Monday, September 14, 2009

Defensive Strategies When Outnumbered

This past week marked the beginning of an exciting new season.

No, not your favorite fall tv programming.

No, not the cool air and orange leaves of fall.

I'm talking about Thursday's 2009/2010 NFL Kick-Off!

Sooooo exciting! For me, that is, not so much for Kristin. I've contemplated making her watch copious amounts of the sport - you know, so my babies can get a feel for the game in utero, but so far she's managed to avoid week 1 (as did my Detroit Lions, I think the defensive line forgot to show up... more on that later).

I had the privilege of joining my brother and friend AJ to watch the first game of the season on Thursday night, surrounded by spicy barbecued chicken wings, salty chips and dip, and sugary sweets for dessert. Seriously, you guys missed out!

As we watched the game, we discussed strategy. We commented on plays, missed opportunities, turnovers, penalties and formations. It occurred to me that my playbook as a parent will have to be much different than most.

There are a number of defensive strategies that a team can employ during a game. I'll try to make it easy here, for those of you who aren't football - or sports - fanatics. (I'm referring to you, Mom - but take comfort, I'm sure you're not alone!).

For most parents, you'd start off with double coverage. A team would use double coverage when they feel a little threatened by a player - like Calvin Johnson who failed to score this weekend.

Ahem, anyway....

The parent team has good odds of handling most situations with (relative) ease due to the 2-1 ratio. At times, for parents of one child, double coverage is unnecessary, and the team can safely implement man-to-man defense. Just as it sounds, Mom, this is 1 on 1. The parent, being bigger, and usually wiser, can do just fine managing situations - unless you're a first time Dad trying to change a diaper.

It occurred to me during that game, that Kristin and I will have to employ another type of defense, right out of the gate. Zone.

Zone defense is a little more complicated - man-to-man isn't an option - so we'll have a totally different formation. It's going to take a lot of focus and determination. Zone defense can be hazardous - one man can be left open for the long pass if the defense is caught unaware.

On the bright side, Kristin and I won't be used to playing man-to-man, so it might not feel as reckless.

This weekend, in the season opener, the Detroit Lions defense forgot to play and were embarrassed by the Saints QB Drew Brees (much to my brother's delight). The lions are 0-1 early in the season (but there's still hope!)


Kristin and I better get to work on our playbook...
Go Lions! ...er, Stimers!

11 comments:

Rachel said...

Paul, hope is all you got… I’m still trying to figure out how you look forward to football season each year when your team is the Lions? -shaking my head- Though, I have to admit, they did get quite a few points against Brees who unfortunately for you had an unbelievable game…

Kristin, try and muster through some NFL games… even in the womb I’m sure they can pick up some great key learnings about the many important areas of life… learnings that can only be taught through such a fantastic display of athletic ability: psychological determination over nerves, focus and concentration, problem solving, team play and sportsmanlike conduct, dealing with pressure, strategy, health and active living, dancing, self-esteem, acting, being rich, etc.

Babies… Auntie Rachel will be sure to have you over to watch football in your Colts t-shirts!

Sue said...

And Baby Girl Stimers... Great Auntie Sue will have you and Mommy over for some chick flicks while the boys hang at Auntie Rachel's :-D

Cathy W. said...

WOW! Who knew Rachel was such a football fanatic!?! I liked her anology of the many things that can be learned through the game and you guys will definitely need them !!! I'm in between on the viewing - I like watching good games and seeing some of the amazing athletic plays made - but when YOUR team is blowing the doors off the opposition as N.C. State did Sat. 65-7 against Murray State, Kentucky ??? (Tyler left the game at half-time to watch Ohio State & USC - an exciting game down to the wire)or when YOUR team is getting blown away as the Panthers did on Sunday - it's best to go do something else. No point in everyone having a bad day!!!

marlene said...

Ok, so I'm totally lost. What is going on. I don't get it. Football, football, football. All I'm thinking about is babies, babies, babies. I suppose guys and girls are different. Did I miss something. Oh yeh Paul, and when you do come here with the gang your kids will be drinking out of Colt sippy cups too.

Cherylene said...

I've always thought football games were a great opportunity to catch up with a nap. I'm sure you'll agree when 3 little voices are tapping your knee during a game, all begging, "Daddy, will you play with me now?"

Time Out is also a good fave...and then there's penalities!!!!

Anonymous said...

It looks like I'll have to try and purchase eagle sippy cups. I'll do my best to find some.

Sue said...

No.... Steelers sippy cups... for when they come to watch with Uncle Doug!!

Marlene said...

C'mon you guys. Dont't steel the show here. So between Rachel and I the babies are going to have shirts and bibs too. Maybe even their first football. A COLTS one. Is Anonymous Mr. D. Stimers? Show your true identity.
Got to go to the special store now and make my order.

Cherylene said...

Eagles' fan, we know who you are. Be brave! Blogging is not for cowards!

Paul said...

You guys are cracking me up with these comments!

...and I'd post anonymously too if I were an Eagles fan...

Anonymous said...

Very simply, the best defence is a great offence! And don't forget, it's not practice that makes perfect; it's perfect practice that makes perfect!