8/10/2019 sniper Defense
1/97
Sniper Defense
The Sniper Defense is a 4-3 basedesigned for flexibility in defending
and attacking the offense.
(This is essentially a 4-3
Rover/Monster type defense)
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
2/97
Sniper Defense
The Sniper Defense is a 4-3 base designed for flexibility in
defending and attacking the offense.
It is a blend of discipline and chaos.
We must take away opponents run game, and if executed
correctly, our front 7 should spill runs out of A-B-C gaps and
to our outside alley and force players.
We can activate a wide array of blitzes designed to disrupt
both the running and passing games of the offense.
In order to accomplish this we must be effective in man
coverage, as well as zone.
We expect to keep our opponent out of the end zone and
create turnovers but can only succeed with unselfish and
confident athletes.
Our essentials are ranked in order of priority below:
EFFORT
FUNDAMENTALS
SCHEME
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
3/97
Summary of Defensive Calls
sitions Category Coaching Points Positions Category Coaching Points
gnment LB's and Safeties
e Alignment Wiper Blitz Sniper, Will
ong Alignment Sluggo Blitz Sniper and Sam
x Alignment Nitro Blitz Triple Strong Sniper/Sam/M
fensive Line Safeties & Corners
cho Stunt Slant Strong 11 (Orange) Coverage
nado Stunt Whip 13 (Black) Coverage
hoon Stunt Tackle 14 (Husky) Coverage
cko Stunt Slant weak 22 (White) Coverage Default for LB blitzes
Bungy Blitz Deep FS/Sniper
Falcon Blitz Free
& LB's Slam Blitz Strong Corner
vil Combo NT, Mike zone Sniper Blitz Sniper
gg Combo DEs drop Wham Blitz Weak Corner
s Only
e Blitz Max All LB's Items in RED are to be ready for scrimmage
ul Blitz Mike-Will
g Blitz Mike
w Blitz Sam-Will
e Blitz Sam-Mike
ash Blitz Sam
x Blitz Will
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
4/97
Notes and Rules
DT Technique Align on the OL. Eyes of the DT are splitting the edge of the shoulder pads
1-Technique: Over the shoulder of the C
3-Technique: Over the outside edge of the OG
2i-technique (Boomer): Over the inside edge of the OG
Strike through the OL, disrupt their block
If the OL pulls, in either direction, DL will follow to disrupt
Fight pressureIf PG tries to block down (he has the angle) then fight the pressure and do not give up the spot
Stay low and drive
4-pt stance may be a consideration if the player will not stay low
If pass (watch the helmet of the OL), then do not play with the OLGet off the OL and attack the QB
Remain in the rush lanes to ensure contain
DE Technique Align on the outside shoulder of the EMLOS
2-pt stance, low, hands up for strike
If the EMLOS is the TE then attack, attack, attack! Do not let the TE get off the LOS free. Ever.
Attack outside the EMLOS to the QB in as direct a line as possible
If the EMLOS attempts to hook/reach for sweep then maintain outside contain
Ride the player to the sideline but do not give up outside contain
Block Down? Step Down! (BDSD)
If the EMLOS blocks down to the inside then the DE will step down
Silver Surferlook for kick-out/pull from inside, create pile
Do not go upfield if the play seems to go away, no deeper than the deepest player
If pass then attack the QB, maintain outside contain, attack back-side shoulder
BoomerAlignment for no TE, single back, likely gun with Doubles or Trips DTs go to 2i (inside shade of OG) Mike and Sam go to 30 techniques (B-gap, outside shade of OG)
They have the hook-seam area to their side
Will and Sniper take inside WRs
Problem: #2 WR goes vertical Solution: Sniper or OLB goes with him
If Trips and the #2 goes vertical, the Sniper will take him and the ILB will take the flat
The ILB must be aware of #2 as well. #3 is not as dangerous to us as #2
Motion When WR motions he will be handed off from LB to LB as he crosses the formation
LBs exchange location and responsibility when the motion crosses the LB-LB boundary, match motion across the formation
This will change the coverage
Jet motion will be quicker and may be handled differently
Priority TacklingWhen in doubt, do a tackling drill
PursuitWhen in doubt after tackling, do a pursuit drill
Alignment and assignments
Depth Chart
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
5/97
Defensive Ends
Responsibility
Control the ELOS/perimeter
Play football
See ball, attack ball Defeat your opponent each time
General Concepts
Stance
2-pt stance
Inside leg splits the EMLOS in half
Keep head and back vertical
Arms in front, ready to attack and control
First Move
Drive your inside leg and arm into the EMLOS
Stop his momentum
Control your position
Retain outside control
Use your arms to keep the EMLOS away from you and in control
Blocking Schemes Coming After You:
Down BlockIf the EMLOS is blocking down either the play is going away, or it is coming
right at you (lead, kick-out)
Push the EMLOS down into the pile
Condense the LOS
Contact is closer to center than they want
Disrupt their TE passing game
Look to the inside for a OL trapping youSilver Surfer position
Look to the FB for a kick-out
Drive BlockPlay is going inside you so the EMLOS is trying to move you out of the hole
Hold your ground
Keep your outside arm and leg free
Hook BlockThe play is going outside of you (sweep)
Keep EMLOS to inside
Keep your outside arm and leg free
Drive up-field to alter BC path
Pass Block
Attack the QB
A sack must be earned, all the way to the QB
If you are getting through, they are letting you through. Look for the screen
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
6/97
DEWing-T Adjustments
Offensive Summary
The wing-t will normally have a single wide receiver, two backs offset to the short
side, and wing. The wing will usually be outside the TE, but they will move him
around and put him in motion. Some teams will also move the FB around just a bit.This is a deception offensebacks crossing, QB rolling - where you will not see the
handoff and will not know who has the ball. Follow the Gs to the play. They will
throw on the run, with little drop-back passing. Lots of fast hitting, pulling,
trapping, deception type plays.
