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American football might at first appear to be a game relying primarily on strength, speed and size, but the strategic elements of the game are also extremely important. Prior to a game, a team's coaching staff and players must be aware of their own offensive and defensive capabilities and how these match up with their opponent's capabilities. During the game the team will constantly adjust in response to the opposing team's play and the in-game situation (including the score, time remaining, and other factors). Image File history File links Please see the file description page for further information. ...
It has been suggested that this article or section be merged into American football strategy. ...
United States simply as football, is a competitive team sport that is both fast-paced and strategic. ...
Whether on offense, defense, or special teams, each member of a team must know how the team as a whole will attack and must be prepared to react to the opposing team's strategy.
Offensive strategy
The team that has possession of the football is said to be on offense. Each team's time on offense may also be refered to as a drive. On taking possession of the football, the team on offense has four tries (or "downs") to advance the ball and achieve one of the following outcomes: - Move at least ten yards closer to the opposing team's end zone, thereby gaining a first down and beginning a new series of downs - in other words, allowing at least four more chances to advance the ball further or attempt to score.
- Run the ball into the opposing team's end zone, or throw the ball to a player standing in the opposing team's end zone, thus scoring a touchdown (six points, plus an attempt to score a point after touchdown or two point conversion)
- Move close enough to the opposing team's goal so that the team on offense can send in its kicking team and attempt to score a field goal (three points)
When the offense fails to gain a first down and is not close enough for the kicking team to have a chance at a successful field goal, the team will usually choose to punt - kick the ball away - on fourth down. (See Special teams strategy below). In American and Canadian football, a down refers to a period in which a play transpires. ...
A touchdown is the primary method of scoring in American and Canadian football, in which the ball carrier causes the football to break the plane of the end zone, or an eligible receiver catches a forward pass in the end zone, thus earning 6 points for his team (in both...
In American and Canadian football, the extra point, point after touchdown, or PAT is the act of lining up to kick, as in a field goal, immediately following a touchdown. ...
In American football and Canadian Football, a two-point conversion is an extra point attempt where a team that has just scored a touchdown starts a play at the opponents two-yard line and tries to cross the goal line. ...
A field goal (formerly goal from the field) is a general term used in some sports wherein a goal may be scored either during general play (from the field) or via some sort of free shot. ...
Punt can mean the following: a kind of boat; see punt (boat) an ancient nation from Africa; see Land of Punt an action in American football; see punt (football) the indentation on the bottom of a wine bottle the Irish-language word for Pound (currency). ...
While scoring points is the overall objective, coaches and players may choose to execute certain types of plays based on a variety of factors, which may include: the type of defensive strategy the opposing team is employing; the health and experience of the players on both the offensive and defensive teams; the amount of time remaining before halftime or the end of the game; and the number of points that either team would need to score in order to take the lead and win the game. ...
Time management — choosing plays based on the amount of time remaining on the game clock — is a key element of offensive strategy. For example, a team which is behind in points late in the game will go on offense wanting not only to score, but to score quickly. Passing the ball is a quicker way of moving toward the goal and scoring than running the ball, and passing plays also allow more chances to stop the game clock (e.g. on an incomplete pass). Conversely, a team which goes on offense while leading in points toward the end of a game will want to keep the game clock running as much as possible, giving the opposing team less time to attempt a comeback. In such a case the team will likely choose running plays on offense, as these make it more likely that the clock will continue to run between plays, allowing less time for the opposing team to score if and when it regains possession of the ball.
One example of time management contributing to a win is the 21 November 2005 NFL game between the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings. With the score tied at 17 in the closing seconds of the game, the Vikings on offense made a first down well within field goal kicking range. On first down and second down, the Vikings' quarterback knelt down (see "Downing a knee"), forcing the Packers to use their two remaining time-outs to stop the clock. On third down, the Vikings allowed the clock to run down to three seconds remaining before using their own time-out and sending in their kicker, Paul Edinger. Thus the Vikings ensured their survival: if the field goal try was unsuccessful, the game would continue into overtime and they would still have a chance to win the game. As it happened, the kick was made successfully just as the clock expired, and the final score was Minnesota 20, Green Bay 17. NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ...
Note: Basketball teams from Chicago and Anderson once used the name Packers as well. ...
City Minneapolis, Minnesota Team Colors Purple, Gold, and White Head Coach Vacant Fight song Skol, Vikings Mascot Ragnar and Vikadontis Rex League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1961-present) Western Conference (1961-1969) Central Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC Central (1970-2001) NFC North (2002-present...
In American and Canadian football, a down refers to a period in which a play transpires. ...
Paul Edinger (born January 17, 1978 in Frankfort, Michigan; raised in Lakeland, Florida) is a National Football League kicker for the Minnesota Vikings. ...
Overtime is the amount of time someone works beyond normal working hours; these may be determined in several ways, by custom (what is considered healthy or reasonable by society), by practices of a given trade or profession, by legislation, or by agreement between employers and workers or their representatives. ...
Offensive players On offense, there are three type of players: linemen, backs, and receivers. The players' abilities combined with the coach's philosophy will determine what formations a team will run their plays out of. Also, in many cases a coach will choose players with abilities that complement certain offensive formations and plays he likes. The basic offensive positions and those players' duties, however, generally do not vary from team to team. Lineman is a position in American football. ...
High school running back A running back, halfback or tailback is the position of a player on an American football team who lines up in the offensive backfield. ...
The word receiver has a number of different meanings: In communications and information processing, a receiver is the recipient (observer) of a message (information), which is sent from a source (object). ...
The position name (as well as the initial abbreviations recognized by coaches, players, and fans alike, shown in bold below) may vary from one teams' playbook to another, but these are the ones most commonly used:
Linemen - Center: The Center (C) is the player who snaps the ball to the quarterback (QB). Like the other four linemen, his job is blocking — run blocking means pushing the defenders away from the ball carrier on a running play, pass blocking means stopping the defenders from disrupting or tackling the QB. The center is also usually responsible for calling the blocking schemes on the line, directing the other linemen on who blocks who.
- Guard: Guards (G) line up on both sides of the center. The guards are generally bigger than the center and are typically better run blockers than pass blockers.
