There are numerous defensive alignments, just as there are different points-of-view or theories toward how defense should be played. Regardless of the differences and a coach’s particular plan, the following “musts” are considered basic axioms if a defense is to be sound:
1. The defense must not allow the opponent to complete a long pass for an “easy” touchdown.
2. The defense must not allow the opponent to make a long run for an “easy” touchdown.
3. The defense must not allow the opposition to score by running from within your 5-yard line.
4. The defense must not allow the opposition to return a kick-off for a touchdown.
5. The defense must not allow the opposition to average more than 20 yards per kick-off return.
6. The defense must intercept two passes out of every 13 passes attempted.
7. The defense must average 20 yards per return on each interception.
8. The defense must return three interceptions for touchdowns per season.
9. The defense must force the opposition to fumble the ball on an average of three and one-half times per game.