Comprehensive Defensive Football Glossary

Babel for football nerds. Aranda, Fangio, Heacock, Saban, Ravens, Roberts, Venables, Gregg Williams, and more.

Jun 04, 2024

—

The best way to approach this is to use the Finder function on your device. CTR+F or Command+F and then search the term. Let me know if there is something specific from one of the main sections I have that is not in here. I will attempt to add it if I can. I plan on adding more trees as I go. I plan on adding more ‘tree’ glossaries as I get them.

Saban/Kirby Smart/Dan Lanning Terminology

General Football Terminology

C.P. (Coaching Point): An important detail or instruction emphasized by the coaching staff.
Far Back: The running back aligned on the opposite side of the formation from a defender's perspective.
Goal Line: The area of the field from the +5 yard line to the end zone.
L.O.S. (Line of Scrimmage): The imaginary line where the football is placed before a play begins.
Near Back: The running back aligned on a defender's side of the formation.
Open Side: The side of the offensive formation where a wide receiver is split away from the tackle; the opposite of the tight end side.
P.O.A. (Point of Attack): The specific gap or area the offense is targeting on a given play.
Red Area: The area of the field from the +20 to +5 yard line.
Short Side: The short side of the field when the ball is on a hash mark (also known as the boundary).
Strong Side: The side of the offensive formation with the most receivers.
Tight End Side: The side of the offensive formation where the tight end aligns.
Weak Side: The side of the offensive formation away from the strong side.
Wide Side: The wide side of the field when the ball is on a hash mark (also known as the field).

Scheme Identity & Personnel

Base: A fundamental defensive personnel grouping, typically featuring four defensive linemen, three linebackers, and four defensive backs (a 4-3).
BUCK: An Inside Linebacker in the dollar sub-package.
Dark Side: The overarching name for this defensive scheme.
MAC: The Middle Linebacker in sub-defensive packages.
MIKE: The primary Inside Linebacker, often responsible for setting the front.
Money ($): A versatile defensive player, typically a linebacker/safety hybrid, used in transition or sub defenses.
Nickel (NKL): A defensive personnel package with five defensive backs. Also refers to the fifth defensive back (Nickelback) who typically covers the slot receiver.
NR / DR: A personnel grouping or situational call, likely standing for "Nickel Rush" or "Dime Rush."
Prowler: A defensive personnel grouping, likely a 3-down lineman package, used for specific blitzes.
Psycho: A versatile personnel grouping that can execute both 3-4 (Okie) and 4-3 (Over) principles.
SAM: The Strongside Linebacker, typically aligned to the strong side of the offensive formation.
WILL: The Weakside Linebacker, typically aligned to the weak side of the offensive formation.

Fronts & Alignments

0, 2i, 3, 4i, 5, 9 Technique: Standard numbering for defensive line alignments. A 0-tech is head-up on the Center. A 2i is on the inside shoulder of the Guard. A 3-tech is on the outside shoulder of the Guard. A 4i is on the inside shoulder of the Tackle. A 5-tech is on the outside shoulder of the Tackle. A 9-tech is on the wide outside shoulder of the Tight End.
40: A standard 4-3 defensive front.
Apex: A position taken by a defensive player (usually a Linebacker or Safety) between two receivers, splitting the difference in their alignment.
Bear Front: A defensive front with covered centers and guards (0-tech Nose, two 3-tech Defensive Tackles) and two edge rushers.
Bench Front: A four-down defensive front where the defensive linemen align to one side, away from the passing strength.
Bison Front: A specific defensive front alignment, likely with heavy interior linemen, used in certain packages.
Bound Front: A defensive front where the alignment is set to the boundary (short side of the field).
Boss Front: A five-down defensive front, often created by walking up a linebacker, designed for heavy run situations or specific pressures.
Bub Front: A defensive front where the 3-technique defensive tackle is set away from the Nickelback.
Crawl: A pre-snap defensive line movement where players shift from a 3-down to a 4-down alignment (or vice-versa) after the offense is set.
Even Front: A defensive front with two defensive tackles aligned over the guards and no nose tackle over the center.
Fight Front: A defensive front where the strength is set based on the Tight End's alignment.
Flex Front: An alignment where both inside linebackers are walked up into the A-gaps, creating a 6-man front look.
Mint Front: A defensive front where the defensive line sets its strength weak of the Nickelback's alignment.
Mug: An alignment where a linebacker is aligned over the center in the A-gap, creating a 5 or 6-man front look.
Odd Front: A defensive front with a lineman directly over the center (a 0-tech or "Nose").
Okie Front: A 3-4 defensive front with a 0-technique Nose Tackle and two 4i or 5-technique Defensive Ends.
Over Front: A 4-3 defensive front where the 3-technique defensive tackle is set to the strong side of the formation.
Slide / Slip: A pre-snap defensive line movement where players shift their alignment one gap over.
Strength Front: A defensive front where the alignment is set to the passing strength or wide side of the field.
Tite Front: A defensive front with a 0-tech Nose and two 4i-technique defensive ends.
Tuff Front: A defensive front where both Defensive Tackles are aligned in 2-technique positions.
Wide Front: A defensive front where the defensive ends are aligned in wide-9 techniques to prioritize outside contain and pass rush.

Cover 1 / Man Coverage

1 Alert: A Cover 1 adjustment where safeties spin based on the F-back's movement.
1 Buck: A safety comes down in a "buzz" alignment to the TE side, creating a 4-on-3 funnel.
1 Clue: A check where the Safety and MIKE linebacker "funnel" the running back on his release, with the free player becoming the "Rat."
1 Cross: The safety opposite the STAR or trips becomes the "Rat" (middle-of-field robber).
1 Double / 9 Double: A call for a safety to double-team a specific receiver.
1 Funnel / Funnel: A call for a safety to come down opposite a 4th receiver or a technique where underneath defenders force receivers towards middle-of-the-field help.
1 Invert: A call for a safety to come down and cover the 4th receiver (often a TE).
9 Rat: A call for the safety to rotate down to the split end side.
Black (Coverage): A specific man-to-man coverage call (Cover 1).
Catch: A man coverage technique where the defender plays at arm's length, ready to jam and disrupt the receiver's release.
Cut Rules: Rules for the "Rat" player to cut the first crossing route they see.
Dog: A man-to-man coverage assignment.
Down Left/Right: Communication indicating which safety is rotating down in man coverage.
Glue: A coverage term where a defender sticks to their man assignment through motion.
Latch: A man-coverage technique where the defender aligns with inside leverage and denies any inside release.
Limbo: A technique where a safety can leave their deep responsibility to cover a fast-releasing running back.
Lock: A man-to-man coverage call on a specific receiver or set of receivers.
Low Shoulder: A man coverage technique used to defend routes in the inside seam area.
MEG (Man Everywhere He Goes): A strict, press-man coverage technique.
Mirror: A man coverage concept where defenders mirror the release of their assigned receiver.
MITT: A man-coverage technique where the defender aligns with outside leverage and forces an inside release.
Off Call: A tag to play Cover 1 from an off-man alignment.
Paste: A coverage adjustment to motion, similar to "Glue," where a defender sticks with their man.
Push Alert: A call to switch assignments post-snap against crossing routes or stacked receivers.
Rat: A defender (often a safety or linebacker) who drops into a low hole in the middle of the field to read the QB's eyes and defend against crossing routes.
Razor: An adjustment to an empty formation where the MIKE linebacker becomes the "Rat."
Rocket: An adjustment where safeties spin and take the #1 back on motion.
Roll It: An adjustment for a linebacker to take a back or TE motioning to the split end side.
Scooch: A man-coverage technique where the defender shuffles their feet to stay in front of the receiver without opening their hips too early.
Shoot: A technique for a defensive back where they aggressively drive on any short, outside route from their man.
Spin: A call for safeties to exchange responsibilities on motion across the formation.
Stick: A man-coverage leverage technique where the defender aligns to take away a specific route.
Tuff: A leverage technique used in man coverage against tight splits.
Zero: Man-to-man coverage across the board with no deep safety help.

