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Cody Alexander

@The_Coach_A • 71,918 subscribers

Solving defensive problems with data and film. MatchQuarters | Let’s Talk Ball! Pod | 6x Author No Frills Daily Football Clips

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"I passed the TE off to Jesus to cover him." - Talanoa Hufanga (9) 🙏😂 --

"I passed the TE off to Jesus to cover him." - Talanoa Hufanga (9) 🙏😂 --

167,155 views

The Ravens' Head Coach, Jesse Minter, used a 3-Safety structure on long-yardage passing downs during his tenure with the Chargers. That scheme was present in Week 1 vs. the Colts. With three Safeties starting from depth, the secondary can spin into multiple looks. Along with a coverage rotation, Baltimore is blitzing the CB, creating a five-man pressure. The goal of the pressure is to get newly acquired DE Trey Hendrickson (91) free in the QB's face. Paired with Anthony Weaver, the Ravens defense should be a fun watch in '26. Learn more about Minter's overall defensive philosophy on MatchQuarters: --

The Ravens' Head Coach, Jesse Minter, used a 3-Safety structure on long-yardage passing downs during his tenure with the Chargers. That scheme was present in Week 1 vs. the Colts. With three Safeties starting from depth, the secondary can spin into multiple looks. Along with a coverage rotation, Baltimore is blitzing the CB, creating a five-man pressure. The goal of the pressure is to get newly acquired DE Trey Hendrickson (91) free in the QB's face. Paired with Anthony Weaver, the Ravens defense should be a fun watch in '26. Learn more about Minter's overall defensive philosophy on MatchQuarters: --

184,863 views

The Buccaneers increased their Blitz Rate against the Cowboys by 10%, going from 38% to 48%. The pressure really cranked up on run downs, going from 26% to 40%. One of the main ways HC Todd Bowles likes to attack under-center runs is with vertical pressure. Against Dallas, we saw a change-up to his typical open-side (away-from-the-TE) path. Using an "opposite" tag, the LB to the TE attacks the open-side A-gap. Learn how other systems use the "Orton" path to attack early down run games, only on MatchQuarters: --

The Buccaneers increased their Blitz Rate against the Cowboys by 10%, going from 38% to 48%. The pressure really cranked up on run downs, going from 26% to 40%. One of the main ways HC Todd Bowles likes to attack under-center runs is with vertical pressure. Against Dallas, we saw a change-up to his typical open-side (away-from-the-TE) path. Using an "opposite" tag, the LB to the TE attacks the open-side A-gap. Learn how other systems use the "Orton" path to attack early down run games, only on MatchQuarters: --

34,715 views

One-Arm Restricted Peanut Punch >>> One-Arm Restricted Tackle ... 😂 --

One-Arm Restricted Peanut Punch >>> One-Arm Restricted Tackle ... 😂 --

29,878 views

The Cowboys' Jaishawn Barham (55) is going to be a weapon on early downs. Against the Cardinals, DC Christian Parker used him on the open side (away from the TE) to puncture the Cardinals' downhill run game. These pressures are becoming an excellent way to attack early down run concepts. The LB's job is to stay connected to the B-gap and work vertically, cutting off the RB or bending to him once he crosses the line of scrimmage. If this concept looks familiar, it's because Seattle's Mike Macdonald used this pressure in the Super Bowl to counter the Patriots' heavy-package run game. Learn more defensive best practices and trends, only on MatchQuarters: --

The Cowboys' Jaishawn Barham (55) is going to be a weapon on early downs. Against the Cardinals, DC Christian Parker used him on the open side (away from the TE) to puncture the Cardinals' downhill run game. These pressures are becoming an excellent way to attack early down run concepts. The LB's job is to stay connected to the B-gap and work vertically, cutting off the RB or bending to him once he crosses the line of scrimmage. If this concept looks familiar, it's because Seattle's Mike Macdonald used this pressure in the Super Bowl to counter the Patriots' heavy-package run game. Learn more defensive best practices and trends, only on MatchQuarters: --

139,541 views

The blitz is the coverage! Baltimore is running their signature "glitch" blitz vs. the Falcons. The two interior DL will pop into the seams while the DBs play man coverage. Yes, the Ravens blitzed the guy for the TE, but the iDL working to the seam walled him off. Yes, the RB is wide open, but the edge pressure makes the throw inaccurate. Any hesitation turns into a sack, and the blitz angles block throws to the flat. Is it unsound? Yes. Does it work? Yes. Learn more about this specific pressure, only on MatchQuarters: --

