Counting System

"If you can count to 3, you can play offensive line."

The counting system is very important when it comes to running any type of zone play (run or pass).  When running a zone play, the counting system tells the offensive line who they are suppose to block and the covered/uncovered system tells them how they are suppose to block.  The counting system ensures that every defender is accounted for in the blocking scheme.  When adding the counting system to a zone system, it really only puts a burden on the Center to recognize and call out #0.  It is very important for the center to be a smart leader because he is setting the blocking schemes on majority of the plays.  The rest of the blockers (offensive line and tight-ends) only have to count out from #0.

Communicating Defensive Fronts

Having a way to clearly and precisely communicate to everyone (players and coaches) within your team's organization is vital to the team’s success. A communication system from team to team can and will vary, but it is important to have a system to make sure everyone is on the same page when it counts the most. The communication system within your program needs to cover everything that can be communicated on a day to day basis. From day 1, the communication system needs to be introduces and variances within the system should not be allowed. Variances within the team's communication can lead to someone never knowing what is being communicated. This in return could hurt the team if you are trying to communicate in the heat of the battle. It is important that the communication system is covered for both players and coaches. You can't assume that they know or you will find out that they don't know when it counts the most.