Ben Bolling,  Defensive Asst, Houston Texans

Full video available on Glazier Drive: DB Philosophy

GAME PLANNING FRAMEWORK FOR DEFENSIVE PASS COVERAGE

This video breaks down a systematic approach to defensive game planning against opposing passing attacks. The coach emphasizes organizing analysis into structured categories and using hands-on methods to understand offensive tendencies.

PASS GAME FAMILY CLASSIFICATION

The foundation starts with grouping offensive concepts into families: horizontal routes, vertical routes, inside stack formations, and RPO (Run-Pass Option) combinations. Understanding when, where, and how often teams deploy these concepts is crucial. Special attention goes to RPO elements, particularly identifying which defender the offense reads for their run-pass decision.

CONCEPT ANALYSIS BY SITUATION

Breaking down offensive tendencies by down and distance reveals predictable patterns. The coach advocates creating detailed cutups for every situation - first and 10, second and long, third down variations, and two-minute scenarios. The old-school method involves literally drawing out formations with pen and paper (or iPad), noting personnel groups and route combinations for each down and distance.

SHOT PLAY IDENTIFICATION

Teams typically take deep shots in predictable situations, most commonly on the first play after crossing the 50-yard line. Identifying these tendencies allows defenses to be on high alert and prepare specific coverage adjustments for anticipated shot concepts.

BUNCH AND STACK CONCEPTS

Understanding how offenses attack bunch and stack formations is critical since most defenses only carry one or two coverage checks for these situations. Offenses study defensive tendencies and exploit predictable coverage adjustments, so preparation must include identifying problem concepts and ensuring adequate practice repetitions.

SELF-SCOUTING AND COVERAGE ADJUSTMENTS

The process includes honest self-evaluation of recent defensive breakdowns. If the same mistake keeps recurring - like a safety biting on underneath routes and giving up deep balls - it requires immediate attention through focused practice. Finally, determining whether existing coverage packages are sufficient or if new installations are needed completes the weekly preparation cycle.

This systematic approach transforms overwhelming game film into manageable, actionable intelligence that directly improves defensive performance.