There aren't that many differences in these two levels of the sport. There might be the occasional rule differences, like in college if the ball carriers knee hits the ground without anyone touching him then the play is over but in the NFL there has to be contact from the other team before the ball carrier is considered down. There are a few minor differences in rules but the main difference is the culture.
In college everyone is trying to make it to the next level while trying to get an education. But the main difference that college has over the NFL is that the fans have spirit. Mostly because college games are filled with college students and alumni members most people feel more connected with their school.
In the NFL every player has to be at the top of their game or in other words they always have to try to be the best.The main difference is that NFL players are professionals and they get paid to play the game they work so hard for. The NFL has great fans and the culture is great along with College Football but maybe some personal ties may be different depending on the fans.
Monday, November 24, 2014
Offensive Formationgs
On offense before the play starts the QB either snaps the ball from under center or from the shot gun formation. Shot gun formation is where the QB stands behind the center with the RB next to them. When the QB is under center there can be one or two running backs behind him. While in these formations the TE's and WR's can line up in a few spots.
http://www.electro-mech.com/team-sports/football/offensive-football-formations/
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Defensive Coverage's
Coverage's are basically assignments for linebackers and defensive backs so they know who or where to cover. Coverage's are called before the play, but they are only carried out if the play ends up being a pass. The term zone coverage literally means cover a zone. In zone, unlike man to man, a player is assigned a certain spot on the field to defend on a pass. There are a few zones and sometimes the jobs for defenders vary depending on how the offense lines up or how the defense is coached.
Most common coverages
Cover zero or man coverage: All DB's and LB's have are assigned to guard someone and if they have no one to guard then they react to the play accordingly.
Cover one: Cover one is where some players have a man to guard and others have a zone. In most cases, the two corners have a man to guard along with the strong safety. The LB's and FS's most likely drop into a zone.
Most common coverages
Cover zero or man coverage: All DB's and LB's have are assigned to guard someone and if they have no one to guard then they react to the play accordingly.
Cover one: Cover one is where some players have a man to guard and others have a zone. In most cases, the two corners have a man to guard along with the strong safety. The LB's and FS's most likely drop into a zone.
Safeties
Safeties along with conrerbacks are DB's (defensive backs). The safety (S) has multiple job responsibilities on defense. They can play man to man, zone or free. But more importantly, they are the last line of defense to stop the offense because normally they are the furthest players back. To start the play most safeties start 10 to 15 yards off the ball and make adjustments depending on their assignment.
Two types of safeties:
Strong safety (SS): The strong safety plays on the strong side of the field or the side that has more offensive players. There job is to either guard a receiver, running back, or zone.
Free Safety (FS): The free safety plays on the weak side or the side with fewer offensive players. Often times they are free to move where they want depending on how the play is developed. For example if the QB starts to look at the receivers to his left then the FS will start to go that way.
Two types of safeties:
Strong safety (SS): The strong safety plays on the strong side of the field or the side that has more offensive players. There job is to either guard a receiver, running back, or zone.
Free Safety (FS): The free safety plays on the weak side or the side with fewer offensive players. Often times they are free to move where they want depending on how the play is developed. For example if the QB starts to look at the receivers to his left then the FS will start to go that way.
In the image above, the defense is in a 3-4 alignment because there are three linemen and four line backers. Cause there are only two corners there are two safeties to make 11 players. Because the TE on offense is on the right side of the formation the play is strong right. When the play is strong right, the SS is on the right while the free safety is on the left.
Cornerbacks
The cornerback (CB) is one of my favorite positions because it was one of the positions I played. Also I had a lot fun playing it. The CB has the job of guarding either a man (receiver) or a zone (a specific part of the field). There is going to be a zone coverage post coming soon to further explain.
The main goal of a CB is to guard a receiver by not letting them catch the ball by all means. Most of the time they play one on one against receivers but sometimes they get help from the safety. To start the play the CB has two options; either press coverage (play on the ball) to try to stop the receiver or play off the ball so they don't get beat with a deep pass. To play CB you have to be strong, quick, flexible, agile, aggressive, and smart.
Good corners have to have good technique! The stance before the play is very important especially in press coverage because if the CB is not balanced then they will get knocked down and beat off the ball.
