FIELD POSITION
Of the many factors that go into selecting a play, probably the most important single factor is field position. To aid our quarterback in his play selection, we divide the field into different areas and zones, as illustrated in [Figure 116]. Each zone is given a name, and there are some very important “musts” concerning each area.
Figure 116
We divide the field into the following areas and zones, with the most important coaching points listed as follows:
The “Must” Zone (Goal Line to 3-Yard Line)
In this zone we must move the ball out at least to the 3-yard line so it will be possible to kick from spread formation. Our kicker stands back 13 yards deep when we kick from our spread kick formation.
The Three-Down Zone (3-Yard Line to 25-Yard Line)
1. Normally we will kick on third down with five yards or more to go.
2. We must make a first down with three plays.
3. We do not like to punt while in this zone. If we can hold the football until we get past the 25-yard line, we can put the opposition in their three-down zone with a 40-yard kick.
4. Run trap plays.
5. Anticipate a goal line defense occasionally.
The First Down Zone (20-Yard Line to 40-Yard Line)
We must make a first down so we can continue to control the ball when we reach the Free Wheeling Zone.
The Free Wheeling Zone (40-Yard Line to 40-Yard Line)
1. Easiest part of the field to score from.
2. Go into our game planned offense.
3. It is a guessing game until you make a good gain, then you should be a play ahead of the defense. Once you gain this advantage, keep the pressure on the defense.
The Scoring Zone (40-Yard Line to 20-Yard Line)
1. Try to score with a trick play or a scoring play which you have set up.
2. You may use a play the scouting report indicates should work.
3. Figure on four downs to make the 10 yards.
The Gut Zone (20-Yard Line to 4-Yard Line)
1. Must “out gut” them.
2. Do not lose ground.
3. Try to get five yards or more on first down.
4. Pass on first down or waste down.
5. Must maintain control of the football.
The Self-Scoring Zone (4-Yard Line to Goal Line)
1. Minimum handling of the football.
2. Score yourself if you have a play per yard.
3. Do not pull linemen.
4. Give the football to the best ball carrier.
5. Must score.
Our Three MUSTS:
Our quarterback must continuously remind our team of three very important principles affecting our offense, which are as follows:
1. We must not get a penalty.
2. We must not break an offensive signal.
3. We must get our men (blocks).
After your quarterback is thoroughly familiar with the zones and their relationship to each other, then you can do an intelligent job of instructing and teaching him which plays should be run in the various zones. Consequently he will have a better understanding of field position.