Defensive Summary
Assign a Dog to the Wing. LBs and DBs turn and run to the QB rollout. DL slant to
the wing side. Not greatly concerned about vertical or combo route passing game.
Defensive LineSlant to the wing side. DEs split the EMLOS. If the wing goes in
motion the call will change so be prepared.
LinebackersWont have lead/ISO type plays coming at you. Step up, read, and fill.
CornersWing side wont have anyone wide so play closer to the box. We will
assign a Dog back to cover the wing 1-1. Outside C is 1-1 with the wide receiver.
Safetys Play over/just outside of the TE and outside the short side EMLOS. Look to
support run first.
On TE Side Continue to split the EMLOS
Step down 1 yard deep into the backfield through the EMLOS
Look to the inside for pulling guards
The Wing may try to block down on you
Control the TE to keep him from the LBs and getting into the pass route clean -
Make him earn getting past you
Away from TE Continue to split the EMLOS
Look for the QB bootleg coming to your side
Look for the T and G fold blocking on you
T will close down on our DT
The G will pull to drive you out
Objective is to clear a hole to your inside for the FB to run to
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
7/97
Defensive Line
Position Coaching Points
ur intent is to attack and disrupt the offensive linemen so our second level players can
ake tackles. You must play with an irritating energy that never stops. In order to achieve
is you must quickly read and react and be physical at the point of attack. You must be
sciplined in your protection of A-B gaps.
WhipWeak-side
efensive end
Same as the Sword, but will not normally be on the TE, will generally
be on the OT which is a different body style and approach. May be
down in a 3-point stance (may also angle, depending on the player) i
not playing against a TE. Will not be concerned about disrupting the
OT release except for the step-down. Do not spend time playing with
the EMLOS, get to the QB while maintaining outside contain. Cannot
get hooked. Will flip-flop with Sword depending on the strength call.
T Normally a gap player, will be in the A- or B-gap depending on the
strength call. Will be in a very low, weight on the hand, rear in the air
stance. First thought is to get off the ball quick enough to get through
the gap untouched. Will follow the OG, if he pulls then follow and
disrupt. If no contact then turn to the inside and look for the trap
block. Attack the QB and the football. Attack at full speed but under
control to read the play, dont want to run past a ball carrier.
wordStrong-
de defensive
nd
Align outside shade of the strong-side EMLOS in a low 2-point stance
hands up, eyes on the target. Control and disrupt the TE release.
Attack the QB through the shoulder-neck area. Watch for the reach-
block by the EMLOS, must maintain outside leverage. If the EMLOS
steps down to the inside, close down hard, shove the player into the
inside, and as Silver Surfer, attack the pull- or kick-out block, create
pile. Will flip-flop with Whip depending on the strength call.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
8/97
Linebackers
Position Coaching Points
Mike: You will quickly fill empty gaps with exceptional leverage and strength. You must pla
st, downhill and punish ball carriers with sure tackling. You can effectively cover RB, TE
nd zones in the passing game. You are call makers both in the huddle and pre snap.
am, Will: You must be comfortable playing in space against skill players or rushing the
asser. As a Force/Contain player you are willing to take on Offensive Linemen and hold
our ground at the point of attack. You must be disciplined when the ball goes away
atching for Counter/Reverse or Bootleg. You are an essential communicator both pre sna
nd during the play.
l LBs First thought is to stop the inside run. Low, 2-point stance eyes up,
ready to attack. First step is with the inside foot make the run/passread, then attack the assignment.
WillWeak-side
utside
nebacker
Will call the down and distance, before/in huddle and before play.
Walk-off like Sniper if doubles formation. Control the weak-side B-ga
and look for the off-tackle run play 1st. Maintain outside contain. Ma
have flat away from Sniper, or hook-seam if to the Sniper.
Mike Will make the defensive call in the huddle.
Step-up, read the OG-C-RB triangle and make the run/pass read. Ifpass then cover the hook-seam away from the Sniper call.
amStrong-side
utside
nebacker
Will make the strength call.
