2014 PLAYER PARTICIPATION GUIDE

2014 PRO FOOTBALL FOCUS PLAYER PARTICIPATION GUIDE

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 2
The Basics ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
Changing an R to a P ......................................................................................................................... 3
Changing a Time Stamp......................................................................................................................... 3
Data Checks ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Nomenclature ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Important Note ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Adding a Player ..................................................................................................................................... 6
12 or 10 Men on Defense ..................................................................................................................... 6
Offense .......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Quarterback (QB) .................................................................................................................................. 7
Halfback or Fullback (HB or FB)............................................................................................................. 8
Wide Receiver (WR) ............................................................................................................................ 10
Tight End ............................................................................................................................................. 12
Offensive Lineman .............................................................................................................................. 14
Universal Offensive Actions ................................................................................................................ 15
Defense .......................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Defensive Line ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Linebackers ......................................................................................................................................... 20
Defensive Backs .................................................................................................................................. 16
Universal Defensive Actions................................................................................................................ 27
Special Cases ............................................................................................................................................... 28
Useful Hints ................................................................................................................................................. 29
Turn Autocorrect Off on Excel .................................................................................................................... 30

Introduction
Welcome to the Pro Football Focus Player Participation training guide for the 2014 season. This guide is
designed to make understanding how we collect player participation information as simple as possible
and while it is not exhaustive, it is essential you read all of this before attempting player participation.

What is Player Participation?

Player Participation (PP) is data that tells us which NFL players are on the field and when. PFF PP is
different from the official NFL playtime because we go beyond just telling you just who is on the field;
we also define their position and their generic role (blitz, block etc.) on each play.
By collecting this data we are able to create a grading system that accounts for how much time a player
is on the field, going beyond box stats that heavily favor those who spend more time on the field. It is
essential to what we do at Pro Football Focus.
This is done only for offense and defense; we do not collect special teams player participation data
during the normal player participation process.

How do I gather PP information?

The process requires certain things of you. You need Microsoft Excel and access to watch NFL footage.
This can be done via NFL Game Rewind/GamePass or via recorded footage. PFF does not provide
footage for you to collect data, nor will we pay any of the costs associated with you acquiring the means
to collect the data.

How long does it take?

It varies, but you should be prepared to spend 20 hours looking at the first game you ever do. Does it get
quicker? Considerably people who have been doing it for years now are capable of getting games done
in less than four hours. It is a commitment and one we fully understand that some people arent able to
make.

What do I gain out of player participation?

In addition to some payment depending on accuracy during the season (to be discussed after successful
completion of first trial), PP gives you a true understanding into how teams use players: what formations
they employ, what defensive packages they bring in and when, and how different players are used. This
isnt guess work, this is definitive. Our player participation was measured by NFL teams as 99.98%
accurate in 2013.

What do I have to do?

Im glad you asked

The Basics
To complete player participation you will be sent a spreadsheet to complete. You will only ever need to
fill in the Home O v Away D and Away O v Home D tabs. There is also an explanation tab for reference.
It is imperative that you never drag and drop within the spreadsheet or move players around. Every
player is positioned where they need to be. If you need to add a player on offense or defense, there are
slots available (by replacing those that say N/A) that can be overwritten. It is also acceptable to copy
cells but never cut. Do not alter the makeup of any cells other than to input data into them. This
information is processed through a database so the format needs to be adhered to.
Below is what the spreadsheet looks like. Some of the positions in the spreadsheet are out of date:

Changing an R to a P
or vice versa. One thing youll notice is that Row 3 (Row 2 is hidden) has an R or a P in it. This
designates its a running play or passing play. You will sometimes need to change this if the scorer gets it
wrong. For instance, if the play is down as an R because the QB scrambles, but the play is a designated
passing play, this needs to be changed to a P -- its all about what the play was designated to be. An
option run is an R but anytime a QB scrambles after dropping back (not a draw play) this needs to be a
P. Also, two-point plays always come out as runs so need to be changed to P when they are passes.

Changing a Time Stamp

Sometimes the scorer has the wrong time in. Never change this. Always leave the time the same.

Data Checks
In the rows below the players names, you will find a number of formulas used to find potential errors.
When you have completed a game, you need to check these and make sure nothing is coming up red. If
so, there is an error that needs to be fixed. The type of error can be found in column G.

Nomenclature
Depending on where a player lines up, they get a specific tag. You can use the same tag on multiple
players on the same play. When players are on the left side they would get a L instead of an R:

Offense
RWR: Right wide receiver
SRWR: Slot right wide receiver (or the middle slot receiver when three slot receivers are on the same
side of the field)
SRiWR: With two or more slot receivers on the same side of the field, the one closest to the offensive
line.
SRoWR: With two or more slot receivers on the same side of the field, the one furthest away from the
offensive line.
TE-R: Tight end on the right end of the line, or tight end in the middle of three tight ends lined up on
end of line in a two-point stance with his legs parallel to the LOS, or a three-point stance.
TE-iR: In two-tight end set, tight end closest to the right tackle in a two point stance with his legs
parallel to the LOS, or a three point stance.
TE-oR: In two-tight end set, tight end furthest away from the right tackle in a two-point stance with his
legs parallel to the LOS, or a three-point stance.
RT: Right tackle
RG: Right guard
C: Center
QB: Quarterback
HB: Halfback lined up as deepest back
HB-R: Halfback lined up in the backfield but lined up to the right, instead of directly behind center
HB-iR: If there are two players lined up at halfback on the right side of the field, this is the inner one.
HB-oR: If there are two players lined up at halfback on the right side of the field, this is the outer one.
FB: Player who lines up in front of halfback
FB-R: Player who lines up in front of halfback and offset to the right
FB-iR: If there are two players lined up at fullback on the right side of the field, this is the inner one.
FB-oR: If there are two players lined up at fullback on the right side of the field, this is the outer one.

Additions to positions
k A TE, HB, FB or WR (defined in column E) who stays into pass block (TE-Rk for example)
p When a OL (defined in column E) runs a pass route
a When an offensive player is lined up in a tight end spot, and in a stance that isnt that of a receiver
but without putting their hand on the ground
# When a player is injured on a play
^ - When a player not marked as LT/LG/C/RG/RT is on the line of scrimmage

Defense
DRE: Right defensive end in a four-man defensive line
RE: Right defensive end in a two- or three-man defensive line that lines up inside the offensive tackle
REO: Right defensive end in a two- or three-man defensive line that lines up outside the offensive tackle
DRT: Right defensive tackle in a four-man defensive line
NT: Nose tackle in three-, five-, and seven-man lines
DRiT: In a six- or seven-man line, the defensive tackle furthest from the DRE (six-man line) or to the
right of the nose tackle (seven-man line)
DRoT: In a six- or seven-man line, the defensive tackle closest to the DRE
ROLB: A right outside linebacker when at least four LBs are on the field
RILB: A right inside linebacker when at least four LBs are on the field
RLB: A right outside linebacker when three or six LBs are on the field
MLB: A middle linebacker when three or five linebackers are on the field
LB-SR: Any linebacker who goes across to cover the slot receiver on the right side of the defense
LB-SiR: A linebacker playing over the left inside slot receiver
LB-SoR: A linebacker playing over the left outside slot receiver
LB-WR: Any linebacker who goes across to cover the receiver widest on the right side of the defense
LB-FS: Any linebacker playing very deep (10 yards or further from line of scrimmage)
RCB: Any defensive back playing over the left wide receiver
SCBR: Any defensive back playing over a left slot receiver. If there are three slot receivers, then the one
covering the middle.
SCBiR: A defensive back playing over the left inside slot receiver
SCBoR: A defensive back playing over the left outside slot receiver
SS: Any defensive back not playing over a receiver and playing within 8 yards of line of scrimmage in the
middle of the field
SSR: Any defensive back not playing over a receiver and playing within 8 yards of the line of scrimmage
on the defenses right side.
FS: Any defensive back not playing over a receiver and playing further than 8 yards from the line of
scrimmage

Additions to positions
v It is assumed a DL (column E) always rushes on a passing play. A small v afterward denotes that the
DL has dropped into coverage (DLEv for example).
z It is assumed a LB or DB (column E) always drops into coverage on a passing play. A small z
afterward denotes that the LB or DB has rushed the passer (LOLBz for example).
y When any defender marked as a cornerback contacts a player at a wide receiver position before the
receiver gets more than one yard away from the line of scrimmage, or contacts him with both hands
before the receiver gets more than three yards away from the line of scrimmage.
# When a defender gets injured on the play.

