What is the difference between man-to-man and zone coverage?
Man-to-man coverage is a defensive scheme where each defensive player (linemen not included) picks one offensive player to cover during a play. The defensive player runs with that receiver throughout the entire play in an attempt to stop the offensive player from catching a pass. When a defense employs a zone coverage the linebackers, safeties and cornerbacks cover pre-designated areas on the field instead of covering a specific receiver. During a passing play, the players roam in their zone and cover any receiver that moves into that part of the field.
