NFL Playoffs Weekend — A Football-Intelligence Read
How NFL Coaches Watch a Playoff Game
The NFL playoffs are the best classroom in football. Everything is faster, tighter, and more intentional. Coaches aren’t just watching the ball — they’re reading what’s coming before the snap.
Here are three simple lenses that instantly change how you see the game.
1) Start with personnel, not the play
Coaches read who’s on the field before judging anything else. Personnel tells you intent.
- Heavy vs speed groupings
- How the defense matches bodies
- What possibilities are now in play
Coach lens: Don’t guess the play — narrow the options.
2) Use down-and-distance to understand play intent
In January, teams don’t waste downs. Situations dictate solutions.
- 1st & 10: stay on schedule or hunt a chunk?
- 3rd & short: leverage, rubs, quick decisions
- 3rd & long: protection, disguise, pressure tells
Coach lens: Great teams solve problems, not just call plays.
3) Watch leverage and body position — that’s where plays are won
Broadcasts follow the ball. Coaches follow leverage.
- Inside vs outside leverage on routes
- Forcing runners to help
- Hands, hips, and pad level at contact
Coach lens: Most “big plays” are decided seconds earlier.
This is the lens we teach young athletes — understanding the game while building game-ready skills through high-energy reps, small-space games, and coaching that is welcoming for newcomers and challenging for experienced players.
Enjoy the games,
Pro Sports Experience
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