Cover 2

Club Technique: A specific technique used by a corner against a single receiver in Cover 2.
Duo: A Cover 2 adjustment vs. slot and trey formations, potentially involving an in/out bracket.
In/Out: A call between two underneath defenders to bracket a receiver in the middle hook zone.
Kathy: Signifies Cover 2 and a "rail" technique to read the #1 receiver.
Leach: A technique where a linebacker or STAR carries the #2 receiver vertically.
Tag: A call between the SAM and MIKE linebackers to defend the middle hook zone.
Zeke: A call to play an in/out bracket against a trips formation.

Cover 3 / 3-Deep Zone

3 Thru: A technique for hook droppers against 2x2 formations when playing Rip/Liz match coverage.
3 Up is 3: A technique for the weak hook dropper against 3x1 formations, turning to man coverage if #3 goes vertical.
4/1st: The backside dropper reads the back (#4). If the back goes weak, match him. If the back goes strong, take the first crossing route.
Area: A pre-snap call by the secondary based on tight splits, putting them in a zone concept instead of man-matching.
Auto: An adjustment in Cover 3 against 2 open receivers weak, where the JACK linebacker becomes a rusher.
Bail: A technique where a defensive back, typically a cornerback, turns and runs to a deep zone at the snap instead of backpedaling.
Buzz: A safety dropping into the hook/curl zone, typically indicating linebacker force in the run fit.
Cover 3: 4-under, 3-deep zone coverage, typically rotated to the passing strength.
Cover 6: 4-under, 3-deep zone coverage, typically rotated to the weak side of the formation.
Depth and Divider: A landmark for the corner (1 yard inside the top of the numbers) when #1 is vertical and #2 is in the seam.
Double Calls: A call for the corner to match-up against a slot formation.
Fist: A coverage check where an inside DB will not carry the #2 receiver vertically past 12 yards.
Fox: A call to alert a "bump" alignment, putting the weakside corner in press-man.
Mable: A call against trips to push the coverage strong and play man-on-man on the backside receiver.
Match Right/Left: Calls made opposite a Rip/Liz call, executed the same way by the secondary.
No Cover Zone: The area within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage.
Over Alert: An alert for deep over routes; the corner should not chase them.
Rip / Liz: Calls that signal the rotation direction and pattern-matching rules for safeties in single-high coverages.
Rita/Linda: Communication by a safety to signify rotation to the right (Rita) or left (Linda).
Robot: A technique for the MIKE linebacker to cover a dig route on a Y-cross play.
Skate: A true 3-deep spot-drop zone coverage with no pattern matching.
Sky: Communication by a safety telling the linebacker how he will insert into the run fit, indicating safety force.
Under: A post-snap call to convert to standard 3-deep principles if receivers run inside routes.

Cover 4 / Quarters & Split-Field Coverage

Bingo: A bunch adjustment in quarters where defenders match routes based on their release (flat, vertical, vertical).
Box: Quarters coverage to the passing strength side, man-matched.
Bracket: A technique in Cover 7 where the STAR and safety read the release of #2, while the corner plays man-to-man on #1.
Clamp: A coverage check used against 2-receiver sets where the defenders play tight, inside-leverage man-to-man.
Clip: Same as "CUT" coverage, but applied to the strong side of the formation.
Clipper: A coverage check used against bunch formations where defenders work to pass off routes and avoid being picked.
Cone: A call to bracket or double a single receiver.
Cora: A corner alignment in Cover 7 that alerts the MONEY linebacker of a potential switch in responsibility if #1 goes behind #2.
Cougar: A form of CUT and Cover 5 played against two open receivers.
Cover 7: A man-match quarters coverage.
Cover 8: Quarters-Quarters-Half coverage. Combines Nail (Quarters) to the passing strength and Kathy (Cover 2) to the weak side.
Cut: A concept used on the weakside (TE/Flanker) where the inside defender cuts off an inside player (TE/RB) and the weakside corner traps the flat.
Hammer: A bunch adjustment in Cover 8.
HOUND: A coverage check against 3x1 formations with the tight end in the core, creating specific man-match rules.
Iowa: A coverage check against Trey formations (TE with two receivers to the same side), often involving pattern matching.
Mini: A 3x1 open check in Cover 4.
Mix: A quarters concept played in Cover 7.
MOD (Man on Demand): A pattern-matching quarters coverage where cornerbacks will play man-to-man if a receiver releases vertically.
Mohawk: A coverage check against empty formations, combining elements of man and zone coverage.
Nail: Quarters coverage to the passing strength side, zone-matched.
Posse: A coverage check against Trey formations, likely involving pattern-matching principles similar to "Iowa".
Read: A basic quarters (Cover 4) coverage call.
Seahawk: A coverage check against 3x1 formations where the backside safety acts as a "poach" or "robber" player on the #3 receiver.
Shave: A coverage check that combines man and zone principles, often with a safety "shaving" off their deep responsibility to rob an intermediate route.
Solo: A coverage check where the backside cornerback is left in one-on-one coverage against a single receiver.
Square: A quarters coverage check against 2x2 formations.
Steal: A coverage concept where a safety, aligned over a slot receiver, will rob the #1 receiver if the slot receiver runs a short, inside route.
Stout: A coverage check against 3x1 formations, designed to be strong against the run while matching vertical routes.
Stubbie / Stump: A call against trips where the STAR/Safety man-match #2 and #3.
Tango: A form of Cover 5 used to play 3-on-2 against two receivers in a stack alignment.
Teacup: A coverage check used against condensed formations.
Thief: A coverage concept where a safety roams the deep middle, reading the quarterback's eyes to "steal" throws.
Trio: A form of Cover 5 used to play 3-on-2 on the #2 and #3 receivers in a trips formation.
Vice: A coverage check where two defenders bracket a single receiver.

Linebacker Terminology

1/2: A call to the defensive front for the Nose to handle his gap against a run to the bubble side.
Able / Benji / Charlie: Calls to blitz the A-gap, B-gap, or C-gap, respectively.
Choke: A technique on the line of scrimmage with C-gap responsibility and man-to-man coverage on the TE.
Core: The area from the TE to the Offensive Tackle box.
Direct / Fast / Slow Read: Terms describing an inside linebacker's run keys based on the movement of the offensive backs and linemen.
Fire: A call for the SAM to take the safety's coverage responsibility.
Green Dog: A linebacker blitzes if his coverage responsibility blocks.
Hawk: Both outside linebackers are rushing the passer.
Key: A blitz term to engage and take the RB on a block or use a peel technique.
Lion: A call for the End to "lion" upfield (rush).
Ringo/Lucky: A call to tell the defensive front which direction the zone pressure is coming from.
Roy/Lee: A call to send the defensive front to the right or left.
Soft Choke: A technique on the heels of the DE with C-gap responsibility and a specific coverage call.

