Football Toolbox

Stop 2×2 Spread Offenses – Split Field Coverage Breakdown

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This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.

Tired of having trouble defending? Split field coverage is the game-changing defensive scheme that’s helping coaches shut down 2×2 formations at every level of football.

In this breakdown, Coach Jason Bornn (HC, Saugus HS in California) explores the fundamentals, techniques, and strategic advantages that make split field coverage so effective against modern spread attacks.

The entire lesson that the video below is a part of is Split Field Coverage vs. 2×2. It is a part of his 3-4/4-2-5 High Pressure Defense System.

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  1. Formation Structure

  • Divides defense into 3-over-2 on each side of the formation
  • Uses a 3-4/4-2-5 system
  • Can be run from both odd and even fronts

  1. Key Defensive Roles

  • Will linebacker has 3 options: spy QB, play low hole, or blitz
  • Sam/Nickel and Rush positions handle coverage
  • Corner matches 1-to-2
  • Strong safety matches 2-to-1
  • Uses “3-2 push” concept between Sam and Mike linebackers

  1. Coverage Rules

  • Defenders make coverage decisions based on receivers passing outside linebacker depth
  • Rush must “wall off” #2 receiver from crossing formation when RB is away
  • Includes specific adjustments for motion and trips formations
  • Uses two-code system: colors (coverage type) and code words (formation adjustments)

  1. Specific Route Defenses

  • Four verticals: Corners/Safeties lock on receivers
  • Double hitches: Sam expands to #1, Strong safety drives on #2
  • Vertical/Out combinations: Corner comes off to defend out route