John Wolford

The ball is snapped with three seconds left on the play clock. 22 moving parts impart force into the turf to generate movement. Wide outs and defensive backs running at 19+ miles per hour. 300 lb lineman fight 250 lb defensive ends in hand to hand combat. Linebackers blitzing at

In the complex world of football, understanding the nuances of various defensive coverages is crucial for a quarterbacks and offensive coordinator success. One such coverage that demands thorough comprehension is Cover 1. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of Cover 1, advantages, drawbacks, and variations (e.

This post was originally published as an op-ed on The Athletic in 2023 and updated for context in 2025. Twenty-one years of tackle football and training have led to this game. From jumping rope with my brother, Bobby, when I was 5 and my helmet being way too big to

Understanding defensive coverage structures is critical for quarterbacks. Two key concepts—passing strength and field-and-boundary coverage—dictate how defenses align and adjust. What Is Passing Strength? Passing strength is the side of the formation with the most eligible receivers. For example: * In a 3-by-1 formation (tight end, slot receiver, and

Understanding zone defense is critical to quarterback success. Two common zone schemes—match zone and visual zone—can align similarly but behave differently. Here’s the breakdown. Match Zone Defense In match zones, defenders focus on receivers and adapt to route concepts. While still categorized as zone defense, match zone

Arm care has become a popular term among quarterbacks, but what does quality arm care really involve? In essence, arm care is a strategic approach to strengthening, stabilizing, and mobilizing the muscles essential for throwing. Effective arm care comprises three main types of exercises: eccentric, isometric, and dynamic. Each type