A defense in which players who are in pass coverage cover zones of the field, instead of individual players. Pure zone packages are seldom used; most defenses employ some combination of zone and man coverage.
Tag Archive: Defense
Two-level defense
A defense with only two, as opposed to the usual three, levels of defensive organization. Generally a much more aggressive defense than normal.
Turnover
The loss of the ball by one team to the other team. This is usually the result of a fumble or an interception.
Three-and-out
When an offensive team fails to gain a first down on the first three plays of a drive, and thus is forced to punt on fourth down.
Tackle
1. The act of forcing a ball carrier to the ground
2. A player position on the line, either an offensive tackle (T) or a defensive tackle (DT) — see linemen.
Stunt
A tactic used by defensive linemen in which they switch roles in an attempt to get past the blockers. Both defenders will start with power rushes, with the stunting defender getting more of a push. The other lineman will then go around him, ideally using him as a pick to get free from his blocker.
Stuff
A tackle of a ball carrier on a running play, behind the line of scrimmage. Compare to sack.
Strong safety
A kind of safety on defense, as opposed to a free safety. This is a central defensive back; originally, the term indicated that he lined up on the strong side of the field and covered the tight end. However, the modern usage of the term now indicates a central defensive back with responsibility for run…
Starter
A player who is the first to play his position within a given game or season. Depending on the position and the game situation, this player may be replaced or share time with one or more players later in the game. As an example, a quarterback may start the game but be replaced by a…
