THE BASE DEFENSE

In 2025, Anderson utilized variations of Cover 4 on nearly 40 percent of their snaps. This volume offers over an hour of teaching, including organized modules, PowerPoint breakdowns, and in-depth game film study.

Coach Brett Hickman breaks down The Blackout’s two most utilized 4-down fronts and highlights the unique technique carryover from the traditional Tite and Okie families previously installed in the system. He shares simple ways to preserve odd-front spacing while improving pass-rush angles and creating new presentation challenges for opposing offenses.

In Volume 4, Coach Hickman walks viewers through detailed weekly schedules, practice plans, and game-planning templates for both a platoon program and a true two-platoon system. Drawing on his experience as a high school head coach and longtime defensive coordinator, he outlines the key details, advantages, challenges, and practical implementation strategies for installing and operating the Blackout System at any level.

Reminder; PDF Slides are available at the end of the presentation if struggling to read on video.

Having a clear, common language for both staff and players is essential to long-term success. In Volume 2, Coach Hickman breaks down his terminology for offensive formations, alignments, adjustments, and motions. This shared verbiage will be used consistently throughout the remaining videos and will help viewers better understand the detailed coaching points presented in each subsequent volume.

In Volume 3, Coach Hickman guides viewers through nine videos covering topics ranging from staff expectations to his Football 101 program—an introductory system he and his staff implement with every defensive player during the first week of spring practice and fall camp. Upon completion, viewers will have a clear understanding of the common language used by the defensive staff and players at AU. This foundation establishes the framework for continued learning and deeper development in the following volumes.

PDF Document included. 

Over the past two seasons, Anderson has played 45 percent post-safety defense.  This begins with Country Cover 3.  Coach Hickman goes through The Blackout's Sky and Buzz rotations with key techniques and coaching points.  

In Volume 9, Coach Hickman dives deep into the first-week installation of The Blackout’s base fronts and creepers. This volume includes two hours of detailed visuals, coaching points, and Anderson University game film to clearly illustrate concepts and on-field application.

PDF Documents including for better viewing of PPT materials on video.

Volume 1 provides an in-depth look at Coach Hickman’s career path and the origins of the Blackout Defense, including the mentors who shaped his philosophy and the development of his modern 3–4 defensive approach. This volume also introduces the current AU football coaching staff, outlining their backgrounds and credentials as they guide you throughout the series.

The second portion of the video presents a clear overview of the system’s core philosophy, mission, and scheme overview along with a preview of what coaches can expect to learn in the remaining installments of the series.

Volumes 2-17 will launch the first week in March 2026.  Volumes 18-25 will be available Summer.  Contact us via email at  blackoutdefensesystem@gmail.com