What is Cover 0? Why Are NFL Teams Playing More of It?

Screen vs Cover 0

Cover 0 is an all-out blitz. The defense sends one more player than the offense can block, forcing the remaining defenders into one-on-one matchups. The feature image illustrates it. It’s a high-risk strategy—one missed tackle or a defender slipping, and the offensive head coach could be sprinting down the sideline, signaling a touchdown. So, what are the strengths and weaknesses of this coverage, and why are more NFL teams using it?

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Strengths

Forces Quick Decisions: The pressure forces quarterbacks to make fast reads, often before they’re comfortable.
Disrupts QB Mechanics: With defenders closing in, it’s tough for QBs to set their feet, leading to rushed throws.
Cumulative Impact: Repeated hits can wear down a quarterback’s pysche and mechanics over time.
Forces Special Preparation: Offenses must allocate time to prepare for Cover 0 throughout the week, taking away from other parts of the game plan.
Potential for Turnovers on In-Breakers: Defensive coordinators now coach defenders who are blocked by an offensive lineman to rush momentarily, then drop into passing lanes. This tactic occupies the lineman just long enough for another rusher to come free, while making in breaking routes more difficult to throw.
Disrupts Audibles: Against a blitz from the left, a quarterback might audible to a run to the right, but with Cover 0, both plays can be bad. This forces the QB to make a special adjustment for the entire offense to a Cover 0 play, adding pressure in terms of managing play clock, communication, and execution. Additionally, if you show Cover 0 then bluff, the offense's adjustment might be poorly suited for a drop-8 coverage, giving the defense an advantage.

Weaknesses

Vulnerable to Screens: Blitzing into a screen pass can be disastrous for the defense. That’s why bluffing Cover 0 can be effective to mitigate this risk.
One-on-One Matchups: A single missed tackle or a perfectly placed deep throw can result in a big play.
Susceptible to Out-Breaking Routes: Defensive backs often play with inside leverage, making them vulnerable to quick routes toward the sideline.

Why Are More Teams Employing It?

Traditionally, defensive coordinators were wary of giving up the big play, the fans bashing them on X, and then being shown the door. But the reality is, the rewards outweigh the risks. The strengths listed above, especially when coached well, bluffing strategically, and calling it in the right moments, can make Cover 0 an effective weapon. My intuition is that defensive coordinators are realizing that the risk of a big play isn’t as severe as once thought, and the potential benefits of mixing in Cover 0 are worth it.

How Quality Scheme and Technique Lowers the Risk of the Big Play

Defensive Back Technique: Today, DBs are coached to keep their eyes on the QB in Cover 0, knowing he has to release the ball quickly. If a receiver tries to beat them deep, they’ll initiate contact to disrupt the route. This might draw a penalty, but with the quick release, the chance of a completed deep pass is minimal. A 5 or 10-yard penalty is a better outcome than a touchdown.
Dropping When Blocked: Refer to the point on potential interceptions above. This strategy can create confusion for the QB and increase the chances of a turnover.

Wrapping Up

If I were a defensive coordinator, I’d dial up Cover 0 occasionally. I’d use it sparingly and mix in some bluffs, but the mere threat of it keeps pressure on the quarterback and offensive coordinator. Knowing that Cover 0 could come at any moment forces them to think twice, potentially slowing down their decision-making throughout the game.

From experts who work with 20+ NFL QBs, get personalized QB-specific throwing, arm care, lifting, and speed training by taking the assessment at kinetex.co. For insights on quarterbacking and biomechanics, subscribe here.