http://central.sonsofsamhorn.net/nfl/anatomy-of-an-adjustment-a-defensive-back-by-any-other-name/
NFL coaches and commentators routinely talk of “making adjustments.” But what does that really mean? This series of plays from the Patriots’ 30-7 victory over the Vikings illustrates how the Patriots defensive coaching staff makes in-game adjustments..
If using Patterson as a decoy was so successful, why didn’t the Vikings do this all game? The answer can be found in the last play in the first quarter, when Minnesota attempted to use this tactic again.
This time, the secondary makes the right adjustment. Ryan, who was in man coverage on Patterson on the offensive right side, drops to the middle of the field, effectively playing free safety. McCourty charges in to pick up Patterson leaking out of the left side. It’s essentially the same defense as it was pre-snap, just with Ryan and McCourty swapping roles and sides. Revis and Tavon Wilson (in for Chung) stay in man coverage. Patterson is accounted for and there’s safety help deep, so no one has to cheat anywhere to help. Everyone can just do their jobs, and the defense stays fundamentally sound. Since the trickery doesn’t open any holes in the defense, Minnesota is unable to get anyone open, and the New England pass rush hauls down Matt Cassel for a loss of three.