Keep the Chains Moving

Illinois' 3rd Down Attack
by: Ron Turner
Head Football Coach,University of Illinois
© More from this issue

Achieving results on third down is one of the biggest keys to winning any football game. Third-down situations are often pivotal in determining the outcome of a game. A key stop for the defense can change momentum or significantly alter field-position advantage. Conversely, a conversion by the offense can keep a drive alive, eat up clock time, and keep scoring opportunities available.

For the offense, the objective is simple: keep the football by making the necessary yardage. Several factors make this a challenge when facing today's defenses.

First, third down is a possession down. The offense has only one opportunity to make the necessary yardage. Since defenses know this, their tactics are tailored to the specific distance.

Second, defenses today play a variety of looks and coverages on third down. On any given thi....The full article can only be seen by subscribers.
Subscribe today!


User Name Password Password Help	NOT A SUBSCRIBER? Subscribe now to start receiving our monthly magazine PLUS get INSTANT unlimited access to over 4000 pages of 100 percent football coaching information, ONLY available at AmericanFootballMonthly.com!

**SUBSCRIBERS ONLY**
NEED PASSWORD HELP

Subscribe online or call 800-537-4271 and get your password today!

Article Categories

AFM Magazine

Keep the Chains Moving