Jalen Milroe - Reading a Defense

Watching the Alabama/Texas game, Jalen threw an out in cover 2 zone. It was a go-out concept (not a wheel like commentators tried to make it). The hook/curl defender stayed home, and the flat defender stayed home. That completely takes away the out or in (if it was an option), but the play design worked because it provided a window to hit the go route between the safety and corner. Jalen threw the out, which was his first interception. He stared the receiver down the entire time. It was almost the same look on his second interception. It was a Cover 2 Zone/Eagle look. Basically the Sam and SS both blitz, you have man coverage to one side, and cover 2 zone on the opposite side. Some would call this “sting”. Sam is delayed, which allows him to come in wide open, typically (that’s what you want). Will backer controls the edge and has the back if they swing out, otherwise they provide pressure from the edge. Z runs a seam, trying to get inside leverage to draw the FS over. X runs a 10-12 yard comeback. Again, Milroe stares at the comeback route the entire time, not realizing he has one-on-one coverage on the other side. FS stayed at home to cover his deep half of the field because Milroe’s eyes never led him anywhere else. Corner left a lot of room in the flats, as he covered a deeper zone (didn’t want to give up a deep play - keeping everything in front, as I imagine his coach told him). Comeback was virtually impossible here. Big play potential on the other side. I won’t reveal our team, but I’m an OC. We have a call in that situation to check our X to a quick, hot route (probably a hitch). We would also have the option to audible out to get our TE in the flats (makes the corner make a decision - leaves one or the other open).

Point is, Tommy Rees should’ve had this conversation with Jalen after the first time, and every other throw where he was staring down the receiver, and maybe he did…and maybe this is just Jalen not understanding, but it was two bad interceptions, as you all know. One basic thing that even junior high QB’s should know is always look off the safety. That’s so basic. I don’t understand why Jalen wouldn’t try that. I’m not claiming to be some big time OC that knows everything - I’m just a high school ball coach, but these are basics. Very, very basic. I honestly don’t think this would happen with a Kiffin or Sark coached offense.

Just thought I’d break it down for anyone who cares.