101 defensive back drills

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Ron llichElson 0nd lames [. PetGtson

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Ron llichElson 0nd lames [. PetGtson

t0lDEFETUSIVE BAGK

DRIttS

Ron Dickerson Sr.James A. Peterson

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@1997 Coaches Choice Books.Allrights reserved. Printed jn the United States.

N0 part 0f this b00k may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted.in any form 0rby any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, 0r0therwise, with0ut the prior permission of Sagam0re Publishing,Inc.

ISBNr 1-57167-089-0Iibraryof CongressCatalogCardNumber:96'72471

Book layout:Antonio J. PerezCover Design and Diagrams: Deborah M. BellaireFront cover photo: Jerry fulillevoi

Coaches Ch0ice B00ks is an imprint of: Sagamore Publishing, Inc.P0. Box 647Champaign, lL 61824-0647{8001327-5557(217)359-5940Fax: {217 ) 359-5975Web Site: http//wwwsagamorepub.com

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To my deceased grandparents,

Raymond and Gertrude oickerson;

also to my role model,

the late Reverend l\ilartin luther King Jr.

With the deepest appreciati0n lacknowledge the enc0uragement and assistance 0f ther0Iowtng pe0pte who readmy manuscript jn its eady stages and made invaluablesuggesnons-my son, Hon Dtcterson, Jr., mydaughter, Bashawn Dickerson, Dr. Jiml'eters0n, Lireg Shiano,l\4rs. Shar l\,4arbury, every ballplayer that lever coached, and t0 themany young, persistent hjgh school coaches who have learned from my coaching style.

The project was born fromthe constant encouragement of my wife, Jeannie.lgive herandallthe others my boundless thanks.

God is good,Allthe time:Allthe time, God isqood.

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h-non Dickercon Sr.

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:or the morethan three decades that lhave been playing and coaching footballatlhecol egiate level,lhave coaching and observing defensive backs. Collectively, myexperienceshave given me an opportunity toevaluatemany techniques and fundamentalsifl p laying defensive back and a variety of meth0ds forteaching those techniquesandfundamentals.In the process, l have come t0 realize that true learning occurswhenthere isa need t0 know a solid understanding of howt0learn exists, and c0aches and playersrealize that a panicular goal can be reached.

lwrote this book t0 provide footballcoaches at allcompetitive lwels with a toolthatcanenablethemto maximizethe skills and attlibutes of their players. As avehicle forteachingand learning, properly designed drills can have extraodinaty ualue.l0l fufensive Back Drillsfeaturesdrills that ihave c0llected, field-tested, afld applied werthecourseof mycoaching career.lI in the process 0f usingthe drillspresented in this book, coaches arebetter ablet0dsvelop the skills ofthedefensive backs, then the effort t0write /0/Defensive Back Drillswill have been wellworthwhile.

-Bon Acke8on St.

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WARM-UPDRILLS

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DBtt_L #t; M0VE AND REACT

qbjective fo wamlJp: to improve reacti0n time; to enhance stamina.

Equipnent Need ed A football.

D.escipti1n: The coach has the defensive backs spread out in several lines facinohim. Each playeris at leastd0uble-arms length frbm the ctosest ptayerto him. "With the bali in hand, the coach moves the b-all o* ot ro, Urri, iirriiio* ilrit,right, forward and backward). The team responds to the movement of the ball andvrg0r0usly moves iq the direction dictated by the coach. The coach also has theopfl0n 0t commandrng the players to either run jn place or lo hit the ground by0rderng_ them to "get on your face" 0r "get 0n your back,. Both comilands alequ.ckry t0Uowed bV an order to "get 0n your feet." The coach combtnes the0irecr0nat movement commands wjth the varjous hit-the-ground commands rocreate a rjgorous, ron-stop warm-uD session

CaachingPoints:

The coach should require his players t0 respond t0 a new command every fourto five seconds

. When running in place. players sh0uld be required to lift thejr knees as high aspossible.

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OBI[[ #2: JUMP A]IID TWIST

j: trrver To warm-up;t0 enhance flexibility and balance.

a:,:cnent Needed: None.

..scription: The coach has the defensive backs straddle yard lines about three.:.js between each other, while assumingagood defensive positi0n. The players:^:uld all be facing the coach in the 12 0'cl0ck position. 0n the c0mmand, "Switch.":-e players jump about four inches off the ground, keep their feet spread and then:,,rist their hips s0 that theyaretacing in the opposite direction. Uponlanding0n:-e ground, the players should again be stladdling a yard line, facing away from the:-.ach, this time at the 6 o'clock position. 0n the next command, "Switch," the: ayers againjump, twist theirhips and land straddling the yard line in the opposite: reclion. Each timethe players jump, the jump should be away irom the coach. The:r ll should be continued until the players have made six change of directions. Atihat time, the players should return to the point where they stalted and repeat the drill.

Caachinq Points:

The coach should require his players to maintain good balance and continue tostraddle the yard line each time their feet come in contact with the ground.

As players improve their performance, the coach can increase the cadence (i.e.,frequency) of the "Switch" command.

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DRI[[ #3: RUN AND TWIST

)bjective:Io waffn-up: ro increase hip flexibility.

Eq u i pn e n t N e ed ed : Nane.

Desc ption: The coach has the players f0rm three to five lines. The players facethe coach, while keeping two to three yards from each 0ther. 0n the command,"G0," the players in one line start back pedaling and twisting their hips as fast asthey can. At the command, "Becovef," the playefs st0p and return to their startingposition. While they are recovering, the coach gives the command, "G0," to the nextline 0f piayers and continues in like manner, until each line has done the dril l at leastfour times. Players in each line should back-pedal at least 20 yards before thecoach asks them to recover.

CoachingPoints:

The coach sh0uld require the players to back-pedal and twist their hips at amodefate speed t0 start the dril l. 0nce the players have warmed-up, theyshould increase their running and hip twisting speed.

The players sh0uld run when recovering to the starting position in order toacce4tuate the warm-up benefits 0f Ihe drii l.

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DRlt t #4: T0RS0/HlP TWISTEB

:: i ::,; -: warm'up the player's tors0, hips and legs.

::-:,-:-: "'"eded

None

-:-'--'--: r. The c0ach has the defensive backs folm two lines facing each otheI,:: -: :.:--s ength distance between piayers. Thedistance between lines should: i : : : - :3 '4yards T0 start the dr i l l ,0ne player assumes a defensive stance al one.' : :- :-: iwo lines and in the middle between the two lines. 0n the coachs::r--.-: "G0," the Dlayer runs backward between the lines while twisting his-:-:::: '3ci tate l00king alternately over his right and then his left shouldel in: ::- :: <eep from running into one 0f the lines. When he is about half-way d0wn--r -:s, the next plaver in line sh0uld assume thestalting posjti0n. The coach:':, : start the next player as soon as the other player reaches the end 0f the-:, :ie players standing in the lines shouldcheerand clap and push the play€r

-,-- ' j the dril l back t0 the centel if he runs int0 one 0f the lines.

-:::^'ng Paints:

-he coach should require the defensive backs to increase their speed running:he dril l as they become more proficient a performing the dril l.

The defensive backs should twist their torso and hips continually as they runthe dril l in order to obtain the maximum warm-up benefit from the dril l

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DBlt[ #5: HIGH CH0PS

1bjective; fo Woyide a pre'practice warm,up;to enhance foot and lateral 0uickness.

Equipnent Need ed: A f oatball.

Descripti1n: fhe coachhas all of the defensive backs forrn three lines, double-armsdistance apart, facing him. The coach hoids the f0otball out in front 0f him. Thedrill begins when the c0ach slaps the ball, which is a signal to the first player ineach line t0jump forward and take up a g00d defensjve stance. When the coachslaps the ball twice, the three players start to run in place, lifting their legs as highas possible and pumping their arms vigor0usly. The coach then starts to move thefootball to his right and t0 his left-sl0wly at first, then increasing his speed as thedrill progresses. The players respond to the movement of the ball by shufflingIaterally, as they continue t0 pump their arms and legs. The coach sh0uld continuethe dril l for about 15 - 20 seconds, then slap the f00tball three times. The coachthen p0ints the ball in the direction he wants the players t0 break. The coach thenslaps the ball one tirne, which is a signalt0 the next three players in line tojump out.

Coachina Points:

The coach should require the players t0 keep lifting their legs as high asp0ssible while continuing t0 pump their arms.

As the players warm-up, the c0ach can incfease the speed at which he m0vesthe players latera ly, as well as the durati0n of the dril l.

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DBltt #6: HIGH KNEE ROPES

j: ectlye: To warm-up prior to a fullpractice;to evaluate and enhance agility and:- a(ness.

::::ipnent Needed: High knee ropes.

::scriptian: Anumbet of drills exist which involve use of high knee ropes. Among:-€ €xamples of some the high knee rope dril ls are the f0llowing: require the players:: r!n through by stepping in each opening or every other opening;cross-over using:,:ry opening or every other opening; h0p straddle every opening or every other::ening;high chops sideways using both feet every 0pening {start this acti0n from:r1s de of the r0pes); use only the diagonals;perform laterals down and back;etc.-re coach should plan a sequence of different methods of going through the high(.ee r0pes f0r each sessi0n 0n the equipment.

:oaching Points:

The coach can use the high knee ropes frequently in practice, but he shouldchange the sequence of the dril l each time in order to add variety t0 the dril l.This approach willenhance the possibility 0f improving the players'levelofquickness and agility.

These various dril ls can be used by the coach as a diagnostic tool t0 determinewhich players possess an appropriate level 0f agility and quickness t0 playdefensive back.

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DRI[[ #7: THE BU[[ llrl THE R|NG

0bjective: Io wam-up the players' muscles and joints; to increase players,enthusiasm prior to a game or practice_

Eq u ipn e n t N ee d ed : None.

Description: fhe playets form a circle around one player, who is acting as the "bull"in the ring. The bull moves around the nsde of the circle, generating enthusiasmverbally and by feigning attacks. The bull attacks any player he desires ( or thecoach can control the bull 's selection of a "target" by pointing t0 a player) Aftergood sharp pad-to-pad contact is made with 3,4 different players, the coachassigns a different player t0 be a "bull". This dfil lsho!ld be continued untilallplayers have been in the center of the ring.

Coaching Points:

The attacking bull should n0t be allowed t0 repeatedly attack or takeadvantage 0f an obviously weaker opponenl

The coach can help develop enthusiasm while warming up his players if herequires that this dril l be executed properly and zealously.

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OUIGKNESSDRILLS

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DRlLL #8: TATERAI SHUFFTE

9bjective. Io develop Io0t quickness; to impr0ve l0otwork.

Equipnent Needed. Nane.

,escrptloni The coach has the players form several l ines wrth their t0es 0n theyard l ines, the players about three yards between each 0ther. 0n the coach'scommand, "Bight", the players shuff le to their right while alternating placing theireft f0ot, then their right fo0t a comfortable distance in front of the yafd l ine.Play€rs should always have one foot 0n the yafd l ine, with their other f00t in frontof the l ine as th€V shLrffle latera y. After they have shuffled about 10 yards, thec0ach c0mmands, "Left," wh ch signa s the p ayers t0 reverse the direction 0f theirsh!ff e. The p ayers'f00t movements sh0u d sim!latejumping rope as they shuffledown the yard ine

Coaching Points

The c0ach sh0uld require the players t0 keep both feet m0ving while shuffl inglaterally as th€y wo!ld when skipp ng rope.

As the players devel0p their skil ls in this dri l l , the coach should require thep ayers t0 speed-up their shuffl ing m0vements in order to f!rther enhance theirlevel of foot quickness.