Control the strong-side B-gap. Look for the off-tackle play 1st, disrupt
the TE release. Take flat if away from Sniper, or hook-seam if to the
Sniper. If trips then align inside 1-2 yards inside the #3 receiver (unle
TE) at normal LB depth.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
9/97
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
10/97
Calling the Offensive Strength
In the Sniper defense we will flip-flop the Sword,
Sam, Whip, and Willit is critical that we properly
identify which side of the offensive formation weconsider the strong side
Normally this will be to the tight end (TE) side of the
offensive formation
This may change based on the formations, offensive scheme,and the opponent
If there is no TE, then strength is to the 2 receivers
side
If balanced (Doubles, Flexbone), then strength is to
the wide side of the field
If in middle, to our sideline
Call is Strong Left or Strong Right, made by Sam Repeat the call to both sides of the defense Call is repeated by the other LBs
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
11/97
Making the Sniper Call
Sniper identifies the 2-receiver side
Aligns as walk-off LB on the slot receiver
Makes the Sniper call based on where he
lines up
LeftLima
RomeoRight
Must be a loud call so all of the LBs and DBs
are aware of his location
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
12/97
FRONT-7ALIGNMENTS AND
ASSIGNMENTS
Where the front-7 will align and what they will do
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
13/97
Base Defensive Alignments
S
SW T WH
M W
T
Area Defensive alignments
Call Base
Description Base defensive alignments for a Pro formation
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 7 Strong D, Contain CBOutside force, pos
contain
T 3 Strong B-gap Sniper
$ Alley Alley
T 1 Weak A-gap FalconFS Alley Alley
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain CBOutside force, pos
contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
$
FS
CC
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
14/97
Under
S SW T WH
M W
T
Area Defensive alignments
Call Under
Description Alignment for 2-back, TE, Wing formationPro I Left Tight
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 5Strong C, Contain, outside
shade of OTCB
Outside force, pos
contain
T 2i
Strong A-gap, outside shade
of C Sniper
$
Inside #2
WR Wing, align as OLB
T 2iWeak B-gap, outside shade
of OGFalconFS Alley Alley
WhipWH 5Weak C, Contain, outside
shade of OTCB
Outside force, pos
contain
SamS 30Control TE, outside shade of
TE
MikeM 30 Strong B-gap
WillW Weak A-gap
$
FS
C
C
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
15/97
Under
S
SW T WH
M W
T
Area Defensive alignments
Call Under
Description Alignment for 2-back, TE, Wing formationPro I Left Tight
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 5Strong C, Contain, outside
shade of OTCB
Outside force, pos
contain
T 2i
Strong A-gap, outside shade
of C Sniper
$
Inside #2
WR Wing, align as OLB
T 2iWeak B-gap, outside shade
of OGFalconFS Alley Alley
WhipWH 5Weak C, Contain, outside
shade of OTCB
Outside force, pos
contain
SamS 30Control TE, outside shade of
TE
MikeM 30 Strong B-gap
WillW Weak A-gap
$
FS
C
C
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
16/97
Boomer
S
SW T WH
M W
T
Area Defensive alignments
Call Boomer
Description Alignment for interior DT and OLB vs. 1-back, no TE formations
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 5 Strong C, Contain CBOutside force, pos
contain
T 2i Strong A-gap Sniper
$
Inside #2
WR Walk-off
T 2i Weak A-gap FalconFS Alley Alley
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain CBOutside force, pos
contain
SamS 30 Strong B-gap
MikeM 30 Weak B-gap
WillW Walk-off on #2 receiver
$
FS
CC
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
17/97
Ale (Max)
S SH T WH
M
WT
Area Defensive alignments
Call Max
Description Short yardage for a Pro formation
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 4 Pinch strong CBOutside force, post,
contain, man-to-ma
T 1 Strong A-gap Sniper$ Stack SDEStrong C-gap, TE ma
to-man
T 1 Weak A-gap FalconFS Stack WDEWeak C-gap, TE man
to-man
WhipWH5
WideWeak C, Contain CB
Outside force, post,
contain, man-to-ma
SamS 7 Strong D-gap, contain
MikeM 00 Flow, fill, RB smash route
WillW 7 Weak D-gap, contain, RB
$ FS CC
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
18/97
Strong
S SH T WH
M W
T
Area Defensive alignments
Call Strong
Description Strong alignments for a Pro formation
Pos Align Assignment Pos Align Assignment
Sword - SH 5 Strong C-gap CBOutside force, pos
contain
T 1 Strong A-gap Sniper
$ Alley Alley
T 3 Weak B-gap FalconFS Alley Alley
WhipWH5
WideWeak C, Contain CB
Outside force, pos
contain
SamS 7 Strong D-gap, contain
MikeM 30 Strong B-gap
WillW 10 Weak A-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
19/97
SHORT YARDAGE
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
20/97
Combinations and Blitz SummaryCall Description Assignment
ho Slant Strong
ado WhipWDE lateral step into G outside shoulder, 1 tech engage C w/ inside arm then tigh
loop into C gap NT contain on rush
oon Tackle 1 tech attack opposite shoulder of C work into B gap, 3 tech tight loop into weak
ko Slant weak
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
21/97
PsychoSlant Strong
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Psycho
Description DL slant to strong-side gap
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Slant to strong gap
T 3 Slant to strong gap
T 1 Slant to strong gap
WhipWH 5 Slant to strong gap
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
22/97
DEFENSIVE LINE STUNTS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
23/97
Combinations and Blitz SummaryCall Description Assignment
ho Slant Strong
ado WhipWDE lateral step into G outside shoulder, 1 tech engage C w/ inside arm then tigh
loop into C gap NT contain on rush
oon Tackle 1 tech attack opposite shoulder of C work into B gap, 3 tech tight loop into weak
ko Slant weak
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
24/97