Pressures, Blitzes, & Stunts

Backer Go: An alert for a linebacker to blitz if the running back stays in to pass block.
Cat: A blitz path for a cornerback, typically from the boundary.
Crash: A technique for a defensive lineman to slant hard inside, aiming for the adjacent gap.
Cross Dog: A blitz concept where two inside linebackers cross paths, attacking opposite A-gaps.
Enter: A pass rush stunt where a defensive lineman loops inside after an adjacent lineman slants outside.
Fish Hook: A path for a dropping defensive end in a zone blitz, where they get width and then work back underneath routes.
Jolt: A path for a sub-rusher (often a Nickel) who attacks an interior gap.
Nut: A defensive line stunt where the Nose and Tackle execute a game to penetrate the A and B gaps.
Peel: A technique where a blitzer will abandon their rush to cover the running back if the back releases into a route.
Rex: A call for the Jack linebacker to have a two-way go on their pass rush, with the ability to rush inside or outside.
Rise: A blitz technique where the rusher fakes a contain path before "rising" upfield to attack the quarterback.
Spear: A blitz path for a linebacker, typically targeting the running back.
Spike: A stunt where a defensive lineman crashes into an interior gap to occupy blockers.
Sub Spike: A stunt where an interior defensive lineman (often a 3-tech) spikes into the A-gap.
TOM / NOB: Defensive line stunt calls based on the running back's alignment. "TOM" (To Me) is used when the back is on the rusher's side; "NOB" (Not On Back) is used when the back is away.
Trace: A technique for a defensive end to follow the path of the running back in the backfield.

Formation Adjustments & Checks

Bingo: A coverage check or adjustment, likely against a "Cluster" (tightly grouped) offensive formation.
Box: A coverage check used against "Bunch" formations (three receivers in a tight group). Defenders align in a "box" pattern to handle the releases.
Bump: An adjustment to motion where defenders "bump" their alignment over to maintain leverage.
FIB (Formation Into Boundary): An alert for when the offense places its passing strength (e.g., three receivers) into the short side of the field.
Interstate: A coverage check used against bunch formations.
Park: A coverage check where the Star (Nickel) aligns away from the passing strength.
Patty: A coverage alert against crossing routes, signaling defenders to pass them off.
Push Alert: An alert for linebackers to adjust their alignment wider in response to the offensive formation, often to gain better leverage on receivers.
Skate: A coverage check against bunch formations where the defenders rotate and match routes based on their release.
Skittles: A check for when the offense motions from a 3x1 to a 2x2 formation.
Tophat: A coverage check used against stack alignments.
Traffic: A coverage check against bunch formations where defenders play tight man-to-man and fight through the condensed space.
Tunnel Alert: An alert for a potential tunnel screen based on the offensive alignment.
Under: A coverage check used against "Stack" or "Bunch" formations.

Techniques & Special Teams

Blast: A call for the Field Goal block team.
Chains: A situational call, likely on 3rd down, where the defense prioritizes keeping receivers from reaching the first-down marker.
Cheat: A pre-snap alignment adjustment where a player (usually a safety) slightly alters their position based on a formation key to get a jump on the play.
Poach: A technique where a safety reads the quarterback's eyes to leave their assignment and intercept a pass intended for another receiver, often on deep crossing routes.
Rat: A defender (often a safety or linebacker) who drops into a low hole in the middle of the field to read the QB's eyes and defend against crossing routes.
Sink: A zone coverage technique where a defender gains depth while reading the quarterback.
Spy: A defensive assignment where a player is responsible for mirroring the quarterback's movements to prevent scrambles.
Waterfall: A red zone technique where flat defenders gain depth to prevent throws over their heads, creating layers of coverage.

Will Muschamp Terminology

Run Support

PRIMARY FORCE: The player who must turn the ball or blocker back inside. Can be a backer (B), safety (Sky), or corner (Cloud).
SECONDARY FORCE: The player who is the second force defender to the side of the ball, reacting to the run after fulfilling pass responsibilities.
HAMMER: The player who leverages the ball inside and spills blockers to the outside.
ALLEY: The middle-of-field safety who takes an inside-out angle to the ball carrier.
READ FORCE: Force assignment (Backer, Sky, or Cloud) is determined by the release of the tight end.
REPLACE: Technique by the secondary force player to take over for the primary force if he gets blocked.

Passing Identification

P 90: 3-step drop by the QB (quick game).
P 50: 5-step drop back pass.
P 800: Sprint out action to the tight end side.
P 900: Sprint out action to the split end side.
P 144: Run action pass to the tight end side.
P 344: Run action pass to the split end side.
NAKED: Tag indicating the QB is rolling out away from the play fake.
BOOT: Tag indicating the QB is rolling out away from the play fake with a backside guard pulling for protection.
WEST COAST: Tag indicating the QB is rolling out to the same side as the play fake.

Defensive Line Terms

GAP: Get vertical penetration in your assigned gap.
CROSS: Tells the Nose to cross the center's face to the opposite A-gap.
TAG: Stem to a 3-tech pre-snap, then spike to the A-gap on the snap.
STAB: Get vertical penetration in your assigned gap.
SIN: Penetrate the C-gap from a 6-technique alignment.
CRASH: From a 9-tech, win inside to the C-gap. On a down block, become a "chase" player.
CHASE: On a down block, scream flat down the line of scrimmage, taking the dive on a zone read.
DENT: Attack the middle of the blocker, get vertical movement, and win inside.
PUP: Pin the Hip and Up. An edge rusher technique vs. action away to play QB-to-cutback on zone read.

Vic Fangio Terminology

Base Zone Coverages

WILL 6: 4-under, ¼, ¼, ½ zone coverage. WILL is the 4th rusher. Roy/Lou is the call for the ½ field rotation side.
WILL 2: 5-under, 2-deep Buster zone with the WILL linebacker rushing.
WASP: 4-man rush where the JACK is the 4th rusher. Plays QUADS vs. 2x2 or Empty; plays SALLY/ROSE vs. other formations.
WILL/MIKE/JACK 4: Standard quarters (Cover 4) coverage with the named linebacker as the 4th rusher.
CHICAGO: A 4-man rush Tampa 2 coverage.
PILLOW: A 3-man rush, 5-under, 3-deep zone coverage.
ROLL LUGGAGE: The call to a specific player number or direction for the secondary rotation (e.g., "roll to #88" or "roll Left").