- Tackle: Tackles (T) are the "bookends" of the offensive line. They are usually the biggest offensive linemen, but also must be agile enough to thwart any outside pass rush. If a team has a righthanded QB, the left tackle is usually the best pass blocker on the line to prevent a "blindside" pass rush the QB might not see.
Center (C) is a position in American football. ...
For blocking on Wikipedia, please see Wikipedia:Blocking policy. ...
The Guards are the two players in between a Center and a Tackle on the Offensive Line of a Football Team. ...
Look up Tackle in Wiktionary, the free dictionary Tackle can refer to: Block and tackle, nautical, a set of pulleys. ...
Backs - Quarterback: The Quarterback (QB) is the leader of the offense, making sure the team knows which plays are being run. The QB must take the ball from the C (in a motion called the 'snap') and put it into play. In most offenses, his primary duty is either passing (throwing) the ball or making the opposing team believe he is going to pass the ball while actually handing it off to the RB who carries the ball downfield. Since passing the ball is an offense's quickest way to advance the ball, a team must have a QB who can throw the ball accurately and make quick, correct decisions as to which player is in the best position to receive the throw. In some offenses, the QB is often called upon to run the ball downfield as part of the play, and a QB might have to take the ball and run if his screen of protective players breaks down and there are no open receivers.
- Halfback: The Halfback (HB), is traditionally only used in the Wing T and Stack I formations. In the Stack I, he lines up behind the QB and in front of the FB and is mostly a blocker but may run the ball from time to time. He may also line up just outside and behind the TE, or the Wingback (WB) position, and be used to either block on the outside or run a pass route.
- Fullback: The Fullback (FB) is also a running back, but in recent years, the FB position has developed into more of a blocking back, and in some schemes a receiver. The FB is usually the bigger, more physical of the two running backs, and so the QB will often hand the ball to his FB in short yardage situations where every inch must be earned the hard way.
- Tailback: The Tailback (TB), or Running Back (RB), is on the field for one major purpose: to run the ball. If a team is to have an effective running game, it falls on the the TB's shoulders. He may have blocking duties in some offenses and on some plays he may become a receiver, but in most offenses, the TB is there to run the ball.
The quarterback is a position in the offensive backfield of American and Canadian football, directly behind players of the line. He is generally the leader of the offensive team when it is on the field, responsible for initiating play by receiving the snap of the ball from the center. ...
The offensive team or offense in American football or Canadian football, is the team that begins a play from scrimmage in possession of the ball. ...
Most football games include a position called fullback or full back. ...
Tailback is an offensive backfield position in the sport of American football. ...
Receivers - Wide receiver: Depending on the formation, an offense may have anywhere from one to five wide receivers (WRs). Most base formations feature two WRs, though three-WR formations are common as well. WRs are among the fastest and most agile players on the team and their job is to get "open" (create separation between themselves and defenders), catch the ball when thrown to them, and run after the catch. Well-rounded receivers are also effective downfield blockers, though effectiveness in that regard is secondary to their pass-catching role.
- Tight end: The tight end (TE) was traditionally a blocking position but is now considered a hybrid wide receiver/lineman. TEs are among the most well-rounded athletes on the field as they must be strong enough to run block and pass block, and agile enough to run pass routes and effectively catch the football. A TE's size presents matchup problems for smaller defenders, such as cornerbacks, while their speed gives them an advantage versus larger but slower defenders such as linebackers. In the 1980s, Washington Redskins coach Joe Gibbs developed a hybrid TE/fullback position called H-Back; this player is usually TE-sized and replaces the fullback on the field, but has more pass-catching responsibility and less running unless "flexed" to the usual FB alignment. The H-Back may line up as a second TE on the opposite side from the first, but most commonly lines up immediately behind the first TE.
Jerry Rice holds many career records for wide receivers in the National Football League. ...
The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ...
In biology, hybrid has three meanings. ...
City Landover, Maryland Team Colors Burgundy and Gold Head Coach Joe Gibbs Fight song Hail to the Redskins Mascot {{{mascot}}} League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1933-present) Eastern Division (1933-1949) American Conference (1950-1952) Eastern Conference (1953-1969) Capitol Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC...
Joe Gibbs (right) with U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige (left) and former Redskin Darrell Green (middle). ...
Offensive formations Before the ball is snapped the offensive team lines up in a formation. Most teams have a "base" formation they prefer to line up in, while other teams leave the defense guessing. Teams will often have "special formations" which they only use in obvious passing situations, short yardage or goaline situations, or formations they have developed for that particular game just to confuse the defense. Because there are a nearly unlimited number of possible formations, only a few of the more common ones are listed below. The Pro Set is a traditional formation commonly, a base set used by professional and amateur teams. ...
The Shotgun formation is an alignment used by the offensive team in American and Canadian football. ...
The wishbone formation, also known simply as bone, is a play formation in American football. ...
The I formation places two backs vertically behind the quarterback. ...
The I formation places two backs vertically behind the quarterback. ...
Single back is a base formation used by the offensive team and requires only one running back behind the quarterback. ...
Offensive plays
Offensive nomenclature In the calling of a play, just like on defense, there are condensed play calls that are translated into more complicated plays in the heads of each player. An example of a running play the quarterback would call in the huddle would be:
Pro Left 35 Power
The first word denotes the formation of the offense; in this case, it is the I formation, where the fullback and running back line up in line with the quarterback and center. The second word is the strong side: the tight end or slot receiver and wide out line up to the strong side in most formations and the split end receiver lines up on the weak side, on the line of scrimmage. The tailback also lines up on the weakside. There are formations where there are exceptions like I-form, where the tailback is lined up neither left nor right, since the tailback is inline with the fullback and quarterback, or trips, where all three receivers are on the same side. The first digit denotes who the ball is going to:
10 - Quarterback
20 - Fullback
30 - Tailback
40 - Third running back or slotback (rarely used in American football, generally used in Canadian football in wishbone formation if at all because of the 12th player available)
The receivers have their own designations too:
X - Split End
Y - Tight End / Slot Receiver
Z - Wide Out
The "power" indicates the type of play. In this case, the fullback would be leading the running back through the hole called, the 4 hole. But what is the 4 hole? Here is a diagram of how the formation would look based on the play called:
Y T G C G T X Z QB FB TB The holes are even to the right of the center and odd to the left of the center. In this case, TE T G C G T ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 7 5 3 1 0 2 4 Were this to be the Base I formation, with the tight end on the right, then there would be a 6 hole, which would be outside the tight end. As it is, this play would be a run between the tackle and the tight end. The offensive team or offense in American football or Canadian football, is the team that begins a play from scrimmage in possession of the ball. ...