The main goal of a CB is to guard a receiver by not letting them catch the ball by all means. Most of the time they play one on one against receivers but sometimes they get help from the safety. To start the play the CB has two options; either press coverage (play on the ball) to try to stop the receiver or play off the ball so they don't get beat with a deep pass. To play CB you have to be strong, quick, flexible, agile, aggressive, and smart.
Good corners have to have good technique! The stance before the play is very important especially in press coverage because if the CB is not balanced then they will get knocked down and beat off the ball.
NFL Stadiums
What's up everybody. On this post there is a link to a map that I made showing you where most of the NFL stadiums are.
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Recievers
Hey everybody, this post is all about receivers. Here is a power point that I put together, enjoy!
The Running Back.
On offense, a running backs (RB) main job is to run the ball and get as many yards as possible. Running backs are also called halfbacks (HB) and tailbacks (TB).They can run routes to catch passes and they can even block for the quarterback. You may here that football today is all about passing but any good passing team needs a good running game. When a team has a good run game, they have an advantage on the defends because they can control the game by keeping the ball longer. Also, a good run game opens up other play options like passes or trick plays. When running the ball, the main goal of course is to get a lot of yards while wearing down the defense. There are many holes or gaps to run the ball in depending on what the play is. You probably have heard or will hear that a good running team runs the ball down hill and through the tackles. That simply means that they go straight towards the end-zone between the offensive linemen.
Just for perspective, this is the view most RB's have before the ball is snapped. Yes the image is from a video game!
Just for perspective, this is the view most RB's have before the ball is snapped. Yes the image is from a video game!
Defensive line
The defensive line (DL) consist of 3 to 6 players depending on the down and distance for the offense. Just like the offensive line, these players are normally larger than the rest of the positions but some are a little thinner than offensive linemen. The size difference between O-linemen and D-linemen is best explained like this; the O-line has to take up space and block while the D-line has to be more athletic and agile to get between, through or around the O-line.
When there are fewer D-linemen (about 3 to 4) then the defense is most likely trying to stop short or long passes by bringing in more linebackers or defensive backs even though they can still try to stop the run. When there are more D-linemen then the defense is probably trying to stop the run, and when they bring in more lineman then there are less linebackers or defensive backs. The amount of linemen affects each persons job so each D-lineman's job varies depending on the play and set up.
When there are fewer D-linemen (about 3 to 4) then the defense is most likely trying to stop short or long passes by bringing in more linebackers or defensive backs even though they can still try to stop the run. When there are more D-linemen then the defense is probably trying to stop the run, and when they bring in more lineman then there are less linebackers or defensive backs. The amount of linemen affects each persons job so each D-lineman's job varies depending on the play and set up.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Offensive Line
The offensive line (OL) consist of five to six players called linemen. Linemen often are tall, beefy, solid, or just fat. There body's are needed because they have a very physical job to do all game. These players line up side by side to block either for the quarterback on a pass or for a running back during runs.
There are three specific names you need to know.
The center is the one in the very middle, and the center has one of the most important jobs on the field; and that job is to snap/hike the ball to the quarterback. The center has to get a good clean snap to the quarterback so the play can start off as smoothly as possible. But right after the center snaps the ball they have to block the defense or else the play will not be successful.
The two guards line up on each side of the center. To tell the difference one is called the left guard (LG) and the other is obviously the right guard (RG). There basic job is to pass or run block.
There are also two tackles. Just like the guards there is a right tackle (RT) and a left tackle (LT). The tackles are the two on on the end most of the time and they line up right outside the guards.
*The tight end (TE) is also a part of the offensive line but they do more than just block. They can also run routes like the wide receivers. As you can see below they can line up right on the line of scrimmage to help disguise a run or pass. They can also line up wide like the receivers.
There are three specific names you need to know.
The center is the one in the very middle, and the center has one of the most important jobs on the field; and that job is to snap/hike the ball to the quarterback. The center has to get a good clean snap to the quarterback so the play can start off as smoothly as possible. But right after the center snaps the ball they have to block the defense or else the play will not be successful.
The two guards line up on each side of the center. To tell the difference one is called the left guard (LG) and the other is obviously the right guard (RG). There basic job is to pass or run block.
There are also two tackles. Just like the guards there is a right tackle (RT) and a left tackle (LT). The tackles are the two on on the end most of the time and they line up right outside the guards.
