Coach -

In his presentation at the D3 Top 25 Clinic, Coach Steve Cushing, Defensive Coordinator for 2023 National Champion SUNY Cortland,  provided an in-depth analysis of how his defense handles various formations using Cover 4. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of his approach, with valuable insights for using Cover 4 to handle trending formations.

Background and Transition to Cover 4

Coach Cushing took over as the defensive coordinator at Cortland in the spring of 2022. Initially, his team primarily used a Cover 3 defense, which was effective but had limitations in matching routes and presenting a versatile defensive front. After a playoff loss, the coaching staff decided to transition to a Cover 4 system, allowing for better route matching and a split-field coverage approach.

Offensive Identification System

Building the Language

The first step in their transition was creating a common language to discuss offensive formations and potential routes. This involved breaking down formations into three parts:

1. Core: Includes the quarterback, offensive line, and any attached players (e.g., tight ends, wings).
2. Flanks: Areas on either side of the core where receivers align.
3. Receiver Numbering: Receivers are numbered from the outside in, with the outermost receiver as number one, the next as number two, and so on.

Coach Cushing explains how they break down the formation in this video:

Video: Breaking Down the Formation

Receiver Alignments

Understanding where receivers align is crucial for determining their threat level. Coach Cushing categorized eligible receiver alignments into four main areas:

1. Backfield: Behind the offensive line.
2. Wing: Attached to the core, off the ball.
3. Closed: On the ball, creating the endman on the line.
4. Open: Split from the core, wide receivers.

Each alignment helps the defense anticipate the likelihood of vertical routes and adjust their coverage accordingly.

Base Cover 4 Principles

Defensive Line and Linebackers

• D-Line: Plays aggressively with a single gap fit, aiming for knockback and playing behind the line of scrimmage.
• Linebackers (Mike and Will): Play off the surface in front of them, employing flow fits to box the play back together.

Secondary and Overhang Defenders

• Corners: Play the outside quarter, primarily in press coverage, using a mod technique to cover the number one receiver unless he goes under.
• Safeties: Utilize a Rob 2 to 1 technique, focusing on the number two receiver going vertical and adjusting to the number one receiver if necessary.
• Overhang Defenders: Play quarters flat, with a 2 PM technique to handle the number two receiver's actions (out, vertical, in).

Adjustments to Specific Formations

Common Flanks and Special Formations

Coach Cushing emphasized the importance of naming and understanding different flanks, which allows for quick adjustments to formations. Some examples include:

• Jack Set: Both number one and number two are wings or closed on the same side.
• Bunch and Crunch: Three receivers aligned closely, with Crunch being attached to the core.
• Stack and Snug: Two receivers stacked, with Snug being closer to the core.

Special Alerts

Corners play a vital role in identifying special formations and communicating them to the rest of the defense. For instance:

• Cut Split: An open receiver cutting his split closer to the core.
• Nub: The number one receiver is closed.
• Unc (Unbalanced): No eligible receiver on the side, alerting for unbalanced formations.
• Off: No number two receiver on the ball, indicating potential unbalanced motion.

Practical Application and Teaching

Coach Cushing’s approach emphasizes starting at the elementary level, ensuring all players understand the foundational language and concepts. This method fosters a high football IQ across the team, allowing for seamless communication and adjustments during games.

Example Formations

Throughout the clinic, Coach Cushing provided examples of various formations and their corresponding defensive calls. By consistently teaching and reinforcing these concepts, his team can efficiently handle a wide range of offensive strategies, maintaining a robust and adaptable defense.

Conclusion

Coach Steve Cushing’s comprehensive method for handling formations with Cover 4 defense showcases the importance of detailed preparation, clear communication, and strategic adaptability. By establishing a common language and thoroughly understanding receiver alignments and potential threats, defenses can effectively counter diverse offensive schemes, enhancing their overall performance on the field.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. This is part of a bundle of presentations from D3 Top 25 Defensive Coordinators