When used at the highest level, zone coverage can be so effective that the defense is able to take away multiple receivers with one defender.
Today we’re going to talk about a drill that helps teach DBs how to cover a zone occupied by two offensive players, while preventing the ball from making it to either of them.
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The Stretch and Break Zone Coverage Drill
Set up this drill with two WRs on the LOS 5 yards apart. The DB will be placed 5 yards in front of them apexed between the two to simulate the defender occupying his zone.
On the coach’s signal, the two WRs will release vertically into the DB’s zone.
The DB will keep his eyes locked onto the coach as he backpedals with the vertical releases.
The coach will turn his shoulders indicating the direction the ball is headed and the DB will react and break on the ball.
The DB will wall off the receiver while playing the ball and intercept it before the receiver is able to make a play on it.
Make sure the DB watches the coach and not the WRs while he waits to make his break. He should be defending his zone and not either of the two players. By playing the football and using proper movement mechanics, the ball will bring him to the receiver that he needs to defend and make the play on.
See inside all of the drills you need to create DBs that can defend the ENITRE field in The Complete Defensive Back Drill Book
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