PsychoSlant Strong
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Psycho
Description DL slant to strong-side gap
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Slant to strong gap
T 3 Slant to strong gap
T 1 Slant to strong gap
WhipWH 5 Slant to strong gap
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
25/97
WackoSlant Weak
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Wacko
Description DL slant to weak-side gap
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Slant to weak gap
T 3 Slant to weak gap
T 1 Slant to weak gap
WhipWH 5 Slant to weak gap
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
26/97
TornadoDT Stunt
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Tornado
DescriptionWhip lateral step into G outside shoulder, 1 tech engage C w/ inside arm then tight
loop into C gap T contain on rush
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Engage outside shoulder of C then loop into C-gap
WhipWH 5 Lateral step into outside shoulder of OG
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
27/97
TyphoonDT Stunt
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Typhoon
Description 1 tech attack opposite shoulder of C work into B gap, 3 tech tight loop into weak A
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Tight loop into weak A-gap
T 1 Attack opposite shoulder of C, work to strong B-gap
WhipWH 5 Lateral step into outside shoulder of OG
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
28/97
DEFENSIVE LINE ANDLINEBACKER
COMBINATIONS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
29/97
Defensive Line and Linebacker Combinations
Call Description Assignment
l DEs drop DEs drop to flatafter hard outside rush step, Sam and Will blitz C-gap
g NT, Mike zone
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
30/97
DevilDEs to flat
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Devil
Description DEs drop to flatafter hard 1ststep, Sam, Will blitz C-gap
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Hard 1ststep, then drop to flat coverage
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Hard 1ststep, then drop to flat coverage
SamS 50 Blitz strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak C-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
31/97
DoggT Blitz, Mike zone
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Dogg
Description Mike blitzes, DT engages and then drops to zone
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Engage the C and then drop into the Mike coverage area
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
32/97
LINEBACKER BLITZES
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
33/97
FireAll LBs Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Fire
Description All LBsblitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Blitz strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Blitz strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
34/97
MaulMike & Will Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Maul
Description Mike and Will blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Blitz strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
35/97
MugMike Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Mug
Description Mike blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Blitz strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
36/97
SawSam & Will Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Saw
Description Sam and Will blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Blitz strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
37/97
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
38/97
SmashSam Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Smash
Description Sam blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Blitz strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
39/97
WaxWill Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Wax
Description Will blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
40/97
LINEBACKER ANDDEFENSIVE BACK
COMBINATIONS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
41/97
NitroSniper, Sam, Mike Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Nitro
Description Sniper, Sam, Mike blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Blitz strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Blitz strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
42/97
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
43/97
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
44/97
DEFENSIVE BACK BLITZES
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
45/97
BungySniper & Falcon Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Bungy
Description Sniper and Falcon blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Blitz strong A-gap
WillW 30 Blitz weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
46/97
FalconFalcon Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Falcon
Description Falcon blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
47/97
SlamStrong CB Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Slam
Description Strong cornerback blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
48/97
SniperSniper Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Sniper
Description Sniper blitzes, Sam drops to zone
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Drop to zone
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
49/97
WhamWeak CB Blitz
S
DE T WH
M W
T
Area Stunts and blitzes
Call Wham
Description Weak cornerback blitz
Pos Align Assignment
DE 7 Strong D, Contain
T 3 Strong B-gap
T 1 Weak A-gap
WhipWH 5 Weak C, Contain
SamS 50 Strong C-gap
MikeM 10 Strong A-gap
WillW 30 Weak B-gap
CC
$
FS
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
50/97
PASS DEFENSE
Where the LBs and DBs will play to defend the
passing game
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
51/97
Base Cover Rules
Cover 3 is our base defensive coverage
FS has middle 1/3
Each CB has outside 1/3
Sniper will align the to 2-receiver side and
has the flats to his side
