When to use different coverages

In general, the most common coverages in high school ball are Cover 3, C-1 (man free), and C-0. you're starting to see more quarters coverage with the spread systems out there. Similar to a post I read of yours a few days ago, your coverage tendency is going to be based on your philosophies and will be matched to the calls of your defensive fronts. For instance, if you have a heavy blitz package on, you can't run an effective cover 3, so use a man or man free over the top of that front. I think it is important to use something you are having success with, but make sure you are playing games with the QB by switching things enough to keep him questioning what he is seeing. Lastly, use your strengths. If you have a couple of excellent corners, who can cover, run lots of man. If your corners are average and you have great safeties, run more cover 2/4 or some aggressive robber looks. Know your players, and get a feel for what they do well to put them in the best position to succeed.