The blitz is the coverage! Baltimore is running their signature "glitch" blitz vs. the Falcons. The two interior DL will pop into the seams while the DBs play man coverage. Yes, the Ravens blitzed the guy for the TE, but the iDL working to the seam walled him off. Yes, the RB is wide open, but the edge pressure makes the throw inaccurate. Any hesitation turns into a sack, and the blitz angles block throws to the flat. Is it unsound? Yes. Does it work? Yes. Learn more about this specific pressure, only on MatchQuarters: --

10,984 views

Gary Patterson is back stalking a sideline. What does that mean? Classic 4-2-5 Quarters structures. The Trojans' game against San Jose St. gave us an excellent look at Patterson's defensive philosophy against a true Spread offense. Against a "Quads" alignment and backed up, USC "shoved" the coverage and gave a clinic look at "Solo" (poach) coverage. The Spartans attack with a Slot Fade, giving us a look at how the Weak Safety mechanics function. Solo is an "active" poach, and the Safety works quickly to the #3 WR. Once the receiver converts to a speed out, the WS climbs to close the post. Learn more about standard Quarters structures vs. Trips, including Solo, on MatchQuarters: --

Gary Patterson is back stalking a sideline. What does that mean? Classic 4-2-5 Quarters structures. The Trojans' game against San Jose St. gave us an excellent look at Patterson's defensive philosophy against a true Spread offense. Against a "Quads" alignment and backed up, USC "shoved" the coverage and gave a clinic look at "Solo" (poach) coverage. The Spartans attack with a Slot Fade, giving us a look at how the Weak Safety mechanics function. Solo is an "active" poach, and the Safety works quickly to the #3 WR. Once the receiver converts to a speed out, the WS climbs to close the post. Learn more about standard Quarters structures vs. Trips, including Solo, on MatchQuarters: --

110,386 views

Colorado's Brennan Marion put on a clinic in how to attack the Tite Front vs. Georgia Tech in the first half. Inside Zone can function as a collection of down blocks, and the Tite Front is inherently susceptible to gap schemes. The Buffaloes took advantage of the Jackets' soft C-gaps against their TEs. In the clip, Colorado runs a Split Zone Load from a 22p. All night, Marion consistently ran Inserts and Split Zones as de facto gap schemes, creating space for his running backs. The Buffs finished the night with 199 rushing yards on 47 carries (4.2 YPC). --

Colorado's Brennan Marion put on a clinic in how to attack the Tite Front vs. Georgia Tech in the first half. Inside Zone can function as a collection of down blocks, and the Tite Front is inherently susceptible to gap schemes. The Buffaloes took advantage of the Jackets' soft C-gaps against their TEs. In the clip, Colorado runs a Split Zone Load from a 22p. All night, Marion consistently ran Inserts and Split Zones as de facto gap schemes, creating space for his running backs. The Buffs finished the night with 199 rushing yards on 47 carries (4.2 YPC). --

87,405 views

The Jaguars used an internal twist against the Patriots' heavy personnel under-center run game. In Base, Jacksonville used a TON stunt to the open side to gain a free defender on the RB. The initial stunt from the 3-technique (Tam) knocks the LG off the Nose. Post-snap, the Nose steps to the LG, allowing the Center to "knock" him before he climbs to the ILB. Once the DT tags the LG, the Nose loops back behind the Center. The pressure puts the RB in a phone booth with the Nose. Learn more about how defenses use internal stunts to combat zone run schemes, only on MatchQuarters: --

The Jaguars used an internal twist against the Patriots' heavy personnel under-center run game. In Base, Jacksonville used a TON stunt to the open side to gain a free defender on the RB. The initial stunt from the 3-technique (Tam) knocks the LG off the Nose. Post-snap, the Nose steps to the LG, allowing the Center to "knock" him before he climbs to the ILB. Once the DT tags the LG, the Nose loops back behind the Center. The pressure puts the RB in a phone booth with the Nose. Learn more about how defenses use internal stunts to combat zone run schemes, only on MatchQuarters: --

40,575 views

The Cardinals have one of the most unique defenses in the NFL. Their "base" sub-package starts as a Penny (5-1) three-safety system and can morph into a 4-2-5 or a standard 3-4. Against the Raiders, the structure moves to a 4-2 once Las Vegas initially shifts to a 3x1 set. Learn more about how Arizona uses its three-safety platform to rotate into different coverages, only on MatchQuarters: --

The Cardinals have one of the most unique defenses in the NFL. Their "base" sub-package starts as a Penny (5-1) three-safety system and can morph into a 4-2-5 or a standard 3-4. Against the Raiders, the structure moves to a 4-2 once Las Vegas initially shifts to a 3x1 set. Learn more about how Arizona uses its three-safety platform to rotate into different coverages, only on MatchQuarters: --