OLB to the Sniper has the hook-seam to that
side
Mike has the hook-seam away from theSniper
OLB away from the Sniper has the flat
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
52/97
Coverage vs. Pro
Coverage Cover 3 (13, Black)
Formation Pro1 TE, 2-backs
Strength Right
Sniper Romeo
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
$WMS
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
53/97
Coverage vs. Twins
Coverage Cover 3
Formation Twins Left1 TE, 2-backs, 2 WR
Strength Right
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
$
WMS
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
54/97
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
55/97
Coverage vs. Flexbone
Coverage Cover 3
Formation Flexbone/Spread Option
Strength Left
Sniper Romeo
oaching Points Sniper aligns outside the wing at LB depth, becomes the 4 thLB
C
F
C
MM
$ SMW
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
56/97
Coverage vs. Doubles
Coverage Cover 3
Formation Doubles
Strength Left
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
W $
SM
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
57/97
Coverage vs. Trips
Coverage Cover 3
Formation Trips
Strength Left
Sniper Lima
oaching Points Vs. Trips the $ will move out to take his regular alignment on the #2, the Sam will thenalign on the #3. First look is for the inside route, the slant or curl. The F will move over
to head up on the strong-side EMLOS
C
F
C
MM
W
$
SM
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
58/97
Coverage Rules for Base Blitzes
If we call a base LB blitz then that will take us into an
automatic cover 2 arrangement
The alignments are the same as in the base defense, nosubstantive realignments to indicate cover 2 or blitzing
The concept is that we are rushing 5 and will pressure
the QB into throwing the ball early
The away CB and Sniper will take the flats, the to CB
and FS will split the field in half, and the non-blitzing
LBs will take the remaining hook-seam areas
Smash, Mug, Wax
Sam takes the hook-seam to his side, except if he is
blitzing
Mike takes the hook-seam to the side of the blitzing LB(Sam or Will)
Will takes the hook-seam to his side, except if he is
blitzing
Sniper takes the flat to his side
CB to Sniper takes the deep to his side
FS takes the deep away from Sniper
CB away from Sniper takes the flat to his side
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
59/97
Coverage: Smash vs. Pro
C
F
C
MM
$
WMS
M
M
M
M
Coverage Smash
Formation Pro
Strength Right
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
60/97
Coverage: Mug vs. Pro
C
F
C
MM
$
WMS
M
M
M
M
Coverage Mike
Formation Pro
Strength Right
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
61/97
Coverage: Wax vs. Pro
C
F
C
MM
$
WMS
M
M
M
M
Coverage Wax
Formation Pro
Strength Right
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
62/97
Coverage: Smash vs. Trips
Coverage Smash
Formation Trips
Strength Left
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
W
$
SM
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
63/97
Coverage: Mug vs. Trips
Coverage Mike
Formation Trips
Strength Left
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
W
$
SM
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
64/97
Coverage: Wax vs. Trips
Coverage Wax
Formation Trips
Strength Left
Sniper Lima
oaching Points
C
F
C
MM
W
$
SM
M
M
M
M
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
65/97
It is time for you to leave.
Thus spake the master Coach:
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
66/97
PARKING LOT
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
67/97
Defensive CommentsWhat
To Do:
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
68/97
Against an Option Team
Hit the QB every play, force them to use both pitches.
Make the d-line pinch inside for collapsing inside and
protect the Mike if the play goes further because the
d-linemen can't make the play. Shoot the outside
linebackers on the edge to contain the play while the
DE are the option guy.
Make them get it to their least productive player
Make them pitch.
Mix the reads
Take away FB & QB
Take away the stud
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
69/97
Against a Balanced Team
30 Front. Mix up man under and Zone
Make Them Pass
Play To Your Strength
Stick To Your System And Philosophy Against Any Team
Or Situation.
Make Them Throw Anyhow, Every Pass Is A 50-50 InMy Book #1.- Responsibility #2.- Attack! #3,#4, And
#5- Disciplined Aggression #6.- Keep Them Inside #7.-
Stretch Them Out #8.- Have Fun/No Pressure #9.-
Thrash Them Quickly! #10.- Patience
Stop The Best Plays
Stop The Run, Make Them Pass
Take Away Run
Zero In On Tendencies
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
70/97
Against a Faster Team
30 Front, Cover 2 Or 4
Attack Them... You Only Get One Shot... Remove The
Space.
Contain - Bottle Them Up
Dont Let Them Have The Ball
Keep The Ball On Offense And Keep Them In Front Of
You
Make Them Nickel And Dime Us.
Play Zone In Coverage And Try To Vary The Look To
Make Them Think And This Will Take Away Their
Athletic Advantage.
Try To Keep Them Between The Tackles & Cov 2
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
71/97
Against an Inferior Team
Base Offense, Base Defense, Sub A Lot.
Beatem As Simply As You Can. Dont Put A Lot Of
Stuff On Tape
Close The Door In The First Half, JV'S Get The Second
Dont Give Them Hope
Get Serious... The Biggest Threat Is The Team With
Nothing To Lose.
Get Up On Them Early.
Keep It Simple, Get A Lead And Play Nice
Play Great Fundamentals And Work In Backups
Sub After A 21 Point Lead.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
72/97
Against a Passing Team
30 Front. Bring 1-2 Extra
A) Confuse The QB By Disguising Coverage. B) Send
Some Zone Blitz. C) Play Man Weakside, Zone
Strongside. D) Show A Tuff Look With Backers And
Drop Them Into Coverage.
Cant CoveremRushem, Cant Rushem, Coverem,Cant Cover Or Rush, Dont Let Them Have The Ball
Confuse The QB
Keep Them In Front Of You And Pressure The Qb
Make Them Drive The Ball
Pressure The QB. Disrupt The WR'S Routes.