Important Note
The additions to positions are extremely important. Understand when the right time is to use them and
do not guess. The additions all work on the back of column E a players default position. It does not
matter what position you put in a cell, the additions work on the back of whether a player is DL, LB or
DB for example. If you put a player like Trent Cole down as a DRE on a play, he still requires a z if he
rushes the passer because his default position is LB, while if you put Haloti Ngata (default position =
DL) down as a ROLB and he drops into coverage, he requires a v. This is similar with a player like Joe
Staley lining up at TE needing a p if he runs a pass route, while someone like Vernon Davis needing a k
if he lines up at LT or RT and stays in to pass block.
Lets look at each individual position more carefully:

Adding a Player
Sometimes the gamebook forgets players, sometimes defensive players move onto offense. When this
happens just simply add the player into the nearest available N/A column on the side of the ball and
team he has joined and alert the person you are submitting your work to that this has happened.

12 or 10 Men on Defense
There are two different types of 12 men on defense penalties. One where a team is caught making a
substitution and a player is running off the field, and another where they mistakenly send 12 guys out
there. Either way, you need to right click on the time stamp (row 4), click insert comment and fill in the
following:
[TEAM NICKNAME] [DEFENSE] has 12 players on the field.
If the defender was running off the field you need to add to it so it look likes this:
[TEAM NICKNAME] [DEFENSE] has 12 players on the field. [Player X] was running off the field
when the ball was snapped.
If there are more than 12 then you replace 12 with the correct number and add as such:
[TEAM NICKNAME] [DEFENSE] has 13 players on the field. [Player X] was running off the field
when the ball was snapped. [Player Y] was running off the field when the ball was snapped.
If there are 10 men on defense or offense you simply put this:
[TEAM NICKNAME] [DEFENSE/ OFFENSE] has 10 players on the field.

Offense
Quarterback (QB)
QB is a tag given to the player who receives the snap from the center, or in the case of a muffed snap,
the player who the snap was intended for.
Quarterbacks can also be given other tags. In certain formations you will see quarterbacks split out wide
such as in the play below. When split out, a quarterback defaults to the role of a WR which would
mean in the play below Cam Newton (circled at the bottom of the picture) would be a RWR and
DeAngelo Williams would be given the QB tag.

This is a rarity and quarterbacks will most often be given the QB role. If he is in the offensive backfield
but not behind center then HB or FB definitions apply to him, while if he lines up in a tight end spot, use
TE nomenclature. This is similar to every offensive player lining up in any position that isnt typical for
them.

Halfback or Fullback (HB or FB)

Halfbacks and fullbacks share the same tags/ nomenclature and are separated only by where they line
up on the field. For the purposes of player participation, they are one and the same. So, for example, it
doesnt matter whether Adrian Peterson or John Kuhn or Percy Harvin or Sheldon Richardson is in the
backfield, its all about where they line up on that particular play that determines their position.
The picture below shows two backs, but its their positions that define where they are. John Connor is
lined up as the fullback so he gets the FB tag, while LaDainian Tomlinson is the deep back so he gets the
HB tag.

In the picture below we see an instance of where Connor is lined up as FB-L. This position is designed to
show that he is lined up not directly behind the quarterback. The HB stays at HB because he is directly
behind the QB. In this case Connor would be a FB-L and the HB a HB.

On the picture below we see Connor, normally a fullback, moved to the right side of the QB, with Shonn
Greene to the left of the QB. This is where your preconceptions of what a player is must be left at the
door. In this play Greene is HB-L and Connor is HB-R to indicate they are both the deep backs. If one
player was a yard closer to the LOS, they would be a FB.

In the same way, when Joe McKnight splits out from his half back spot leaving John Connor as the only
back in the backfield, he goes from FB-L to HB-L. The HB, HB-L or HB-R must be the deepest back in the
backfield and you cannot have a FB without having another back in the backfield. In the play below
Connor has become a HB-L.

