7v7DefenseMan Free

Man Under, One Deep

Five defenders take receiver matchups while a free safety helps deeper and one player rushes. The center has no individual matchup in this drawing; plan for an eligible release.

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Who does what

  • RRusherStart from your competition's legal rush position and close toward the quarterback under control. The diagram does not set a universal rush distance.
  • FSSafetyDrop into the deep middle help area. Watch receivers entering that space and communicate as they leave it.
  • 1DBCover X in the illustrated alignment. Follow that receiver without grabbing; confirm the matchup before the snap.
  • 2DBCover Y in the illustrated alignment. Follow that receiver without grabbing; confirm the matchup before the snap.
  • 3DBCover Z in the illustrated alignment. Follow that receiver without grabbing; confirm the matchup before the snap.
  • 4DBCover H in the illustrated alignment. Follow that receiver without grabbing; confirm the matchup before the snap.
  • 5DBCover RB in the illustrated alignment. Follow that receiver without grabbing; confirm the matchup before the snap.

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How to teach Man Under, One Deep

By FlagPlays · Updated . Practical starting points for volunteer coaches. Check your competition’s rules before using a play.

Left and right refer to the diagram. Route depths are illustrations; adjust them to your field and players. Check eligibility, running and rush rules.

When to try it
Support five receiver matchups with one deeper helper. Check the eligible center, who has no individual matchup in this drawing.
Coverage plan
Defenders 1–4 cover X, Y, Z and H; 5 covers RB. FS helps over the top. Agree how to handle C if the center releases.
Teaching cue
The free safety keeps depth instead of choosing a short matchup.
Common mistake
Assuming the center is covered because every wide receiver has a defender.

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