Zone It.....Make Them Make Perfect Throws The
Length Of The Field.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
73/97
Against a Passing Team That Goes Deep
30 Front Cover 4, Blitz 1-2 Extra
Bring Pressure Up The Middle
Double The Receiver They Like To Go Deep With. If
They Send A Lot Of 4 Verticals, Cover
Man, Cover 2 Deep
Man Under / Zone Over
Press And Cover Deep.
Same As #3 But A lot Of Cover 2
Zone It.....Make Them Make Perfect Throws The
Length Of The Field.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
74/97
Against a Passing Team that Likes To Dink And Dunk
C II Man Under 30 Front
Cover 2 Read...
M Press And Make Them Drive The Distance
Press The Receivers And Bring Heat
Take Away Dunk.
Zone It.....Make Them Make Perfect Throws The
Length Of The Field.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
75/97
Against a Power Team
8-9 In The Box
Blow Up Blockers
Collapse / Compress The Middle.
Give Them No Choice But To Pass.
Make Them Run Over Me!
Move Around (Dont Be Sitting Ducks)
Pack The Box With A 5-3 Defense. Give Them No
Choice But To Pass.
Stack The Box And Make Them Pass
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
76/97
Against a Simply Superior Team
Attack Them
Beat Them At Their 3 Best Plays With
Automatics...Force Them Out Of Their Comfort Zone
Dont Let Them Have The Ball
Have Fun...
Over Prepare And Keep It Simple.
Over Prepare To Get The Job Done With A W!
Run The Ball, Keep Clock Moving
Sh*T And Go Blind.....Pray That You Can out Coach
Them For A Game
Stay Basic, "Do What You Do"
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
77/97
Against a Stronger Team
30 Front Cover 1 Or 3
Attack Them.....Dont Let Them Man handle You
Create Defensive Space... To Not Get Dominated.
Cut Them
Dont Let Them Have The Ball
Out Quick Them
Play Keep Away
Play With The Mentality Of Having More Time Of
Possession.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
78/97
Things to Think About
Various topics for defensiveconsideration. Some are good, someare ideas, mainly just some food forthought regarding how these items
might pertain to our defensiveoperations.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
79/97
Things to Think About1
Determine what defensive scheme is best for our athletes based
on
Simplicity In
Alignment
Assignment
Responsibility
Option
Pass Coverage
Pass Rush
Blitzes
Want to bring pressure from multiple positions from multiple areas
Adjustments based on what/whom we are trying to stop
Learn the new system
DC knows all positions, keys, techniques, responsibilities, key teaching
points, etc.
Each position coach knows his position keys, techniques,
responsibilities, key teaching points
Everyone learns in game adjustments that can be made so we can helpone another adjust. Maybe you see something different than the other
guy does.
Learn adjustments that can or need to be made against certain
plays and yet remain sound in scheme overall.
Know them, be able to adjust on the fly in a game IMMEDIATELY.
Learn how to communicate these effectively and quickly to ourathletes
Work on adjustments in practice
If they are hurting us with this play here is something we can do to adjust to
it.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
80/97
Things to Think About2
Pick the right leader in the huddleCoach on the
field
Not liked RESPECTED is the key
Stay positive at all times
Chew butt when appropriate
Knows the calls and signals
Knows the adjustments to various formations
Can communicate to DC what is happening on the fieldso we can adjust
Must earn our trust that he knows what he is seeing on
the field
Set 8-10 Game Goals that will determine the
success of our defense.
Set expectations very high. No one has ever risen to
low expectations.
Board up in locker room with these goals so we can see
what we accomplish or fail to accomplish
Helmet stickers?
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
81/97
Things to Think About3
Become more physical. Teams are intimidated by our speed
already, but they are not intimidated of our physicality.
We need to become HITTERS Stop catching blows and start handing out blows.
Drill physical play at least 1 time a week
Will create competition between teammates
Will show us who can and who cant be physical
Determine some common down and distance/situationaladjustments. Work on them every day.
3rd and long
4th and short
End of half
Need a turnover time
Protecting a lead
Determine how we can disguise our intentions/coverages.
Too many times we show our hand and are easy to adjust to,
we need to become better at disguising our intentions on
each play. Make the opponent question what we are going to
do. Change it up in game situations, do not always have to blitz
we want to keep the opponents offense guessing if we are
coming, who is coming, and where is he coming from.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
82/97
Things to Think About4
Preach pursuit with PASSION (11 hats to the ball on every play).
Teach our athletes to take better angles
Drill it daily- NEVER GIVE UP ON A PLAY!!
Takes NO ATHLETIC ABILITY to hustle.
Pursuit drills 2 times per week minimum
Play through the echo of the whistle.
I can live with a few penalties here and there for a late hit, if a ball carrier is
on his feet and in bounds LAY A LICK on him. This goes back to us becoming
a more physical team.