*The tight end (TE) is also a part of the offensive line but they do more than just block. They can also run routes like the wide receivers. As you can see below they can line up right on the line of scrimmage to help disguise a run or pass. They can also line up wide like the receivers.
Monday, October 13, 2014
The Linebacker
The Linebacker (LB) is the defensive version of a Quarterback, in the sense that they are the defensive leader or the on field defensive coach. Though there are two to four possible linebackers on the field at a time, one is responsible for calling out the plays and making sure everyone knows their responsibilities. Like quarterbacks, linebackers also make adjustments or audibles at the line of scrimmage, often countering the audibles the quarterback makes. But unlike a quarterback, they must set the tone, physically! There physical presence is very important and they must be willing to put their body on the line to stop the offense. They have so many jobs to do on the field but one of the most important is simply getting to the ball.
Because the Linebacker has so many jobs that are difficult to explain, I've decided to show you a video of my favorite Linebacker of all time, Ray Lewis. These are some of his career highlights and I couldn't think of a better way to further explain how the Linebacker position is played. ( 3:20-3:28 shows really good linebacker technique)
The Quarterback!
The most recognizable and probably the most important player on the team is the Quarterback (QB). Known as the coach on the field during offense, the QB is the player with the most responsibility. They do more than just pass or hand the ball off. They are responsible for letting the offense know the plays, where to line up, where to go when the play starts, and who is likely to get the ball. Along with all that, they have to know what the situation is during the game and keep everyone together. They also make adjustments, called audibles, to prevent the defense from messing up the offensive play. To be honest, in order to have a successful team, there needs to be a good quarterback. They must deliver mentally and physically all the time and a lot is required of them and that's why they are the most important player.
Here is a video on throwing a football by Hall of Fame NFL Quarterback, Joe Montana.
The little stuff that happens during the game.
Terms
Coin toss: Happens before the game to determine who gets the ball first and what way the teams will go to try to score. This is a coin toss before Super Bowl XLVII, and as you can see, it's a big deal.
2 minute warning: Happens with 2 minutes remaining in the second and fourth quarter to let the teams get a breather and make their plans before the final few plays before the end of the first half and the end of the game.
Halftime: The time where both teams get a break and a chance to regroup.
Things to know
- After the end of each quarter the teams switch sides and go the other way.
- If a coach throws a red flag onto the field then they are challenging a play because they believe that the referees made a mistake.
- The referees can review plays to make sure that they made the right decision about a play, they do this by using the instant replay.
Equipment
For a viewer who has never played or been around that much football, the uniforms and equipment may look a little funny. But everything a player wears is for safety and athletic purposes; with the exception of branding items.
Notice those big bulges in the pants on the thighs, knees, hips and tail bone? Those are all pads to help minimize pain because those can possibly be frequently impacted areas. These areas need some extra protecting while still allowing the athletes to be very mobile. Those pads are required on all levels of tackle football
For the upper body, there are shoulder pads, that not only cover just the shoulders, but the chest and upper back. Most contact comes from or to this upper body section caused from blocking and tackling. Though they look bulky, they are very flexible and with newer technology they are getting smaller while staying safe.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Referee Signals
Here is a video going over some of the basic signals a referee may give during a game.
Just for laughs, here is a video with a miss communication between officials.
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Football is a Physical Sport!
One of my high school football coaches once said, "Football is not a contact sport. It's a collision sport!" What he failed to mention is that it is also about technique and proper training.
Many people believe the game of football is dangerous and it's nothing but people running into each other, but it's not like that at all. Yes, it's very physical game, but there are certain precautions and training that goes into learning how to play football. Most players in college and in the NFL have been playing since they were young, meaning that they have been learning how to play the game while learning the proper techniques so they can play the game as safe as possible. Something that I learned as a player is that if you are scared, timid or unsure of what to do, then most likely you are the most dangerous person on the field. The scared, timid or unsure player is the player that probably doesn't understand the proper techniques or what to do so when they engage with another player something bad can happen.
Many people believe the game of football is dangerous and it's nothing but people running into each other, but it's not like that at all. Yes, it's very physical game, but there are certain precautions and training that goes into learning how to play football. Most players in college and in the NFL have been playing since they were young, meaning that they have been learning how to play the game while learning the proper techniques so they can play the game as safe as possible. Something that I learned as a player is that if you are scared, timid or unsure of what to do, then most likely you are the most dangerous person on the field. The scared, timid or unsure player is the player that probably doesn't understand the proper techniques or what to do so when they engage with another player something bad can happen.