The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ...
Passing uses a different type of naming. Since it is not always certain who the ball is going to, each receiver has a route. An example is:
I Y-Motion 245 H-Swing
Again, the I is the formation, and there is no formation modifier word this time. However, there is the "Y-Motion" call (this is an arbitrary name, there are different ways of calling motion for every coach.). In this case it refers to the Y-receiver, and calls for him to motion across the formation to the other side moments before the snap is called. This time the digits correspond to 3 different receivers, and each digit represents a number on the passing tree. The first digit is the X receiver, the second is the Y receiver, and the last is the Z receiver.
0 - Quick hitch
1 - Quick out
2 - Slant
3 - Deep out
4 - Drag
5 - Corner
6 - Curl
7 - Wheel
8 - Post
9 - Fly
In this case, the split end is running a slant, the tight end is running a drag, and the wide out is running a corner. The H-Swing call is a route for the backfield, in this case a swing route for the halfback (tailback). This call is optional, the absence of which calls for the halfback to block.
In both running and passing plays, blocking schemes are tacit and rehearsed. Different types of plays call for different schemes. Passing plays call for the linemen to step back and protect against the pass rush, with the backs and tight ends occasionally helping. There is variation to this, in the form of sprintouts, rollouts, play action passes and screen passes. Running plays call for the linemen to get a push against the defense, moving forward to help the running back gain yardage by opening holes and blocking would-be tacklers. Variations may be pulling guards (often used on trap, counter, and other plays to the outside) and draw plays. In American football, a bootleg is a play where the quarterback runs with the ball in the direction of either sideline behind the line of scrimmage. ...
A play action pass is a type of American football play. ...
A screen pass is a type of trick play in American football, much like a draw. ...
Budda loves his lobes and luiza and would love to go out with luiza Chris cash is also very annoying ...
A draw is a type of football play that tricks the defense into thinking a pass is being thrown, when in fact a running play has been called. ...
Running plays Often the choice of running play depends on the strengths of an offensive team, and the weaknesses of the defense they are opposing. For example, plays to the outside of the offensive tackles are often advantageous for a team fielding a fast running back, since it would ostensibly reduce the effectiveness of the slower defensive linemen, whereas inside runs would be favoured by a slower "power" running back, since the back is easier to tackle running to a side rather than straight ahead. Some plays also offer better cutback lanes to better allow an agile running back to make defenders miss and thereby increase yardage.
Similarly, run strategy can be decided by the weaknesses of the defense. A weakness of the interior defensive linemen, the tackles, may be targeted by running a lot of runs inside, since theoretically the offensive guards could moving the tackles at will, creating wide open holes for the back to run through. A team with weak defensive ends may have trouble containing the runner inside, and the offense would therefore look to get outside and break off some big runs.
A plunge (or dive) is a type of play in American Football in which the ball carrier (usually a running back or a fullback) attempts to break through or jump over the center of the other teams defensive line either by lunging forward (a plunge) or by diving over...
A running play in American Football where the Running back runs to the outside, usually around outside the numbers. ...
A reverse (sometimes referred to as an end reverse) is an unorthodox play (often called a trick play) in American football. ...
This article needs to be cleaned up to conform to a higher standard of quality. ...
A draw is a type of football play that tricks the defense into thinking a pass is being thrown, when in fact a running play has been called. ...
The counter trey is a misdirection running play used by the offensive team to feign rushing one way while the running back attacks the defense in the opposite direction. ...
A quarterback sneak is a play in American football in which the quarterback, upon taking the center snap, dives ahead behind the offensive line. ...
A Sweep is a running play in American Football where the running back starts running parallel to the line of scrimmage, allowing for the offensive linemen and fullback to get in front of him to block defenders before he turns upfield. ...
The option is a system of offensive running plays in American Football. ...
Budda loves his lobes and luiza and would love to go out with luiza Chris cash is also very annoying ...
Zone Run The Zone Run is a running play based on zone blocking. ...
Special offensive plays - "Spiking" the football
- Because an incomplete pass stops the game clock, a team's quarterback will sometimes "spike" the ball (throw it directly at the ground) in order to stop the clock without using a time out. This is most commonly done when a team is trying to score points late in the second or fourth quarter and/or when the team has run out of time-outs.
- Downing a knee
- This play is essentially the opposite of spiking the ball. Because the game clock does not stop after a player is tackled in bounds (except after a change of possession or an injury) a team's quarterback will sometimes kneel immediately after the ball is snapped to him in order to use up time on the clock. By using up time at the end of the game in this manner, a team can deny its opponent the opportunity to score, or can hasten the end of the half (halftime) or the end of the game when the score is tied, sending the game into overtime.
...
Overtime is the amount of time someone works beyond normal working hours; these may be determined in several ways, by custom (what is considered healthy or reasonable by society), by practices of a given trade or profession, by legislation, or by agreement between employers and workers or their representatives. ...
Specific offensive strategies There are several offensive strategies that have evolved over the years, especially after the NFL outlawed most downfield contact on receivers (that is, past the 5 yard "chuck" zone, where most contact is allowed). Thus, recent strategies attempt to utilize the passing game to open up the defense, as it is less predictable and carries the possibility for greater gain. - The "Run and Gun" offense relies heavily on the deep or "vertical" passing game. It features a quarterback with an excellent arm and a bevy of fast wide receivers that can stretch the defensive alignment vertically. This offensive scheme also demands excellent pass blocking from its offensive lineman. Although running the football is still somewhat common, unlike in other schemes the "pass sets up the run." Run and gun offenses use halfback draws and halfback delays to keep the defense from pass rushing and keeping 5 or 6 defensive backs in the game every down. Teams that use this offense are the Indianapolis Colts and the St. Louis Rams.