There are rare cases where there will be two players in the backfield at the same position on the same
side of the field. This is more often at fullback than halfback, but the same rules apply to both positions.
If two halfbacks are on the left side of the field, the outer player is a HB-oL while the inner player is a
HB-iL. If a team were to ever try a bizarre formation with three halfbacks on the same side of the field,
the outer would be a HB-oL, the middle would be a HB-L, and the inner would be a HB-iL.
In the picture below, Robert Griffin III is the QB on the play even though he is in the pistol formation, so
he still receives a QB tag. The furthest most back is directly behind him, so he would be a HB7. Neither
Pierre Garcon nor Logan Paulsen are the quarterback or the furthest most back, so they receive fullback
tags. Garcon is the outer of the two, so he receives a FB-oR. Paulsen is the inner of the two, so he
receives a FB-iR tag.

10

Wide Receiver (WR)

There are several receiver position possibilities. In order to be given a wide receiver tag, a player must
be to the right of the right tackle, or the left of the left tackle. They must also be in a two-point stance,
and in nearly all cases the receiver has one leg in front of the other. Each of these tags are the same on
the left side, just flipped. Again it doesnt matter if its Marques Colston or Darren Sproles or Jimmy
Graham or Lane Johnson lining up in this stance; they all receive the same tags.
RWR The Right Wide Receiver
If there is just one wide receiver to the right of the right tackle, they receive this tag. If there are
multiple receivers to the right of the wide receiver, the one who is furthest away from the right
tackle/closest to the sideline receives this tag.
SRWR Slot Right Wide Receiver
If there are two wide receivers to the right
of the right tackle, the one closest to the
tackle/furthest from the sideline receives
this tag. If there are three wide receivers to
the right of the right tackle, this tag is not
used. In the rare case that there are four
wide receivers to the right of the right
tackle, this is the second closest one to the
right tackle/the third closest receiver to the
sideline.
SRoWR Slot Right Outer Wide Receiver
If there are three wide receivers to the right
of the right tackle, this is the receiver in
between the other two right wide
receivers. If there are four wide receivers to
the right of the right tackle. If there are four
wide receivers to the right of the tackle, the
third closest to the right tackle/the second
closest receiver to the sideline receives this
tag.
SRiWR Slot Right Inner Wide Receiver
If there are three or more wide receivers to
the right of the right tackle, the closest one
to the right tackle receives this tag.
To the right is an example of a five-receiver
set, demonstrating these position tags as
well as the WR stance.
In every formation there are two players lined up at WR or TE on the line of scrimmage. They need a ^
after their position. In the above image the RWR and SLiWR are considered on the line because they are
further forward than the other three skill players. In this case those positions would be RWR^ and
SLiWR^.
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Tight End
There are numerous ways we classify tight ends to best capture how they are use. Lets run through
them.
Single Tight End
A single tight end (in PP terms) refers to a TE being lined up next to an offensive tackle in a three-point
stance with no other tight end directly next to him. Here there is a single TE on the left as well as a single
TE on the right. Therefore this formation includes a TE-L as well as a TE-R. Both players are on the line of
scrimmage, so they would be a TE-L^ and TE-R^.

Two Tight Ends

Here two tight ends line up next to each other at the end of the offensive line. Typically (but not always)
the inner tight end is on the line of scrimmage. This is true in this case, making the inner TE a TE-iL^. The
outer TE is not on the line of scrimmage, so they are a TE-oL.

12

Three Tight Ends

On rare occasions youll see three tight ends lined up on the same side. When this happens the player
closest to the right tackle (Ben Watson) gets a TE-iR whilst the player next to him (Josh Hill) gets a TE-R,
and the player on the outside (Jimmy Graham) is given a TE-oR as shown below. Here Watson is on the
line of scrimmage, so he would really receive a TE-iR^ tag.

Two-Point Stance Tight End

There are cases where a tight end will be in a two point stance but still require a TE-R tag. Below is the
perfect example of this; the offensive player has his hands on his knees and is not in a receiver stance.
The TE needs an a to signify this is technically a two-point stance. He would, therefore, be a TE-Ra.
Typically a TE in a two point stance is off the line of scrimmage like in the image below, but at times they
are on the line of scrimmage. In the case of a TE being on the line of scrimmage, they would be a TE-R^a.

13

Offensive Lineman
Offensive lineman are defined by where they line up relative to the center.

In some rare occasions teams will use unbalanced lines. In this instance Jared Veldheer has moved from
his left tackle spot to a tight end spot outside the right tackle. Here he becomes a TE and would be
tagged as a TE-R. The tight end will be given the RT or LT nomenclature relative to how close he is to the
center if he is on the line. Similarly Kevin Boss who is typically a TE has lined up at the LT position, so he
receives a LT tag.