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DRlt[ #9r BACK-PEDAt AND M0VE

i.r;::,,e To develop quickness in changing directions from the back-pedal;t0::,: :: aggressiveness in going fot the ball.

: : - :- 2 nt Needed: A loolball.

-r;,-'rtira The coach has three defensive backs at a time assume a detensive: : : :1. , arrns distance apart , facing him. Thec0achthenholdsafootbal labovehis-::: .,rith both hands. When the coach slaps the ball, the players start t0 back-:::? afd attempt t0 reach full speed as quickly as possible. After the players':.: ' iu speed back-pedaling, the c0ach moves the football t0 indicate in which: -::r on the players should move next. l\4oving the football straight back indicates'-: : ayers sh0uld move directly forward; moving the football directly left or right-:3rs the players should break at a ninety degree angle in the directi0n indicated;:-: nroving the football back at a 45-degree angle mean the players sh0uld move':',,rard at a 45-degree angle. After each change 0f direction, the coach sh0!ld-..: the players attain full speed, then slap the ball again to have them revert back: : :ack-pedal ing.Afterabout30secondsofthisdr i l l , thecoachsh0uldthrowthe': rball toward the center of the three players. Allthree players should g0 for the:: At that point, the next three defensive back in line should get set to engage in: -? dr i l

::achina Points:

The coach should require the players to attain fullspeed while they are back-pedaling in 0rder t0 devel0p quickness in changing directi0ns at t0p speed.

The coach should require the players t0 attain t0p speed as quickly as p0ssibleafter each change in direction to practice accelerating in all directions.

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DRILt #10: BACK-PEDAI AND TWIST 0UT

0brectlve. To devel0p quickness in changing directions or twisting while back'

iJiliiisi. il;tiiirii in aitiaisht t;n; oirecr;on: t0 develop assressiveness ingoing for the ball.

Equipnen t N e ed ed: A toorball

Desctptloa The coach has thtee defensive,backs at a time assume a defensive,

*r n ii#ru; i;: ::mu*"l;'r r lrl[ii1i,1ifi*l!,,.:Jq;:..rti. iu,nq ,o top tpred as so0n as possib

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:,":t*i:if :::H#[[lfl ftl"lJ"ir,'lr J*i,i .* .t,t .ir backledar and tun stri,Xllf;,;?llilT li',[1Til;l-*the ballto either side rneans the players sh;;;.ili i; ih;;";rh. Aiter the plavers run seven or eisht vards straisht 1!ui1 tht

iirciitt ili.tt.to. "ball", and ihrow the footballtoward the center 0t tne

i ; ; oir;;" The players shoJld l 'rn and run ior the barl simultaneousry' the ne)(l

, lrrt irrit ' i t rtt tnbLld get set to pa'ricioate in the drilr '

CaachingPoints:

. The c0ach sh0uld [equire the players to twist 0ut 0f their back'pedalas quickly

as Possible

. The coach should require the players I0 accelerate in a stlaight l ine after they-

il;r;ri;r ffi t:.;k'iedal to ieach top speed as so'n as p'ssible

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DRI[[ #11: BACK-PEDAL AND StIDE

-- :,-ri,,e. To develop quickness in changing directions and sliding side t0 side; to. . : :p aggressivenessin g0ingforthe bal l .

. -,.nent Needed: Afootball.

-. .,- 'p t lOn The coach has four defensive backs at a time assurne a l0w back-pedal: ,: : on, double-arms distance apart, facing him The coach then holds a f00tbali

. . s head. The coach starts the players back-pedaling by slapping the ball.: ' :. ' the players back-pedal about four yards, the coach moves the ball either to

. ' :ht 0r t0 the left and the players slide {not cross over)in that directi0n. After- : : ayers slide two or three yards, the coach slaps the ball again, indicating that- : :ayers should again back-pedal. The coach should alternate left and right, ::s to keep the players in front of him. After about 30 sec0nds of the dril l , the:::ch should throw the football toward the center 0f the payefs. The players:-:" d a I go f0r the ball. The next four players in l ine sh0u d get ready for the dril l: rmping 0ut in front 0f the coach and assumi0g the l0w back-pedal p0sition.

...hino Points:

fhe coach sh0uld require the players t0 push 0ff each time they changed rections {square corners)afd acce erate as q!ickly as possible.

Tir€ coach should require the p ayers to stay l0w and shuffle while moving. Theioach shou\d emphasize nol \lsrng a cross-o\rer step dur\ng ihe s\de\Nards s\de.

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DRILL #12: TATEBAL SHUFFTE

0biectlvej T0 develop quickness in moving laterally while keeping the shoulders

iqiaie witn tne tine oiicrimmage and shuffling ratherlhan using the cross-over

while sliding sidewards; t0 improve hand-eye coordinati0n

Equipnent Needed: A. lootball.

DescrilLiln: 1\e caacl \as tw0 plaYers {A and B) stafding 0n a lh€' five yards.

rr . ; i i ' r , i t r ' r t lpLvt t ,c.standsnexttoplat lerA Tnecoachh-oldsa.tootbal l , i lf;0nt 0f him a td starts player C slid ng from plaYer A to plaYer B bY slapprnq Ine

ball Wnen Draver C qets t0 the player B, he tags his elbow and then slrdes back I0

o.aver A, taqs his eloow and so 0n Alter 30 seconds oi the dnll ' the coacn lnrows

i.r'r.rtitf rt*tto ,nt srid;ng prayer, who tries lo catch it He tnen throws the ball

back to the coach, and the players switch positions The coach can have sev€ral

otor^ rl ,f '] itt t.i"q,nis dril l at the same time ln addition he can alternate which

Irorp he tnrows the ball t0 when he wants to stop the dril l 10 al 0w plaYers to

change p0slt|ons.

CoachingPoints:

. The coach should require the players t0 keep theil shoulders square with the

line of scrimmage throughout their slide and t0 relrain from using the cross-over

itep when sliding sidewlrds (the use of the lateral shuffle should be

emphasized).

. The coach can increase the distance the players are tequired to slide in each

direction after they become c0mfortable with this dfil l

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DRt[[ #13: R0pE JUMpING

-::ctller T0 improve foot quickness;to enhance stamina.

-:, pnent Needed: Jrmprcpes.

jjrfiptlbri The coach should start his teamj!mping rope daily, having his players" ! using two feet at a time for 10 to t5 minutes at; time for ihe firsi month.' Tte

: :,ers sh0Ltld be allowed to rest as needed. D!ring the second m0nth, the players, -:ir d be required t0 jump rope on one leg for one minute, rest for 20 seconds, ihen:: eat the sequence using the other leg. The dril lshould be contjnued for j5^. rLltes. At the start of the third month, the players should be requjred to alternate: :s for eachjump (skipping). Theplayersshouldtrytoskipropefor15minrtesnon-:::0, maktng as few mistakes as possible. 0nce the players have developed their,( s at rope Iumping/skipping. the length 0f the dril l can be increased t0 at least 20- rutes.

:,.aching Points:

. The coach should not expect players to progress quickly with thjs dril i. Bopejurnping is a skill that takes time for some players to master. The potentiaieffect on f00t quickness and balance, however, can make the effon invojvedworthwhile.

This dri l l is aerobically demanding. As a result, coaches should all0w theirplayers t0 rest periodically (as needed) whiie they devei0D their aer0biccaoacir y and'ooe j,mp;19 skilts

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DRlt[ #14: 0UARTEB TURNS lN CADENCE

Ibiective: Io inpro\e loot quickness while executing turns in response t0 the

qu;rterback calling signals

Equipnent Needed:None

3:i:lijfl ,il:;"1,'iJ:.ilH; iJilil j,X iii:lT,t::iii j#;i:: i, f " "li"'ii'Jilliriitiil;i.i',lrte three plavers immediatilv assume a sood defensive

,.ri i i"t. t..pl.g f.t.nd facingthe coach When the coach calls"'Hke"' the , .-

il.;il j:rifl -5Hr[:im*1'm':U*:iil;]:i:Ifl ry:i,"llil1l':;,l;:; ;;;i;;;;;siil;.i :c.. *l:t l:'?:i',',t'o',,.i:,.|j ffii,:T:,i,1T,T,, "call|nq these signals for 15 20 seconds at a

Iiffl ff :;*:il::i;','*:tl;;n."ni:['jHlililil':H,',:l$"positions to start the dril l

CaachingPoints:

. The coach sh0uld emphasize listening t0 th€ calls so that the players do not

make anv false movements oI lose tnell polse

. The coach should require the playels I0 execute tulning movements in a precise

;;;;;;l,h ih,r ,hourders iquae at ail t f iffJffJI:J:?,li,,"il: ""

proficient at this dri l l the c0acn can I

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DBIIL #15: OUICK AND CHOPPY

-: Cevelop foot quickness while executing the cr0ss-over step.

: ,teded None.

- Th€ coach has three players at a time take positi0ns along the sideline- :d e 0f the field, double-arms distance apart. 0n the coach's:^: p ayers should start running forward in a straight ife while executing:. ?r step as rapidly a possible. The players shou d run in this manner from: io the frrst hash mark, then cut left 0r right and return to the side ife.glt r dt iu tEtul I tu Ute stue nt

: -'ee p ayers can take th€ir starting p0siti0ns as soon as the first three::'t runfrng and can sta|t the dril lwhen the players in front of them afe:r ihe hash mark.

: -:h

shou ld require the p ayers t0 rLtn in a straight l ine while executing the.:: r\,er step. The lmportance of maintaining g0od b0dy balance should be

' : l la0.

: : ! ayers devel0p their skil ls in this dri l l , the coach should requlre ther.: 's t0 execute m0Te cross-over steps and run faster.

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DBILL #'16: AR0UND THE C0NE

oblectlvei To implove foot quickness

Equipnent Needed: Etghl cones.

oescr,Orlonr The coach has the defensive backs form two lines similar to a relayrace. iour cones-with two yalds between each cone-should be placed five yatds

in ffont of each line. 0n the coach's command, the first player in each Iine sprintstoward the cones. When he gets t0 each cone' he circles the cone, using very short'choppy steps, then continueJto the next cone After circling the last cone, theolaver'baci-pedals along the side 0f the c0nes to where the next player in line iswa unq. The next praye; st ar ts t0 rLn the dr il lwhel tne player ahead 0[h m passes

the st;rt p0.nt lor the dril l. The drirl shoJld c0ntinue until allplaYers have had achance to run it at least once. Competition between the gr0ups in the form of relayraces can add variety to this dlil l

CoachingPoints:

. The coach should require the players to circle the cones in a balanced' poised

manner, using raPid chopP\i stePS.

. As the 0lavers'Ievel 0f conditioning improves, the coach could requrre eachplayer io run the dril l multiple times during each dril l session

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DRlt [ #17: AR0UND THE BAG

:^e.t Needed: 16-20 stand'Lrp blocking dummies

: :! the starting p0sition. The next player starts t0 run the dril l when the player::: r i h m back pedals past the start point. The dril l should continue unti a I

' . rtrcn: The c0ach has the defensive backs form two ines simllar to a relay

- - fe yards in front of each line, Bl0 bl0cking dummies are placed one yard': 0n the c0ach's c0mmand, the f rst p ayer in each line sprjnts tQward the- ?s, then weaves through them as quickly as p0ssible. When each player gets

,- :.e ast dummy, he sho!ld back-pedal alongside the row of blocking d!mmies

. : , 'e To improve f00t quickness and agil ity.

- t9Paints

ls.:-s have had a chance to run it at least once. The coach could add c0mpetit ion:- : dr i l lby making i t a relay race.

--e coach should emphasize the importance 0l planting a fo0t and pushing off- the new difection when the p ayers afe weaving through the bl0ckingr i mmies.

ls the player's conditi0ning irnproves, the coach c0uld require each player t0 run:re drl multip e times dLrring the dril l sessi0n.