104,268 views

One team I am interested in defensively is the Raiders. Similar to the Jaguars' Anthony Campanile, who built a unique defense from his diverse background in 2025, Las Vegas DC Rob Leonard is another to watch. Against Miami, we saw elements of his time in the Ravens system as well as schemes from his time under Brian Flores. A Flores staple is attacking the edges with pressure, especially when the offense goes condensed. One of Minnesota's favorite pressures has been a "SamCat" blitz that sends the strong-side LB (Sam) and the boundary CB (Cat). Learn more about this pressure path and why it is excellent against condensed formations, only on MatchQuarters: --

One team I am interested in defensively is the Raiders. Similar to the Jaguars' Anthony Campanile, who built a unique defense from his diverse background in 2025, Las Vegas DC Rob Leonard is another to watch. Against Miami, we saw elements of his time in the Ravens system as well as schemes from his time under Brian Flores. A Flores staple is attacking the edges with pressure, especially when the offense goes condensed. One of Minnesota's favorite pressures has been a "SamCat" blitz that sends the strong-side LB (Sam) and the boundary CB (Cat). Learn more about this pressure path and why it is excellent against condensed formations, only on MatchQuarters: --

46,278 views

The Peanut Punch strikes again!!! 💥💥💥 --

The Peanut Punch strikes again!!! 💥💥💥 --

83,209 views

This was an elite pass rush rep by the Bills... Look how everyone works off the Tex stunt to the boundary. Once the wrap creates a cut-off to the field, the field-side defenders work back across the QB's face. Layering a rush is just as important as the stunt used to create pressure. Learn more about the Tex stunt, the NFL's favorite concept on passing downs, only on MatchQuarters: --

This was an elite pass rush rep by the Bills... Look how everyone works off the Tex stunt to the boundary. Once the wrap creates a cut-off to the field, the field-side defenders work back across the QB's face. Layering a rush is just as important as the stunt used to create pressure. Learn more about the Tex stunt, the NFL's favorite concept on passing downs, only on MatchQuarters: --

41,066 views

CBs are now required to understand Safety spacing as well as the basics of the position. Currently, the NFL is running less man coverage than ever, with disguise a premium. It's an "add value" league, meaning players have to be able to play multiple spots on the field regardless of position. The explosion in non-traditional Tampas (NTTs) has CBs playing the "Big Half" in inverted schemes. This is an elite rep by Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey (44) at the bottom. His responsibility is half the field, but from an outside-in alignment. The Colts target the seam in a 3x1 set. Humphrey's initial stem inside allows him to track and overlap the seam throw. Learn more about NTTs and popular variations, only on MatchQuarters: --

CBs are now required to understand Safety spacing as well as the basics of the position. Currently, the NFL is running less man coverage than ever, with disguise a premium. It's an "add value" league, meaning players have to be able to play multiple spots on the field regardless of position. The explosion in non-traditional Tampas (NTTs) has CBs playing the "Big Half" in inverted schemes. This is an elite rep by Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey (44) at the bottom. His responsibility is half the field, but from an outside-in alignment. The Colts target the seam in a 3x1 set. Humphrey's initial stem inside allows him to track and overlap the seam throw. Learn more about NTTs and popular variations, only on MatchQuarters: --

34,604 views

USC's Gary Patterson is the king of split-field 4-2-5 defenses and knows how to fit the box against Spread sets as well as anyone else. When the RB is set away from the 3-technique, the DE on that side can wrap back inside to add numbers to the box. Typically, an offense will zone away from the back. With a base block, the DE wraps inside to take the A-gap, while the 3 tech. works vertically, allowing the Guard to push him into contain and pin the Tackle. The lone LB can then be patient and track the back. It amplifies coverage by slowing the LBs and exploiting the offense's blocking. Learn more about Read-Pop (Echo) stunts and other ways to fit the box with 7-man spacing on MatchQuarters: --

USC's Gary Patterson is the king of split-field 4-2-5 defenses and knows how to fit the box against Spread sets as well as anyone else. When the RB is set away from the 3-technique, the DE on that side can wrap back inside to add numbers to the box. Typically, an offense will zone away from the back. With a base block, the DE wraps inside to take the A-gap, while the 3 tech. works vertically, allowing the Guard to push him into contain and pin the Tackle. The lone LB can then be patient and track the back. It amplifies coverage by slowing the LBs and exploiting the offense's blocking. Learn more about Read-Pop (Echo) stunts and other ways to fit the box with 7-man spacing on MatchQuarters: --