14

Universal Offensive Actions

We have run down some of the additional tags in the positions but lets go through them in more detail.

Pass Blocking (k - always in lower case)

This is given to QBs, HBs, FBs, WRs or TEs (according to column E of the Player Participation
document) and notes when they have stayed in to pass block.
This is NOT given to players blocking for a screen receiver. They must be protecting the quarterback
pocket.
For any of these offensive players to receive the pass blocking tag, they must fully engage with a
defensive player, or they must get into a clear pass blocking stance.
A chip block followed by a pass route is not enough to receive this tag.
A k can never, ever be given to someone down as OL in column E.

Route Running (p always in lower case)

This can only be given to a person down as OL in column E. Note when a TE lines up at LT for
example and runs a route they DO NOT need a p. When an OL lines up at TE-L or at one of the WR
spots and runs a route they DO need a p.

Injuries (#)

In order for a player to receive the # tag, they must be injured to the extent that they miss at least
one play.

On Line of Scrimmage (^)

In order for a player to receive the ^ tag, they must be on the line of scrimmage, not including the
players at LT, LG, C, RG and RT.
Only two players will receive the ^ tag unless there is an illegal formation.
If a player who is typically an OL is on the line and at a TE position, they should receive the ^ tag.
Similarly if a player who is typically a TE lines up at LT, they do not need the ^ tag.

Order of Modifiers

The order of the modifiers is 1) ^, 2)a, 3)k/p, 4)#

If an OL according to column E lines up at TE-L, is in a 2 point stance, runs a pass route and then gets
hurt, they would be a TE-L^ap#

Motion

Motion is something we only capture in Advanced Player Participation. It is imperative that you
chart the player where they are when the ball is snapped.

15

Defense
Part of what player participation helps to do is determine what packages and formations are used. We
have strict nomenclature depending on the formation used and we will also break down the defensive
line positions depending on where players line up.

Defensive Line
For a person to get a defensive line tag they must be in a three- or four-point stance, or in the process of
getting into that kind of stance. In situations where the defensive line is in the middle of a shift, or the
offense snapped the ball before they completed getting into their stance and they would have been in a
three- or four point stance, then they will also be a defensive linemen. Otherwise they must receive a LB
tag or DB tag. The number of players who have their hands in the ground defines the nomenclature for
all. If no players have hands on the ground, then none get defensive line tags.
One-Man, Two-Man and Three-Man Lines
In any one-, two- or three-man front, there are five possible tags a player with their hand on the ground
can receive. While there can be exceptions, in the vast majority of cases you will not have multiple
players with the same tag on the same play:
LEO Left End (Outer)
This is used for players on the defenses left side (offenses right side), where the defensive linemen is
lined up outside of the offenses right tackle. While they might not be completely outside of the tackle,
they must be more outside then the tackle is and not head on.
LE Left End
This is used for players on the defenses left side lining up somewhere between the offenses center and
the right tackle.
NT Nose Tackle
This is used for players on the defense that line up across from the offenses center. They must be
directly over the C in order to receive the NT tag. If you are unsure, lean LE/RE. This tag is also used in
five- and seven-man fronts.
RE Right End
This is used for players on the defenses right side lining up somewhere between the offenses center
and the left tackle.
REO Right End (Outer)
This is used for players on the defenses left side (offenses right side), where the defensive linemen is
lined up outside of the offenses right tackle. While they might not be completely outside of the tackle,
they must be more outside then the tackle is and not head on.

16

The One-Man Line

Here are two examples of the Cowboys using a one-man line. The one player can have any of the above
tags depending on where he lines up.

The Two-Man Line

The two man front is typically used by 3-4 defenses while in their nickel defense, but can be used by any
team for a variety of situations. Most commonly we will see a LE and RE, although there can be any
combination of the five tags depending on where they line up.

17

The Three-Man Line

The most common three-man line is shown below with a LE, NT and RE.

The picture below shows that you dont even need to have a NT on a three-man line. It is essential to
remember that you only give out a NT when a defensive player lines up with his hand on the ground and
some part of his body shades the body of a center. From television camera angles this can be hard to tell
sometimes so its important to look at field markings for help.