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wDRlt [ #18: THE JUGGTER

oblettive: To improve the playet's lateral quickness and timinQ; to enhance hand eye

coordlnation.

Equipnent Needed: Iwo lootballs

Desc!tpiln:Ine coach s tar ts t l" is d'i ' l with d f0otball r each nard ar0 a playel

ippo,i. nl'0, , o',,unce ol 2 3 Ydrds "T,'::lJ:::i:lJ,t,',t'# i[:.oif. ,,..

toward the defensive back The player catcirrrn. in, ,*rn ,r,ltrr lmmediately throws the other ball t0 the player' making hm

r.* i.,rit"lult,nt tpposite direition This sequence is repeated until the coach

or the defensive back dr0ps the fo0tball '

Coaching Paints:

. The defensive back must watch the coach's eyes and the football and must

catch the ball using both hands

The c0ach should use this dri l las a "change 0f pace" dri l l '

MOVEMENTDRILLS

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DRltt #19: BAGK-PEDALING AND REACTI0N T0 THE BALt

i,'/.ffi':",.LT;ill[Hili .,?liffi ,'J if'?,.1,:i:lff [ilIf,'J:'::: iJ :ilfil'f ''ball.

Esuiom e nt N e e d ed : A lootball

Description:Ihe coach has f0ur defeT* t'rt ::ffi*jtX1:l',r1T;iT:tn

*:,ffi$lll:1,?';.:ililill,.Slilif,';;"and, "G0," the p,avers start toil;if;;.I;;;;; d;iendins asainst a pass After the plavers back-pedal for'

ffi i#ft ;;;; ;;.,1'^rrb.'lll.'l;.r;gi1i :i,fi ifi ::ll'1if,?il|',1'0lavers. All four players sh0uld then reacr

ilifli:fl ,*ru *ii l *nll s: uru:H ff#,[1'$:: # li'ff 'Jnext fout defensive PlaYers

CaachingPoints:

. The coach should require hls playels t0 mainta;n proper alignment s0 as to keep

in"it .u.1 on r'it a i 't times while thev are back pedal'ng'

. When tne coach rhr0ws the football players should be required lo react Io lhe

Ouli qrnlfV ut tno,gL they were trying to intercept the pass

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DRI[L #20: KEEP t0W

. : . j l /ye To devel0p the defensive p ayer's abil ity t0 keep loW with knees bent. shuffl ing to cover the receiver.

- : :nentNeeded:Nane

. , -- ',ptiofl The c0ach has the defensive backs spread 0ut in several colufl]ns,: -. : arms length apart, facing him. The players sh0uld ass!me a bent-knee,. :,:a defensive stance with one foot comfortably in front of the 0thef (i.e., a, ,1:redstance). 0nthe coachscommand, "G0," theplayefs sh0uld push0ff wi th. i ick f00t and c0ntinuing t0 flrove backward, alterfately drag their left f00t,. iheir right f00t ( shuffl ing)f0r about 10 yards. 0r the coach's command,

:::-,]!er," the players should sprint to the spot where they started and assurne the. elens ve positron lo s Lar t t\e d i I aga n.

::ring P0ints;

-he coach should emphasize that the players need t0 keep l0w while mOving,.,. lh theif kfees bent, and use the shuffle t0 cOver the receiver

;:e players shoLrld increase the speed at which they shuffle as th€y bec0me:.mfortable with the dril l . 0nce he has perfected the shuffle, a defensive backshould be able to shuffle backward as fast as he can back-pedal, thereby.iding t0 his abil lty to employ man-to-man coverage techniques.

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DBlt[ #21: WAVE

obl?cflvej To develop the defensive playet's ability to change facing directions(outside 0rinside)while back-pedaling

Equipment Needed:None

Desctpflont The c0ach has three defensive backs assume a defensive stance' each

Iir-i,no.op,.nt tt. l i le {ie 45-50-a51, a'rd facing the coach 0n I\e coachs

r0mnand: "G0, ' the In lee p ayers start t0 0ack-peddld0wn the Ine lnec0€cn

tl 'en poinLS either l0lhe left or t0 l ' le I iglt lo' lave the p dvers sw ng one 0T Inelr

pns across the.r bodv so Ihat tney are raclng the oirecti0n he ls poinling Tne coach

r5"en po nrs in ne opposi':':',:ti9,ihl:ll:i,';:11J,1iff fliil:[:fili:',::?;onnosite le0 across their bodY t0 agaln tacei i ' .r. 'r,tri

-nit ollr,n. ptiyt's tt '-ou'd,onr'nut lo back-pedal and maintain their

o.irrJt. .qfititf,. ptr1,ers have back-pedaled for about 15 yards' the coach

iort.nO,. "C"*ri," and the players go t0 the end 0f the line' Simultaneously' the

next thlee defensive backs take up p0sitrons facing the coach' ready to begin the drill

Coaching Paints:

. The coach should require the defensive backs to back-pedal in a.straight line

ttiuri onlf'. 1lutO tin. * much as possible)and maintajn theil balance

. As the players become more comf0rtable with this dril l ' the coach sh0uld

,uqtita ir,* tt rr,*g. tacing directions more frequently and back-peda I taste r'

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OBltL #22: BREAK AND CHUBN

T0 enable defensive backs t0 devel0p the habit of continual y movingr"'h e changing th€ir d recti0n of movement.

j."l,Veeded None.

-:,./ l The coach sh0uld have three defenstve backs assume defensiver'r facing him, about doub e-arm distance apart. 0n the coach's command,

- 0 dvp s stdr t l0 baL\-Oeda. A' ter r l 'e p ayprs have noveo aoout ' ivo: -e coach commands, "Break,' and the players break at a 45-degree ang e in

: .,:t 0r the c0ach is p0intlng. After running about five yards in their new' :- the coach commards, "Fecover," which signals the players to chrrn their

- : changing directi0ns to run back as quickly as possible directly t0 where: : : ted the dr l l .

- i l Paints:

: coach sh0u d emphasize that defensive backs must develop the abil lty t0-:.ge directi0ns with0ut planting 0r stopping their feet.

, ihe players bec0me more c0rnfortable with th s dri l l , the c0ach sh0uld. r-ife that they acce erate after each change of directi0n.

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DBILL #23: BAGK AND CHURN

oblecl iye]ToenaDledelensiveDackstooeve|0ptnehabl tofcont inua| |Ymovingirriir-teer wnite ct'anging their directi0n ol movement

Equ ipn e nt Ne e ded : Nor'e.

fl?liiiil;JJ,1li,,lilJl?iT:lffJ:li::ltm::ff i'i'*'i!,.:!i: 11'"^,,rrrlr'rii,ii, i.rr prdal. Alter the ptayers have gone ab0ur 10 yards. th,e_coa-cn

iffi nT,;H'J.',,.:Titrul;:i:lr';l:;;l;#::J;:Tl:ll?:""lTflCoachingPoints:

The c0ach should emphasize that defensive backs need to develop the'abil itY t0

ri5rgJi;ii..r;iih.ut planting or stoppins the movement 0f theil feet'

As the prayers oecome m0re comtorrabre-wth thj;;IlL'l:;fi:ii::i0,.'r'require that they accelerate after the comn

starting position as soon as they can'

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DRlt t #24: TURN AND G0

.: l0 devel0p the abil ity of defensive backs t0 switch fr0m back-pedaling t0.- : enea0 spr nt .

.-i Needed None.

:: rr The coach has three defensive backs at a tirne assume defensive-: double-arm distance apart, facing hirn. 0n the coach's command, "G0,"

. . is start t0 back-pedal. The coach then commands either, "Left," "Right, ",15 Rlght," 0r "Straight Ahead'. After heafing the command, the players

,: rie y twist out of back-pedaling, begin sprift ing i0 the directi0n 0f the.-l ! iven, and then accelerate for ab0!t f ive yards. The three players then

:. - '

!1/hl e the next three players assume defensive p0siti0ns t0 start the dril l .. :::n should varyhls command indrcating the directi0n 0f the sprint so that al,

- : qet to experience moving in a directions.

. ' ':g Paints:

- : coach should require the players t0 tw st 0ut of their back peda ing and.. t.h int0 a fofward sprint as qu ckly as possrb e.

: i the p ayers become more comfortable with this dri , they should be able to:::e erate t0 their t0p speed during the forward sprint.

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DRI[t #25: T-STEP

0blectlve; To develop the ability to change directions (break on the ball) usinq the

T-step technlque.

Equipnent Need ed: A loorball

3:iiliifi , ll ?::i'J ffi :"1,T::11&r:n ffi :J' i'ilS i#;iH:'ft'ljfi ,*:l mmyii.T,t(*!lltr:l :l'lu::i:iiili.il;il':'l'ilJlililil".lr#1 : n;f xfl BilJ,;jl inrn ll:: *: m' HJ Jj,I;T [:l?'il;';il H:null,rl*li:ml;:nf n:::*l"l',llJl#xlffi il l;'J?..'1;51."-.',il:."'.ff '|",'ff lufi ,li* 1ru;ln:t'if ,li [:1f i;: T li,.'' " "CoachingPoints:

. The coach should temember that not all players can perfect the "T-step '

technlque.

. The c0ach sh0uld emphasize bringing the foot that was the t0p 0f the "T" over-

i##;i;;i l. i lo i"tt, ' itt ln tt ' ' new directi 'n ln addition' the arms

l.o tittr' i"s Jtru u. used ( ie , c0ordinated movement)t0 accentuate the

effort to drive forward.

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DRlll *26: DIAG0NAt BACK-PEDAL

i i iye. T0 impr0ve f00twork 0n turns;t0 develop the abil ity t0 maintajn speed: ' !nf ing on a diagonal .

. ' i t / ir, l jThe c0ach has the defensive backs f0rm three l ines and take !p go0d. -. !e p0siti0rs while straddling the yard l ines five yards apan Allplayers

' nent Needed. Alaolball.

- r .e Jacing the c0ach wh0 is on the sideline. When the c0ach raises the:: to sh0w pass, a players should get set t0 react t0 the ball. The c0ach

. ioves the ball laterally, wh ch is a slgnal t0 the players t0 back-pedal on a

::i:mpt to intercept it l and then spr nt t0 the side ine.

' ' iqPoints:

ccach should require the players to execute a definite pivot f0r each change'" l,0r . ther accelerara ir lhe new d,rect,0r

, i rhe players develop theif skil l at this dri l l , the coach should require the:,ers to increase their speed both when back'peda ing and during the pivots-en they change directions.

-5 yds.-

:.1'ee angle ln the direction the ball moves. After the players back pedal about: sevef yards, the coach sh0uld move the ba in the 0ther direction. The' i sh0uld again react t0 the rnovement 0f the ball by piv0tlng and back--; on a 45-degree ang e in the directi0n the ba l l m0ved. tj l t imately, the coach

: rave the pla\/ers back-pedal f0uf t imes in each directi0n. He should then. :fe ball toward the center of the players. The players shOuld react t0 the ball

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DRltt #27: 0UARTER EAGTES

oblectiverTo improve f0ot speed while executing facing movements

Equi p n e n t N e e d ed : A. IooIball

Desruption:lle coachnas Ih'ee plavers at a t me iake up good defersive p0sltl0n-s

i"-oiJ.'tt l,ttr"t.part fac,rg n m lhe coacn holds the lo0lball in froft 0l hrm

i. .[:,l i i pi.y.,t. rlt i l^er movei rhe ball ouicllv to one side€nd.then back^to hrs

iLni'r-. *.tnt. rr'.r quickly 10Il^e 0ther s de thPn t0lhe frolt agarn lne

otau.,i rf,outo ter"t ro the ba I movement by executing lett and r'ght 0uarteJ turns

", Liiut t.t,ottt toves lhe ball -hen, lhe next l lree players should JJmp oul

ind take up good defensive p0siti0ns-prepared to perform the dril l

CoachingPoints:

. The coach should fequire the players t0 shuffle theil feet' to keep thelt

rr,ri i it" tqrtit "ti

tt mainiain good balance as they execute the left and

right quarter turns.

