Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Resources to Make You a Strategic Mastermind on Both Sides of the Ball

Tackling and catching are one thing — thinking the game is another. If you want to understand football like a coach, you’ve got to study how teams move, align, and adapt. Offensive formations. Defensive schemes. Territory. Matchups. All of it matters — and mastering it can take your play (or your understanding) to the next level. 

These five resources break down the chess match on the gridiron — so you can see every play coming before the snap.

Formations 101

What it is: An official NFL breakdown of basic offensive and defensive formations — with simple diagrams and descriptions.

Why we like it: It’s not overwhelming. If you’re new to X’s and O’s, this is the perfect entry point: clear, visual, and accurate, straight from the pros. 

Football 101: Basic Strategy

What it is: A video by Dad, How Do I? that explains how football works at the strategic level — including field layout, downs, and basic team objectives.

Why we like it: This is foundational stuff, but crucial if you're teaching the game to a young player or just trying to watch it more intelligently. Friendly, clear, and digestible. 

The Complete Guide to Offensive Football Formations

What it is: An in-depth breakdown of offensive formations — from basic sets like I-Form and Shotgun to more modern looks like Trips, Empty, and Pistol.

Why we like it: It’s comprehensive and coach-friendly, with diagrams and explanations that go beyond naming plays. Perfect for quarterbacks, receivers, or anyone trying to understand what the offense is trying to do — and how.

Guide to the 4-3 Defense

What it is: A deep dive into the 4-3 defensive alignment — its principles, player roles, and situational strengths.

Why we like it: The 4-3 is one of the most common defensive schemes in football, and this guide shows you how it actually works. Great for defensive players, coordinators, or curious fans. 

Guide to the 3-4 Defense

What it is: A full breakdown of the 3-4 alignment — how it creates flexibility, where the pressure comes from, and why some teams prefer it. 

Why we like it: If the 4-3 is all about balance, the 3-4 is about deception. This guide shows how defenses disguise pressure and create chaos — essential knowledge for aspiring QBs and defenders alike.