Click to Enlarge Reading the offense: It's not as hard as it might seem and generally, if you follow one team for a season, you'll get a feel for the plays that are called. If the ball isn't handed off to a running back almost immediately it means one of two things -- the quarterback will keep the ball or he's going to pass. Watch the direction he's looking and figure out who he's going to throw to. Unless he's being threatened by defensive players, he will always look down field toward the received, so follow his eyes.
Third and long means what? Generally, it will depend on the offensive team's field position and just how far they need to go to reach a "First Down." If it's 3rd down and 20 yards to go, you can expect a pass in most cases.
2nd and short probably means what? That the quarterback will either hand the ball off, for short yardage, keep the ball if it's "2nd and inches," or throw a short screen pass. These are all fast moving plays and you have to be ready at the beginning of the play. Keep your camera on the quarterback until he throws, runs or gives the ball away and then follow the ball.
Reading the offensive lineup -- three wideouts means what? In most instances, if the running backs are positioned on the far portions of the field, there's going to be a pass. If you're in the end zone, watch the quarterback and be ready to train your camera on the back he throws to. From the sideline, it's more difficult to do this because you have to look in two different directions, but it can be done with practice and quick reflexes.
Twin Tailbacks means what? That there's more than likely going to be a running play. Look for the backs and be ready for a hand-off from the quarterback or a short screen pass, generally toward the far sidelines from the ball position.
4th down and a punter -- what to do? Use a 200-300mm lens and focus on the holder. Place the holder toward the left or right side of the frame, depending on which direction they are moving the ball, and allow room for the defense to rush in and attempt a block. If the defensive player jumps into the air to block the kick, it can be a very dramatic image. Same thing goes for field goals and PATs.
Kickoffs? Where to focus? You should focus on the receiver, who is usually around the 20 yard line on the opposite side of the field from the kickoff. Follow him through the play, since he will almost always be running the ball.
Print
Stumble It 
Comments
Be the first to comment!