GET OFF BLOCKS Need to teach our athletes how to negate and or defeat blockers, we
allow ourselves to stay blocked way too much
Work on block destruction techniques
Rip
Small Swim
Push/Pull
Bull Work on 2 or 3 techniques and if one does not work on a play, try
another, DO NOT ALLOW YOURSELF TO STAY BLOCKED, EVER!
Be better tacklers. Eyes up, club arms, run feet, and be physical.
No more arm tackles
Shimmy, Shimmy, Shimmy
Profile vs. Face tackles Tackling Circuit and Turnover Circuit 2 times per week minimum
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
83/97
Things to Think About5
Create more turnovers. Vital for us to win the
turnover battle.
We have not been good in this area for 2 years.
Need to create short field situations for the offense
Score on defense.
TAKE AWAY THE BIG PLAYS.
Make our opponent drive the ball consistently againstus.
No passes of 15 yards or more
No runs of 15 yards or more
Average of 2.4 yards or less per run allowed
Average of 6.0 yards or less per pass attempt FORCE THEM TO DRIVE THE BALL
Allows them opportunities to make mistakes that stop
themselves or put themselves in bad situations
(penalties, bad play calls, etc)
Get tougher in the RED ZONE (inside the 20 yard line) Make them have to run another play
Allows them opportunities to make mistakes
ATTITUDE, ATTITUDE, ATTITUDE
They have to earn every inch they gain
Make them pay a price to gain each inch
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
84/97
Things to Think About6
Need more 3 and Outs or 7 play or less drives that result
in a turnover or punt.
Get the defense off the field/Get the offense on the field Demoralizing to our athletes if they move the ball consistently
Demoralizing to the opponent if we do not allow them to
move the ball consistently
Changes their gameplan
Changes their playcalling
Changes the tempo of the game
Creates situations where we force them to make mistakes
(creates a sense of panic)
Scout team needs to do a better job.
Keep score
Conditioning on the line (or some other type of
reward/reminder guidelines)
Focus on what opponent does best
Main 3 or 4 formations
Main 4 or 5 running plays
Main 3 or 4 passing plays
Take an offense out of their comfort zone and what do they
have?
If they are a team that likes to run the ball, force them to throw.
If they are a team who likes to pass the ball, force them to run the
ball.
If they are a team who likes to run to the flank, force them to run in
the middle and be physical.
If they are a team who likes to pound the ball in the middle, invite
them to the flank where we gain a speed advantage.
If they are a balanced offense take away what they do best.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
85/97
Teaching Team Defense
How we call what we call, and why.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
86/97
Defensive Skills and Drills
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
87/97
4-Station Tackling - Overview
Overview
The number one most important skill in football, no matterwhat the level, from Pee Wee to Pro, is tackling. If you can't
tackle, then you can't stop the offense. In just ten minutes of practice time per day, you can turn your
players into a group of tackling machines. If you want to getreally crazy, use three minutes at each station, with a thirtysecond rotation period. That's just fifteen minutes a day.
You don't need to be using a specific tackling system to makethis four-station drill work. Whether you prefer chest plate orwaist tackling is irrelevant. All you need are some tackling
dummies, five coaches, two gymnastics pads (or worn outmattresses), and ten minutes per practice.
Key points:
Locate the four tackling stations about ten to fifteen yardsapart
One coach takes a group of players to a station. When theplayers rotate to a new station, the coach remains
At each station players execute the specific tackling drill fortwo minutes. The have thirty seconds to rotate to a newstation
Other drills can be substituted as necessary, or to give achange of pace. Attempt to keep with the drill's purpose,however. (Such as substituting the "Bull in the Ring" for the 2X 2 square drill.)
Position players (DBs, LBs, DEs, DL) together to ensure close
physical match-ups The remedial tackling coach, located where he is in the center
of all the drill stations, is the ideal person to control the timer
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
88/97
4-Station Tackling - Layout
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
89/97
Station #1: Head-on mat tackle
Equipment:
1 gymnastics mat, old mattress, or other padded landing surface
1 tackling dummy
1 "impact shield
Execution:
Place the tackling dummy lengthwise across one end of the landingsurface as shown in the diagram
The ball carrier holds the impact shield to protect himself
At a coach's signal, the tackler attacks the ball carrier with a formtackle, lifting the ball carrier over the tackling dummy and onto thelanding surface
After the tackle, the ball carrier goes to the end of the line, and thetackler becomes the next ball carrier
Execution:
Incorrect form results in the tackler being sent to the remedial tacklingcoach for further reinforcement of the problem area (i.e. head down,no wrap, etc.)
As the season progresses, have the ball carrier charge forward at thetackler
Coaching Points:
Form tackle, good lift, drive hard
The tackle should be made at 1/2 speed, but while moving into and outof the drill, keep players moving at high speed, and try for a minimumof five reps per player
If a player has a problem with a certain area, such as forgetting to keephis head up, remind him with positive reinforcement before his rep
For example, say "Johnny, remember to keep your head up,"rather than, "Johnny, don't drop your head."
