On Defense, Cover 2 can be a great coverage to call and teams need every player to complete their role. The corner plays a major part, so let's discuss the task. If you have any questions, please reach out to via the website (www.athletestrategy.com)
Cornerbacks In Cover 2
Where should I align: You can play it from press coverage to get hands on early and sink. Corners (CB) can play it off at 5 yards and redirect the receiver or you may play it off at 7 and drop down under control on as the play starts under control to make contact with receiver
Am I in the run game: Yes you are! Corners must be the contain player and turn the football inside to the rest of the team.
Should I jam the receiver: Yes! You do not want the receivers speed to be a factor. CB's can throw off the timing of the pass game especially if offense is looking to go deep. Do not let the receiver get on the safety to quickly
What to you mean by sink: Many teams will look to complete hole shots behind you and in front of the safety. You must continue to drop back and get depth to cover that space
Where should my eyes be: Pre-snap, I say inside reading keys. On the snap, take a second to read run/pass, then get your jam on the #1 receiver if you have one. If there is a twins offensive set, keep your eyes inside at the #2 threat which would be the slot receiver, looking for the outside break.
If my man motions, do I follow him: Generally no, but some schemes allow the corner to go to keep from revealing coverage. What I mean by that is, when QBs see the corner follow his man across the formation, they believe it is man defense. I can get more into that later.
For right now, let's end it there because I believe you have the basics. I can write more about the big picture late and ways to disguise the coverage.
By Rod Rogers