. As the 0lavers devel0p their skill at this dril l, the coach can increase the speed

,irnicl;i l, *ttrt ttt. tootball. Also, as the players level 0f conditioning

i.piouts, tf ',e ftngtl, of the duration 0f this dril l can be increased

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DRI[[ #28: CR0SSING THE tlNE

. -,r mprove agi ity, hip flexibil i ty, and foot quickness.

. : \'eeded:None.

' r. The coach has the players forrn a single l ine, with the first player's toes. I 'e 0n the coach's command, the first player starts to move laterally'-: re by stepping diag0nally forward in ffont 0f the l ine with his lead 1eg,,::ra y backward {cross-step)in back of the line with his trail leg.Assoon',: p ayer moves five yards down the line, the next player sh0uld start theI :0 0n. The players sh0uld pefform the dril lfrom hash mark to hash mark.

-a Paints:

:0ach sh0uld remind the players that this dri l l is designed to devel0p hip: liry as weil as agility and foot speed. Ihe obj.ective 0f this drill is not to. r. player's lateraimovement technique ilat€ralmoves are done using the'': ' 'r0t a cr0ss-stepl.

:re 0lavers develop their skil ls in this dri l l , the coach should require them to:-:ase their speed of movement and take short, choppY steps

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DBILL #29; BACK-PEDAtlllc At{O BREAKING AT 45 DEGREES

obiec tlvei To improve the ability ot a defensive back t0 move backwards' reacl to

th; footballand intercept 11

fqulpmenl Needed A football

fil4l:;t;, ilil''.*:;j'''],'*,iiJffi;'lli;: t';li:llHif, f ifli:lJ"

,ut.lii.tii* 'i tr'i 'ollh

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+iill:l'*[T nril';ili,*i$*:f i{}:lffi 'idffi,',','.',.;.'lffirll,ll',y,'.ll: l;:l:ll':'li'.fi :il?1lfi :T: iJ'ii"".'; :il[:ru;i ::'rruni Hililifr :ffi rln##d*:,"r* *r;:r'l; ii :r:1,t3 t il.','";l *:'iil'o:l li: i'i;' :."^

Co aching P oir'ts:

' li:,lfJ:;;[T inili],ri,T: iT.l:liff;ni'Jl;i':liilf i::::'^and changing dlrections qulcKlY

'll'Jl?H[i::i1[:f :fr J:l:lf iJi,'I::iTfi :ffi i'lif i::'til8]l?;the coach

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DRItL #30: BACK-PEDAIING AND BREAKING AT 90 DEGREES

. i i0 mprove the abil ity of a defensive, :-d ntercept it.

- . -r 'Veeded A football.

back t0 move laterally. react to the

: ,-N The coach faces one pLayer at a time, who is positioned approximately- :; eway. The coach starts the dril l by cornmandlng, "Set." When the player.,:: defensive stance, the coach c0mmands, "G0." The p ayer reacts by: : ' :ct y backwards. The player keeps his eyes on both the coach and the

: , . l lrer l-2 sec0nds, the coach moves the f0otball t0 the right 0r left. The. ::cts immediate y by movlng in the same direction as the f00tball at a. - :e angle lateralLy. The coach throws the football in the general direction 0f:.-,-s ve player. The player intercepts the f00tball and returrs the football t0

::. by running back and handing it to him. {[,4any teams use a team "callword", r -q NG0' to let their teammates know that the ball has been lntercepted.

requires the player t0 ye | "BlNG0" as he returns the ba I to the coach).

' iPaints:

- : ! ayer should start moving quickly backwards when the coach c0mmands: r ' Staying low while back pedaling, the p ayer sh0uld maintain eye contact. :h the coach and change directions quickly

--: ! ayer sh0u d intercept the ba at the highest possible p0int, yell "BlNG0"

:' /"hateverc0deword thec0achdeslres) and then sprint the football back t0' ' : c oach.

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DRlt[ # 31: TURltl AND G0

oblectiveiTo improve the abil ity oi a defensive back t0 back-pedal' turn and run'

react to the t0otball and intercept lt

EouiDment Needed: A loorball-

?ff 'Jg:ii,:ll1x'ii,liiTffi iff tl #",il# i#';r:"J:: r1',n1-U**ffi;;il,.;;;,;;;;eeri,*1,10"91;;1 :t;,;lif, lii::".'liill Jl,',n *of.1t'jj:^'^:l'fi,I',il:,'ji:::'J^'rTll,',o*,,' .omnands. 'Go ' The praver teactslffi;;iil ;; ;; ;;;no'p'intlng' tt'',-' lffi': 3:ilii ifi ffi:il'rlffi'ili;:tr;i:$ifl,:il',lli.li""jJiiili,lffi ;,r'ouii.i oi ir', o,i*,iu. pru',oil ffi; il;;;ilt;,he football, sprints torward toward the coach and retulns

li: '..i,*ji:if.;:+[,'; :itlffi ;ll;n;T,',xsi[il.1]! -'1'* ili11l'lTi]l'

:?,:lr ul,.;',.i ;:l*tj;l#l;lie'1fi i;:ilii::iJ[: i;;'illiil'fl :lil"T'CaachingPoints:

''ff P 8tilil;il;f r,i Hilflil{ :t#;J*.Tff I hnril*t,x i L;contact with the coach and turn t0 sp

' lffi I'i:i"Jfi8s lil'-,lx:i!,'ii il"il;lIii:'JJi:f ilf J;i:fi "ffi'.'$f'.,lorwaid, handinq the lo0tball bac( to tl 'e c0ach

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0Bl[[ #32: BUN THE LlNE

' r . r- .: T0 impfove the abil ity 0f a defensjve back t0 pivot 190 degrees while running' : ' Fdct to the [00tbarlard interceot r.

:^:/Veeded A football.

- i r r':: :r The coach faces one player at a time, who is positioned approximately 5-j0; , ...3,/ Thecoachstarts the dril lby commanding, "G0." The p layer reac ts by

- : -. r rectly backwards {180 degrees away from the coach). The coach then moves- : r::a I to the left 0r the right. The player reacts by planting his rear foot, droppingr: , :a i rdusinghisarmsandhipstotunBAdegreesintheopposi tedirect ion.After- :::r-ds,whiletheplayercontinuesrunningbackwafds,thecoachmovesthe: --: N the 0pp0site direction. The player reacts imrnediately by turning his body 180

::: r,,hrle continuing t0 move straight backwards. This action is repeated three t0: -:s before the coach throws the footballin the genercldirection of the defensive.- -5e player intercepts the football and returns the football to the coach by'l :ack and handing it to him.

--e p ayer should start when the football moves. Staying l0w while running.:'aight backwards, the player sh0uld always maintain eye contact with the coach:-a change directions quickly.

-re coach must stress that the player shouid use his arms and hips tohelphim'3pid y turn his body 180 degrees.

-re player sho!ld inrercept the ball at the highest possible point, yell "B|NG0" (0r,.,hatever codeword the coach desires)and then sprint the footballback to the:oach.

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DRILL #33: DEFENSIVE BACK 0BSTACtE C0UBSE

oblectlver To devel0p fo0tw0rk by reqLir 'ng defensive backs 10 peIl0r m a serles 0I ,maneuvets (e.q, back peddling, acceleratrng iolward and backwards' nul0llng' etc J;

Lo assess the;0il ty 0f delensive Dacks to perlorm a sequence ol ma'leuvers wllnln

a specific t ime.

Equipnent Needed:Six cones; fouI blocking dummies; two to four stop watches

Desclrrt l0,1 The obstacle course is set up according lo the lavoui l l lustrated in tfe

oaorarn Thesixconesareusedtoesrabl is ' ' l theboLnda- ies0l a lb-yar0 x lu-Yar0

lriu.ou ur- ritfO lwo btocking dunmies {one 0n top of tne otner)are stacked'

,i. 'rrr i i t i i tro l^ ttr. oi the tiro 15-vard x 10-Yard areas created by the placemenl

0l-tne c0nes Tl'e dri l l begins by hav ng a player slar t with h's heels on-tne l lne un

the c0ach's c0mmand, the fi lst player to 0etlorm the dli l l back oedals l5 yar0s

.rraf.iuft, fot*ttO on a diagonal.hurdles the two stacked blocking dummies' and

ihen accelerates forward and hits the front l ine He then repeats the process 1n tne

,rmJis-utiO ,lo v.tO area He finishes the dril l once he hits the front l ine again

ur rrofoi, io oft ,"0'n.ck peda,;ng as lasl as possibre r0 Ihe fi 'r ish poinr' 0nLe a

pL1,ei ras:i,acneO tne seiond coie. another plaver can star t i5e dri l l

CoachingPoints:

. The importance of staying l0w and keeping the f€et churning (ie ' never planted)

should be emphasized

. Players should be required to explode out of a backward 0r fotward m0ti0n

. An element 0f c0flrpetit iveness can be added to the dril l by having the player

totpiit tn"t tt tb romprete tne 0bstac'e c0urse aqa nsl pre0eterm ned.t me

, i . . iaot f t q .q ' r .L= less than l5 secs:good - '5 7 secs:dveraqe - l7-19

secs, below Jverage = m0re than 19 secs)

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REACTIONDRILLS

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DRltt #34: REACT AND G0

0blectlveiTo enhance the ability of a defensive back to react to ball movement; t0practice blitzing the quarterback

Equipnent Needed: A lootball; two cones 0r blocking dummies'

Descflbll0[-The dril l involves the coach and three players Bepresenr;ng interioroffensive linemen, two cones {or blocking dummies)are set up five yards apart on avard lhe. Standinq between the cones, the coach snaps the ball t0 an individualservinq as a quarierback. 0n movement 0f the ball, the two defenders sprint lowand haiO across the tine of sclimmage and c0nverge on the quarterback who ispositioned six yards behind the cones

CoachingPoints:

. The coach sho!ld use various kinds 0f cadence before snapping the ball in 0rdef

t0 qet the defensive backs used to reacting to the ball, as opposed t0 the"quarterback's" voice inflections. lf necessaly, a managel0r an Inlufed playet

can snaP the ball.

. The coach should remind the defensive backs that their fi lst pri0rity is t0 key

the football and sPrint six Yards.

. After each rep, the players sh0uld switch sides s0 they can attack from both

sides, then fliP sides

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DBltt #35: REACH AND CATCH

.::.- ' ,: T0 practice reacting to the snap of the football;to develop hand: : -:: on and quickness; to enhance theabil ity 0f a defensive back to recover a'_ : :

.:. --:nt Needed:Dne lNerfl football; two tennis balls.

,'...- ::ror. The dril l involves twoplayers, a coach, and someone to simulate a' :: -: rhe ball is snapped, the players'eyes focus on the tennis balls that are:: - = -. d by the coach who is positioned three yards from the football. The coach- :: - : ?rms out from his body forming a "1" Players react to the dropping of the:-' : :all by the coach and try t0 catch the ball before it hits the ground a second-: : ' i€r all players go from a depth 0f three yards from the coach, the coach can

- r.. ::rk t0 four yards, etc. A depth of five t0 six yards from the coach is:- : : : ' :despecial lychal lenging.Thecoachshouldbepart icular lyalertoncethe: -:.: : ve level of the dril l is increased and players start diving for the tennis

:,:^ ".9 Points:

.,-:e the defensive backs become proficient at reacting to and going for the:.-n s balls, the coach could switch to using two actualfootballs.