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
90/97
Station #2: To the hole tackle
Equipment:
At least four tackling dummies
Optional: Have ball carrier use an impact shield
Execution:
Place the tackling dummies in parallel about three feet apart
A coach stands behind the tackler and points to the hole hewants the ball carrier to attack
At the coach's signal both players shuffle sideways until the
ball carrier gets to the hole indicated, where he chargesforward
The tackler should meet him in the hole and drive himbackwards with a good form tackle
Coaching Points:
Form tackle, good lift, drive hard
Although this tackling is "full speed" the short distancebetween the players will limit acceleration
Players should not be at greater than 3/4 speed at impact
While moving into and out of the drill, keep players moving athigh speed, and try for a minimum of five reps per player
If a player has a problem with a certain area, such asforgetting to keep his head up, remind him with positive
reinforcement before his rep
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
91/97
Station #3: 2 X 2 box
Equipment:
4 cones or other items for marking a two yard by two yard square onthe practice field
Optional: 1 football
Execution:
Arrange the players around the outside so that each player is facingacross from a player of roughly equal size
The coach will signal to a set of two players
At his gesture, the object is for one player to make it across the box,while the other player must tackle him to prevent this
Optional: "Thud" tackle, without taking the ball carrier to the ground
Optional 2: Coach throws a football to his selected ball carrier. Playerdirectly across from the ball carrier is the tackler
Coaching Points:
Concentrate on reinforcing secure tackles
This is an "open field" drill, so expect missed tackles
This drill will probably send more players to remedial tackling than anyother
Although this tackling is "full speed" the short distance between theplayers will limit acceleration
Players should not be at greater than 3/4 speed at impact
While moving into and out of the drill, keep players moving at highspeed, and try for a minimum of five reps per player
If a player has a problem with a certain area, such as forgetting to keep
his head up, remind him with positive reinforcement before his rep
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
92/97
Station #4: Angle tackle mat
Equipment:
1 gymnastics mat, old mattress, or other padded landingsurface
1 tackling dummy Optional: 1 "impact shield
Execution:
Similar to the head-on mat drill, one player is a tackler, andone is the ball carrier
The ball carrier jogs slowly (1/2 speed)
The tackler moves as fast as necessary to make the tackle Players must be coached to remain at a slow and controlled
speed, rather than trying for the "big hit"
As in the head-on drill, the tackler should lift the ball carrierup over the tackling dummy and onto the landing surface
Coaching Points:
Form tackle, good lift, drive hard
The tackle should be made at 1/2 speed, but while movinginto and out of the drill, keep players moving at high speed,and try for a minimum of five reps per player
If a player has a problem with a certain area, such asforgetting to keep his head up, remind him with positivereinforcement before his rep
Use two lines, one for ball carriers and one for tacklers, ratherthan rotating the tackler and ball carrier (That takes too long.)
Vary the angle and shoulder at least every day, from 120degrees to the front, to around 30 degrees to the rear
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
93/97
Remedial Tackling
Equipment:
1 tackling dummy or "Popsicle stick" hitting sled
Execution:
Upon incorrect execution of a tackle, the player will be sent to
the remedial tackling coach with the phrase, "Billy, go over to
Coach Norm and work on keeping your head up while you
tackle."
The player then sprints to the remedial tackling coach and
informs him what portion of the tackle he needs to work on
(sometimes the remedial tackling coach will get too busy to
hear the original mistake.)
The player will then execute five correct tackles, (start to
finish) using the tackling dummy/"Popsicle" stick before
sprinting back to catch up with his drill mates, who may have
moved on in the interim
Coaching Points:
Players will feel that remedial tackling is a punishment. This is
not the case. Remedial tackling is a reinforcement of the
correct tackling procedure
Execute each of the points to a correct tackle as slowly as
necessary to perform each step perfectly
Incorrect iterations do not count
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
94/97
2-on-1 Tackling (Tee Time)
Equipment:
6 cones, football
Execution:
Ball-Carrier is on his back. Tacklers stand behind their cone.
On the signal, ball-carrier gets up and runs straight downfield.
Tacklers must round their cone and come back to make tackle.
Variations to this drill may allow Ball-Carrier to juke, spin, cut
or simply run straight ahead. Adjustments may include
moving the ball-carriers cone forward or back, or moving theTacklers cones forwards or back. Cones should be placed
between 10-15 yards downfield.
Coaching Points:
This is a drill that gets walked through until players are
comfortable with their responsibility. The Runners are notallowed to cut, juke or spin on their first few attempts. We
want contact and cut/juke/spin negates some of that.
After the players are comfortable with this drill, we allow the
cut/juke/spin.
Shorten the distances all around initially. Not sure how you
teach tackling but any technique should work here.
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
95/97
2-on-1 Tackling (Tee Time)
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
96/97
3-on-3 Blocking/Tackling Drill (Snake Pit)
Equipment:
Execution: Offensive and Defensive Linemen are in 3-point stance.
Ball-Carrier is deep set and Linebacker is in gap.
Variations include adjusting splits of Linemen, depth of Ball-
Carrier and/or Linebacker, or adding a Center.
Coaching Points:
8/10/2019 sniper Defense
97/97