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The Brain Is the Train

When we watch elite defensive backs on the field, we often marvel at their physical prowess. Whether it’s outstanding speed, long arms, blinding quickness, or jarring physicality, we tend to attribute most—or all—of their success to the physical element. That’s where we go wrong.

A player’s physical makeup—especially for a defensive back—is just preparation to take advantage of opportunities. But first you have to earn those opportunities.

What most people miss about great playmakers at this position is that they earn their chances with football IQ. Having 4.2 speed means nothing if you don’t know where you’re supposed to be or what the offense is trying to do.

Elite defensive backs are thirsty for knowledge. They want to understand the scheme, decode what the offense is calling, and uncover the best techniques to counter it. The brain runs the train.

Train hard, but don’t forget to feed your brain on your journey as a defensive back. No one will see your muscles if you’re sitting on the sideline.

Technique Clip: Using Hands In Press - Pat Surtain II

• ✅ Own Your Space (OYS) w/ hard jam on WR when he attacks depth

• ✅ Shoot with strong hands at chest

• ✅ Keep solid base with feet and pad height

• ✅ Close space between you and WR as ball is coming

• ✅ Use off hand to break up pass

101 DB Tips 📘

Want a no-fluff guide your DB room can actually use? 101 DB Tips breaks down press man, off man, and zone—plus practical advice on controlling your eyes, feet, and hands. You’ll also get clear tips on studying film and positioning against common routes, so good habits show up on Friday night.

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Quick Poll

What Is It?: Poach - In pass Coverage

Poach is a coverage adjustment where a safety (or backside defender) leaves his normal zone/man to steal a specific threat, usually the #3 receiver vertical from trips. Think of it as a smart double-team that appears late: the poach defender “robs” the seam so the nickel and corner can play outside routes with better leverage.

When you’ll hear it

• Trips or 3×1 sets, especially on passing downs

• Offenses that hammer the #3 vertical/seam or bender route

What the poach player does

• Aligns with depth, keys #3, and inserts on the seam/bender

• Communicates the push: other defenders pass off inside routes knowing the seam is capped

Why teams use it

• Takes away the quarterback’s first read in trips (the fast seam)

• Lets underneath defenders play outside-in without fear of getting split

Quick picture: Trips left, #3 pushes vertical—backside safety “poaches” inside to cap it; nickel plays outside leverage on #2, corner handles #1. The seam is gone; QB has to hitch or throw into help.

Make Friday Nights Simple

Even in 11-on-11, the same spacing and leverage rules win. Use The Ultimate 7-on-7 Defensive Playbook to sharpen alignments, communication, and coverage checks so Friday night feels simple—faster reads, fewer busts, cleaner tape.

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Thanks for Reading!
I hope this issue gave you valuable insights to improve your defensive back game. Remember, success on the field starts with mastering the fundamentals and staying committed to your craft.

If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, don’t miss out on these resources:

• Join the All Eyes DB Camp Community: Get exclusive tips, drills, and support from DBs and coaches just like you. Join Now →

• 101 DB Tips Book: Your ultimate guide to becoming an elite DB. Get Your Copy →

• Shop All Eyes DB Camp Gear: Look the part while you dominate the field. Shop Now →

Have questions or topics you’d like me to cover? Reply to this email or connect with me on social media—I’d love to hear from you!

Stay sharp, keep grinding, and always keep your eyes on the ball.

Chad Wilson
Founder, All Eyes DB Camp
@alleyesdbcamp on Instagram