. --: key is t0 focus on reacting to the snap of the ball and on moving quickly to::ch the falling tennis ball.

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DBllt *36: REACT AND MIRR0B

oblec llver To er\a1ce the ab lity ol a delensive back to leact to the actions 0f an

oi/r ',t iut p'tyrt; to Orutlop t\e abil ity to m0ve Dy slid'ng; to improve qurclness: Io

warm-up.

Equipment Needed: AIootball; two blocking dummies'

Des( tiption. Aball ca'ier {BCl and a de'ersive back (DB) stand ldcing eaci' 0ther

roo, t iout io ftt ,1rtOt rr i-0nt ol a yard rine between two blocking dumm'es 0laced

0n rhe qrourd approx,matery sever yar0s apart lhedr i l l invorveshavingthebal l,ut: 'ar'uurtoi to

"ott ihe ya'd lrne between tne two ol0c^ing dumm es without,

berno nel0 uD bv Ine defender' The ball carrier "1oves laterdlly as qulckly as p0ss'0re

.no irt.nois to tart t 'e defendel The defende', m rr0r'ng the ballcarr'er' reacts

to the -no;ements 0f the ball-carrier ano slides t0 stay in front 0tl lrsopp0nent nrs

ooar is to keeo the ball carrier from scoring (i e cross'ng tle yard l lnel lne 0erenoer

ilav use his hards, out tne erpnasis rs 0r reacti lg q'icl ly and movlng hrs Ieet lne

bal icarr ier nasaspeci l ic r :me l imi t {eg'5sec0nos) i lwhich to score

CaachingPoints:

. The detenders must n0t be permitted t0 ovelextend their arms while using thelr

hands on the ballcarner.

. To emohasize the need for a defender t0 move his feet. thedrillcan be perf0rmed by

requiring tne Oetender to keephis hands behind his back during the dril l

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DRltt 37: REACT T0 THE BA[[

,- i. i i lei T0 enhance the abil ity of a defensive back t0 react to the ball; t0 develop' :-r 3nd eye c00rdination while the defendef rs 0n the rnove.

: : :nent Needed: Aloolba l.

-. -,- 'ption; The dri I involves having the defeosive backs form one line about 20, r: f rom the c0ach, facing him. When the c0ach raises the fo0tball showing pass,. ' 'st player in l ine sprints toward the coach at top speed. When the player gets- - 3-4 yards of the coach, the coach throws the football at the p ayer's chest,

- : - ' ng the playef t0 react quick y to the ball and catch it before it hits him. After

'. : ayer catches the ba , he tosses it back to the coach and returns t0 the back' :-e ne The coach then raises the f00tball t0 signalthe next player if l ine t0' : : ihe dr i l l and so on

::hing Points:

ihe coach shOuld emphasize the importance 0f watching the ball and reacting:: it once it is thrown.

Jhe coach can add variety to this dri l l by throwing the football either over th€r ayer's heacl or be ow the p ayer's waist, thereby, requiring the defender t0I ay the ball at unusual ang es.

ffi

4g

DRltt 38: BREAK T0 THE BAtt

0blecrlver l0 enhance the abiI ty ol a defensive back t0 Ieact t0 the ball; t0 devel0p

hand and eye coordination;ro pracl'ce moving t0 the f00tball

E qui p nent N eed ed : A IaoIball.

Descflpflon:The dli l l involves having the defensive backs form one line about 20

vards irom rhe coacn. racing hi.l. Wnen the coach I aises the football showing pass

rhe first player st a, ts to sprint directly t0ward tl 'e coach When the player gets

within 10 yaids of the coach, the coach pumps his arm like laking a pa-s-s toward the

side he wants the player to bIeak. The player should then break at a 90-degreednole t0 thal s 0e.0nce the plaYer md\es his break ihe coach should throw the

ioo"rball at rhe prayer to rake hi'n reacr q-ickly t0 catch the ball The plaYer sh0uld

then return the bail t0 the coach and return t0 the end of the l ine The coach then

raises the football t0 signal the next player in l ine t0 staft the dril l , and so on'

Coaching Paints:

The coach sh0uld emphasize that playefs sh0uld watch the f00tball at all t imes'

especially as theY trY to catcn lt

To add varietv to tnis dri '1, the c0acn can throw tne f00toaltin front of 0I behind

the defe rder ,n order t0 ma(e h'r Ieact r0 the ball at var i0-s, different angles

50

STAMINADRILLS

5l

DRllt #39: CATCH-ME'lt-Y0U-CAN

0bjective:Io inpr ove stamina; to warm-up'

Equipnent Needed:Narc'

Descriltion:Ihe caachhas the entire defensive team sptead out in three lines 0n --

rl: iir,,xn*: l[ ,';iifi ]ii:Ti$fl:il ff iil'Jii.'lf':iii{,i}'illf, lxiii!'l';;; i;t';;;; il it;,h'the line, retreat five vards and touch the lhe' run forward

?}ililTifi r,'li; ?ti;:::,lll,:wlllliiffi ',x,.fl :ii'?"':"'#'$:i:l'.'iil"r,,i[rl ii,iJ,r.,iivebacks(DBs)shourduslsilSlll|!3:,1]ililll+ff1?#[i','.:l :t:n;Jjitl3J il: llj'$i."ijjlill,xH;;io *,u,,.r, bn tn, t*."

CoachingPoints:

. lf one Darticular group of defenders {DLs or LB's) needs a greater handicap' the

coach can increase the distance between groups

' l"x::::';'lJl"'JlJf :ilTl;: lfi:l[xlff l''J'''J#l:Hffil :',1''""'1"number of Push-uPS

40

50

2

I

+

to

20

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52

TftI

W

DBlt t #40: AR0UND THE WORtD

., :r/er To enhance stamina, t0 imprOve f00tw0rk;t0 warm-up.

, - : irent Needed None.

.,.. iptian:fhe dti inv0lves three defensive backs at a time who ineup0nayard. :.r the left 0f a hash mark.0n command frorn the c0ach, the players sprint..: 'd 20 yards, thef shLrff e t0 theif right t0 the 0ther hash mark, then backpedal.. :o the 0rigina starting l lne, and then shuff e left back t0 their 0riginai starting-: Wh le they are rnoving, the coach has the option of having the players either^ p ace or hit the ground by ordering them to 'Get 0r your face" or "Get 0f y0ur

- , , B0th c0mmands shoujd be qLrickly followed by the order to "Get on your feet, : Tove-which is a signal f0r the players t0 resume their "around-the-world"

-:, at top speed. The roLite, c0mbined w th the various hit-the-ground and run-in-.:: commands, is design€d t0 cr€ate a rigorous, non-st0p, warm-up sessi0n.

2chingPoints:

A I movernents should be done at t0p sDeed, without hesitation.

When running in place. playefs should be required to l ift their knees as h ghpossrb e.

Hashmark

Hashmark

i(shuffle to the rightl-->

(shuffre to the lettl

ffiffi

53

DRItL #41: PIKE'S PEAK

oblectiverTo develop stamina;t0 plactice lateral f l lovements;t0 enhance lateral

quickness;to warm-uP.

Equlpment:Nine c0nes 0r scrimmage vesIS

,"'.'^'#ffi t.[:i:;:i];::;:ffi:H:T"rimnasevests)inadspe'sed:Hnlfrti'ili1i*ffiffitr*iffi

tTit'ffi : i :?: i: t:?,'.'il:i illi[h:i.lHTT;Ji;xf il ilJ :: f.T.aiiTilljl%lli:iliR'JilJl?,f,13If; !riil3i'.'*,,'.',CoachingPoints:

. Each defender should be encouraged to cut the cotners sharply 0n the run and

q0 all out untilhe sprints past the last cone

. ine coach can add an element 0l comoelit 'o'l l0 I5e 0rilr by establis:|n9 t- --

. ' in,*l ' ' i irc it ronplel rg t\e l-n o'aye's who ia't ro make the mrnr1"- L '1"

# #;;;i l;;;;i '; itrm a-predetermined number 0f push'ups' sprints' etc

oooo

54

DRltt #42: STAGGER-SPURT

i: ecflverT0 develop stamina;to improve footwork;to practice changing directions:- rk ly; to warm-up.

::Jbnent Needed:Iwelve cones 0r scrimmage vests.

-:sctipti1n:fhecoachlays out 12 cones (or scfimmage vests), dispersed as shown,:.. ' a distance 0f 40 yards. The dril l begins by having the defensive backs line upr=- nd the first cone.0n command frorn the coach, the first player in line sprints': ',!ard f0r ten yards, then back-pedals for five yards. He then turns and repeats'-: sequence over the next two cones ispfinting forward for ten yards and back-:=:a rng five yards). The defender completes the course by performing four:rr tonal ,s imi lafsequences.Acompleterunthr0ughthe"staggel-spuIt ' layout- ,: ves sprinting forward for 55 total yards and back-pedaling for 25 yards. 0nce a: : ier has reached the midway point in the layoLit, the next player in line should:,r n performing the dril l.

,:aching Points:

The coach should emphasize the imp0rtance 0f an all 'out effort during the runand the value 0f changing directions quickly.

. The coach can add an element of competiti0n to the dril i by timing each player'srun. Players who failto perfofmthe run'fast enough'can be required tod0 anarbitrary number 0f push'ups, sprints, etc.

ffiffi

55

DRltt #43: BAGK-PEDAL DUCK WADDTE

obj'ective;To develop stamina in the upper leq; to loosen up the hips and knees; t0

warm-up.

Eq uipm e nt N e e d e d: None.

DescriollonrThe coachhas the delensive backs spread 0ut in lront 0t him The

olave,i snould ass"me a stance whicn involves an exaggerated level 0l l lexl0n In'treir

nips and knees h.e , squat like a duck) 0n command' the playelS bacK peoar ar

iaii speeO, wnite mantaining the'I flexed 'duck-like body posilion

CoachingPoints:

. Players should be enc0uraged t0 stay off their heels while participating in the

drill.

. The c0ach should emphasize t0 the players that they should keep their head'

arms.ina paos n a gime-like position during the dril l

. As the players become more c0mfortable in their ability t0 perform this dril l the

coach can increase either the speed at which the players m!st back'pedal 0r

the distance they're required to tlavel'

5E

W

DRlt t #44: AB0UND THE DUMMIES

' -- :, ' i /r,eiT0 improve stami0a;t0 warm-up; to improve the abil ity of a defensiver, : . : rchangedirect i0nsquicklywhi lern0ving lateral ly.

: . : -.rt Needed A nininun 0f f1ur blockinq dunnies.

. .r '-t ior:The blocking dummies are placed on the ground parallel t0 each 0ther:: -. lrated in the diagram. The coach assumes a position at one end 0f the row 0f: :: ' -; dummies. The defender begins in a positionjust outside to the left of the

r :.J, fac ng toward the coach.0n a signal from the coach, the defender slides- ,i aterally between the blocklng dummies at af appr0ximately a 45-degree

, . . ,1/hen he reaches the 0utside 0f the next bl0cking durnmy. the defender; :-. :ack to the inside (while continuing to face the coach). The dril l continues

r::! n the same manner. After the defender reaches the last blocking dummy,i . -ts f0rward for f ive yards at fullspeed.

. . : : - ' .gPaint :

, rrpetit ion can be added to the dri I by having groups of players compete.:: fst each other in relav fashion.

57

DBltt #46: D0UBtE MIRB0R

:qectiye; T0 improve stamina; to devel0p the ability of a defensive back t0 change: -ections while running either backwards or laterally; t0 warm-up.

-:!ipnent Needed:Norc.