35,427 views

One of the more popular paths in the NFL last season is starting to show up at the college level. UCLA is running "Nail Deuce," a popular path within the Ravens system, which Seattle used a ton with Devon Witherspoon and Nick Emmanwori. Current Ravens System Teams: Chargers, Giants, Ravens, and Seahawks, with the Jets and Raiders potentially joining the group. The Mike LB will attack the A-gap as the Nose crosses the Center's face. From off-screen, the Ni works into the open alley in the B-gap. "Deuce" is the Ravens' system's term for a Quarters (Palms) 2-under/4-deep coverage. Cal's left-handed QB is blind to the pressure, and his hesitation results in a sack for the Bruins. Learn how this pressure, and its sister path "Sand Deuce," helped the Seahawks win a Super Bowl: --

One of the more popular paths in the NFL last season is starting to show up at the college level. UCLA is running "Nail Deuce," a popular path within the Ravens system, which Seattle used a ton with Devon Witherspoon and Nick Emmanwori. Current Ravens System Teams: Chargers, Giants, Ravens, and Seahawks, with the Jets and Raiders potentially joining the group. The Mike LB will attack the A-gap as the Nose crosses the Center's face. From off-screen, the Ni works into the open alley in the B-gap. "Deuce" is the Ravens' system's term for a Quarters (Palms) 2-under/4-deep coverage. Cal's left-handed QB is blind to the pressure, and his hesitation results in a sack for the Bruins. Learn how this pressure, and its sister path "Sand Deuce," helped the Seahawks win a Super Bowl: --

27,636 views

PUNCH THE POCKET!!! The Giants' Jevon Holland (8) had a "Peanut Punch," a strip, and an interception, while also leading the team in tackles in a losing effort against the Rams. --

PUNCH THE POCKET!!! The Giants' Jevon Holland (8) had a "Peanut Punch," a strip, and an interception, while also leading the team in tackles in a losing effort against the Rams. --

19,323 views

The Vikings have run the second-most Base personnel in the NFL through three weeks (56%). Minnesota uses Andrew Van Ginkel (43) and Eric Wilson (55) as hybrid defenders. Both can rush or cover depending on the call. Not everything in the Vikings' playbook is a blitz, which they are currently calling on over 70% of their plays. Brian Flores has evolved his scheme to include modern rotational split-field coverages similar to the Fangio-adjacent schemes popular across the league. The clip illustrates a "Will 6" concept. In this scheme, the weak-side Edge will rush while the strong-side Edge plays a Quarters Flat technique. Great job by Safety Josh Metellus nailing down the Corner route from his Deep Half. Learn more about Flores's system in Minnesota, only on MatchQuarters: --

The Vikings have run the second-most Base personnel in the NFL through three weeks (56%). Minnesota uses Andrew Van Ginkel (43) and Eric Wilson (55) as hybrid defenders. Both can rush or cover depending on the call. Not everything in the Vikings' playbook is a blitz, which they are currently calling on over 70% of their plays. Brian Flores has evolved his scheme to include modern rotational split-field coverages similar to the Fangio-adjacent schemes popular across the league. The clip illustrates a "Will 6" concept. In this scheme, the weak-side Edge will rush while the strong-side Edge plays a Quarters Flat technique. Great job by Safety Josh Metellus nailing down the Corner route from his Deep Half. Learn more about Flores's system in Minnesota, only on MatchQuarters: --

13,043 views

The hiring of Bobby Hauck as DC at Illinois brings a three-high system. Hauck is a Rocky Long disciple, and the new scheme is a shift away from Illinois' 3-4 Cover 1 base under Bret Bielema. The four-down element of the three-high structures has become a trending scheme in recent years. With three Safeties on the field, the defense can play as a traditional 4-2-5 (clip) or as a modified 4-down 3-high. UAB is running a Split Zone Snag RPO, and the Illini "reduce" the front into the boundary. Notice the inside, outside, and "cap" positions of the fit structure on the back. I broke the four-down element of this system several years ago when Tony White, another Long disciple, was at Nebraska: --

The hiring of Bobby Hauck as DC at Illinois brings a three-high system. Hauck is a Rocky Long disciple, and the new scheme is a shift away from Illinois' 3-4 Cover 1 base under Bret Bielema. The four-down element of the three-high structures has become a trending scheme in recent years. With three Safeties on the field, the defense can play as a traditional 4-2-5 (clip) or as a modified 4-down 3-high. UAB is running a Split Zone Snag RPO, and the Illini "reduce" the front into the boundary. Notice the inside, outside, and "cap" positions of the fit structure on the back. I broke the four-down element of this system several years ago when Tony White, another Long disciple, was at Nebraska: --

