Offensive Coordinator 101: Defensive Keys and How to Take Advantage of Them
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This post is part of our series on Offensive Coordinator 101. We have discussed topics such as defensive alignments and coverage in previous posts. Today, we will focus on defensive keys and how offensive coordinators can exploit them. If you're looking for more in-depth information, check out the Offensive Coordinator Academy at https://offensivecoordinatoracademy.com/
What are Defensive Keys?
Defensive keys are essentially tips or cues that defensive coaches give their players to help them identify where the ball is going and make plays. These keys are mainly used by linebackers, defensive linemen, and in-the-box safeties. Defensive backs may also have keys, but they generally focus on pattern reads and coverage.
There are two main types of keys that defensive players look for: backfield actions (e.g., quarterback and running back exchanges) and offensive line actions (e.g., pulling guards and zone steps).
"There's nothing better as an offensive coordinator than making the kids on the other side doubt their coach."
As an offensive coordinator, your goal is to identify what the defense is keying on and then work to create doubt in the defensive players' minds about their keys. This can slow down the defense and make them question their game plan.
How to Determine Defensive Keys
Let's explore a quick example on how to determine what a specific defensive player is keying on. You can create a situation where the following occurs:
Give run action in one direction.
Pull a lineman (guard or tackle) in the opposite direction.
Have the quarterback read a specific linebacker or defensive end. Make sure to note how this player reacts to the play.
This can be combined with a QB run, where the QB hands the ball off or keeps it based on the linebacker's reaction.
Alternatively, you can use play-action instead of a QB run. Create a similar situation but incorporate a bootleg action so that the QB can see how the targeted player reacts.
By observing the player's reaction in either scenario, you can determine whether they are keying backfield action or offensive line action.
Exploiting the Defensive Keys
Once you have identified the defensive player's key, as an offensive coordinator, you can tap into your bag of tricks to make them doubt their coaching and game plan. Create plays and situations where their keys are wrong, which will not only lead to potential gains for your offense but also plant doubt in the minds of the defensive players.
Your overall goal is to undermine the defensive players' trust in their coaches' game plan, which will make them question their assignments, slow them down, and create opportunities for your offense to succeed.
Remember, there's a wealth of information available at the Offensive Coordinator Academy at https://offensivecoordinatoracademy.com/. With over 12 experts offering their insights, you'll find a myriad of resources to help you craft a winning offensive strategy.
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