Nickel Zone Coverages

9: 4-under, 3-deep match zone with rotation away from the Nickel (weak rotation).
STUFF (6): ROY/LOU coverage to the weak side, away from the Nickel. Essentially plays Cover 2 over a designated player or side.
8: ROY/LOU coverage to the side of the Nickel.
QUADS (4): Quarters coverage across the board with potential adjustments (Box, Buster, Trix).
WILD (2): 5-under, 2-deep match zone coverage.
WHIP: A 4-under, 3-deep simulated zone pressure away from the Nickel side.
SLUG: A 4-under, 3-deep simulated zone pressure from the Nickel side.

Nickel Man Coverages

ROBBER: Cover 1 man-to-man with low and deep middle help.
LURK: Cover 1 man-to-man with a linebacker in the low hole and a safety in the deep middle.
STEALER: Red zone man coverage designed to double a specific receiver.
THIEF: Man-to-man coverage with a double "Rat" or robber.
HOLE: Cover 1 man-to-man with one deep middle safety and the other safety rotating down into the low hole.
FIST: 5-under, 2-deep man-to-man coverage with various split-safety tools (Cut, Buster, Trix, etc.).
BRACKET: Man coverage concepts used to in/out bracket designated alignments, primarily in the red zone.

Directional & Coverage Terms

ROY/LOU: A Cover 6/8 call telling the deep ½ safety where to rotate.
RIVER/LAKE: A Cover 2 call telling the deep ½ safety where to rotate.
SALLY/ROSE: A Cover 3 call telling the split safeties where to rotate.
LIZ/RIP: A front mechanics call declaring which EDGE is the 4th rusher.
CUT: A bracket call to double #1 (Corner outside/Safety inside).
CONE: A bracket call to double #2 (Nickel outside/Safety inside).
TRIX: A split-safety tool for the weak side of a 3x1 formation, allowing the safety to help on #3 vertical.
BUSTER: A Cover 2 match concept where underneath defenders read and match up based on receiver releases.
MEG: Man Everywhere he Goes.
MOD: Man Only Deep (don't cover routes under 5 yards).

Dave Aranda / Ron Roberts Terminology

General & Run Support

CLOSED SIDE: The side of the formation where the TE is attached.
OPEN SIDE: The side of the formation with a receiver split out from the tackle.
DOG: Any 5-man rush where a DL/OLB drops into coverage.
BLITZ: Any 6-man rush with man coverage.
NICKEL: 5th defensive back.
DIME: 6th defensive back.
FORCE: The responsibility of meeting an end run and turning it back inside. Can be Backer, Cloud (corner), Sky (safety), or Easy (DE) force.
LEVERAGE: The technique of keeping the outside arm free to contain the football.
FILL (PLUG): Responsibility for the off-tackle cutback area.
CHASE DEFENDER: Player assigned to follow the ball for windback, bootleg, or reverse plays.

D-Line & LB Terms

STAB: OLB playing the C-gap from a 9-tech alignment on the TE.
OX: A pass rush stunt where the outside rusher penetrates first and the inside rusher loops out for contain.
INDIAN: A pass rush stunt where the inside rusher works for contain first and the outside rusher loops in second.
PEEL: A technique where the widest rusher covers the running back if he releases to the flat.
STEM: The D-line aligns in one front and shifts to another on a "move" call.
LAKE/RIVER: A call in Nickel Man to set the front, usually made to the TE or away from the RB.
RAM/LION: A defensive line slant to the right (Ram) or left (Lion).

Coverage Terms

HAMMER: A quarters check where the OLB covers the flat, the corner plays man-to-man on #1, and the safety plays his quarter.
GOLD: A quarters check against any 3x1 set where the OLB away from trips has the RB in man-to-man.
SOLO: A man coverage adjustment for 1-back sets where ILBs read the back, the OLB covers the TE, and safeties cover the FB/extra TE.
YELLOW: A man coverage adjustment vs. Empty where the Rover covers the RB.
BOX: An adjustment vs. bunch sets in quarters coverage where the defense plays 4-over-3.
TRAIL TECHNIQUE: A man coverage technique where defenders collision receivers and then play from an inside/underneath position.
VIKING: A man coverage adjustment where the corner on a single-receiver side can use trail technique due to safety help over the top.
DALLAS: An in-and-out man coverage technique between two DBs on a slot receiver.
FUNNEL: An in-and-out man coverage technique between two DBs on an X or Z receiver.
TULSA: An in-and-out man coverage technique between two defenders on a TE.

SQUEEZE: A zone coverage technique where the corner plays the flat from an inside leverage position on receiver #1. The deep-half safety is responsible for receiver #1 vertically.
BASIC DISTRIBUTION: Creates three receivers to the strong side and two receivers to the weak side.
FLOW DISTRIBUTION: Both running backs move to create four receivers on the strong side of the formation.
WEBB DISTRIBUTION: Both running backs move to create three receivers on the weak side of the formation.
CURL FLAT: A zone coverage technique where a defender holds the curl zone area and the "7" route (out route) area, breaking on any flat route.
HOOK CURL: A zone coverage technique where the defender drops to a landmark at 10-12 yards depth and reads the QB's intentions.
OUTSIDE MAN: A man coverage technique where the defender maintains an outside-in leverage position on the receiver.
INSIDE MAN: A man coverage technique where the defender has no help in the middle of the field and must deny an inside release.
PLASTER: A call alerting pass defenders that the QB is scrambling. Defenders should match up to the deepest receiver in their zone.
PRESS: A coverage technique used by the corner to force the receiver to flatten his release at the line of scrimmage.
HUG RUSH: An aggressive rush by a linebacker or defensive back who is in man coverage when their assigned player blocks or fakes a run.
DIVIDERS: Landmarks used by cornerbacks to align inside or outside a receiver in zone coverage to best utilize their help.
BONE: A term used to describe a defensive rusher disrupting a running back's release during a pass rush.
TITS: A term used to describe a defensive rusher disrupting a tight end's release during a pass rush.
BLANKET: A coverage used on the last play of the game from the +15 to +30 yard line.
PACKER: A Cover 2 concept versus trips where the cornerback plays man-to-man on receiver #1 to the trips side. All other defenders play Cover 2 with no one inside of #1.
SCREW: An adjustment in quarters coverage where the outside linebacker aligns outside the #2 receiver.

Zone Area Definitions (Aranda/Roberts Continued)

FLAT: The area from the tight end to the sideline, at a depth of 1-7 yards.
HOOK: The area over a typical tight end alignment, up to a depth of 9-15 yards. It extends horizontally from the TE to the offensive tackle.
HOLE: The area between the offensive tackles, up to a depth of 12-15 yards.
SEAM: The area over a normal tight end alignment that lies between two designated defensive zones.
OUT: An area 8-15 yards deep, directly outside the wide receiver's alignment to the sideline.
CURL: An area 8-15 yards deep, directly inside any wide receiver's alignment.
STRONG/WEAK DEEP OUTSIDE THIRD: The outside third of the field on the strong or weak side, from about 3 yards inside the numbers to the sideline, and from 16 yards deep to the goal line.
MIDDLE DEEP THIRD: The deep middle of the field between the numbers, from 16 yards deep to the goal line.
OUTSIDE HALF: The area from the middle of the field to the sideline, from 16 yards deep to the goal line.