:.scripti1n:fhedefenders position themselves as illustrated. facing the coach (Cl.--e coach signals the closest defender to him to move. That defender is::rmanded to perform one of three basic movements-run backwards in a straight-:, rLrn laterally at a 45-degree angle, 0r run f0rward in a straight line. The other

'--ee defenders mirr0r the movements of the first player, all the while maintaining--e same distance between each other.0n a finai signal from the coach, allof the::fenders sprint full speed past the c0ach.

:.aching Point:

. The dril l is designed to enable defenders t0 respond to two stimulis multaneously.

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DBtt ! #47; GASSERS

obiecllverT0 0evel0p stamina: ro improve the abilitY 0f a delensive back to chdnge

ii,iri l.. i qri.*tv ,. *p!ove the footwork involved in back-pedaling

Equipnent Needed:None

3;#'tri'J#,ff .'.:"T ii: ;S,i:$if.:il :il15:,iil!1:il{.:li.'.::r'1ii:l',.r,i.r..rii.l ip,irt. the rile yard r'n.e,and th;:,::::,rrr.r$;:lftt,,l,:ii:t

ffi:\'iJi: l;:\!T,l;iil:f ll'i'dil ;:"-l"#fi 'J:tiii irffi ];;triFr-distance the players must sprint five yardsiiqrt.tt ,"ti i i. i, t" *ti l the players have reached the mid-field yard lrne

CoachingPaints:

. Variety can be added to the dril l by having the players either sptint 0r back-

pedal in both directions.

. Competition can be fostered between players by having the coach time the dril l

253035404550454035302S20t5lo5G

1000000

60

TACKLINGDRILLS

DRltt #48: THE TW0-MAN HIT AND B0UNCE

0blecrlver r0 i"lprove the abil itY 0f a defensive 0ack t0 "front-up aballcarrie':t0

rl i" 'up ir, lt ", itrr.,

,1d oints prior t0 furl-scale l ive tackling dril ls

Equi pn e n t N e e d ed : l\ loatball

Describflrrn:The dril l involves placing the players in gr0uls 0f three 0ne player acts

*lm m:11.",*,',.l,1 ll,i:ili::ff :[T: J::.'.'#i","':lit';i,:'i::i"" a'il lr.itt **t tne c0ach pitches the 0al't0 the oall-cat'ier' who tl'en runs at

,n, rt ,r#it^llir. itre oeteniiue oacl gets int0 a good h tt ng p0siti0n and:i;;i ':;;;;;;;;;;';rtnouitact<tins fii tne oere;ders hit 0n the ball-carrier

..*4, tjia l.f f-*,tier to bounce backwards 3-4 yards The ball-carrier then

uonio.rf,et tf,. otn.|. Otfendel wh0 als0 gets into a good tackling position and

!i i^tt ,t.l i..". ur.w, but a'lows t\e iunne' I0 escape lhis sequenl: 'gltln"t

,ri i tl. t*tri lt, Ortn hit properly 2-3 times per tackler' At that p0 nt' lhe

i.rrn i-f,trr ift*t f,i, *histle and rotates the olfensive defensive players

CoachingPoints:

. The defensive back should keep his head up and his eyes open while

sim!ltane0usly sticking his face in the runnel s numDers

. The coach should review all basic tackling fundamentals The defender should

*,.0-ro tn, Otf l"*ti., without tackling-him' bend his knees and strike a blow

withouirunningthroughthe bal lcarr ier '

62

DRI[[ # 49: THE THBEE-MAN HtT AND BOUNCE

--: rrflyerTo improve the abiiity of a defensive back to ,,front-up,, a bajl carrjer; to..,"r-up the muscles and joints prior to full-scale live tackling dril ls.

::, tnent Needed: A lootball.

_-: scrilr rlon: The d11ll invclves placing the players in groups of four.0ne player acts,, 3 ball 'carrier, while the other three defendefs serv€ as tacklers. Theco;ch:::- trons thethree tacklers centered 0n and opposjte the ball-ca(ier at a distance:' 3b0ut 3-4 yards. The dril l begins when the coach pitches the ball to the ball,:: '- er who then runs between two of the defenders. The defenders both step int0'-: runner without tackling him. The resultant collision causes the ball-carrieito:: rrce backwards 3-4 yafds. The ball-carrier then approaches the gap between the::-er two defensive backs. They a ls0 assume a good tackling positio; and strike a':':€fui bloW but allow the runner to escape. This dril lsh0uid continue until the--rer has been bounced backwards 2-3 times. At that p0int. the coach then blows- : lvhistle, stops the hitting and has the players rotate.

::sching Points:

. The defenders sh0uld keep lhejr heads up and therr eyes open, while ste0Dino1ro the ball-carrier with rheir Inside shoulder {thar shoulder which js cJosesirothe runner at time of impact).

. The coach should review all basic tackling f!ndamentals. The defenders shouldstrike a.blow without tackling, bend their knees and step int0 (without runnjngthrough) the ball-carrier.

63

DRILt #50: FORM TACKtING

0biecfirue:To improve the players' ability to tackle without being injured; t0 warm-upthe muscles and loosen joints;t0 increase player enthusiasm prior t0live dril ls or agame.

Equi p ne n t Nee d ed : None.

DescrotionrThe plavers will face each otner on 0pposite sides 0f a Yard l'neaooroximatelv 2 3 vatds apart Tney should 0e paired opposiie someone 0t ta rlyequat neiqnt and weight. 0ne I ne shourd be designated as ball ca'riers .while the ,oJpositeiine serves is tacklers. On c0mmand from the coach' each tacklel shouldo ik uo the oatlcarr'e, opposite him a1d carry him backwards 2-3 yards and ser h'mdOwn 0n the gro-rd 0n l' is reet {Tnis 0ril l is best d0ne at 50 /5% of full speedlAfter each repetiti0n, the r0les 0f the players should be switched

Coaching Paints:

. A perfect-heads up, eyes open, necl-bowed tackle shouid be the goal of eachtac(ler.

. Varety can be added to this dril l by having the players tackle at a 45'degreeangle, instead of head-on.

BC

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64

DBILL #51: THE POPSICtE STICK-DBIVE

i,-. ecllve; T0 improve the player s ability to wrap-up, lift. and drive the simulated:: carrier backwards (i.e., tackle).

:: )ipnent Needed:Aone-man sled (popsicle).

,-;scr/bfron:The players should form a single line, one behind the other, {acing the:.e-man s\ed at a distance of 10 yards.0n the coach's command, the lirst piayer in-e wil run forward, get int0 a hitting position in front of the sled (popsicle), wrap

- s arms around the midsection 0f the p0psicle, thrust his hips forward, and drive the: ld up to the rear until the c0ach gives the c0mmand to "DH0P lT." The next man in-e wili attack the sled as soon as the coach commands "Hll'

:taching Points:

. Each player sh0uld tackle with a good wrap-with his head up, his eyes openand his neck bowed. The coach can best position hirnself to observe "cl0sed-eyed tacklers" by standing behind the popsicle, thereby facing the tackler as heapproaches the dummy.

. The coach can help devel0p good tackling techniques by having those whoviolate the basic techniques of sound tackling (e.9.. by ducking their head,closing their eyes, etc.) repeat the dril l as often as necessaly until they masterthe required skills.

65

i

DRlt[ #52: THE P0PSlctE STICK-TAKE D0Wll

0blecfi lerT0 improve the player's abil ity t0 wrap-up,lit l drive backwards and take

the simulated ball carrier to the ground {e g, tackle}

EluiDnent Needed: A orte-man sled {popsicle)

Descr,ir l l04 T his dri l lrs the same as lhe previous dril l( lhe popsicle stick-0rive")

rr.roiif 'uirf,tpf.vtt*i l ldrivethesledintotheground Again the players wil l.^

form a sinqle l ine, one beh'nd the other, lacing the one-man sled at a drstance 0I ru

vards.0n ihe coach s command, the l irst player in l;ne wil l IUn torward qet rnt0 a

fi itt inq oosition in front ot the sle0 wrap his arms aI0und the mrdsectl0n 0l (ne

o.oii ir!. ir ' irtt r ' i , t,pt fotward, and drive the sled up to the real at an angle unti l

[. i"ni."r ' int lrt i .v to the glound. The next man in l ine wil l attack the sled after

in, pt.ulort tu,if"f 'u, teseiit, and the coachhas commanded "HlT"

Coaching Points:

. A q0od wrap-up tackle involves naving the plaYer keeF his head up his eYes

oo-en and h,s neck bowed {Slrce d 0re-man sled welghs appl0x malely 4JU , ,poulds. .t is rec0mmended thal plaYers weigh rg less rhan l4U poun0s sn0ul0

not Dartici0ate in this dri l l for safety reasons)

. The coach can ne'p devel00 go00 lackling tecnniques bY navil-q tnose who

violale tne bas c princ;ples ol s0Jnd tackling (e g ' by d-ckrng thelr neao -closrng

their eyes. elc I repeat the ori ' l as 0fIel as necessa'Y untrl they master Ire

required skil ls.

66

DRltt #53: THE MAT TACKTE

:-./ecrlye. To improve the player s ability to tackle (wrap-up, lift, drive backwards.:-C take the ball cafrief to the ground), while minimizing the p0tential for being- Lrred while tackling.

::ripnent Needed: A laotball; a wrestling mat.

-:scriDtlrrri This dril l can be conducted indoors either without pads 0r in full pads.: 3yers sh0uld be matched in pairs 0f appr0ximately equal size and weight. one: :yer is designated as a tackler, while the other player serves as a ball carrier. The:: carrier starts the dril l by standing with his back t0 the mat, while the tackler is::siti0ned opposite him at a distance of about 2-3 yards. The coach begins the dril l:, hafding the ball to the ball carrier who stands stil l and allows himself t0 be-:: kled. The tackler accelerates through the runner, while making a good form:: : k le.

::aching Points

A good wrap-up tackle involves having the player keep his head up, his eyesopen and his neck bowed.

The coach can use this dril l to help develop s0und tackling techniques in acontact environment that involves little or n0 chance of injury.

6t

DRItL #54: THE C0MPETITIVE DUMMY TACKTE

Abjective:Io im|fove aplayer s ability to tackle; to devel0p enthusiasm and acompetitive spirit;to enhance qLrickness and reaction time.

Equipment Needed; Adunmy; a football; a mat.

Descriprb,lrTwo defensive p ayers should be positioned 10 yards from the mat,p0sitioned on all fours on the ground facing the tackling dummy which standsupright j!st in front 0f the mat. The coach begins the dril l by m0ving a football tostart the defenders moving. C0mmands, such as "R0LL BlGHT," "R0Lt tEFT," "HlTBELLY" and "HlT, will be used to signal the players to move quickly in the directionindicated and eventually to attack {e.9., tackle) the durnmy.

Coaching Points:

This dril l is m0st effective when participants are divided into teams and score iskept to foster competition between the groups.

The coach can use this dril l to help develop quickness and increase playerenthusiasm by balancing teams with players of comparably equal skills.

F(e l \l - l \I I \1 OJOJ

G8

DRILL *55: THE BUTT T ACKTE

CbiectiveiTo improve the players ability to 'front-!p" a ball carrieri to teach aleiensive backthe DroDer waY t0 usehis eYes, hitwhile tackling,leverage a ballcarrier, and follow through.

