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Purpose:

To develop a DB’s ability to read and react to the QB and multiple receivers when in Cover 3.

Setup:

2 receivers will step up on the LOS, with the DB in off zone alignment, 2 yards inside of the widest receiver and 6-8 yards off the LOS.

Instructions:

  1. The coach will snap the ball and receivers will both run streak routes.
  2. The DB will drop, using the zone flip technique and turning their butt to the sideline and keeping their eyes on the QB.
  3. The QB will rotate their shoulders to one of the 2 receivers, tipping off the DB to where the pass is headed.
  4. The DB will plant their backfoot and drive forward to make a play on the ball before it gets to the receiver.

Coaching Tips:

  • For the purpose of thirds zone coverage, we define the area of responsibility for our outside corners as the sideline to the hash mark. We can also use this drill to work on a safety’s ability to cover the middle third of the field in that same coverage – simply align the 2 receivers on the hash marks and the safety in the deep center field and run the same drill.
  • The DB should be able to see the whole picture: the #1 receiver release on the inside, the #2 receiver release on the outside, and the QB.
  • Emphasize the importance of keeping the ball in front of them – we don’t want them turning backwards to break on the ball, they should be breaking forwards or to the side.

For Younger Athletes:

  • Stress the importance of proper stance and balance during the zone flip technique to ensure quick and effective movement.
  • Teach them to recognize cues from the quarterback’s body language to anticipate the direction of the pass.
  • Encourage consistent practice on quick footwork for efficient transitions from backpedaling to driving forward.

For Older Athletes:

  • Focus on refining their ability to read multiple receivers simultaneously, enhancing their situational awareness.
  • Implement drills that simulate game-speed decision-making, improving their reaction time to the quarterback’s movements.
  • Encourage them to practice various interception techniques, improving their chances of successfully defending the pass.
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