Football Glossary IV

As per your request, KSR will try to post a weekly football glossary. In this edition, we’ll discuss two frequently used football terms along with answering a couple of your questions. Let’s get straight to business:

 

Cover 2 Zone Defense

The Cover 2 Zone is a pass defense scheme that is identifiable by the two safeties being lined up on the hash and are responsible for the deep two halves of the football field. In this coverage, the cornerbacks (CBs) are aligned close to the line of scrimmage facing the widest eligible receiver. His duty is to jam the receiver (WR) from freely releasing into the route. CBs’ pass responsibility primarily lies within the flat zone areas. Once cornerbacks make initial contact with the receiver, he then relinquishes the deep threat to the two safeties. Communication between safeties and cornerbacks is vital. Linebackers are tasked with flat/curl and other underneath zone areas. When relating to basketball, consider Cover 2 as somewhat similar to the 2-3 zone.

 

Cover 2 Sugar Spots (Vulnerable Areas)

A savvy or veteran quarterback sees this coverage and automatically thinks of the “gear-down” or outside back-shoulder fade route. The targeted area lies within the gap behind the CBs and in front of the safeties. Another pass defense weakness is inside vertical or seam routes. Targeted areas for these plays are behind the linebackers and front of the safeties. When you hear or read me refer to “Courage Throws,” this is exactly what I’m describing. The ability to consistently connect on these difficult-to-complete passes are leading factors that differentiate a “Thrower” from a “Passer.”

When watching UK’s spring game, two of Drew Barker’s touchdowns were courage throws. One to CJ Conrad, the second to Ryan Timmons.

 

 

Unbalanced Line Formation

In standard formations, the offensive line consists of two tackles (T), two guards (G), a center (C), and one tight end (TE). An unbalanced line can be constructed many different ways while utilizing several different positions. Using the below diagram as an example, the simplest explanation is for the offense to bring in an additional tackle and or TE to create an over-strength to one side of the football, thus the term unbalanced.

Stanford is known for revitalizing the unbalanced formation. Florida’s Jim McElwain frequently utilizes this particular personnel group in a plethora of formations. This comes from his preference to utilize an overabundance of TEs. The most common plays and situations in which unbalanced formations are used: Goal-line or short yardage situations, drive extending running plays purposed to run out the game clock, and to attack a distinct opponent weakness or when a lack of coaching adjustment is discovered.

 

 

Question: How can a defensive player register a half quarterback sack?

A defensive player is credited with a QB Sack when the quarterback is tackled behind the line of scrimmage during a defined passing play. A player is given credit for a half QB Sack when multiple players contribute to the sacking of a quarterback. For example, when defensive player X stat sheet reads 1.5 QB Sacks then the player had registered one individual QB sack and assisted with another.

 

Question: What is a “Hard Count”?

Traditionally, quarterbacks use voice commands or cadences to direct the center to snap the football. During a typical cadence, plays can be changed as well as blitz notifications can be verbalized. This practice is slowly being replaced with the goofy hand-slap. NFL scouts are not fond of the hand-slap method due to its non-existence in the professional ranks as well as limitations it places on the QB’s growth.

A “Hard Count” is when the quarterback over-emphasized voice inflection and intensity with intent to draw the defense off-sides. A second hard count usage is to keep aggressive, blitzing defenses guessing on when the football will be snapped.

Trick of the Trade: Preferable times to exploit hard counts are after an on-field skirmish as emotions are flying high. Another effective use is when an inexperienced defensive lineman enters the game. In both cases, QBs can use eagerness against an over-zealous situation or player.

 

Hope this helps. And remember: it’s not personal, it’s personnel.