23,321 views

This isn't college tape; this is the NFL. Here is the Arizona Cardinals 3-High Tite Front defense defending a Counter GY from the Cowboys. The coverage rotation sends the Ni to the Post with the two other Safeties working into the Weak Hook and Seam. The move places 3 bodies at the point of attack with one puller to block them. Find more resources on this unique defense at MatchQuarters. Search "Cardinals". --

This isn't college tape; this is the NFL. Here is the Arizona Cardinals 3-High Tite Front defense defending a Counter GY from the Cowboys. The coverage rotation sends the Ni to the Post with the two other Safeties working into the Weak Hook and Seam. The move places 3 bodies at the point of attack with one puller to block them. Find more resources on this unique defense at MatchQuarters. Search "Cardinals". --

62,595 views

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Arguably the most popular pressure in the NFL last season and a staple within the Ravens' system. "Sand Deuce" is a weak overload pressure with Quarters or Cover 2 behind it. The Chargers initially show a basic Cover 3 contour vs. the 49ers' 2x2 set. Post-snap, the Down Safety and Will LB will blitz through the A & B gaps. The goal is to create a 2-on-1 vs. the RB. San Francisco chip-releases their RB away from the pressure, leaving the LG to take the Will and no one on the blitzing Safety. Behind the pressure, the Chargers build two triangles on top of the three receivers running routes. At the bottom, we get a great example of "shoving" the coverage, too. Learn why the Ravens' pressure system is one of the most efficient in the league, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:24
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Arguably the most popular pressure in the NFL last season and a staple within the Ravens' system. "Sand Deuce" is a weak overload pressure with Quarters or Cover 2 behind it. The Chargers initially show a basic Cover 3 contour vs. the 49ers' 2x2 set. Post-snap, the Down Safety and Will LB will blitz through the A & B gaps. The goal is to create a 2-on-1 vs. the RB. San Francisco chip-releases their RB away from the pressure, leaving the LG to take the Will and no one on the blitzing Safety. Behind the pressure, the Chargers build two triangles on top of the three receivers running routes. At the bottom, we get a great example of "shoving" the coverage, too. Learn why the Ravens' pressure system is one of the most efficient in the league, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

478,445 views • 1 month ago

The Saints consistently attacked the Ravens' early down offense with boundary or open-side vertical pressures (Orton). In Clip 1, New Orleans attacks the open A-gap with tempo. Kaden Elliss is able to slip past the RG's block and secure the tackle before Derrick Henry can get momentum. The pressure also allows the Edge to climb, forcing a "give" read and funneling the play to the pressure. In Clip 2, the pressure again attacks the open-side, but this time against an under-center play-action. Lamar is blind to the pressure, and the five-man front in Base (3-4) creates man blocking. The RB is responsible for the play fake and blocking the LB. For Baltimore, the RG "posts" the Nose, which makes him late picking up the 5t. Elliss again makes a play in the backfield off the same pressure path. Learn how to build an early down pressure system, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:24
The_Coach_A's profile picture

The Saints consistently attacked the Ravens' early down offense with boundary or open-side vertical pressures (Orton). In Clip 1, New Orleans attacks the open A-gap with tempo. Kaden Elliss is able to slip past the RG's block and secure the tackle before Derrick Henry can get momentum. The pressure also allows the Edge to climb, forcing a "give" read and funneling the play to the pressure. In Clip 2, the pressure again attacks the open-side, but this time against an under-center play-action. Lamar is blind to the pressure, and the five-man front in Base (3-4) creates man blocking. The RB is responsible for the play fake and blocking the LB. For Baltimore, the RG "posts" the Nose, which makes him late picking up the 5t. Elliss again makes a play in the backfield off the same pressure path. Learn how to build an early down pressure system, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

136,497 views • 28 days ago

If you are looking for the next Anthony Campanile, Rob Leonard might be this year's example of building a defense with a diverse background. "Pick" pressures are a large part of how the Ravens' system coaches attack protections. The Raiders illustrated a Guard pick against the Dolphins. Quay Walker (7) will blitz to the hip of Miami's LG while Kwity Paye (95) works to his face. The RB is responsible for Walker, who will attempt to get a 2-for-1 by bringing the back with him. Walker knocks the LG off, and the RB isn't prepared to pick up Paye; a classic example of how these pressures work. Learn more about how this system uses picks to create sacks, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:23
The_Coach_A's profile picture

