You’ve likely heard many coaches on various levels say, “The eye in the sky does not lie.” That saying deems true even in this day, when offenses have become more complex to study.

There are many sophisticated blitz packages the offensive line and running backs have to be ready to pick up. But the way you prepare before the game will help you play fast and loose on Friday nights. Here are three tips to help you watch film better:

1. Read your keys

The average football play lasts anywhere from five to seven seconds and during that time frame is when you either make big plays or prevent them from occurring. Any lapse or major play that excites the crowd starts with reading your keys. This process allows you to trust everything your coaches have been preaching all week and letting the game come to you. When we do not read our keys is when things go awry.

2. Tendencies

As former defensive back, one of the ways I studied film was to assess wide receivers’ splits. The split will tell you everything you need to know, and help make sure you are aligned properly to make a play on the ball. Every team you play this season will display a tendency on film, and it is imperative that you pick it up because it will allow you to make adjustments. When teams began to use zip, zag, or zap motions to confuse you, remember their tendencies will never fail you. Trust your brothers next to you and make plays.

3. Master the defense

I am certain every coach across the country echoes this statement every Friday in the locker room: DO YOUR JOB! It is imperative that you do your job, but what really makes you a better player is when you understand the defense. If you have aspirations to move on to the next level, you need to understand the roles of your teammates. The best field generals are quarterbacks and linebackers because they are always directing traffic. Once you understand the schematics of your offense and defense, the sky is the limit and you will be amazed by what your team will be to achieve.

Work hard. Be great.

Ashton Henderson was a four-year letterman at defensive back for Michigan State University as well as an honor student and co-author with former teammate Travis Key of “Beyond the Gridiron: How to Successfully Transition into Collegiate Football,” a detailed account of what it takes to be a Division I college football player and successful in life. To learn more about their mission and purchase your copy today, visit: www.beyondthegridironllc.com