Todd Orlando Terminology (Aranda-Adjacent)

Front: Stunts & Adjustments

TITE: A front where Ends are in a 4i-technique (securing B-gaps) and the Nose is in a 0-technique (securing a backside A-gap).
INSERT: The Will linebacker blitzes on a pass read.
RAM/LION: The front slants to the strength (Ram = Right, Lion = Left) on the snap to strengthen the run defense.
LOU/RAY: Tells the Nose which way to slant on the snap (Lou = Left, Ray = Right).
BOW (Bump Over Weak): A call made against trips to the boundary. The boundary guard becomes the new center reference for the defense.
BOSS (Bump Over Strong): If the offense aligns with 4 skill players to the field, this call tells the D-Line to slant strong.
FIRE RIGHT/LEFT: On an X-Over formation, this call tells the OLB to the TE side to blitz off the edge while the defense plays Robber coverage.
INDIAN: An "X" stunt where the inside defensive lineman goes first and the outside lineman loops second.
PINCH: Align in a "20" or "40" stance and stunt to the inside gap.
STEM: A pre-snap movement where the defense shifts from one front to another (e.g., Stem Odd, Stem Even, Stem Bear).
RENO: An inside twist by the interior D-linemen, often paired with a "Yellow" (empty) coverage check.
BULL: A call for the defensive end (with no TE present) to align in a 4-technique and bull rush the tackle straight back.
BOMB: A call from a B-gap blitzer telling the defensive end to blitz the B-gap, allowing the linebacker to blitz the A-gap.
SPEAR: The Field LB spear-blitzes off the edge while the Mike LB loops around for contain.

Coverage Terminology

HAMMER: A curl/flat concept where the OLB relates to the widest inside receiver, the corner plays man-to-man on #1 (unless short), and the safety reads #2.
SCREW: An adjustment vs. trips where the OLB aligns inside #2 with a flat-foot read (seam technique).
VEGAS (CHICO): An empty-formation adjustment to the 3-receiver side. The corner plays a deep third, the safety poaches #3 to #2, and the Field LB uses a seam technique.
GOLD: A check against any 3x1 set where the OLB away from trips has the RB in man-to-man coverage on vertical or outside routes.
BOX: An adjustment vs. bunch formations where the safety will "jump the box" on any non-vertical route.
CLOUD: A hard corner in 2-deep coverage.
PUSH: A call vs. 4x1 (Ranger) sets telling the Will LB to push over to the trips side and anticipate the first inside route.
ROBBER COVERAGE: Essentially a 3-under, 3-deep "dog" coverage.
COMBO: A technique for tight receiver splits where the inside defender takes the first in-breaking route and the outside defender takes the first out-breaking route.
ROCK & ROLL: A safety exchange on motion, where the post safety takes the motion player man-to-man.
SOLO: Inside LBs read the RB, safeties cover the FB/extra TE, and OLBs cover the on-the-line TE.
YELLOW: An empty check where the Will LB covers the RB, the defense plays man-free, and the D-line runs a "Reno" stunt.
KEY: ILBs play 2-on-1 vs. the RB, and safeties play 2-on-1 vs. the FB or off-the-ball TE.
FUNNEL: A double team on receiver #1.
DALLAS: A double team on receiver #2.
TULSA: A double team on an attached TE between a safety and a linebacker.
LOCK: Run with all motion; no "Rock & Roll" with the safeties.

Jon Heacock (Iowa State) Terminology

APEX: An alignment for a defender (typically a Linebacker or Safety) where they position themselves between the end of the offensive line and a slot receiver to defend both run and pass. Sam and Will Linebackers are described as "APEX ALIGN DEFENDERS" in the SPECIAL package.
Blaze: A general term for a family of blitz packages seen in calls like Cali Blaze and Wyoming Blaze. These concepts typically involve linebacker or defensive back pressure with a 2-deep safety shell behind it.
Blue: A specific defensive check used against Empty formations when the set is aligned into the boundary (FSL).
BRACKET: A coverage adjustment, often against snug or bunch formations, where two defenders are assigned to "bracket" a single receiver, taking away both inside and outside releases.
BRONCO: A coverage check or adjustment, typically involving the Free Safety (FS) moving down into a "poach" position.
BUNCH ADJUSTMENTS: Specific rules for defending bunch formations. In man coverage (COMBO 13), the CB takes the first outside route and the STAR takes the first inside route. In zone coverage (TRAFFIC), the SLB takes the #2 receiver to the flat.
BURN: A coverage concept indicating a 3-under, 3-deep zone, often associated with a 5-man pressure.
CALI BLAZE: A 4-under, 2-deep pressure package from a 3-High Safety look. The boundary Cornerback blitzes, while the STAR and Strong Safety play the deep half-field zones.
CITY: A 2-High Safety package that combines other calls based on the running back's alignment. It runs SEATTLE if the back is strong and WACO if the back is weak.
CLOUD: A coverage technique, usually for a Cornerback. The defender is responsible for the flat zone and provides primary run support. This is often called to the boundary or to the side of a NUB tight end.
COMBO 13: A man coverage adjustment against bunch formations where the Cornerback is responsible for the "1st OUTSIDE ROUTE BETWEEN 1 & 3" and the STAR is responsible for the "1st INSIDE ROUTE BETWEEN 1 & 3".
FSL (Formation-into-Sideline/Boundary): An acronym indicating that the strength of an offensive formation is aligned to the short side of the field, often triggering specific defensive checks or adjustments like HAMMER or BLUE.
Hammer: A check or technique, likely for an outside linebacker, often used against formations set into the boundary (FSL). It appears to trigger a specific blitz path or coverage adjustment.
HARD: A 3-High Safety, 5-under, 3-deep coverage. The Mike linebacker acts as a QB "SPY," outside linebackers "COLLISION & CARRY #2," and the Safeties play "TAMPA" (deep ½) technique.
HIGH/LOW: A 3rd down rush concept where the Mike linebacker works to the back, the 5-tech is "HIGH," and the Nose and 3-tech execute a stunt.
HOT: A coverage term indicating a pressure scheme where there are fewer underneath defenders than potential receivers (e.g., 2-under, 3-deep). Defenders must read the QB and break on the throw.
INDICATOR: An offensive player (often a TE or FB) whose alignment dictates the strength of the formation and the direction of the defensive line's gap charge. If there is no indicator, the call defaults to the weak side.
KICK: A Cover 4 adjustment against NUB formations. The "KICK" corner becomes the primary run support defender and takes the first receiver to the flat, allowing the Free Safety to cover the tight end.
KNIFE 6: A 4-under, 3-deep zone blitz where the pressure comes from the linebacker opposite the running back's alignment.
Louie / Roger: Directional calls for the defensive line, likely indicating "Left" (Louie) and "Right" (Roger), based on the alignment of the offensive "indicator." This call dictates the direction of the gap charge in certain fronts.
MAINE HOT: A 2-under, 3-deep "HOT" coverage. It features an edge blitz from the Sam linebacker and A-gap pressure from the Mike and Will ("RUN AMMO"). The STAR plays the middle of the field.
MEG (Man Everywhere he Goes): A corner technique where the defender is responsible for the receiver "UP OR OUT."
MONTANA (BURN): A 5-man pressure with a 3-under, 3-deep "BURN" coverage. The box linebackers blitz off the guards' movement.
NOC (Nub Over Correction/Check): An adjustment made against formations featuring a "nub" tight end (a TE with no WR outside of him), often keeping the linebackers in their original alignment.
OKIE: A base defensive front, often used in conjunction with other calls like TANK or as a check against certain offensive formations like Empty.
PUSH: A Cover 4 adjustment used with UNO coverage when the back is offset to the NUB TE side. It is a "COMBO COVERAGE" call between the linebacker and corner.
RENO: A 2-High Safety coverage that uses "QB ALLEY" and other checks based on formation.
ROVER: A 3-High Safety coverage where the STAR safety is in the run fit and the Mike linebacker is a QB "SPY." The coverage behind it is typically a form of Cover 3.
SLANT: A defensive front call where the line executes a "GAP CHARGE AWAY FROM THE INDICATOR."
SOLO: A coverage rule used within the UNO, SEATTLE, and CITY packages, where safeties have man-to-man responsibilities and specific leverage rules.
SPECIAL: The base 3-High Safety package. It utilizes Cover 4 concepts where the Sam and Will are "APEX" defenders and the Mike is a "BOX" defender.
SPIKE: A linebacker technique used against a 3-man surface to "SPILL PULLERS." In the passing game, the spiking linebacker converts to a "SPY" technique.
SPY: A linebacker assignment to mirror the quarterback, primarily used to contain mobile QBs.
STACKS: A man coverage adjustment against stacked receivers where the pressed DB takes the back receiver and the off DB takes the front receiver.
STRETCH: A coverage rule used against 3x1 formations where the STAR and Strong Safety execute a 2/3 match on the three-receiver side.
SWORD 6: A 4-under, 3-deep zone blitz where the pressure comes from the linebacker to the same side as the running back.
TAMPA SAFETY: A deep-half field technique used by the safeties in HARD coverage.
TANK: A defensive front call featuring a "GAP CHARGE TO THE INDICATOR."
TRAP: A combination coverage that plays HARD to the field side and SPECIAL to the boundary side.
TRAFFIC: A zone coverage adjustment used against bunch or condensed formations.
UNO: A base 2-High Safety package that uses a 3-linebacker box against 2-RB sets and features SOLO coverage rules for the safeties. It has automatic checks (YELLOW and BLUE) for Empty formations.
WACO: A 2-High blitz package where the Will linebacker is an edge rusher. It uses UNO coverage rules behind the pressure.
WYOMING BLAZE: A 4-under, 2-deep pressure from an Okie front where the Will and Mike linebackers are blitzers and the safeties play deep-half coverage.
Yellow: A specific defensive check used against standard Empty formations.