If you are looking for the next Anthony Campanile, Rob Leonard might be this year's example of building a defense with a diverse background. "Pick" pressures are a large part of how the Ravens' system coaches attack protections. The Raiders illustrated a Guard pick against the Dolphins. Quay Walker (7) will blitz to the hip of Miami's LG while Kwity Paye (95) works to his face. The RB is responsible for Walker, who will attempt to get a 2-for-1 by bringing the back with him. Walker knocks the LG off, and the RB isn't prepared to pick up Paye; a classic example of how these pressures work. Learn more about how this system uses picks to create sacks, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

93,981 views • 1 month ago

The Broncos have a very specific scheme they like to use on heavy run downs. Against LA, they used it in the 2nd Half to shut down the Rams' 13 pers. run game. When facing the 49ers' 22 pers., the scheme was used again to stifle their run game. Vance Joseph's scheme uses two LB inserts with a TON (DT + Nose) stunt to Alex Singleton's (49). But San Francisco ended the game with a TE screen to Kittle against this exact scheme. DBs still have to play their man... Learn more about this scheme and how it shuts down heavy run games, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:21
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The Broncos have a very specific scheme they like to use on heavy run downs. Against LA, they used it in the 2nd Half to shut down the Rams' 13 pers. run game. When facing the 49ers' 22 pers., the scheme was used again to stifle their run game. Vance Joseph's scheme uses two LB inserts with a TON (DT + Nose) stunt to Alex Singleton's (49). But San Francisco ended the game with a TE screen to Kittle against this exact scheme. DBs still have to play their man... Learn more about this scheme and how it shuts down heavy run games, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

35,919 views • 14 days ago

Excellent example of manipulating the protection to create a free runner. In fact, over two weeks, Robert Spillane (14) has the most unabated pressures (UBP) of any LB. Rogers motions the RB out as a coverage ID check. Once back, you can see Dre'Mont Jones (5) give Christian Elliss (53) a thumbs-up; he's got the RB. The Patriots' "Boss" or Load alignment forces the Center turn to go toward the field, leaving New England with a three-on-two to the boundary. Post-snap, the RB will flare, and Jones will peel. Jones's initial vertical steps draw the RT's attention to him, leaving the RG to defend two players. With the RT focused on Jones and the RG taking Elliss, there is no one left for Spillane. Find more ways to manipulate coverage in the MatchQuarters Clinic Archive: --
0:26
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Excellent example of manipulating the protection to create a free runner. In fact, over two weeks, Robert Spillane (14) has the most unabated pressures (UBP) of any LB. Rogers motions the RB out as a coverage ID check. Once back, you can see Dre'Mont Jones (5) give Christian Elliss (53) a thumbs-up; he's got the RB. The Patriots' "Boss" or Load alignment forces the Center turn to go toward the field, leaving New England with a three-on-two to the boundary. Post-snap, the RB will flare, and Jones will peel. Jones's initial vertical steps draw the RT's attention to him, leaving the RG to defend two players. With the RT focused on Jones and the RG taking Elliss, there is no one left for Spillane. Find more ways to manipulate coverage in the MatchQuarters Clinic Archive: --

Cody Alexander

58,937 views • 27 days ago

Anthony Campanile unleashed Antonio Johnson (6) in the Jaguars' Big Nickel package last weekend. When the Bengals were in 12 personnel, Jacksonville used Johnson to attack the B-gap bubble with pressure. Clip 1: Toss Clip 2: Duo Learn how other teams are attacking TEs, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:27
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Anthony Campanile unleashed Antonio Johnson (6) in the Jaguars' Big Nickel package last weekend. When the Bengals were in 12 personnel, Jacksonville used Johnson to attack the B-gap bubble with pressure. Clip 1: Toss Clip 2: Duo Learn how other teams are attacking TEs, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

20,961 views • 12 days ago

The Falcons Jeff Ulbrich was using the same pattern, but from the weak side. Using the Boundary Safety & Will instead of the Nickel & Mike in the blitz. --
0:21
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The Falcons Jeff Ulbrich was using the same pattern, but from the weak side. Using the Boundary Safety & Will instead of the Nickel & Mike in the blitz. --

Cody Alexander

16,533 views • 15 days ago

Seahawks running "Cover 8" (HQQ) against the 49ers. This "Fangio" coverage is now on most 2-High zone teams across the league. --
0:24
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Seahawks running "Cover 8" (HQQ) against the 49ers. This "Fangio" coverage is now on most 2-High zone teams across the league. --