- The "Power Football" (colloquially, "Smashmouth Football") offense is a traditional scheme referred to as "three yards and a cloud of dust." It depends heavily on large, powerful running backs running straight ahead and gaining yards after contact (YAC). This offense uses "the run to set up the pass" via play-action. This offense is very patient and is most effective when matched with a dominating defense that keeps the opponent from scoring. Power Football allows the team to control the ball for longer periods of time, denying the opposing offense time with the ball. Few teams use this offense; in recent years only the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers are true Power Football teams.
In football, the term West Coast Offense is an offensive-minded strategic system of play. ...
Paul Eugene Brown (September 7, 1908 - August 5, 1991) A seminal figure in American football history, Brown is considered the father of the modern offense, and many consider Paul Brown to be the the greatest football coach in history. ...
Bill Walsh (born November 30, 1931) is a former American football head coach of the San Francisco 49ers and Stanford University. ...
Stanford may refer: Stanford University Places: Stanford, Kentucky Stanford, California, home of Stanford University Stanford Shopping Center Stanford, New York, town in Dutchess County. ...
City San Francisco, California Team Colors Metallic Gold, Cardinal Red, and Beige Head Coach Mike Nolan Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Sourdough Sam League/Conference affiliations All-America Football Conference (1946-1949) Western Division (1946-1948) National Football League (1950-present) National Conference (1950-1952) Western Conference (1953-1969) Coastal Division...
A screen pass is a type of trick play in American football, much like a draw. ...
Michael George Holmgren (born June 15, 1948 in San Francisco, California) is an NFL football coach. ...
Note: Basketball teams from Chicago and Anderson once used the name Packers as well. ...
City Tampa, Florida Team Colors Buccaneer Red, Pewter, Black, and Orange Head Coach Jon Gruden Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Captain Fear League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1976-present) American Football Conference (1976) AFC West (1976) National Football Conference (1977-present) NFC Central (1977-2001) NFC South (2002-present) Team...
City Detroit, Michigan Team Colors Honolulu Blue, Silver, and Black Head Coach Dick Jauron interim Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Roary League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1930-present) Western Division (1933-1949) National Conference (1950-1952) Western Conference (1953-1969) Central Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC...
Year Founded 1976 Conference NFC Division West Home Field Qwest Field City Seattle, Washington Team Colors Seahawks Blue, Seahawks Navy, Seahawks Bright Green Head Coach Mike Holmgren League Titles League Championships (0) Conference Championships (0) Division Championships (4) AFC West: 1988, 1999 NFC West: 2004, 2005 The Seattle Seahawks American...
City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Team Colors Midnight Green, Silver, Black, and White Head Coach Andy Reid Fight song Fly, Eagles Fly Mascot Swoop League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1933-present) Eastern Division (1933-1949) American Conference (1950-1952) Eastern Conference (1953-1969) Capitol Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970...
City Indianapolis, Indiana Team Colors Royal Blue and White Head Coach Tony Dungy Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Spike and Spirit League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1953-present) Western Conference (1953-1969) Coastal Division (1967-1969) American Football Conference (1970-present) AFC East (1970-2001) AFC South (2002-present) Team...
Conference NFC Division West Year Founded 1937 Home Field Edward Jones Dome City St. ...
City Baltimore, Maryland Team Colors Black, Purple, and Metallic Gold Head Coach Brian Billick Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Edgar, Allan, and Poe League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1996-present) American Football Conference (1996-present) AFC Central (1996-2001) AFC North (2002-present) Team history Baltimore Ravens (1996-present) League...
City Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Team Colors Black and Gold Head Coach Bill Cowher Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot {{{mascot}}} League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1933-present) Eastern Division (1933-1943; 1945-1949) Western Division (1944) American Conference (1950-1952) Eastern Conference (1953-1969) Century Division (1967-1969) American Football Conference (1970...
Defensive strategy The general goal of defensive strategy is to prevent the opposing team's offense from scoring. While doing so, the defensive players may also attempt to gain control of the football and score points themselves. There are many different defensive strategies.
For a discussion of the basic elements of defensive strategy, see American football defensive schemes. It has been suggested that this article or section be merged into American football strategy. ...
3-4 The 3-4 defense declined in popularity over the years, but has found renewed use by modern professional and college football teams. The 3-4 defense is so named because it involves 3 down linemen and 4 linebackers. There are usually 4 defensive backs.
The 3 down linemen attempt to break into the backfield in order to sack or rush the quarterback or to stop running backs and other players behind the line of scrimmage. The defensive line is made up of a nose tackle (NT), who lines up in front of the opposing team's center and two defensive ends (DEs), who flank the nose tackle on both sides. Linemen in 3-4 schemes tend to be more massive than their 4-3 counterparts to take up more space and guard more territory along the defensive front.
4 linebackers line up behind the defensive line. In a 3-4 defense, the linebacker unit is made up of two middle or inside linebackers (MLBs/ILBs), who are flanked on both sides by outside linebackers (OLBs).
The strength of the 3-4 is its ability by its design to confuse the quarterback during passing plays. Most teams generate a pass rush by sending at least 4 defensive men at the quarterback. In a standard 4-3 alignment, these 4 rushers are usually the 4 down linemen. But in a 3-4, the fourth rusher is a linebacker. Since there are 4 linebackers, the fourth potential rusher can come from a variety of spots on the field, thus influencing and sometimes confusing the quarterback's pre-snap defensive read.
A drawback of the 3-4 is that without a fourth lineman to take on the offensive blockers and close the running lane, both the defensive linemen and the linebackers can be overwhelmed by blocking schemes in the running game. 3-4 linebackers must be very athletic and strong enough to shed blocks by fullbacks, tight ends, and offensive linemen to get to the running back.
4-3 The 4-3 defense is probably the most commonly used defense in modern American Football. The 4-3 defense is so named because it involves 4 down linemen and 3 linebackers. There are usually also 4 defensive backs.
