F, S positioning when in goal line mechanics

[ElvisLives]

When in Goal Line mechanics, we often see the F/S take a position some 4’ to 6’ or so, outside the sideline/end line pylon, and at about a 45 degree angle from the sideline/end line. This is a logical position, as it places them in an ‘equal’ position relative to the sideline and end line. Once the action develops, then they can adjust to a position at either the sideline extended, or end line extended, to cover action involving either line.
Nothing at all wrong with that.
But, let me offer an alternative technique taught to us by long-time NFL veteran Tom Fincken, considered to be about the best deep sideline guy to ever work the game, that you may find to be more advantageous.
Obviously, the action that is most pertinent for the F/S is on/by potential pass receivers. Tom showed us that, when close to the goal line, offenses tend to throw a lot of ‘fade route’ passes, where a receiver runs toward the back corner of the end zone, and the passer throws the ball - hopefully - over the head of the defender and over the shoulder of the receiver, very near the back corner of the EZ. Most importantly, Tom showed us that the vast majority of fade routes end up crossing the sideline just in front of the pylon. That being the case, the best initial positioning for the F/S is at the sideline, extended beyond the end line. By taking that position, some 4’ to 6’ beyond the end line, they are in the best position to see this action develop, and don’t often need to adjust their position. Yes, if action clearly develops at the end line, they can adjust to the end line (on the end line, or extended beyond the sideline). But, the B is also on the end line to cover action there, should the F/S not be able to adjust to the end line.
As I went about working F/S for the next 10 years in FBS football, I used that technique, and found what Tom taught us  us to be truly spot on.  Rarely had to adjust to the end line. By far, most action that I needed to rule on happened at the sideline.
Try that, at your next scrimmage. I think you’ll see the advantage.

[ilyazhito]

As F/S I have normally tended to line up on the end line extended. However, I might try going sideline extended on my next scrimmage.
When I am on the goal line as F/S, I look to be at the limit line to have enough space to make a call on the goal line and not get crashed into.

[ElvisLives]

As F/S I have normally tended to line up on the end line extended. However, I might try going sideline extended on my next scrimmage.
When I am on the goal line as F/S, I look to be at the limit line to have enough space to make a call on the goal line and not get crashed into.

I offered that positioning explanation to some guys in a scrimmage last season. Immediately after explaining it, guys awaiting their turn and I looked up to see a fade pass precisely to the spot I had described. I said, "Like that."

I'm not sure the limit line (12' off the sideline) is the best starting position at the goal line. 6' off - yes. But absolutely keep the area clear to the limit line - and beyond, if possible. If there are camerame.. excuse me, camera persons, politely let them know that you may need to back out directly in line with the goal line, and request that they stay several feet either side of the goal line extended. "But, ref - I need to get that great shot looking right down the goal line!" No. You don't. We need to get an unobstructed view down the goal line, and not get killed doing it. Keep the ball persons well away, too. And, that dang goal line marker ("G") needs to be back at the fence/wall. Totally frivolous.

[Grant - AR]

I learned the same thing from a long time NFL deep wing named Tom...Hill.  I guess those Tom's really know what they are talking about. 

[psv]

thanks!  I will give it a shot.

[Joe Stack]

So you're saying the initial position is looking straight down the sideline toward the other end zone?

[ElvisLives]

So you're saying the initial position is looking straight down the sideline toward the other end zone?

The 'position' is on a line that is the extension of the sideline beyond the end line. But, your view is of the teams and your specific key/area of interest. With your key most likely moving toward you, you have everything in front of you. You barely have to turn your head. If the receiver heads toward the corner, you have a good view of the defender attempting to cover him, and you can probably see the pass go in flight in your peripheral vision. You've got it all covered without having to move. If the pass comes tight into the corner, you might have to take a step or two back to keep from getting run over.
You aren't necessarily rigidly fixed with your shoulders parallel to the end line. Quite the contrary. You take position with your body slightly angled toward the teams, and ready to move up to the end line, if conditions dictate, or turn square with the end line, able to check "feet/ball" if the receiver fades to the sideline.
If the receivers on your side of the field all run away from you, and/or toward the end line, then you can step up to the end line and turn, ready to rule "feet/ball" at the end line.