Also Called Zero
Every defender in coverage plays man-to-man with no safety deep to help. It's usually paired with a big blitz, so the ball has to come out fast.
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Also Called Man Free
Man-to-man coverage underneath with one free safety deep in the middle to help on long passes. It often frees one more defender to rush or spy the quarterback.
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Also Called Two Deep
Two safeties each guard one deep half of the field while five defenders cover short zones underneath. Corners often jam receivers and protect the flats.
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A version of Cover 2 where the middle linebacker sprints back to cover the deep middle between the two safeties. It closes the hole that Cover 2 usually leaves open.
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Related Cover 2 · Linebacker · Seam
Also Called Three Deep
Three defenders, usually two corners and a safety, each guard a deep third of the field while four defenders cover short zones. It's sound against deep passes but can leave the flats and seams open.
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Also Called Quarters
Four defenders each guard a deep quarter of the field. The safeties read the tight end or slot, so they can jump short routes or help stop the run.
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Also Called Quarter-Quarter-Half
A split coverage that plays quarters on one side of the field and Cover 2 on the other. Defenses use it to match a formation that's heavy to one side, like trips.
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Also Called Cover 1 Man
Another name for Cover 1. Defenders lock onto receivers man-to-man, and one safety plays free in the deep middle to help.
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Also Called Press Coverage, Bump and Run
A defender lines up right in front of the receiver and jams them at the line to throw off the route's timing. It's aggressive and leaves less room for quick throws.
Coaching Tip Be patient with your feet. Let the receiver show you a direction before you punch.
Related Off Coverage · Cornerback · Go
Also Called Off, Soft Coverage
A defender lines up several yards off the receiver to keep the play in front of them. It limits deep plays but gives up quick, short throws.