EouiDnent Needed: Afootball; three t0 four scrimmage vests

Descdptlbni The drill involves having players work in groups 0f two-with one actingas a ball carrier and the 0ther as a tacklel The coach positions three to four vestsab0ut five vards aDart on the line with the two playels facing each other at the oneend of the iine of icrimmage {LoS) at a distance 0f about 3-4 yards The dril l beginswhen the coach commanda "HlT." The ball carrier moves perpendicular to the LoSand heads forahole in between thejerseys While running with the ball carrier, thetackler meets the ball carrier at the LoS with a vigorous "Butt ' and a quick wrapwithout tackling him, which causes the ball carrier to bounce backwards 3'4 yards'The ball carrier then approaches the gap between the next two vests. The tacklerre0eats his dril l seQuence 0f butting and releasing the ball carner' 0n his thrrd hitthe tackler finishe; the tackle by taking the ball carrier to the ground The coachthen blows the whistle, stops the hitting and rotates new players into position Thedirection of the ball carrier's movement {left t0 right or vice-versa) should also bealternated once each tackler has completed one repetitiondown the line

CoachingPoints:

. The defenders must get int0 a good hitting position between each vest, keeptheir heads up and th;ir eyes open' step int0 the ball carrier, while using inside-out leverage, and strike a blow with their tace and shouldet

. The tackler should nevet cross over his feet, get ahead 0f the ball carrier 0rdroD his head while tackling. The coach can use this dril l to review a player sabiiitv to perform all tackling fundamentals pr0perly.

+cIA

LOS

DBILL #56: THE SCOBE TACKLE

oblec tlver T0 improve the open field tackling ability of the defensive secondary

Equipnent Needed: A'Iaotball;six scrimmage vests or cones'

Descf,b t;onr The players work In groups ol rw0, with o'le actrng as a ball carrier (BCiand

fir";i'#;;';;;;,;irier {otit ttrecoacnoivides the lierdinro a6'Ya dsquare area

l***im:*[tl ji:nntll*y,'';l:::x'Jfl:%x:l'.^'i:,&:'ii"ff';H;;i#;;;;liiov mouins rattatrv until the coach commands "ScoRE"'at

il.irn tit, i.in pr.v." so iull speid with ttre battcarrier trying t0 score by leaving

ini *nur ll* lil','' t',:l,l i;{,tii;#fl r+}i,;if, til;;i;;ff :fostered depending upon the number 0f playel

Coaching Points:

. The 00int should be emphasized that thedefenders should stay in agood hitting

#ffifi;..;;;.;l;srngor leaving thei ieet p'emalurelYl A tackler should keep

iis neao uo, t'is eves open and "100k his lick in" while tackling

. The tackler should never cross over his feet He should box the r'rnner in thereby

. i t t .nt . r ,u. t t t . ' / ,og0 HeshoJroni t f romIhetop0f nisfeet lockhisarms

irouid the ballcarrier and drive hrm bac(wards

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70

DRltt #57: THE SIDEtINE TACKIE

objective:fo inptove the ability 0f defensive backs to tackle in the open field using thesideline as a tackling aide.

Eo ui1nent Ne ed ed: A'foolball.

Description:Ihe dtill inyolves placing the players in groups 0f two.one player acts as aball carri€r (BC), while the other is designated as a tackler (DB). The dril l starts withboth players on a hash mark facing each other ab0ut 10 yards apart. The coach beginsthe dril l by tossing the ball{0r having someone acting as a quarterbacl toss the balltothe ball carrier who is simulating a sweep toward the sideline. {NotetThe first repetitionof this dril lcan be doneat 50-75% speed untilboth piayers become accustomed towhat is expected.)The designated defensive piayer takes one siep back and out, reads,runs, and then sprints toward the sideline. The tackler approaches the ballcarrierdiagonally, while maintaining an inside-out relationship. The tackler attempts to give theballcarrier only two choices-run over him or get knocked out of bounds.lf the ballcarrier tries t0 cut back, the tacklef must correct his leverage and make a heads-uptackle.lftheballcarriercontinuestotheoutside,thetacklershouldbuttthroughhimand take him out of bounds. This drill should be repeated using the opposite sideline androtating players until all players have had one good repetition on each side of the field.

Coachino Poi,tts:

The tackler must stay in a good inside-out hitting position. He must nevef lunge 0rleave his feet prematurely. He must keep his eyes 0pen and strike through to therunner's opposite side.

The tackler should never cross over his feet. He should atternpt t0 box the ballcarrier int0 the boundary, therebygiving him 0nly one way t0 go.

7l

DRItL #58: THE 0PEN FIEtD TACKTE

obl'ectlverT0 improve the ability 0f a defensive player t0 tackle in the open field

Equipnent Needed: Alootball; six t0 eight scrimmaqe vests 0r cones'

Descr,ollon. lne coacn arranges Lhe lierd into d 15-18-yalo wide tac(l'ng areawith,Yald

rine, nia,r,'o eu'rv ti'e \/a[ds.lf the field is akeadv milffl]lt]*liiHlTlJfl:r, tl ines, then all the coach needs t0 d0 is create ithe field is not marked, then the coacncan use cones orvests to matk each cornel of

;;h;;;.ih;;6il;tkinsioups of two'withone actins asaballcalrier(Bc)and

'". "i""r rl

"iu,iot fOAl. {Ndte these posit'ons are Iotaleo as rhe coachdeems

.pprp-it.l j it l. 'r,.irier slarts tne dril 'slanoing I the middle 0f one erd 0f the

ilir.tiio aiea, wirite tne oefender assurfles a position lined up offt0 one side at the,

.pp"ii'..1'"t tn' ̂* on the coach's commano ;ill;il:'r1:i'ilir1tJ[t:T:i,

i:ii'J,iillil'l"i;l,ii$[:1il,'#$:::'ii'-.rd rhe Lackrer rhe ba' carrier snourdiun nrro, auo O SoinS *ttide lhe /one, and is allowed onrY one elusive maneuver (laKej

n;;;;;;; p];ytl;h;rio back oll the runner when he sets 6-7 vards awav ironirm'

"r"uirir.etate,anOcotrrnitonlyalterlher.nnerhasconmiltedBecauselhedlll l lenosnriia rr"it tttpi.s i, can help to develop a spirit of competition between groups 0f

olavers.

CoachingPoints:

. Adefender must sprint out' break down and work hisfeet He shouldnever allow

ir,rirt.tit ig.ii i.. l.set0him Hemustnottake afakebytheball calrier'He

should keep hii head up, his eyes open, staY low andwork back.

. lhe bd'l carrier should n0l be pelmltted to use more than one take He snoul0 make

hit t;;;;;il.;J;;J trt toset past the other end of the tacklins zone on his teet

A

A

A

72

DBILL #59: THE SIDELINE TOWEt TACKTE

Cbl'ec rver To improve the ability of a defensive back to tackle on the sideline.

Equipnent Needed: Alootball; a towel {or a scrimmage vest).

Description:Ihecaachplaces a towel 0r a vest approximately six yards from aside ine. The dril l involves pairing the playefs up.One player serves as a bal carrierlBC), while the 0ther is designated as a tackler (DB). Each pair of players starts thedrill by facing each other at a distance of 12-15 yards, ten yafds in from the sideline.0n the command frorn the coach to "HlT," the offensive player runs to a pointbetween the towel and the sideline and attempts to make the defensive player misshim. The tackler starts at the sarne c0mmand and approaches at an angle t0 cut 0ffthe runner. The goal of the defe0sive back is t0 stop the runner short of theimaginary ne between the towel and the sideline. Because this dri I lends itself toscore keeping, it can be used t0 f0ster a spirit of competition between offensiveand defens ve players.

CaachingPoints.

This dril l offers an excellent live, full 'speed tackling exercise.lt also provides ag0od opport!nity t0 integrate 0ffensive players on the team into the dril l asrunners and have them "compete" against the defensive players.

Both players start the dril l at the same time. Points can be based upon whocrosses the line first between the toweland the sideline. lf the coach wants tofoster a sense of competitiveness, he can mandate that the losing player {0rgroup) be required to do push'ups, sit 'ups, sprints, etc.

ffiffi

l3

DRltt #60: THE 2-MINUTE TACKTE

1bjective:IoinrJove a defender's level of awareness 0f the game situation, t0practice sideline tackling techniques;t0 enhance the abil ity of a defensive back tokeep a ball carrier in-bounds.

Equipnent Needed: A Ioatball.

,esc/pllonrThe drll l involves pairing up players-one acts as a ballcalrier (BC),

while the 0ther serves as a tackler (DB). The players face each othel at a distance0f 1215 yards, with the runner 0n or neal the hash mark and the defender positioned

approxlmate y ten yards in trom the sideline. 0n the c0mmand 0f the coach to "HlT,"

the offensive player runs with the balltOward the sid€line and attempts t0 run 0ut0f bounds. The tackler, reacting to the same command, appr0aches at an ang le t0cut off the runner and attempts to st0p the ballcarrier sholt of the sideline Thisdril l can a lso be used t0 f0ster a spirit 0f competit ion between offensive anddefensive players by keeping sc0re.

CaachingPoints:

Thls dfi l l is an excellent way to impless game "sense" upon players. lt als0provides a good oppo(unity t0 integrate offefsive players 0n the team int0 thedril l as runners and have them "cornpete" against the defensive players.

B0th players start the dril l at the same tirne. Points can be awarded based up0nwh0 gets 0ut-0f bounds 0r s kept in"bounds li the c0ach wants t0 toster asense of competit iveness, he can mandate that the loslng player {or gr0up) be

'equ, po lo 00 p-s1-u0s. s i t -"0s. s0' i ' l ts . eIc

DRltt #61: THE DUMMY STRIP

qbjective:foin$ove lhe ability of a defensive back to wrap up the receiver andstrip the football.

Equipnent Needed: A vertjcal dummy; a wrestling mat.

Desuipti1n:Ihe players line up, five yards from and facing the coach who stands infront 0f a mat with a tackling dummy standing 0n end. 0n the coach's command"HlT," the defensive back takes a couple of steps backward, recognizes "thereceiver on the run with the ball" and accelerates toward the mat. The coacht0sses the dummy in the air as the tackler approaches (sirnulating a wide receivercatching the ball in front 0f the defensive back). The tackler wraps up the dummywith one arm, while simulating stripping the ball with the other arm. Both thetackler and the dummy should land on the mat. This drill can be performed indoors or0utdoors and be done with or without pads, with little fear of someone being injured.

Coachino Points:

P ayefs sh0uld keep their eyes open, drive through the receiver, wrap up andstrip the ball simultaneously.

This dril l is a good change-0f pace exercise. lt provides the opportunity to have afun, learning experience in the gym 0n an inclement-weather day.

MAT

9io

75

ORl![ #62: PURSUIT TACKIING

0blec tlve; T0 improve the ability of a defensive back t0 employ a ploper pursuit .

"rii. or r l iriJutitt und to make an open field tackle;t0 develop the ability of a

deiendet to use the sideline when making a tackle

Eq uipn e nt Ne e d ed : Sevetal f ootballs

Descrlb|,bnjThedri||invoIvesfouldelensivepIaYerswhoareaIignedintheirnormaIfour.dee0 0'sitions and two of fensive ba carriers

irT,Ji#,fi,lilr.,li. ", ,*

approrimaiely two yards insid€ the sideline'irlnne,s starti running down the sidel:ne Eacn defensive back takes a c0uple 0l

ri.pr'i.r[*lto, i.r.i:tizes the direction of the run and takes the proper pursuit

anoie. Tne coactrOesi!nates wh0 's t0 make the tackle {usually one of Ihe dele'lsive

;;;t."s i ';;;;pp*"lt;side oi the {reld ) Tne de{ensive back selecled sh0uld use

the sideline as a 12th man and make the tackle

CaachingPoints:

. Defenders sh0uld never starl oul pursuing at a llat angle They sh0uld always-

;;;;il; 0"6;;t;tloit ansle, based upon their speed and that 0f the runner'

inir"otirl ti it l i ot "ptated;gainst

offensive backs of varying speed and

cutting skills.

. tf a defensive backs are required to sprint full speed.to the footbal! l! l:^djll"t*- ai- tttua ut * *rellent conditioning exercise that can be used t0 replace

windsprints.

