How To Play Zone Cornerback In Football

If you play cornerback, you will definitely need to know how to play zone cornerback in football.  Zone cornerback, along with man to man coverage, exhibits the two types of coverage you will need to know in order to play cornerback in football.  Take the following considerations into account to learn how to play zone cornerback in football.

1. Know your coverage area.  When you play zone cornerback in football, you are responsible for a certain area of coverage.  You must also know where the other cornerbacks and safeties are, in case you have to choose a receiver to cover.  Make sure you understand where you're supposed to be in your coverage area.
2. Stay in your area, for the most part.  Especially early in the play, you will need to stay within your coverage area.  Don't go outside of your area unless you are sure.  Normally towards the end of the passing play you will be able to cover the closest receiver, as the quarterback is throwing the ball or when you get a good read on the play.
3. Read the routes and the play.  When you are in zone coverage, you have some freedom should you get a good read on the play.  For instance, if you read the obvious screen pass, go for it.  Keep your eyes on what's happening, should it be a running play or something obvious such as this.
4. Stay aware of the play.  When you play zone cornerback, you will most often need to help out on a running play or close off on a receiver.  However, you need to be ready and watch for play action and other deceiving plays.