Friday, September 12, 2014
Basic Football Lingo
The game of Football can be difficult for many people to understand so I'm going to try to define or explain some basic terms that will help you know what is going on.
1) Flag or Penalty: When there is a penalty during a football game (either during a play or between plays) a referee will throw a yellow flag onto the field where it will be visible for everyone. Penalties will come if something illegal happens caused by players, coaches, or anyone on a teams sideline. Players can get a flag by doing something illegal during a play, like holding an opponent. Players can also get penalties along with coaches or anyone on a sideline with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, which can occur in between plays. When there is a penalty there is of course a punishment, and in football most penalties result in a loss of yards. The most common amount of yards that are taken away after a penalty are 5, 10, or 15 yards. Depending on the severity of a penalty, players or coaches can be thrown out the game and may be suspended but this does not happen as often.
There are many penalties so I would suggest you look some up at your own pleasure. Some penalties happen more than others, so depending on how much you watch football you may need to know a lot, or only a few. Here are a few penalties and their definitions, and also there is a link to NFL.com's rule book.
1) Flag or Penalty: When there is a penalty during a football game (either during a play or between plays) a referee will throw a yellow flag onto the field where it will be visible for everyone. Penalties will come if something illegal happens caused by players, coaches, or anyone on a teams sideline. Players can get a flag by doing something illegal during a play, like holding an opponent. Players can also get penalties along with coaches or anyone on a sideline with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, which can occur in between plays. When there is a penalty there is of course a punishment, and in football most penalties result in a loss of yards. The most common amount of yards that are taken away after a penalty are 5, 10, or 15 yards. Depending on the severity of a penalty, players or coaches can be thrown out the game and may be suspended but this does not happen as often.
There are many penalties so I would suggest you look some up at your own pleasure. Some penalties happen more than others, so depending on how much you watch football you may need to know a lot, or only a few. Here are a few penalties and their definitions, and also there is a link to NFL.com's rule book.
Teams and Positions
If you want to know about football then you need to know the three types of teams on the whole team, and also the positions on the team.
The Three Teams:
The three different teams refers to what part of the game is happening. The three teams are Offense, Defense, and Special Teams. Offense whole goal is to score the ball, while the defense is trying to stop the Offense. That's the obvious part, but the special teams is a little bit harder to understand. There are four special team opportunities; the punt team, the punt return team, the kick off team, and kick return team. During special teams there is no offense or defense on the field, but instead there are random players from the whole team who specialize in a area to help the special teams. On special teams, one team is trying to kick the ball to the other team (the other team is trying to catch the kick and score). The intention of the kickoff or punt team is to keep the other team far away from their own end-zone, and the kick or punt return team tries to score or get the ball or get the ball as far as possible.Friday, August 29, 2014
Introduction
Hello everyone, my name is Stacy Ashurst-Thomas and I want to personally welcome you to my blog!
This blog is to help inform you on the basics of the game of football no matter who you are. If you are a girlfriend, wife, or just someone who wants to know more about football, then you're in the right place. I am a sophomore in college with over five years of experience of playing the game of football. I help coach my old high school team (Highland Park, Topeka, Kansas) as a volunteer and my life has nearly revolved around football since I was in 6th Grade.
This blog will help you understand how the game of football is played from the standpoint of a spectator and possibly a beginning player! I look forward to informing you on this topic because it is very important to me. Also, I want you to feel free to comment with any suggestions or questions about anything you may have a concern about. Enjoy!
This blog is to help inform you on the basics of the game of football no matter who you are. If you are a girlfriend, wife, or just someone who wants to know more about football, then you're in the right place. I am a sophomore in college with over five years of experience of playing the game of football. I help coach my old high school team (Highland Park, Topeka, Kansas) as a volunteer and my life has nearly revolved around football since I was in 6th Grade.
This blog will help you understand how the game of football is played from the standpoint of a spectator and possibly a beginning player! I look forward to informing you on this topic because it is very important to me. Also, I want you to feel free to comment with any suggestions or questions about anything you may have a concern about. Enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)