There is a new summertime football craze for the high schools across the entire country. It is called 7 - on- 7 tournaments. It has been going on for some time now but has really exploded the past 5 years nationwide. There are tournaments all over the country. High School Players and coaches are criss-crossing the country to participate in these tournaments and events. The definition of 7 on 7 is basically a passing scrimmage without offensive linemen and a pass rush. As a football scout, I like 7 on 7 for fundamental reasons. Defensive players(Linebackers and Defensive Backs) can work on coverage skills(both man to man and zone), footwork, hip turn, running with receivers, picking up secondary receivers, and a multitude of pass coverage sets. The offensive players(Quarterback, Running Backs, and receivers including tight ends), can work on pass routes, timing, running after the catch, setting picks, and a working on a multitude of offensive sets and schemes. Another description of 7 on 7 is sophisticated organized flag football.
No one blocks or tackles anyone and there is no pass rush. It has become so popular that ESPN televises the 7 on 7 National Championship. Numerous high schools coaches like 7 on 7 but there are a group that do not and stay away from it. My philosophy is that anytime your players can work on fundamentals in a group setting and the 7 on 7 situation is totally organized, it can be a positive thing. It has similarities to AAU Basketball. Some regions have All Star 7 on 7 teams that travel nationwide. 7 on 7 all star teams are good for the better players but myself I like the 7 on 7 tournaments with participation with your own high school team.
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