Defensive Philosopy
...the secondary. We can be more versatile in this defense versus teams who incorporate a balanced running and passing attack. We will attack the running game with eight defenders in most situations. The 4-4 defensive front is a gap control defense with each player defending a particular gap. Individual technique is utmost importance in this type of defense so it will receive the greatest priority during the preparation period. Getting the defensive personnel in the proper position allows us the gain the upper hand in stopping a particular offense. Our pass defense will center on zone coverage. We will keep the receivers in front of us and force the quarterback to stand in the pocket and throw. This will allow the safeties and the flats personnel to read the quarterback and gain an advantage on when and where the ball is being thrown. I have learned through experience that moving the defensive front during the course of a series keeps the offensive line from getting a “bead” on their aiming points. We will slant and twist the defensive line in situations where we can gain the upper hand. We will also shift and stem the linebackers t...