How to beat Cover 2?

How to Beat Cover 2?

Beating a Cover 2 defense is a challenge that many football teams face. Cover 2 is a defensive scheme that uses two safeties to cover the deep zones of the field, leaving the cornerbacks to handle the short and intermediate routes. However, there are ways to exploit this coverage and score points. In this article, we will explore the best ways to beat Cover 2 and score touchdowns.

Understand the Basics of Cover 2

Before we dive into the strategies for beating Cover 2, it’s essential to understand the basics of this defensive scheme. Cover 2 is a zone-based defense that uses two safeties to cover the deep zones of the field. The strong safety is responsible for covering the deep left half of the field, while the free safety covers the deep right half of the field. The cornerbacks play zone coverage underneath the safeties, covering the short and intermediate routes.

The Most Common Way to Attack Cover 2

The most common way to attack Cover 2 is to use the high-low concept. This involves running a post-corner route on the outside, while simultaneously running a shallow drag route on the inside. The post-corner route freezes the cornerbacks, allowing the receiver to break outside and create separation. The shallow drag route takes away the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open.

Run the Flat-7 Route

Another effective way to beat Cover 2 is to run the flat-7 route. This route involves running a flat route underneath the safeties, while simultaneously running a deep post route behind the cornerbacks. The flat route occupies the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open on the deep post route.

Use the "Pin" Route

The "pin" route is another effective way to attack Cover 2. This route involves running a curl route underneath the safeties, while simultaneously running a deep post route behind the cornerbacks. The curl route occupies the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open on the deep post route.

Exploit the Safeties

Cover 2 relies heavily on the safeties to cover the deep zones of the field. If the safeties are aggressive and coming up to support the run, it can create opportunities for big plays. Look for opportunities to exploit the safeties by running deep routes and stretching the defense vertically.

Use Misdirection

Misdirection is key when attacking Cover 2. Look for opportunities to misdirect the safeties by running fake routes or using misdirection screens. This can create confusion and opportunities for big plays.

Take Advantage of the Cornerbacks

Cornerbacks are often the weak link in a Cover 2 defense. Look for opportunities to take advantage of their lack of coverage skills by running vertical routes and testing their ability to cover the deep ball.

Run the Smash Concept

The smash concept is a popular passing concept that is effective against Cover 2. It involves running a combination of routes, including a post route, a slant route, and a fade route. The post route occupies the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open on the slant route. The fade route tests the cornerback’s ability to cover the deep ball.

Run the Pin-and-Slip Concept

The pin-and-slip concept is another effective way to attack Cover 2. It involves running a combination of routes, including a curl route, a post route, and a slant route. The curl route occupies the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open on the post route. The slant route tests the cornerback’s ability to cover the intermediate route.

Run the Bubble Screen

The bubble screen is a popular running play that is effective against Cover 2. It involves running a combination of routes, including a bubble route and a slant route. The bubble route occupies the underneath help from the strong safety, allowing the receiver to get open on the slant route.

In Conclusion

Beating Cover 2 is a challenge that many football teams face. However, by using the strategies outlined in this article, you can exploit the weaknesses of this defense and score touchdowns. Remember to understand the basics of Cover 2, use misdirection, exploit the safeties, take advantage of the cornerbacks, and run the right routes to attack this defense. With practice and patience, you can become a master of beating Cover 2.