The defensive line is made up of two defensive tackles (DTs) and two defensive ends (DEs). The two defensive tackles line up in the middle of the line, in front of the opposing team's center. The two defensive ends flank the defensive tackles. DEs in 4-3 schemes are usually smaller and quicker than their 3-4 counterparts since the fourth lineman provides additional leverage to close running lanes. These smaller DEs allow defenses to collapse the quarterback pocket quickly, at worst disturbing his timing and at best causing a fumble, sack, or interception.
3 linebackers line up behind the defensive line. In a 4-3 defense, the linebacker unit is made up of a middle or inside linebacker (MLB/ILB) code-named Mike, who is flanked by the weakside (Will) and strongside (Sam) linebackers.
The 4-3 is widely used because of its balance in stopping both runs and passes as well as being personnel-friendly since smaller players can be used effectively along the defensive line.
The original version of the 4-3 lined up the tackles over the offensive guards and the end over the offensive tackles, with the middle linebacker over the center and the other linebackers outside the ends. In the mid-1960s Hank Stram developed a popular variation, the "Kansas City Stack", which shifted the strong side defensive end over the tight end, stacked the strongside linebacker over the tackle, and shifted the weakside tackle over center. At about the same time the Cleveland Browns frequently used a weakside shift. The Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry developed a "flex" variation, that moved standout lineman Randy White all over. Now every team has its own variations. Hank Stram being carried off of the field following his victory in Super Bowl IV with the Kansas City Chiefs Hank Stram (January 3, 1923 – July 4, 2005), was a former American Football coach. ...
Year Founded 1946 Conference AFC Division North Home Field Cleveland Browns Stadium City Cleveland, Ohio Team Colors Brown, Orange, and White Head Coach Romeo Crennel League Titles League Championships (8) AAFC Champions: 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949 NFL Champions: 1950, 1954, 1955, 1964 Conference Championships (11) NFL American: 1950, 1951, 1952...
City Irving, Texas Team Colors Royal Blue, Metallic Silver, Blue, and White Head Coach Bill Parcells Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Rowdy League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1960-present) Western Conference (1960) Eastern Conference (1961-1969) Capitol Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC East (1970-present) Team...
Thomas Wade Landry (born September 11, 1924 in Mission, Texas - died February 12, 2000 in Dallas, Texas) was an American football player and coach. ...
Randy Lee White (born January 15, 1953, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) played as defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys from 1975 to 1988. ...
Nickel The nickel defense is employed in obvious passing situations, or against a team that frequently uses four-wide receiver sets on offense. The defense has 5 defensive backs, and usually has 4 down linemen and 2 linebackers. A lineup of 3 down linemen and 3 linebackers is sometimes used, but this is often called a "3-3-5" defense instead of a "nickel" defense.
In most defenses, the secondary consists of two cornerbacks (CBs), a free safety (FS) and a strong safety (SS). The nickel defense adds an extra defensive back, known as the "nickel back" (NB), in order to defend against the pass. A nickel back is also employed in the "dime" defense (see below) and are usually free or strong safeties, although cornerbacks can be utilized as well. The term "nickel" comes from the five-cent value of a United States nickel, in reference to the fifth defensive back. The United States five-cent coin, commonly called a nickel, is a unit of currency equaling one-twentieth, or five-hundredths, of a United States dollar. ...
Dime The dime defense is usually employed in obvious passing situations. The formation usually consists of 6 defensive backs, and has either 4 down linemen and 1 linebacker, or 3 down linemen and 2 linebackers.
A dime defense differs from the nickel in that it adds yet another defensive back to the secondary. The sixth defensive back is called a "dime back" (DB). The defense gets its name because a dime is two nickels. A dime is a coin issued by the United States Mint with a denomination of one-tenth of a United States dollar, or ten cents. ...
The United States five-cent coin, commonly called a nickel, is a unit of currency equaling one-twentieth, or five-hundredths, of a United States dollar. ...
Prevent Prevent defenses are geared almost exclusively towards stopping a long pass. They are frequently used in obvious passing situations, such as a third-and-very-long situation, to prevent a long score on the last play of a half, or when the defense believes that the offense must pass (for example, if the offense is trailing late in a game). The defense trades size for speed, and tries to ensure that no receiver can get behind the defense.
The quarter defense has 3 down linemen, 1 linebacker, and 7 defensive backs. The quarter defense gets its name as the next coin after nickel and dime in the sequence of defenses.
Half dollar defenses, with 8 defensive backs, are very rare and are often used to prevent a Hail Mary pass. Professional teams may not have enough defensive backs on the roster to play the quarter or half dollar, so wide receivers are sometimes used to fill the extra positions, particularly in late game situations where the receiver's offensive skills can be put to good defensive use. In American football, a Hail Mary pass is a forward pass made in desperation, with only a very small chance of success. ...
Quarter or quarters can also be used to describe a type of zone pass coverage, in which 4 defensive backs divide the field into vertical quarters for zone coverage. This coverage may be combined with a 4-3 or 3-4, and is used to take away deep routes but maintain a good pash rush and run coverage.
Eight in the box The defensive linemen and linebackers collectively - or, more properly, the area of the field between the OT on the defensive side - are often referred to as "in the box" and thus normally number seven players; on occasion, however, circumstances call for an additional man to be placed therein (generally a linebacker if the team uses the 4-3 as its base alignment, or a defensive lineman in cases where the 3-4 is ordinarily utilized), whereupon one player in the secondary (most commonly the free safety) is removed from the lineup. Sometimes a player in the secondary (usually the strong safety) acts as an additional linebacker and no actual lineup change ensues. Some teams use a defensive system in which one of the players is cross between a linebacker and a strong safety and is called a "rover".
Teams most often put "eight in the box" or "stack the box" when the opposing team has a strong running game. By having more players closer to the line of scrimmage the defense can more effectively contain the opposing team's running game.
46/Bear A variation of "8 in the box" in the NFL is called the 46 or "Bear" defense. It is designed to put pressure on the QB by lining up the defense with 3 defensive linemen covering the center & guards, and the 4th defensive linemen lined up either "wide" outside the TE or wide off the weak-side Tackle. The linebackers & strong safety are lined up behind the defensive line to put pressure on the QB as well.
