Glossary

Carry the vertical

DefenseTechniqueCBSILBOLB

What it is

Running with a vertical route through your zone rather than passing it off and settling.

Why it matters

In match coverage a vertical release is a trigger: whoever has the rule carries it, and the defender behind him is only right if that carry actually happened. Four verticals exists to punish the defender who settles at his landmark and watches the seam run past him. Carrying is not chasing — the defender carries at leverage, staying in position to play the ball rather than the man.

Also called

Programs call this carry, run the seam or carry number two. The Coach answers to any of them.

Related

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