18

The Four-Man Line

This is where a defensive line has four players with their hand in the ground. The nomenclature used
here is DLE, DLT, DRT and DRE. A NT is never used. In the vast majority of cases these are the four
positions that will be used. However if there are multiple players outside of the offensive tackle, or
multiple players within the offensive tackle and center, it is possible to have multiple of the same
position.
The example below identifies how a standard 4-3 defensive line is handled.

The Five-Man Line

If there are five men marked as defensive linemen, then it is possible to have a NT along with the typical
DLE/DLT/DRT/DRE. While most cases will have those five positions, it is again possible to have two(or
more) players at the same position.

19

The Six-Man Line

Nomenclature for a six man line only includes DRE, DRoT, DRiT, DLiT, DLoT, DLE. There is no NT
Below is an example of a six-man line. A seven-man line would feature a NT in between DRiT and DLiT.
An eight man line would eliminate the NT, and add in a DLT in between the DLoT and DLiT and similar on
the right side. A nine man line would add a NT to the eight man line. A ten man line would include two
DLE and two DRE. If all 11 men are on the line, it would be DLE-DLE-DLoT-DLT-DLiT-NT-DRiT-DRT-DRoTDRE-DRE

That concludes defensive line. Important things to remember;

On 1-, 2-, and 3-man defensive lines, nomenclature is between: LE, RE, LEO, REO and NT.
On 4-man defensive lines nomenclature is: DLE, DLT, DRT and DRE.
On 5-man defensive lines nomenclature is the same as 4-man line, but could feature NT.
On 6-man defensive lines nomenclature is: DLE, DLiT, DLoT, DRiT, DRoT and DRE
On 7-man defensive lines nomenclature is the same as 6-man line, but could feature NT.
A nose tackle can only be used when a defender is at least shaded over a center.

Linebackers
For a person to be classified as a linebacker in the PFF system they must be in a two-point stance. The
player cannot be regarded (by column E) as a defensive back. Any defensive back you deem in a
linebacker position is a strong safety (SS) or covering someone in the slot.
The nomenclature used for linebackers depends on how many linebackers are on the field and what the
player is.
One Linebacker
A rarity, but sometimes seen in sub packages, this player is given the tag of LLB, MLB or RLB depending
on their position. Anything between the outside shoulder of LG and RG is viewed as a MLB, anything
outside the shoulder of LG is a RLB and anything outside the shoulder of the RG is a LLB.
Two Linebackers
These players are given the tag of LLB, MLB or RLB. It can be both LLB or RLB but you can never have
more than one MLB. The MLB tag is given to the player parallel or closest to either shoulder of the
center. If no linebacker is between the outside shoulders of either guard, then there is no MLB. If a
20

player is outside the shoulder of the LG he is a RLB and if he is outside the shoulder of the RG he is a LLB.
If both players are outside the shoulder of the same guard they can receive the same positional tag.

In this picture we still have two linebackers, but because neither are within the outside shoulder of the
guard there is no MLB.

Three Linebackers
The standard three-linebacker formation, where the only nomenclature used is LLB, MLB or RLB. Players
are defined exactly the same way they are in a two-linebacker group so you will not necessarily have a
MLB, and could (very rarely) have three RLBs.

21

Four Linebackers
The only nomenclature used for four linebackers are ROLB, RILB, LILB and LOLB. If a player is on the
defenses left side they receive one of the two left tags. If they are outside of the OT, they are a LOLB. IF
they are inside or directly across from the OT, they are a LILB. It is possible to have multiple players at
the same position. If they are directly across the C, then their position is determined by how many other
linebackers are to each side of them. If there are more to their right than to their left, they would be a
LILB.

Five or More Linebackers

Four-linebacker nomenclature is used, plus a MLB tag is possible if he is lined up directly across from the
center.

22

The LB-SL, LB-SR, LB-SiL, LB-SoL, LB-SiR, LB-SoR, LB-WR, and LB-WL, and what they mean
There are cases where instead of lining up in a typical linebacker spot, a linebacker lines up across from
a receiver in more of a defensive back role. In this case, they receive a new tag that is dependent upon
the tag for the receiver. Below is an example of NaVorro Bowman lining up across from the furthest
right wide receiver. In this case he gets a LB-WL tag. If he were across from the furthest left wide
receiver, he would be a LB-WR. Similarly, Patrick Willis is lined up across from a SRiWR, so Willis receives
the LB-SiL tag. If there was just one slot receiver on the right side, he would be a LB-SL. It is important to
note that there are four total linebackers on this play including Bowman and Willis, so we still use the
four-linebacker tags for the remaining linebackers. In the image below, Ahmad Brooks is lined up
outside of the SRiWR, but he is in a pass rushing stance so he cant receive a coverage tag.