Coverage Shells In the following, "cover" refers to the "shell" that the defense rolls into after the snap of the ball, more specifically the number of defenders guarding the deep portion of the field.
Cover 2 In traditional Cover 2 schemes the free safety (FS) and strong safety (SS) have deep responsibilities, each guarding half of the field.
Cover 2 can be run from any number of defensive fronts such as the 46, the 3-4, and the 4-3. Various "underneath" coverage played by cornerbacks and linebackers may also be implemented. For example, Cover 2 Man means 2 safeties have deep responsibility while the cornerbacks and linebackers follow their offensive assignment in one-on-one coverage. Cover 2 can also be paired with underneath zone schemes: Cover 2 Zone refers to 2 safeties with deep responsibility but now the CBs and LBs drop back into specific coverage zones where they defend passes ONLY in their assigned area.
Teams that play Cover 2 shells usually ascribe to the "bend-but-don't-break" philosophy, preferring to keep offensive players in front of them for short gains while limiting long passes. This is in stark contrast to a more aggressive Cover 1 type scheme which leaves the offensive team's wide receivers in single man-to-man coverage with only one deep helper. By splitting the deep field between two defenders, the defense can drastically reduce the number of long gains.
The main weakness of the Cover 2 shell occurs in the middle of the field between the safeties. The safeties attempt to gain width upon the snap of the ball to cover any long passes to quick wide receivers down the sideline. This movement creates a natural hole between the safeties that can be attacked. By sending a receiver (usually a tight end) into the hole, the offense forces the safety to make a decision: play the vulnerable hole in the middle of the field or help out on the wide receiver. The quarterback reads the safety's decision and decides on the best matchup (which mismatch is better--TE vs S or WR vs CB).
Cover 1 Cover 1 schemes employ only one deep defender, usually a safety. Many underneath coverages paired with Cover 1 shells are strictly man-to-man with LBs and defensive backs each assigned a different offensive player to cover. By using only one deep defender in Cover 1, the other deep defender is free to blitz the quarterback or provide man-to-man pass coverage help.
Cover 1 schemes are usually very aggressive, preferring to proactively disrupt the offense by giving the quarterback little time to make a decision while collapsing the pocket quickly. This is the main advantage of Cover 1 schemes--the ability to blitz from various pre-snap formations while engaging in complex man-to-man coverage schemes post-snap. For example, a safety may blitz while a CB is locked in man coverage with a WR. Or the CB may blitz with the safety rotating into man coverage on the WR post-snap.
The main weakness of Cover 1 schemes is the lone deep defender that must cover a large amount of field and provide help on any deep threats. Offenses can attack Cover 1 schemes with a vertical stretch by sending two receivers on deep routes, provided that the quarterback has enough time to for his receivers to get open. The deep defender must decide which receiver to help out on, leaving the other in man coverage which may be a mismatch.
A secondary weakness is by its design: the use of man coverage opens up yards after catch lanes. Man coverage is attacked by offenses in various ways that try to isolate their best athletes on defenders by passing them the ball quickly before the defender can react or designing plays that clear defenders from certain areas thus opening yards after catch lanes.
Cover 3 Cover 3 refers to 3 deep defenders each guarding one-third of the deep zone. Cover 3 schemes are usually used to defend against passes, mainly those towards the deep middle of the field. Unlike Cover 2 schemes that create a natual hole between safeties, Cover 3's extra deep defender is able to patrol the middle area effectively.
The most basic Cover 3 scheme involves 2 CBs and a safety. Upon snap, the CBs work for depth, backpedaling into their assigned zone. One safety moves toward the center of the field. The other safety is free to rotate into the flat area (about 2-4 yards beyond the line of scrimmage), provide pass coverage help, or blitz.
As with other coverage shells, Cover 3 is paired with underneath man or zone coverage in its most basic form.
The main weakness of Cover 3 shells is the 2 retreating CBs. Since the CBs are working for depth, short pass routes underneath the CB can isolate him on a wide receiver near the sideline with little help.
Cover 4 Cover 4 refers to 4 deep defenders each guarding one-fourth of the deep zone. Cover 4 schemes are usually used to defend against deep passes.
The most basic Cover 4 scheme involves 2 CBs and 2 safeties. Upon snap, the CBs work for depth, backpedaling into their assigned zone. Both safeties backpedal towards their assigned zone.
As with other coverage shells, Cover 4 is paired with underneath man or zone coverage in its most basic form.
The main weakness of Cover 4 shells is the retreating defensive backs. Since the DBs are working for depth, short pass routes underneath can isolate them on a wide receiver near the sideline with little help.
Cover 0 Cover 0 refers to pure man coverage with no deep defender. Similar to Cover 1, Cover 0 has the same strengths and weaknesses.
Tampa 2 Tampa 2 refers to a style of defense played by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and implemented by its coaches in recent years. Because of its success it has become popular with many professional and college teams. It blends the Cover 2 and Cover 3 defenses by having two defensives backs, usually the safeties, in deep coverage on either side of the field, and a middle linebacker covering the medium to deep middle. Its benefit over the Cover 2 is that the sidelines and middle of the field are better protected against deep threats, with the drawback being a larger open area in the short middle of the field underneath the middle linebacker. Its benefit over the Cover 3 is that it only dedicates two defensive backs to deep coverage rather then three, allowing for better protection against short outside routes. The Tampa 2 is an American football defensive strategy popularized by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Football League (NFL) team in the 1990s-early 2000s. ...
City Tampa, Florida Team Colors Buccaneer Red, Pewter, Black, and Orange Head Coach Jon Gruden Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Captain Fear League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1976-present) American Football Conference (1976) AFC West (1976) National Football Conference (1977-present) NFC Central (1977-2001) NFC South (2002-present) Team...
Special teams strategy Special teams is the term used to describe the specialized group of players who take the field during kickoffs, free kicks, punts, and field goal attempts. Most football teams' special teams include one or more kickers, a long snapper (who specializes in accurate snaps over long distances), kick returners who catch and carry the ball after it is kicked by the opposing team, and blockers who defend during kicks and returns.