Cody Alexander

133,093 views • 9 months ago

Someone in New England has been watching the Vikings play defense... To classic reps of Brian Flores's "Bengals Hawk," a staple call in Minnesota. Load the box, stack the receivers. All eyes on the QB and "pop" to the slide. The DBs are "anchored" and will trigger on the QB's vision. For more resources on this pressure and others that Flores has developed, visit MatchQuarters' resource page dedicated to this unique scheme: --
0:24
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Someone in New England has been watching the Vikings play defense... To classic reps of Brian Flores's "Bengals Hawk," a staple call in Minnesota. Load the box, stack the receivers. All eyes on the QB and "pop" to the slide. The DBs are "anchored" and will trigger on the QB's vision. For more resources on this pressure and others that Flores has developed, visit MatchQuarters' resource page dedicated to this unique scheme: --

Cody Alexander

33,269 views • 1 month ago

Brian Flores lives in a paradox: A 50%+ Blitz Rate paired with zone coverage on over 80% of his play calls. "All-Up" presentations are a critical part of Minnesota's scheme and create empty protection, freeing edge rushers while the secondary plays "anchored" vision coverage at the sticks. The front dictates the protections; the shell dictates the throw's location. Flores is funneling the ball and the QB into a "kill box" on every snap. The full breakdown of Minnesota's pressure coverage rules and blitz designs is only on MatchQuarters: --
0:33
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Brian Flores lives in a paradox: A 50%+ Blitz Rate paired with zone coverage on over 80% of his play calls. "All-Up" presentations are a critical part of Minnesota's scheme and create empty protection, freeing edge rushers while the secondary plays "anchored" vision coverage at the sticks. The front dictates the protections; the shell dictates the throw's location. Flores is funneling the ball and the QB into a "kill box" on every snap. The full breakdown of Minnesota's pressure coverage rules and blitz designs is only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

25,899 views • 1 month ago

Most NFL teams use split-field contours to disguise Cover 3 variations. For Tampa rotations, most defenses show a single-high alignment pre-snap. The Ravens' Jesse Minter is one of the few who use an open-to-open disguise when running Tampa 2. Baltimore aligns in a "Quarters" structure, but post-snap will morph into a Tampa 2, with the Field Safety as the Middle Run Through (MRT). The MRT works off the QB's vision while the rest of the coverage builds their respective Triangles. To the Field, the Nickel "pops" into the Deep Half. Similar to Cover 3, Quarters shows a soft flat, which creates post-snap conflict when the defense suddenly has a trap CB. Learn more about Minter's signature NTT, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:21
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Most NFL teams use split-field contours to disguise Cover 3 variations. For Tampa rotations, most defenses show a single-high alignment pre-snap. The Ravens' Jesse Minter is one of the few who use an open-to-open disguise when running Tampa 2. Baltimore aligns in a "Quarters" structure, but post-snap will morph into a Tampa 2, with the Field Safety as the Middle Run Through (MRT). The MRT works off the QB's vision while the rest of the coverage builds their respective Triangles. To the Field, the Nickel "pops" into the Deep Half. Similar to Cover 3, Quarters shows a soft flat, which creates post-snap conflict when the defense suddenly has a trap CB. Learn more about Minter's signature NTT, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

15,801 views • 28 days ago

The biggest coverage adjustment on 3rd & Long (7+) from '24 to '25: The rise of Cover 3-Seam, or "Buzz" mechanics. 3-Seam is tagged when the Nickel matches the slot’s vertical release (PFF). While pure Cover 1 numbers declined, open-to-closed 3-Seam volume doubled, rising from 4% to 8% of all disguise calls. Over 70% of all 3-Seam calls in '25 came from a 2-High shell. Defenses wanted closed-post spacing that let them backstop deep crossers or protect the weak-side seam from depth. The Packers clip perfectly shows this trend, with a fake Cover 2 look before the Weak Safety rotates back into the Vertical Hook. Learn more about this coverage trend and how it works, only on MatchQuarters: --
0:23
The_Coach_A's profile picture

The biggest coverage adjustment on 3rd & Long (7+) from '24 to '25: The rise of Cover 3-Seam, or "Buzz" mechanics. 3-Seam is tagged when the Nickel matches the slot’s vertical release (PFF). While pure Cover 1 numbers declined, open-to-closed 3-Seam volume doubled, rising from 4% to 8% of all disguise calls. Over 70% of all 3-Seam calls in '25 came from a 2-High shell. Defenses wanted closed-post spacing that let them backstop deep crossers or protect the weak-side seam from depth. The Packers clip perfectly shows this trend, with a fake Cover 2 look before the Weak Safety rotates back into the Vertical Hook. Learn more about this coverage trend and how it works, only on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

