Stopping the RPO and Screen Game

with Drew Sanders,
Vandegrift (TX) High School Head Coach;
Texas 6A Div. II Regional Semi-Finalists, 12-1 final record (2018); Undefeated District 13-6A Champions;
#1 Ranked Defense in 13-6A; Most interceptions in school history (12)

RPOs and the screen game are two offensive concepts that have taken the nation by storm over the past few seasons. It's quickly becoming paramount to any defensive coordinator to prepare for offensive plays that could turn into a run or pass based on the quarterback's read.

In this informative video from coach Drew Sanders, you'll collect some of his preferred techniques to stopping offenses from moving the ball using the RPO. Coach Sanders also includes some thoughts on program building and culture enhancement that are a benefit to any football coach.

Defending the RPO and Perimeter Screen

The presentation begins with an explanation of what the RPO game is and how offenses will try to create run/pass conflicts for defensive players. Coach Sanders diagrams how he defends both back-side and front-side RPOs, as well as the zone paired with a now screen concept.

Next, Sanders gives a detailed explanation on how he defends the wide receiver screen game with several coverages, including cover 3, cover 3 cloud, and cover 2 man. You'll also get a unique "chase" drill which teaches defenders to correctly pursue perimeter screen plays.

Program Building + Culture

Coach Sanders continues by giving you unique insight into the culture that has made his team so successful. He explains six key concepts of team culture that he uses with his team and can easily be adapted and used with any program. Some of the ideas include:

• Holding players accountable for penalties
• Recruiting calls to incoming 8th graders
• Parent camp-outs
• Developing leadership within the team

Sanders provides detailed explanations on how he handles each of these issues with his team.

You'll not only get excellent tactics for defending RPOs and perimeter screens in this video - you'll also receive some interesting ideas to think about in terms of program building. Coach Sanders gives an excellent presentation that is sure to improve your defense and overall program!

65 minutes. 2019.