Some players may take the field as members of the offense or defense as well as the special teams; one notable example is Steven Smith, wide receiver for the NFL's Carolina Panthers, who also played as a kick returner during the 2005 NFL season. Several persons have been called Steven Smith or Stephen Smith, which both may be familiarised to Steve Smith: Professor Steve Smith (academic) British academic. ...
Jerry Rice holds many career records for wide receivers in the National Football League. ...
NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ...
City Charlotte, North Carolina Team Colors Black, Panther Blue, and Silver Head Coach John Fox Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Sir Purr League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1995-present) National Football Conference (1995-present) NFC West (1995-2001) NFC South (2002-present) Team history Carolina Panthers (1995-present) League titles...
NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ...
Although these are risky, there are a variety of strategic plays which can be attempted during kickoffs, punts, and field goals which can be used to surprise the opposition and (hopefully) score points.
Kickoff strategy A kickoff occurs at the beginning of each half and each overtime period, and after a successful field goal or touchdown. A coin toss determines which team kicks the ball away and which team receives the ball. After a field goal or a touchdown, the team which scored the points kicks the ball to the opposing team, which in most cases catches the ball and may attempt to "return" it up the field.
Strategically, the coach of the kicking team may choose to have his players kick the ball in one of several ways:
- Standard kickoff: The kicker attempts a high kick meant to travel the greatest possible distance upfield without rolling into the end zone. The primary goal is to stop the opposing team's ball returner as soon as possible, or to down the ball as close as possible to the opposing team's end zone, thus forcing that team to advance the ball a longer distance in order to have a chance to score.
- Onside kick: This is usually attempted in the closing minutes of play when a team needs to score again quickly in order to have a chance of winning the game.
- "Squib kick" or "pooch kick": The squib kick is a low kick that may hit the ground and bounce or roll sooner than a standard kickoff; it is thus less predictable. A squib kick is generally used when trying to avoid a run-back, although this outcome is not guaranteed. A pooch kick is used for a similar purpose, except is a short, high kick that the Kick-Off team can get to before there is a return.
- Kickoff out-of-bounds: If a kickoff travels over the sidelines either in the air, or bounces in the field of play, then rolls out-of-bounds without being touched by a player on the receiving team, the play results in an illegal procedure penalty. The receving team may either choose to have the ball re-kicked, or be placed for play 30 yards in advance of the kickoff spot or where the ball went over the sideline, whichever is closer to the opposing team's endzone. Generally, the receiving team will choose the latter option, as good starting field position is guaranteed, whereas a re-kick could result in any number of less desirable options.
An onside kick is a term used in American football and Canadian football for a play on a kickoff in which the ball is kicked with a much greater than usual hope that the team whose player kicked it will be in possession of the ball during or immediately after...
Field goal strategy Field goals are often viewed as a way for teams to turn a disappointing drive into a small victory. However, many football games are decided by field goals in the final minutes or seconds of play, making the ability to kick an accurate field goal vital for any football team. A field goal (formerly goal from the field) is a general term used in some sports wherein a goal may be scored either during general play (from the field) or via some sort of free shot. ...
The strategy for a field goal is fairly straightforward. The team on offense forms a protective semicircle behind the line of scrimmage on either side of the center, who snaps the ball to the holder. The holder positions the ball so that the kicker - moving from a short distance away - can quickly get into position and accurately kick the ball through the goalposts. The remaining players block the opposing team, whose members will be trying to break through the protective circle in order to block the kick or bat it aside for a chance to intercept the ball. If a team misses the field goal, the opposing team takes possession of the ball without a kickoff. A beginning: the kickoff of the project This page is a candidate for speedy deletion. ...
Distance, the amounts of wind and noise within the stadium, and the amount of experience the kicker has are all determining factors in the success or failure of a field goal attempt. The majority of successful field goal attempts are kicked within 50 yards of the goalpost. However, some kickers can - and often do - make good kicks from farther away. The current NFL record for the longest successful field goal was set in 1970 by Tom Dempsey of the New Orleans Saints, who kicked from 63 yards out. Jason Elam of the Denver Broncos tied this record in 1998. NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ...
Tom Dempsey (b. ...
City New Orleans, Louisiana Team Colors Old Gold, Black, and White Head Coach Jim Haslett Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Gumbo League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1967-present) Eastern Conference (1967-1969) Capitol Division (1967; 1969) Century Division (1968) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC West (1970-2001) NFC South...
Jason Elam (born March 8, 1970 in Fort Walton Beach, Florida) is an American football player, currently a placekicker with the Denver Broncos. ...
City Denver, Colorado Team Colors Broncos Navy Blue, Orange, and White Head Coach Mike Shanahan Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Miles League/Conference affiliations American Football League (1960-1969) Western Division (1960-1969) National Football League (1970-present) American Football Conference (1970-present) AFC West (1970-present) Team history Denver Broncos...
In some situations, a coach may choose to have his team fake a field goal attempt. The players line up as normal, but instead of holding the ball for a kick, the player receiving the snap may run with the ball, hand it off to another player, or attempt to throw it downfield. This play is quite risky and therefore not used often.
It is possible for the defensive team to return a missed field goal, although this is attempted very rarely. If a field goal attempt is short of the goal posts and the ball is caught by a defensive player before it hits the ground, the player may return the ball just as on a punt. Teams usually try a return only when a very long field goal is attempted at the end of the first half, since in all other cases it is more advantageous for the defense to just let the ball fall short. Recently, a return of this type has happened in both 2002 (Chris McAlister of the Baltimore Ravens, for 107 yards versus the Denver Broncos) and 2005 (Nathan Vasher of the Chicago Bears, for 108 yards versus the San Francisco 49ers; this currently holds the record for longest play in NFL history). Chris McAlister (born June 14, 1977) is a cornerback who plays for the Baltimore Ravens. ...
City Baltimore, Maryland Team Colors Black, Purple, and Metallic Gold Head Coach Brian Billick Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Edgar, Allan, and Poe League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1996-present) American Football Conference (1996-present) AFC Central (1996-2001) AFC North (2002-present) Team history Baltimore Ravens (1996-present) League...
City Denver, Colorado Team Colors Broncos Navy Blue, Orange, and White Head Coach Mike Shanahan Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Miles League/Conference affiliations American Football League (1960-1969) Western Division (1960-1969) National Football League (1970-present) American Football Conference (1970-present) AFC West (1970-present) Team history Denver Broncos...