Ravens 2.0 System Terminology

(Macdonald, Minter, Orr, Wink)

Defensive Fronts

Base Fronts (4-3 Personnel)

Under: A standard 4-3 front where the Sam (Strongside Linebacker), End, and Nose align to the "closed" call side.
Rock/Laser: A fixed front that does not adjust to shifts or trades from the offense. "Rock" is a call to the right, and "Laser" is a call to the left.
Soak: A front designed to "soak" up interior blocks, featuring a 0-technique Nose and a 4i-technique End.
Odd: A 3-man front, typically with a Nose Guard centered over the ball and two interior defensive linemen.

Sub Fronts (Nickel/Dime Personnel)

Plus: A versatile front where the defensive line's alignment is determined by a "closed" call based on the offense's formation (e.g., to the TE, RB, Field, etc.).
Flex: Similar to the "Plus" front, but with the defensive ends tightening from a 9-technique to a 6-technique.
Rush: An aggressive front for passing situations, putting edge rushers in "Jet Mode" with wider alignments.
Wide: A 3rd down front that features two 3-technique defensive tackles.
Load: A 3rd down overload front designed to bring pressure from one side.
Sink/Tilt: Situational fronts, often used in the redzone, where the 3-technique defensive tackle's alignment is based on the running back's position.

Defensive Techniques & Philosophy

Simulated Pressures These are pressures, often named after famous quarterbacks or using other monikers, that disguise the defense's true intentions.

Force Player: The defender responsible for setting the edge of the defense, preventing outside runs and forcing the ball carrier back inside. Types of force include Easy (End), Backer (Linebacker), Sky (Safety), and Cloud (Corner).
C.B.R. (Cutback, Boot, Reverse): The responsibility of the backside contain player to defend against these three specific plays away from the primary action.
Primary/Secondary Gap: A run-defense philosophy where a defender is responsible for their aligned gap first (Primary) and the adjacent gap second (Secondary) based on ball flow.
Wing Bust: A specific technique used by an outside linebacker to defeat a block from a wing tight end.

Defensive Coverages

Base & Sub Coverages (Cover 3 & Man)

Wasp/Buzz: Both are Cover 3 (4-under, 3-deep) zone coverages. The primary difference is the safety rotation: Wasp typically uses an outside rotation (Rob/Lou), while Buzz uses an inside rotation (Rita/Linda).
Sting: A Cover 3 zone coverage where the linebacker rotations are keyed off the Sam linebacker.
1 Rat: A man-free coverage with a single high safety ("rat") in the middle of the field.
1 Robber: A man-free coverage where a safety "robs" the intermediate area of the field, reading the quarterback's intentions.
1 Funnel: A coverage that "funnels" receivers to the middle of the field, combining man and zone principles.
- Tango/Amigos: Specific tools used within 1 Funnel to handle two-tight end ("YY") formations.

Pattern-Match Coverages Pattern-matching is a scheme where defenders start with zone principles but convert to man-to-man coverage based on receiver routes.

3 Lock/3 Site: The primary pattern-match Cover 3. 3 Site is a variation with specific rules for handling 3x1 formations. Key techniques include:
- M.U.S.H. (Man Unless Shallow): A defender plays man-to-man unless the receiver runs a shallow crosser.
- Sort/Fast: Pre-snap calls to handle "stacked" or "bunched" receivers.
Pound/Pack/Stuff: These are split-safety, Cover 4-based coverages.
- Pound: Standard Cover 4 (Quarters).
- Pack: A split-field coverage playing Quarters to one side and Cover 2 away.
- Stuff: The inverse of Pack.
Quarters (Cover 4) Tools: Quads, Box, Area, and Stump are specific checks within Quarters coverage to handle different receiver formations.
Tampa: Tampa is a standard Cover 2 where the Mike linebacker is the middle-run-through player.
Choke: A man-coverage call where defenders use a "trail" technique, with two deep safeties providing help over the top.
Biggie: A split-safety bracket coverage where safeties are assigned to "bracket" (double-cover) specific wide receivers.

Situational Defenses

Redzone

Red 1 Rat: A redzone-specific man coverage that adds a "double" call on a key receiver.
Redsox: A redzone man coverage where defenders play with outside leverage and safeties act as "cutters" to slice in front of crossing routes.
Red Pound: The Pound (Quarters) coverage adapted for the condensed space of the redzone.
Prison/Jail: Man coverage concepts for the redzone using Flex or Tilt fronts.

