Nnamdi Asomugha: Man to Man Coverage

Nnamdi Asomugha, cornerback for the Oakland Raiders, discusses how to play man-to-man coverage, with off coverage technique, in just four steps. Nike Football Pro Moves is a great resource “to be the best, learn from the best”. This football training video offers a valuable perspective from Nnamdi Asomugha.

Start Deep:You want to start 7 yards deep and give yourself a little gap to be ready. That means stay low and loose as the receiver comes toward you. Keep your eyes focused on your hips and watch for the turn where he’s going to try to get past you. You’re not going to let that happen.

Turn On Time:The turn is all about the timing. You want to turn about 3 or 4 yards ahead of him, so you’re not completely sold in case he wants to run by you. Your 3 or 4 yards is your cushion, and you want to turn before the receiver breaks that cushion. If he breaks it, you might lose either way.

Break Underneath:When he’s ready to break, you’ll know it. Watch his hips and watch them turn towards his new destination. Get between the receiver and the ball and beat him to the ball. You have the angle and the speed to get there when he does. If not before.

Upfield Hand:There’s a lot of ways to break up a ball, but here’s the right way. Use the upfield hand to reach and swat it away, and leave your other hand to take him down in case it gets past you. You are securing the tackle, and securing the ball at the same time.