25,000 views • 1 month ago

Most Cover 8 clips show the coverage versus 3x1 alignments. Against that set, the Trix Safety has a naturally aggressive poach action because he's in charge of the vertical of #3. Against 2x2 sets, the Weak Safety has to be more patient, but can use context clues to quickly work to the high intermediate. With a slotted TE & a reduced X, there is likely to be a chip, which allows the Safety to transfer his eyes to the Post. The mechanism also allows the front side Safety to stay high and cap any deep verticals. Learn more about the Fangio system on MatchQuarters: --
0:21
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Most Cover 8 clips show the coverage versus 3x1 alignments. Against that set, the Trix Safety has a naturally aggressive poach action because he's in charge of the vertical of #3. Against 2x2 sets, the Weak Safety has to be more patient, but can use context clues to quickly work to the high intermediate. With a slotted TE & a reduced X, there is likely to be a chip, which allows the Safety to transfer his eyes to the Post. The mechanism also allows the front side Safety to stay high and cap any deep verticals. Learn more about the Fangio system on MatchQuarters: --

Cody Alexander

35,674 views • 2 months ago

The LB position might be the worst-coached position in football. Let me explain... Listen to Let's Talk Ball! wherever you pod. --
0:51
The_Coach_A's profile picture

The LB position might be the worst-coached position in football. Let me explain... Listen to Let's Talk Ball! wherever you pod. --

Cody Alexander

60,771 views • 9 months ago

Most defenses sacrifice execution for complexity. 👉 Brent Venables defies the rule. Oklahoma is an absolute outlier—running a massive volume of coverages/pressures while staying elite at all of them. felix johnson & I previewed the CFP Playoffs & more. Links below. ...
0:49
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Most defenses sacrifice execution for complexity. 👉 Brent Venables defies the rule. Oklahoma is an absolute outlier—running a massive volume of coverages/pressures while staying elite at all of them. felix johnson & I previewed the CFP Playoffs & more. Links below. ...

Cody Alexander

55,769 views • 10 months ago

Xavier McKinney creates open windows just to slam them shut. 💥 --
1:59
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Xavier McKinney creates open windows just to slam them shut. 💥 --

Cody Alexander

38,400 views • 9 months ago

For the most part, the Cardinals are a "Build a 3-4" defense from their 3-High structure. One of the Safeties will drop down and become the "Will" LB on most downs. Below is an example of a "Build a 4-2" rotation vs. the Cowboys. This is a true hybrid defense. --
0:23
The_Coach_A's profile picture

For the most part, the Cardinals are a "Build a 3-4" defense from their 3-High structure. One of the Safeties will drop down and become the "Will" LB on most downs. Below is an example of a "Build a 4-2" rotation vs. the Cowboys. This is a true hybrid defense. --

Cody Alexander

24,313 views • 5 months ago

Cover 3 is the most run coverage in the NFL, appearing on over 35% of standard downs. But in the Two-Minute Drill, that usage plummets to 18%. When offenses pick up the tempo, standard Cover 3 gives away too much predictable space. Modern passing systems are structurally designed to hunt the clear vertical seams & outside isolations inherent to the shell. Learn how NFL defenses are adjusting in the 2-Minute Drill in this week's Let's Talk Ball! Listen wherever you pod: --
0:56
The_Coach_A's profile picture

Cover 3 is the most run coverage in the NFL, appearing on over 35% of standard downs. But in the Two-Minute Drill, that usage plummets to 18%. When offenses pick up the tempo, standard Cover 3 gives away too much predictable space. Modern passing systems are structurally designed to hunt the clear vertical seams & outside isolations inherent to the shell. Learn how NFL defenses are adjusting in the 2-Minute Drill in this week's Let's Talk Ball! Listen wherever you pod: --

Cody Alexander

15,250 views • 3 months ago

The Mint/Tite packages have been figured out. The Over 4-2-5 has been figured out. Offenses each week presents different challenges. Cookie-cutter defenses don't work. Saban explains this & illustrated why you need to be multiple in '23 vs. UGA. |
0:48
The_Coach_A's profile picture

The Mint/Tite packages have been figured out. The Over 4-2-5 has been figured out. Offenses each week presents different challenges. Cookie-cutter defenses don't work. Saban explains this & illustrated why you need to be multiple in '23 vs. UGA. |

Cody Alexander

52,618 views • 1 year ago

If you've been following along, I've detailed how the Vikings have taken advantage of opponents' weak side B-gaps in their protection schemes. The Lions were having none of it, & one of the big reasons they were so successful last Sunday was their ability to pick these up. --
0:30
The_Coach_A's profile picture

If you've been following along, I've detailed how the Vikings have taken advantage of opponents' weak side B-gaps in their protection schemes. The Lions were having none of it, & one of the big reasons they were so successful last Sunday was their ability to pick these up. --

Cody Alexander

16,397 views • 2 years ago