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It is important to note that in order for a linebacker to receive one of the slot tags, they must be either
to the outside of the receiver (as Willis is in the above picture), or directly across from them. If a
linebacker is on the inside of a receiver, he receives his normal linebacker tag. For example, below is a
case where Ahmad Brooks has his hand on the ground, making him a defensive linemen. NaVorro
Bowman is on the inside of the SRiWR, so he receives the LLB tag.

Defensive Backs
If someone is a DB according to column E of the excel document, they can only receive a defensive back
or in very rare cases a defensive line tag, but never a linebacker tag. Any DL or LB according to column E
can also receive a defensive back tag as mentioned in the linebacker section.
The first determination that is needed is if someone will receive a cornerback tag or a safety tag. If there
is no player in a receiver stance on one side of the field, then every defensive back on that side of the
field receives a safety tag. Also any defensive back in a pass rush stance will receive a safety tag.
If there is one or more wide receiver on a side of a field, then the furthest outside defensive player on
that side would be a LCB or RCB. If there are multiple players either outside of the LWR/RWR or directly
across from him, then both players would receive that tag.
If there are slot receivers, any defensive back that isnt the LCB/RCB is eligible to be a slot defender as
long as they are within ten yards of the line of scrimmage and not in a pass rush stance. The exception
to this is in red zone situations where a safety isnt as deep as usual because of how close the opponent
is to scoring. If there is a slot receiver, a typical safety within ten yards and a typical cornerback also
eligible to have a slot cornerback position, then the typical safety will receive a safety tag.

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Cornerbacks
There are eight possible cornerback positions: LCB, SCBoL, SCBL, SCBiL, SCBiR, SCBR, SCBoR and RCB.
Which tag they receive is dependent on which wide receiver they are closest to vertically. If the closest
receiver a cornerback is to vertically is a RWR, then their position would be LCB. If the closest WR was a
SLiWR, then the CB would be a SCBiR. It is possible to have multiple players at cornerback corresponding
to the same receiver. Below is an example of the Bengals in a five receiver set. The Eagles have five
players who are defensive backs according to column E, and within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage.
They are each given a CB tag dependent on which WR they are closest to vertically.

Safeties
Any player who should have a defensive back tag but not a cornerback tag receives a safety tag. There
are four possible safety tags. Similar to the rest of the defensive positions, it is possible to have more
than one player at the same position.
FS Any defensive player receiving a safety that is 8 or more yards away from the line of scrimmage
SS Any defensive player receiving a S tag that is within 8 yards of the LOS, and is within the furthest
outside players on the line on offense.
SSL Any defensive player receiving a safety tag that is within 8 yards of the LOS, and is outside of all
offensive linemen and players marked as tight ends.
SSR Any defensive player receiving a safety tag that is within 8 yards of the LOS, and is outside of all
offensive linemen and players marked as tight ends.
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Here is an example of the Jets in a fairly typical 3-4-4 defense against the Raiders in a typical 1 HB, 1 FB,
2 WR and 1 TE offense. There are two players that qualify for cornerback positions and two that qualify
for safety positions. At the top of the screen is a safety more than 8 yards away from the line of
scrimmage which makes him a FS. There is another safety within 8 yards of the line of scrimmage
making him a SS.

Below is an example of the Jets. They have 5 DL, and 3 LB leaving the three defensive backs to have
defensive back tags. On the left side of the field there is one player outside of all OL/TE, has a
corresponding wide receiver, and is close enough to the line of scrimmage to receive the LCB tag. On the
right there is a player outside of all OL and players marked at TE, with no corresponding receiver, and
within eight yards of the line of scrimmage. This makes him a SSR. At the far left of the screen is on the
left side of the field and too far away to be a cornerback, so he is a free safety.

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Universal Defensive Actions

Pass Rushing (z - always in lower case)

This is given to LB and DB (as defined by column E) who have attempted to rush the quarterback
(while he is regarded as a passer). A DL can never receive this.
The player must make an attempt to go after the quarterback either at the start of the play, or if
they are doing a planned delayed blitz.

