How to Defeat Man-to-Man Coverage in Football

The passing game is the primary means of attack at nearly every level of football. The running game is important when it comes to short-yardage plays at or near the goalline, for running out the clock and for changing the pace the defense is used to seeing. However, when it comes to a consistent offensive attack, the passing game is the primary weapon. Receivers have to do more than catch the ball when the quarterback throws it to them. This can be quite difficult when they are facing elite level defensive backs who can mirror every move they make.

Instructions

1. Make a decisive move off the line of scrimmage as soon as the ball is snapped. Don't jog or trot to start your pattern, thinking that you can lull a defensive back to sleep. That may sound good, but you simply don't have enough time to do that. Additionally, when you are faced with man-to-man coverage, that cover man--usually a cornerback but it could also be a safety--is going to attempt to knock you off stride at the start. That's a lot easier if you are jogging.

2. Use your knowledge of the play called to work to your advantage. You know where you are going and when you will have to make a move to get open. Do it decisively. Run hard at the snap of the ball and cut hard at the precise moment you are supposed to break your pattern off. For example, the play call is a 12-yard square out. You run hard at the snap of the ball 12 yards downfield and then break off your route to the sidelines at that exact point. Don't slow down anymore than you need to in order to keep your feet. By maintaining your speed, you will throw off the defensive back.

3. Get off the line of scrimmage aggressively. If you are a bigger receiver--6'1" and 190 lbs or bigger--power into and over the defensive back. He may want to play bump and run with you in order to throw you off stride. Imagine how surprised he will be when you initiate contact and knock him to the ground. This strategy can work with a smaller receiver as well. However, you have to make sure your opponent is not expecting to get hit. If he is not playing bump and run with you, he won't expect you to hit him. Surprise him with a well-placed shoulder or forearm. That should be enough to get you open.

4. Work on your double moves. Whether you are playing high school, college or professional football, defensive backs are among the most athletic players on the field. You may not be able to shake free with one move to the outside or a hook back to the quarterback. You may need to make two moves to get free--hence the name double move. This will beat most defensive backs, even those among the elite level in the game. However, you won't have time to make the double move unless your offensive line is giving your quarterback adequate time to throw the ball.

5. Study opposing defensive backs on videotape. They will be checking out your tendencies prior to the game, so you have to do the same. Some receivers believe that studying a defensive back on tape will not do much because they are generally reacting to what the receiver is doing. However, you can learn from watching videotape how a defensive back stands when he is expecting a long pattern or a short pattern. Quick recognition of those stances will allow you to signal your quarterback and he can change plays to allow you to take advantage.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for physical play. Your opponent will try to batter you at the line of scrimmage and try to stop you before you get started. If you can stand up to those shots or deliver your own, your chances of getting open and succeeding are greatly improved.

• Be single-minded in your approach. You need to be supremely confident that you will get open and your quarterback will get you the ball. Confidence is necessary for any receiver who believes greatness is at hand.