Gregg Williams Defensive Terminology

Man-to-Man Pressure Terms

ADD: A man-to-man defender "adds" to the pass rush when his assigned coverage player stays in to pass block.
DIG: A blitz adjustment telling the edge rusher to go inside/under a 2nd-level blocker (RB/TE). Acronym for Dogger Inside Guy.
DOUG: A blitz adjustment telling the edge rusher to go outside any 2nd-level blocker to contain the pocket. Acronym for Doggers Outside and Under Guys.
HIT CALL: A call from a coverage defender to an outside rusher, telling them to re-route a fast-releasing running back and force him inside.
TAKE CALL: An edge rusher assumes coverage on a "CHOWed" (Cheated Out Wide) running back, and the original coverage defender now blitzes.
SNAG: Technique for an edge blitzer who gets blocked by an on-the-line TE. The blitzer "snags" the TE, maintaining outside leverage and taking him in coverage if he releases late.
YUGO: Communication between LBs/DBs to exchange blitz and coverage responsibilities, often against a detached #2 receiver.

Run Support & Fronts

BOX: A technique used by a defender to force the ball inward when taking on a lead blocker.
SPILL: A run-fit technique where a player fits inside a block to force the ball carrier to bounce outside to a free defender.
CAP: A deep defender with pass-first responsibility who "caps" the run from the top down.
CLEO/CLOUD: Corner-force responsibilities. Cleo is from an inside alignment (forcing an outside release), while Cloud is from an outside alignment (forcing an inside release).
TACO: An adjustment where a 3-technique moves to a 4i and a defensive end moves to a 9-technique, usually against a twin formation.
GONE: An adjustment vs. a 3-man surface that moves a shade to a 2i and a 5-tech to a 7-tech.

Zone & Coverage Terms

POACH: A coverage technique by a hook/hash dropper who keys the QB and compresses the field toward the direction the QB is looking.
MIDDLE READ: The Mike linebacker's technique in Cover 2, responsible for closing the middle of the field by staying on top of #2 to the passing strength.
YANKEE: A switch in 3-deep zone against a deep "over" route by a single receiver. The deep 1/3 defender drives the route, and the backside 1/3 defender replaces him in the deep middle of the field.
THUMBS: A double-coverage technique where the corner plays deep-half coverage (2-to-1 read), getting inside-out help on receiver #1.
FIST: A man-to-man technique where the defender plays with inside press leverage, knowing he has help deep and outside.
SLICE: A bracket coverage where one defender takes any outside break and the other takes any inside break.
CUT: A call between a corner and safety to handle tight receiver splits, where the safety drives down to take man coverage and the corner replaces him deep.
LOCK: A call that commits a defender to a receiver with no exchanges.
ZEBRA: A call between two defenders alerting them to a potential exchange of coverage assignments on two eligible receivers who are close to each other.
TOKYO: A code word used by the MLB to check the defense into that package's version of Cover 2.

HOT: A check to a Wide/Jet Over front where the defensive linemen loosen into their best pass-rushing alignments. The closed-side DE goes to a cocked 9-tech, the 3-tech takes a B-gap charge, the shade widens to a 2i, and the 5-tech loosens and cocks.
ADJUST AND PLAY IT: A term describing how the defense handles motion or shifts. Instead of checking the play, the defense adjusts alignments as needed and plays the original huddle call.
RELOAD: A term alerting the defense that the offense has shifted, requiring the defense to reset accordingly.

Zone Defense Terms

POACH: A coverage technique by a hook/hash dropper who, after his initial drop, keys the QB and compresses the field to the side the QB is looking. The poach area is typically 10-14 yards deep from the hash to the midpoint.
MIDDLE READ: The Mike linebacker's technique in Cover 2. He is responsible for "closing" the middle of the field by staying on top of the #2 receiver to the passing strength.
SPIDER: A play where the Nose Tackle (NT) plays the run first, then drops into a shallow middle hook, keying the #3 receiver in pass coverage.
WIDOW: A play where a Linebacker (LB) plays the run first, then drops into a shallow middle hook, keying the #3 receiver.
PRESS BAIL: A technique where a corner or safety starts in a press alignment but leaves the line of scrimmage just before the snap to gain depth while maintaining outside leverage.
ABILITY ALIGN: The concept that each player may take a slightly different alignment to best execute their assignment based on their individual abilities.
DANGER: A call used in Cover 2 against 1-back sets to alert for four vertical routes.
RAIL: A call used in Cover 3 against 1-back sets to alert for four vertical routes.
YANKEE: In 3-deep zone, a switch in the middle of the field when a single receiver ("X") runs a deep over route. The deep 1/3 defender drives the route, and the opposite 1/3 defender sprints to replace him in the deep middle.
FLOW: Action by the running backs where they both release to the strong side of the pattern (4 strong).
FLOOD: Action by the running backs where they both release to the weak side of the pattern (3 weak).
1-TO-2 OR 2-TO-1 READ: The progression read by a deep-third or deep-half defender. If #2 threatens vertically, the defender must gain depth. If #2 is not a vertical threat, the defender can squeeze and focus on #1.
2ND MAN THRU: A rule in zone coverage. If the #2 receiver runs a flat-and-up (wheel) route, the widest underneath dropper must carry him up the sideline.

Man-to-Man Coverage Terms

THUMBS: A double-coverage technique where the corner plays deep-half, using a 2-to-1 read, with inside-out help on the #1 receiver.
SWIPE: Both defenders play "Thumbs" technique on two receivers.
FIST: A technique where the defender plays with inside press leverage, knowing there is help deep and outside.
SLICE: A bracket coverage where one defender drives on any outside break and the other drives on any inside break.
CUT: A call between a corner and safety to handle tight receiver splits. The safety drives down to take man coverage, and the corner drops to replace the safety's deep responsibility.
VICE: A violent "Slice" technique where two defenders press the same receiver at the line of scrimmage to destroy their release.
LOCK: A call that commits a defender to a receiver one-on-one, with no exchanges.
ZEBRA: A call alerting two defenders of a potential exchange of coverage assignments, typically on a TE and RB.
BUMP: A term used by defenders to shift coverage responsibility one man over in response to motion.
SINGLE X: A call in a 5-man pressure to send the post-safety to double a specific offensive player (e.g., "Single-X #80").
SINGLE ROBBER: A red zone coverage for single pressures where the middle-of-field safety does not double a player but instead "robs" based on the QB's intentions.
TOP HAT: A technique against stacked receivers. The first defender presses the on-the-line receiver, and the second defender covers the off-the-line receiver.
SOLO: Indicates a defender has inside man-to-man responsibility with no help.
SPY: A low-hole defender keys the QB; if the QB scrambles, the defender aborts his zone drop to tackle the QB.

Down Safety & Pass Rush Terms

DOWN (RT/LT): A call made by the Strong Safety in single-high coverage to tell the linebackers which side he is dropping down to.
RALPH/LARRY: A call in Cover 3 indicating the direction of the safety force. Ralph = Right; Larry = Left.
RITA/LINDA: A call in Cover 3 indicating the direction the safeties are rotating for a hash (buzz) drop. Rita = Right; Linda = Left.
DAYLIGHT: The separation or open lanes in a pass protection scheme as the play develops.
DEAD ZONE: The area 3+ yards deep directly behind the center and guards that the pass rush must penetrate to affect the QB.
FENCE POST: The point at the top of the pass protection pocket that contain rushers must own but not rush past.

