Cover 3 Defense Explained

Coach Nana explains the Cover 3 defense, a scheme where the number 'three' indicates three deep zones, or three "deep thirds". Unlike some coverages, Cover 3 uses both corners and the free safety as deep defenders. The free safety has a deep third, one corner has a deep third, and the other corner has the third deep third. In this defense, the outside linebackers, a nickel, or a strong safety cover the "flats," which are the short zones, while the linebackers cover the "hook to curl" zones. Coach Nana notes that she has played Cover 3 frequently in her career, especially in the WNFC. This coverage is common against running teams because the corners drop lower, allowing more linebacker-like players down near the line of scrimmage to help with the outside run. It is also used against passing teams that like to throw the ball deep, as it places three deep defenders in coverage.