Nathan Vasher (born November 17, 1981 in Wichita Falls, Texas), full name Nathanial DeWayne Vasher, is an American football cornerback who plays for the Chicago Bears. ...
City Chicago, Illinois Team Colors Navy Blue, Orange, and White Head Coach Lovie Smith Fight song Bear Down, Chicago Bears Mascot Staley League/Conference affiliations Independent (1919) National Football League (1920-present) Western Division (1933-1949) National Conference (1950-1952) Western Conference (1953-1969) Central Division (1967-1969) National Football...
City San Francisco, California Team Colors Metallic Gold, Cardinal Red, and Beige Head Coach Mike Nolan Fight song {{{song}}} Mascot Sourdough Sam League/Conference affiliations All-America Football Conference (1946-1949) Western Division (1946-1948) National Football League (1950-present) National Conference (1950-1952) Western Conference (1953-1969) Coastal Division...
Punting strategy Most teams punt on fourth down when the chances of gaining enough yards for a first down are slim and when the ball is too far from the goalpost to allow a field goal try. Generally, a member of the opposing team moves into position to catch the ball. He may try to gain yards by running the ball downfield, or he may signal a fair catch by waving his arms, thus agreeing that he will not attempt to return the ball downfield. A player who has signalled a fair catch may not be tackled after catching the ball. A fair catch is a play in American football. ...
A fair catch is a play in American football. ...
In some cases, a coach may attempt trickery by switching between his offense and special teams players between plays. A coach may call a time-out, send the kicking team onto the field, and then when the play clock resumes quickly run his offense back on and his kicking team off, hopefully disorienting the defending team enough to advance on the ensuing play or cause a penalty if the defending team cannot switch personnel quickly enough. However, this trickery can also result in penalties against the offense if the play takes too long (delay of game) or if too many players remain on the field when the ball is snapped.
Occasionally a coach will line his team up in a shotgun formation and have the quarterback "quick kick" or "pooch punt" -- using the element of surprise to cause the defense not to have a reciever ready.
Downing the ball If, for whatever reason, the receiving team does not catch the ball, the kicking team may move into position and try to down it as close as possible to the opposing team's end zone. This is achieved by surrounding the ball and allowing it to roll or bounce, without touching it, as close as possible to the end zone. If the ball appears to be rolling or bouncing into the end zone, a player may run in front of the goal line and attempt to bat it down or catch it. If a member of the kicking team touches or catches the ball before a member of the receiving team does so, the ball is dead and the receiving team takes possession at the spot the ball was contacted.
Thus it is strategically important for kicking teams to get as close to the ball as possible after a punt, so that they may quickly tackle a returner, down the ball as close to the opposing team's end zone as possible, and (if possible) recover the ball after a fumble and regain possession of the ball.
Fake punts In much the same way as a fake field goal (described above), a fake punt is an effort to trick the opposition and either score or gain enough yards for a first down. Fake punts are risky for the same reasons as fake field goals and are thus rarely attempted.
In 2005 the opposite of this play has become increasingly popular, with teams lining up in a shotgun offensive alignment or field goal attempt alignment. The ball is snapped to the QB/holder/kicker, who immediately punts the ball. This is done in situations where a full length punt would simply result in a touchback and allows the punting team a better chance of getting downfield to prevent the punt from entering the endzone (the reasoning being that the defensive backs will not jam the receivers off the line as they would the gunners in a punting alignment).
Punts out-of-bounds Skilled punters may try to punt a ball past the return team so that the ball touches the playing field in bounds, then rolls out of bounds close to the opposing team's end zone. The drawback to such a punt is that the ball may roll into the end zone (touchback), giving the receiving team decent field position. In American football, a touchback is a play which occurs when the ball crosses into or through the end zone not in control of the team which put it into play. ...
Receiving kicks The biggest choice facing a kick returner is whether or not to attempt to run the ball back. Generally, a returner who catches a kickoff or punt in the "red zone" between the receiving team's own end zone and 20 yard line will attempt some sort of return, if only to gain a few yards. If the receiving team's players can get into position quickly, they may be able to allow the returner to gain further yardage or break away from the pack entirely and score a touchdown.
In extreme cases - generally during kickoff returns in the closing seconds of play - the returner may attempt a lateral pass to avoid the ball being downed in a tackle. The return team may throw as many lateral passes as they choose, and this is normally done in a desperate attempt to keep the ball alive. Perhaps the most famous (or infamous) use of lateral passes during a kickoff return came in the closing seconds of the 1982 Stanford vs. Cal game, in which five laterals during a kickoff return allowed the U.C. Berkeley Bears to score a controversial winning touchdown. In American football and Canadian football a lateral pass — usually called simply a lateral, but officially called a backward pass in amateur American football, and also called an onside pass in Canadian football — is a sideways or rearward throwing of the football to a teammate. ...
The Play refers to one of the most famous and divisive plays in the history of college football. ...
If a kicked ball is touched, even inadvertently, by a member of the receiving team it becomes a live ball and may be recovered as if a fumble by the kicking team.
A kick returner may signal a fair catch if the ball will be caught with good field position, or if the kicking team's members are advancing so quckly that a return is impossible. However, he will be penalized if he attempts a return after signaling a fair catch; likewise, players who tackle a returner who has signaled a fair catch will be penalized. If a player waves for a fair catch and then fails to touch the ball, it may be downed as normal by the kicking team or recovered and returned by the receiving team. However, if any member of the receiving team catches a ball and then drops it, it becomes a live ball and may be recovered by either side. A fair catch is a play in American football. ...
See also United States simply as football, is a competitive team sport that is both fast-paced and strategic. ...
A strategy is a long term plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal, as differentiated from tactics or immediate actions with resources at hand. ...
External links - American Football Coaches Association Assocation of American Football coaches. Most of the major coaches, especially at the college level, belong to this organization.
- CoachSchorr.com A free resource of information, including diagrammed and annotated plays and articles, about coaching American football.
- NFL The official website of the National Football League - the primary professional American football league.
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