of communication between the cornerbacks and safeties in order to teach Palms coverage. Knowing when to remain with their guy and when to hand off a receiver to the safety is crucial for cornerbacks. The safeties must be aware of their duties in protecting the middle of the field and offering assistance above it.
In conclusion, knowing defensive tactics is essential for both the football offense and defense. The Cover 7 defensive offers superior pass coverage, and the Cover 5 system, provided the cornerbacks are adept at playing man-to-man, also offers superior pass coverage. Running crossing routes through the middle of the field might defeat palms coverage, whereas pattern match coverage offers superior protection from both the run and the pass. Stressing communication between the cornerbacks and safeties is important while teaching palms coverage.