GAME PREPARATION FOR HIGH SCHOOL DEFENSE

It is an honor to contribute to American Football Monthly and to represent the Verona Area High School football program. A common challenge faced in preparing a defense for each game is that of making changes and adjustments to defend the opponent, while maintaining the base structure of the defensive scheme. A second challenge is to maintain a manageable level of sophistication in scheme while eliminating player confusion. Many staffs spend the off-season learning new schemes, modifying their existing schemes, and deciding on what new ideas to incorporate. When the season arrives, coaches are excited about the new ideas, while players can be overwhelmed when handed a large playbook filled with multiple fronts, blitzes and coverages - we\'ve learned the hard way! To combat these challenges, we\'ve developed a Defense Foundation for Success that we present to our players at the beginning