Playing zone defense in football is very common at all levels of the game. Zone defense is a way of playing pass coverage in which players are responsible for areas of the field to defend instead of covering an individual receiver anywhere he may go on the field. Zone defenses are largely played by linebackers and safeties. Cornerbacks are more likely to be matched up with wide receivers in a one-on-one coverage situation. Teams may mix up their pass coverage and play zone part of the game, then switch to a man-to-man defense to prevent the opposing offense from getting too comfortable.
Step 1
Drop back 10 to 15 yards from your linebacker position and read the quarterback's eyes. The two outside linebackers and the middle linebacker will try to prevent the midrange passes by attacking the pass after the quarterback lets it go. The linebacker's job is to deflect the pass away from the receiver or to make a big hit as soon as he gets his hands on the ball. The linebacker is responsible for his area of the field as designated by his position coach.
Step 2
Divide the deep part of the field in two when you are playing free safety or strong safety. In a zone defense, the safeties must stop the deep pass. One safety will take the right side of the field and the other will take the left side of the field. You cannot allow the receiver to get behind you under any circumstances. If your coverage is precise and well-executed, you will have the opportunity to intercept or deflect many passes.
Step 3
Employ the trail technique when the opposing receiver is running up the sideline on a pass pattern whether you are playing linebacker, cornerback or safety. This technique will make the quarterback think his receiver is open. However, as soon as he lets the ball go, you will accelerate from your trail position to deflect or intercept the pass.
Step 4
Drive your shoulder into your opponent's midsection after he makes the catch. No defense can stop every pass from being completed. But you can limit the yards gained after the catch by hitting your opponent with your shoulder in the midsection, then use your free hand to punch the ball out of his grasp. This technique is often employed by the linebackers.
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