Anchor Points: Building a Defense from the Ground Up

by Cody Alexander

In the latest book from MatchQuarters, Anchor Points creates a starting place to hybridize a defense for the modern coach. Starting with a brief history lesson, Cody Alexander takes the reader through the development of the modern offense, giving insight as to why defenses must be multiple yet simple in their design. Using best practices from the top minds in football, Anchor Points gives any coach a foundational knowledge of the basic schemes seen in the modern game. From the Over Front to exotic 3rd Down packages, Coach A. takes you through each one explaining their HOW and WHY. Never has there been a time in football where defenses have been challenged than they are right now. The book covers everything from how to hybridize your fronts to creating a 3rd Down blitz package regardless of front base structure. Learn how to develop multiple “defensive formations” while keeping the pedagogy simple and concise. As with all MatchQuarters content, each topic covered carries an explanation on how to implement the scheme and what to expect from the offense. Have a plan and execute! Come learn the art of X.

Genres: Football

297 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Bob Torres · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really didn’t like the structure of the book the first 4 chapters were all about the evolution of the offense and how it was kicking defenses butt. It just want appealing or what I thought when I got the book as a Dline coach. It wasn’t till the chapter on 3rd downs did he really state his purpose for writing the book. The diagrams are great and do give ideas for pressure, but the thoughts on fits and alignment seem rambled. I was thinking off the title we would get something a little different. 1 part of the book makes it seems the anchor points are the DLine and the other the linebackers in relation to the running back. I also am glad I knew the terms he was using before reading the book. If you don’t this book is not for you.

[Caleb Ryon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read on the direction football is going.

I enjoyed the perspective on the evolution of offense and the answers that DC’s employ to neutralize RPO’s and some of trends from the last few years. In a sentence: Manipulate their pass protections and use it for your benefit.

[David James · Rating 3 out of 5]

Worthwhile read. Not as good as his Split Field Coverage book.

[Zachary Hertel-therrien · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid read.

Great explanation of run fit and front pros/cons. Also some good 3rd down pressures info attacking protections. Would recommend the book.