General System & Offensive Terms

JET: A code word to communicate that the defense anticipates a pass.
RALLY: A code word to communicate that the defense anticipates a run.
BOGEY: A term telling the entire defense to show one look but play another.
BLUFF/SUGAR: A term for a player or group to show one look (like a blitz) and then do something else.
A.F.C (Automatic Front and Coverage): A package of calls the MLB can choose from based on the offensive formation.
B.T.F (Blitz The Formation): A package of blitz calls the MLB can choose from based on the offensive formation.
MIKE/RE-MIKE: The offensive line's identification of the primary linebacker they are accounting for in their blocking scheme. Forcing a "Re-Mike" is a defensive goal.
KILL: An offensive check at the line where the QB can switch from a primary play to a secondary play based on the defensive look.

Brett Venables Defensive Terminology

Foundational Concepts

LEFT/RIGHT: The primary directional call that sets the front. It tells the Nose Guard to align in the A-gap to the call side, with the rest of the front adjusting accordingly.
GAP SOUND: A term to determine if the defense has all potential offensive running gaps accounted for.
LEVER/SPILL: Run-fit responsibilities for the MIKE and WILL linebackers, predicated on which safety is the "low" or down safety. The "lever" player maintains outside leverage, while the "spill" player fits inside-out.

Defensive Fronts & Alignments

EAGLE STRONG: A 5-3 front called to the TE side. The Strong Safety is the low safety, creating an 8-man box.
OVER: A 4-4 front called away from the TE. Linebackers "stack" the defensive linemen.
EAGLE WEAK: A 5-3 front called to the TE side, but with the Free Safety as the low safety.
NICKEL: A 4-2 front that is the primary pass defense. It is not gap sound without pressure. Personnel typically includes two linebackers and five defensive backs.
DOLLAR: A 3-4 front used in long-yardage situations, featuring 3 defensive linemen, 2 linebackers, and 6 defensive backs.
OKIE: The base 3-4 personnel and alignment.

General Concepts & Calls

STUNTS: Pre-planned movements by the defensive line to attack the running game.
GAMES: Coordinated twisting maneuvers by defensive linemen in a pass rush.
SOLID: The tight end side of the offensive set.
FLEX: The side away from the tight end.
FIELD: A call to set the defensive front towards the wide side of the field when the ball is on a hash mark.
SKY: A call indicating safety force, typically to the tight end side.
COMET: A call indicating corner force.
BACKER: A call indicating linebacker force.
SEAM ALERT: A call denoting that three receivers are split away from the core of the formation, alerting the defense to potential seam routes.
CARRY: A technique used by defenders to run with inside and vertical routes.
BANJO: A technique where two defenders key the same offensive player (usually a back) to determine their man-to-man coverage responsibility based on his release.
PEEL RULES: Denotes that a contain rusher has man-to-man responsibility on a running back.

Coverage Shells & Blitz Packages

COVER 5 (SMASH/CLOUD): A Cover 2 field coverage with no low safety.
BROWN: A man-free robber or bracket coverage where defenders play with outside leverage because help is inside.
COVER 4/3: A coverage that plays Cover 4 against 2-back sets and Cover 3 against 1-back sets.
SILVER: A man-free coverage (everyone is in man with a Free Safety in the middle of the field), typically run with a blitz. Help is to the inside.
PURPLE: A straight man-to-man coverage with no deep safety help ("bringing the house"). Defenders play with inside leverage.
BLUE: A man-free coverage with the weak safety acting as a robber.
3 ROBBER: A coverage with a 2-deep safety look where, on the snap, the weak safety "robs" the weak-side dig or curl route.
SMACK: A blitz where the Sam LB rushes from outside the TE, run with "Silver" coverage.
SLAM: A blitz where the Sam LB rushes from outside the TE through the B-gap, run with "Silver" coverage.
WILL: The Will LB blitzes his assigned gap, run with "Silver" coverage.
MUG: The Mike LB blitzes his assigned gap, run with "Silver" coverage.

Defensive Line Movements (Stunts/Games)

RIP: The call-side end "rips" into the next gap inside.
BLOOD: The Nose Guard and 3-technique slant to their gaps toward the call side.
TAM: The 3-technique slants to the next gap inside (A-gap).
KNIFE: The end away from the call "knifes" into his gap.
FIRE: All linebackers are blitzing their assigned gaps.
PIRATE: A 3-man twist where the end and tackle away from the call slant towards the call, and the Nose Guard loops for contain.

Specific Coverage Concepts

WEAK: A rotation in middle-of-the-field-closed coverages where the Free Safety comes down away from the Sam.
SKY: A rotation where the Strong Safety comes down outside of the Sam.
BUZZ: A rotation where the Free Safety comes down inside of the Will, giving the Will weak flat responsibility.
RIP/LIZ: Calls to play pattern-matching 3-deep zone. To the call side, the CB and curl-flat defender will match vertical routes by #1 and #2.
VICE: Man-free coverage with a pre-determined double-team ("vice") on a specific receiver.
PALMS (CLAMP): A 2-read or quarters-based match coverage. The corner reads the #2 receiver to determine his responsibility on #1.
SLICE: Any coverage with deep-halves to the boundary can be "sliced," changing it to an inverted half where the CB becomes the deep-half player.
BUFFALO: A quarters coverage that plays a bracket-quarters concept to the field side.

OPEN: An adjustment in quarters coverage versus a bunch or stack formation. The Nickel/Sam takes the first receiver to the flat, the Mike takes the first inside route, the CB takes the first upfield route with outside leverage, and the Strong Safety plays the upfield route with inside leverage (a "Box" concept).
LOCK: The 1/4-1/4-1/2 (1/4 field, 1/4 field, 1/2 field) companion to "Buffalo" coverage. The defense will play Bracket to the field and Halves (Cover 2) to the boundary.
BRACKET: A quarters coverage where the defense plays a bracket concept to both the field and the boundary.
COLT: A 5-deep, 3-under coverage used in Dime personnel.
- vs. 2x2 sets: The defense plays "Palms" on #1 and #2 with a deep middle player.
- vs. 3x1 sets: The defense plays "Palms" on #1 and #2 to the field, with the Dime player taking the vertical route of #3 and "Buffalo" coverage on the single receiver.
2 BRACKET: A split-safety coverage that plays Cover 2 to the field and Bracket coverage to the boundary.
COVER 2: A 2-deep coverage where the linebackers are vertical hook players on #2 and #3, and the cornerbacks have "China" responsibility (playing underneath routes).
5 ROBBER: A 3-deep, 5-under coverage used in the Dime package. The cornerbacks play "Cloud" technique and do not have "China" responsibility. The Dime player is the middle run-through defender.
TRAP: A fire zone coverage used to play a Cover 2 concept against a 3x1 set.
BISON: A "Buffalo" concept against 3x1 formations. The Nickel/Sam takes the Mike's responsibility, the Strong Safety rolls down to take the Nickel/Sam's spot, and the Free Safety rolls over to take the Strong Safety's original responsibility.

» MatchQuarters is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe, like, and share articles.

Discussion about this post

Ready for more?