What it is

Press coverage is when a cornerback lines up close to the line of scrimmage and hits the receiver with his hands at the snap to slow down his route.

In a game

If it works, the receiver is thrown off his timing. If the receiver gets past the cornerback, the defense is exposed to a long gain.

More detail

Press coverage works best against slower receivers and in short yardage. A good jam uses both hands on the chest for a short moment, but contact more than five yards downfield is illegal. A corner who presses must have a safety behind him in case the receiver gets free.

Animated diagram

1. The cornerback lines up directly in front of the receiver, close to the line of scrimmage.
2. At the snap he hits the receiver with his hands, which knocks him off the planned path.
3. He then turns and runs with the receiver, while the safety behind him helps if the receiver gets free.