Many coaches and fans believe that a man pass coverage scheme leads to better run defense. This is because - the thinking goes - primary run defenders are given more freedom to attack the run with aggressiveness, while primary pass defenders focus on covering receivers. If the defensive coordinator is willing to play with limited help over the top, it also allows the defense to load the box to stop the run. For example, in a common "man free" scheme against a traditional two wide receiver set, the two cornerbacks lock on the wide receivers and the safety plays over the top, while the remaining 8 defenders can play close to the line to stop the run.
Cal football film room: How the Golden Bears exploited Oregon State's man coverage
