Let's break down three keys for both the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons as they prepare for Super Bowl LI on Sunday. We'll discuss how I would game plan to limit the production of Julio Jones, how Atlanta can scheme to get after Tom Brady and much more.
Three keys for the Patriots
1. Create layers of coverage versus Julio Jones
Why it's important: Jones has caught 15 of 20 targets for 247 yards (16.5 yards per catch) and three touchdowns in two playoff games. Rolling help to the Falcons' No. 1 wide receiver will allow the New England defense to limit big plays versus the league's most complete player.
How you do it: The Patriots can certainly play combination coverages against Jones. That allows the New England secondary to make on-field calls/adjustments to specific techniques based on the alignment of Jones.
Jones bumps down into the slot? Make a "slice" call (inside bracket). He tightens his split to the core of the formation (high alert for a crossing route)? Make a "cut" call so the free safety can drive downhill on the inside release. The Patriots can also play some "cloud" looks (out of both two- and three-deep shells) to get hands on Jones at the release with a safety waiting over the top.
But for all the checks the Patriots could possible carry into the game Sunday, I would keep it simple and use the same plan Bill Belichick showed in the AFC Championship Game against Antonio Brown and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Remember, you don't have to be ultra complicated when technique is the focus.
Here's an example of the Patriots rolling a safety to Brown with Malcolm Butler playing underneath man-coverage:
