What it is

A triangle coverage is a split-safety coverage in which three defenders work together against two receivers on one side of the formation: the cornerback, the apex and the safety.

In a game

The three defenders cover the #1 and #2 receivers between them. The cornerback takes #1, the apex takes #2, and the safety over the top helps against either one, depending on the routes. Coaches call it a triangle because the three defenders form that shape on the field.

More detail

Because every triangle coverage uses the same three defenders, a team can mix them, for example Quarters on one side and Bracket on the other side of a 2x2 formation, with nothing new to teach. Quarters is the most common triangle coverage at every level of football. Its weak spot is a vertical combination of routes that break inward, such as a post and a dig.

The diagram

1. Three defenders work together: the cornerback, the apex and the safety.
2. They cover two receivers, #1 and #2.
3. Each side of a 2x2 set can use a different triangle coverage.