AFQ X's and O's

Free football coaching strategies, play diagrams, X’s and O’s for coaches at all levels

Month: November 2014



Using Half-Field Coverage to Double Team a Single WR

Facing a great WR who can exploit one-on-one matchups can be a difficult challenge for a defense. Coordinators are often faced with the challenge of assigning more than one player to cover just one offensive weapon, which becomes particularly problematic…



The Firm Always Knows Best

I hear an expression several times throughout the season (including last week) and every now and then during the off-season: The Firm. The Firm is Smith, Smith, Coverdale and Holcomb. More specifically, Homer Smith, Chuck Smith, Andrew Coverdale, and Mike…



Can Bishop Gorman Win a National Title With a Frontloaded slate?

Tony Sanchez has not lost an in-state game since he took over at Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, NV) heading into the 2009 season and, as such, he set his sights on a higher prize: a national title. Sanchez has worked…



Why Run The Ball?

Many new fast-paced, no-huddle offensive philosophies are not about taking as much time off the clock as possible.  Rather, these offensive sets are all about trying to score as many points as possible in the shortest amount of time.  Personally,…



Coach Russell’s Random Ruminations

Happy November, Coaches. I realize that our readership spans the profession, from youth coaches on up through the college ranks, so a lot of you are currently in different phases of your seasons. If you’re into your post season, good…



Post Season Analysis: Factors Affecting The Passing Game

The off season gives a coaching staff the opportunity to go back and evaluate their work from the previous season.  Done in detail, the process can serve to identify the effectiveness of passing concepts.  By charting key data on each…



A Great “Third & Medium” High Percentage Pass Concept

Looking for a good third down and medium (4-7 Yards) play?  Do you use two TE groupings?  If you answered yes to both, then I’ve got a good play for you to consider.  It’s an easy throw for the QB,…



The Military Analogy and Developing Football Leadership

As we embark upon the “battles” of November that will determine the champions and the standings for future championship pursuits, the opportunities for those involved in our great sport to make comparisons between the playing field and the battlefield become…