Injuries (#)

In order for a player to receive the # tag, they must be injured to the extent that they miss at least
one play.
If a LCB (for example) is in press coverage, rushes the quarterback, and then is injured, they would
be a LCByz#.

Dropping into Coverage (v always in lower case)

This can only be given to a person down as DL in column E. This is when the player actively drops
into coverage and makes no attempt to rush the quarterback.
The key is for the player to actively drop into coverage as opposed to being blocked out of a play
and take a few steps away from blockers.

Press coverage (y always in lower case)

This tag is only used on pass plays.

This tag is only used for players marked at a CB position (or LB-W/LB-S position) making contact with
someone at a wide receiver position.
If a wide receiver is performing a screen block, you should not mark the cornerback they are
blocking as press.
There must be some contact with the receiver before the receiver gets more than one yard away
from the line of scrimmage, or contact made with both hands before the receiver gets more than
three yards away from the line of scrimmage.
If there are multiple modifiers for a cornerback, the y tag for press comes first.

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Special Cases
Play Action Passes
There are times where a play action pass will involve having all of the blockers going to one side to make
the defenders think the run is going in that direction, and then the quarterback rolls out to the other
side. In that case it can be difficult to assign actions between pass blocking/pass route and pass
rush/coverage. For players that frequently pass block/pass rush, put them as blockers/rushers if they
have engaged with someone on the other team even though their performance has no effect on the
play. Below Michael Hoomanawanui and Aldon Smith are engaged with each other, so they would be a
pass blocker and a pass rusher, respectively.

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Useful Hints
This seems like an easy thing to do -- recognizing players and putting in the positions. It isnt. Perfect
games of not making any mistakes are hard to come by. There some simple things to remember that will
help you.
- DO NOT fixate on numbers on jerseys.
- DO fixate on what shoes, armbands, gloves, wrist bands, socks players are wearing. Its the easiest way
to recognize them.
- DO look at the players stances.
- DO pick up on trends. Teams are, to a degree, formulaic in how they use people in certain packages.
- DO NOT take players being on the field for granted. Teams can be random.
- DO try and do as much in one sitting as possible. Rhythm and flow helps you figure out what is going
on in a game.
- DO notice things that make you go back and consider what youve already put down. Just noticed Joe
Bloggs is playing DLT in nickel. Go back and check other nickel plays.
- DO notice that defenses respond to offenses. Why have you got five defensive backs on the field for a
two-receiver set when the team is a base 4-3 defense? It could be the defense has made a mistake in
getting personnel onto the field or it could be you have made a mistake.
- DO check the offensive line at the start of every drive. Linemen normally stay in an entire game but
some teams rotate, some players miss series with injuries. Its normally important to check the first and
last play of every drive, but be wary of people coming out for a play or two.
- DO pay attention to whats going on. Youll learn so much about how people are used doing player
participation. Its invaluable and every single person at Pro Football Focus participates in player
participation even when they dont need to. They do because its integral to our knowledge base.

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Turn Autocorrect Off on Excel

Case sensitivity in excel is important, although Excel has a nasty habit of autocorrecting certain things.
To help with this:

Turning off Autocomplete in Excel 2010

In Microsoft Excel, the predictive text feature is called Autocomplete. While you're typing content into a
cell, Excel will automatically complete what you're typing if it looks like you're repeating something in a
similar cell. You can just keep typing to override it, but it's easy to make a slip and end up with
something you didn't want in there. To turn off Autocomplete in Excel 2010:
1. Click the File tab in the top left.
2. Click Options on the left. It's in smaller text, just above the red Exit button.
3. In the new window that opens, click Advanced, on the left.
4. Untick the box beside 'Enable AutoComplete for cell values'. It's about half way down.
5. Click OK in the bottom right of the options menu.

Turning off Autocomplete in Excel 2007

To turn off the predictive text/Autocomplete feature in Excel 2007, follow these steps:
1. Click the round Office button in the top left. A new menu opens.
2. Click Excel Options. It's hidden in the bottom right corner of the menu's frame, to the left of the
Exit Excel button.
3. In the new window that opens, click Advanced, on the left.
4. Untick the box beside 'Enable AutoComplete for cell values'. It's about half way down.
5. Click OK in the bottom right of the options menu

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