Had several questions on what I’m looking at when I’m identifying coverages. Here’s a thread on it.

These are generic keys to determine what’s being played.

Post snap is someone 15-20 yards deep in the middle of the field? (Not middle of formation).

Yes = One high
No = Two high or blitz coverage

What is the leverage of the nickel/star/OLB?

Inside = Two high or blitz (could be one high if wide splits)
Outside = One high (could be a select few two high coverages)

How many players are rushing?

3 = Traditional coverage with QB spy or Drop 8 variation.

4 = One or two high. Traditional coverage.

5 = Man free no rat. Fire zone (3D/3U Or 2D/4U). Man match two high + blitz.

6+ = Blitz coverage. 3D/2U. Man free no rat and peel edge rushers.

From there I have a good idea what’s being playing. Next I’m thinking which type of coverage is it. There are 4 types of coverage that I spoke on in this thread. https://twitter.com/coachcogan/status/1109578513848459264?s=21

Pattern match is an outdated, generic term. NFL/ elite colleges always match the routes.

If I can’t determine if it’s a zone match or man match I watch the LB drops. LBs are key to determine which one it is. Passing off short routes? ZM. Running across with them? MM.

Trips is big question. Is it cover 3 or quarters and WS poach strong.

Is the single side corner playing divider leverage? Yes = 3. No = poach.

What is leverage of nickel?

Have they flooded the coverage? Pushed all underneath defenders to trips? 4v3 = two high. 5v3 = one high

Several ways to name various coverages but I am fond of the Saban system. Description below. https://twitter.com/coachcogan/status/1067976378648285184?s=21