An intercepted pass will probably get the defensive team out of a tight spot quicker than any other play in football. An intercepted pass also can change the complexion of a game very quickly. We recognize the fact that a team which is difficult to pass against is a difficult team to defeat. Therefore, in order to be “tough” defensively pass defense is one phase of football which we must work on every day. If we can either eliminate a team’s passing game or hold this phase of their offense to a minimum gain, we will definitely have the edge over our opposition.
Basically, good pass defense is merely being in the proper position and going for the football when it is in the air. Our most important coaching point is, “When the football is in the air, it belongs to us and we must get it!” Pass defense requires more individual desire by the players than any other phase of the game of football. If a boy has tremendous desire and the ability to play defensive football, you place him in a spot where it is possible for him to intercept the pass if it comes near his area, and you will have a winner.
PASS DEFENSE OBJECTIVES
Pass defense is so vital that one simple defensive mistake can cost your team a football game. In order to have a good football team, the play in the defensive secondary must be sound.
The primary objective of pass defense is to keep the opponent from scoring, and secondly, to get the football. We stress these points all the time. On every play we want each player trying to get possession of the football for our team.
Pass defense consists of the following phases:
1. Rushing the passer.
2. Holding up the receivers.
3. Covering the areas or zones.
We have found it difficult to do a good job of all three of these phases at the same time.