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76

DEFEATING ABLOCK DRILLS

DRlt [ #63: THE PIANO DBI[ [

1biective:foingrcve the abilitY of a defensive back to play off of a l0w block

E o ui D ne n t N e e d ed : None.

Description:lhe drillinvolves six playets at a time-one playel acts as a defender(DB)while five serve as offensive plaYers (receivels). The dli l lstarts with theoffensive players aligned next t0 each other 0n a straight l ine The coach begins thedril l by c0mmanding, "HlT," which is a signal t0 the fiISt 0ffensive player t0 attackthe defender 0pposite him by trying t0 throw a l0w block at his knees. The defenderuses his hands to keep the bl0cker away from his knees and feet. As s0on as thefirst attempted bl0ck is defeated. the defender slides latelally down the l ine whereupon the second blocker immediately attempts t0 throw the same block against thedefender. This sequence c0ntinues unti l all f ive 0ffensive players have attempted tothrow a low bl0ck 0n the defendet in tapid successi0n. The defender finishes thedr l l by clarg ng pdst lne rasl ma'l in the I ne. Subsequerlly each player I0tated orep0sition t0li is i ight (eventually into the defensive p0sition) and the dfi l l is repeated.The players should be given several Iepetit ions 0n 0ffensive and defense

Caachina Points:

The defender should c0ncentrate 0n the offensive blocker, watching his eyesand timing his arm thrust with the offensive player's block.

In warding 0ff a bi0ck, the defensive player should give ground without allowingthe bl0cker t0 get t0 his feet 0r his knees

t8

DBltl- #64: THE SEtt-0UT DBltt

1bjective:Ioinrlouefie ability of a defensive back to defeat or play off of a kick-out bl0ck by a fullback 0r a pulling lineman.

Equipnent Needed: A blocking dummy.

Descriptian:Ihe dtillinvolves two players at a time. one player is designated as ablocker ball canier {BC), while one acts as a defender (defensive back). The coachsets up an off€nsive line of scrimmage (tOS) behind which he places a blockingdummy 2'3 yards deep in the oftensive backfield slightly outside the normal tight€nd s position. The defensive back is aligned outside the dummy in a normalcornerback's position. Facing him in the backfield is a bl0cker, at the opposite angleand the same distance from the dummy. When the coach commands, "Hll" or slapsthe football, both players will run at the dummy and "sell out," simultaneouslyhitting on opposite sides 0f the dummy. The offensive player simulates a kick-outbiock, as the defender tries t0 reach the ball carrier after defeating the block. Thedefender then whips his outside leg int0 the backfield, causing the ball carrier tolose ground and run laterally, thereby giving pursuing defenders time t0 catch upwith him. lt is important t0 note that if the tirning 0i this dril l is "off" {i.e., bothplayers do n0t a(ive at the dummy at the same time), then the defender will simplyfront up the ball carrier. At that point, the defender and the blocker-ball carrier w'llrestart the dril l until they can "sell 0ut" with a dummy between them.

Coachina Points:

The defender sh0uld drive his inside shoulder thr0ugh the outside thigh 0f theblocker (dummy)and "se | 0ut" by d0ing whatever it takes to break free 0f the0ffensive player's block and ger t0 the ball carI|er.

It may take severa I repet ition s belore the two players arrive at the impact pointsimultaneously. lf one arrives early and has already knocked the durnmy down, thecoach shouldjust have them "front up" and start over until they get the timing right.

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DBILL #65: THE STALK BtOCK-HEAD UP

oblec tlve: T0 improve the ability of a defensive back to defeat or play off of a head'

!p stalk block.

Eq ui pn e nt N e e d e d: None.

Descr,brlonr The dril l inv0lves pairing up the players with one plaYer actlng as anol iensive receiver/blocker {B) and the other as defensive bac\ luts) lne 0rl' l oegl'lsbv hav'no tne two partic'pants set up facing eacn olher across a line 0f scrinrnagertbS) ,n inri, no,tit ottensive and delensive alignmenl and stance {ar the-coach s

disLretion). When tne coach commands hlT' or slaps lhe footbdll tl^e 0ltenslve

oi.urr.ttrtptt to nook the 0B straight back in an effort t0 drive him 0ff of theibd. fnr O.tinOet ttitt to get up under the blocker's number. t0 control him with his

hinds, and to move him back upfield. The players are then rotated with each gettLng

as many repetitions on offense and defense as the coach believes are appropnale

Coaching Points:

. fhe defende, should get n s hands on lhe 0ffensive plaYers nunbers and ge.t hrs

1ea0 up above the blocker's push ng h m back and toward the Ins'de 0l tne Ile 0

. A defensive back must be strong in his hands and arms He should work up under

the pads of a blocker and through his face in ordeI t0 c0ntrol hlm

@

@

00

DBltt #66: THE STATK Bt0CK-TURN OUT

qbjective:Ioinprcve th€ ability of a defensive back to defeat or play off 0f a turn-0ut stalk block.

Equi pn e nt Ne e d ed : None.

Desuipti1n:Ihe dtillinvolves pairing up the players. with one player acting as the0ffensive receiver/blocker {B) and the other as a defensive back (DB). The dril lbegins by having the two participants set up facing each 0ther across a line ofscrimmage (LoSl in their normal offensive and defensive alignment and stance (atthe coachs direction). When the coach commands "HlT" 0r slaps the football, theoffensive player attempts t0 block the DB from inside 0ut trying to turn him t0 theoutside 0f the l0S. Thedefender tries to get up under the blockers nearestshoulder pad. working him back toward the center 0f the field. The players are thenrotated with each getting as many repetitions 0n offense and defense as the coachdeems appropriate.

Coaching Points:

. The defender should attempt to get his hands on the offensive player's insideshoulder, while keeping his own arm free t0 get to the ball.

. The 0B rnust controlthe bl0cker and try t0 force him back toward the football.

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8l

DRILL #67: THE STALK BtOCK-H00K

3ljr,fi,:r;J" ,.**'*e abilitv o{ a defensive back t0 defeat or pla\/ 0ff of a hook

Equi1ne Needed:None

Desc/ip rionr T he dr iu inv0lves eairin? ue ll:ei::e;:,:l'jff JJiffi i'i#;iitt

l$nif *ru it'"m$i,i$i Hi:1ffi 4i*ni*1i*';l ',

"i",,,:,f$lruli','l','i*:ru,',m[ffi ::l,l:*'ll'!l:l'd'#'l-;r*ff #i:#T#lffiiIxv^i1ur"*:nl'J":i:1&:::::""i;:.'"'.feels are aPPfoPriate'

CaachingPaints:

'i,$iii:r$:iil j:i','.{.,ll*kiifi [[,;rqB$:li*rhh'[r*n'' ;:l il'liliild*dn:il: i'f 'ffiln::h:niil''i'L"l'Ji iiiii'iilii:

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82

DRlt[ #68: THE FUILBACK KICK 0UT BLOCK

oblec tiver To improve the ability of a defensive back to defeat or play 0ff 0f a kickout block by a fullback.

Equi p n e nt N e e d e d : None.

Description:Ihe dtillinyolves placing the players in groups of three, with one playeracting as the offensive fullback (FBland two designated as defensive backs {DB).The dril l begins by having the three players set up facing each other across a line 0fscrimmage (L0S) in their normal offensive and defensive alignment and stance (atthe coach's discretion). When the coach commands "HlT" or slaps the f00tball, theFB attempts to kick out the DB 0n that side in order t0 create a seam between himand the defensive end on that side. The DB must attack the FB at the L0S. striking ablow with his inside forearm and his sh0ulder pad. The DB sh0uld get his fe€t upunder him, and be ready to move upfield 0r inside.

CoachingPoints:

The defender should be able t0 fight outside and force wide plays insidewithout getting too far upfield and creating a gap between himself and thedefensive end. The DB must stil l be able t0 get back inside and help "up themiddle."

Because fullbacks are usually bigger and stronger than defensive backs, a DBshould avoid getting int0 a contest of strenqth with them. A DB sh0uld use hisquickness and speed to get t0 the ball.

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@LOS x

83

DRll[ *69: THE FU[tBACK G0 UNDER BtOCK

}bjective:IoinDtove the ability of a defensive back to defeat or play 0ff of a

fullback's block.

Equipn e nt N e e d e d : Nore.

Descnprr0rrThe drilr invorles er99!.s th: Pralilsei'.i,jlTr',i1lliii;i.ll^3?ifi?f,iacting as the offensive fullback (FB)and the

:li*:n[im:.'ll;:ll;l:;:u';*t;ffi i;1fi liJ.Tn:liiii1r"*:'ii,},',.iffi i,ytJ;},ri"'Hii*:tTlT,'#iff rli{:'jiii;',',l,,|,:J.n: it *.ll,i*;n't ;['J';: iil l*xT[iJj i:]?H,:','1"lBiliil::inil?:and try to beat himto the inside.

CoachingPoints:

. The defender sh0uld keep his inside arm free to make the tackle' lf the ball goes

orit,Ot, tf '. O.ttnOtt tf 'ould force the blocker deep into the ball

. Becausefullbacksareus!allvbLsserandstronserJ,iiilr'r'ji'iili,iirll';"T,

;lil*',':H"',Ul iiiSfSlf; l',Xl',.;l x; ;il,;*i";;,,',. "k"h'tacKle.

@,---t ,----'---'.-

[ ,** i ' - , . \@@@

84

0Rlt[ #70: THE PUH.ING GUARD BLOCK

2bjective:IoimTove the ability of a defensive back t0 defeat or piay off of apull jng guard's block.

Eq u ipne n t N e e d ed : None.

Description:Ihe drillinuolves planning the playefs in groups of four. Two players actas pull ing guards {G), while the othef two are designated as defensive backs {DB).The dril l begins by having the four players set up facing each other across a l ine 0fscrimmage (LOS) in their normal offensive and defensive alignment and stance.When the c0ach c0mmands "HlT or slaps the iootball, the guards pull and atternptto kick o!t on the DB's. Each defender rnust play this blockjust as he would afullback's block. He attacks the guard, takes him on, bounces back and gets himselfunder control. He must be able to turn in all wide plays, while helping on inside playsas well. Players sh0uld be rotated between offense and defense as the coach feeisrs appr0pflate.

CaachingPoints:

The defender should meet the guard as close to the center 0f the L0S asp0ssible. He m!st attack under the guafd's sh0ulder pad and force the ba llcarrier to the inside. lf the ball cafrier goes t0 the 0utside, the defender musttry to force the bl0cker deep into the ball and string the play 0ut t0 the sideline.

Because most 0ffensive guards are even bigger and stronger than m0stfullbacks. defensive backs should avoid getting into a c0ntest 0f strength withthem. A DB should use his quickness and speed to get t0 the ball and hisaggressiveness t0 make the tackle.

xx

-- | ,\ x A-lxx!9 (9rt \ tot

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85

DRI[l #71:THE TIGHT END Bt0CK

oblet fiver T0 improve the ability ot a defensive back to defeat or play off ol a tight

end's block.

Eq uipne nt N eed e d : None.

?ill'i'illi;',1i,',,11 ;:lf : ::i'.l',i'i,ti: ff ffi $J$,1'1""Tfffi ffii'.,?'.]jiln:l;,l:'li;:il:lt.:::l:lhl"l';ff ;:;:lll,il:[::i-'""Hi"'

n'iffi ;i'*iilt';.':''ffi ilifr [:*r,Tl,'H#llx#.'*h'mtffi r.rlra$4ri{1i{il;illlTlx:l'ffi ilfilfiltriT*fTf ft 'lirflti*?ituT*gilil*$[s*fi$ffi s:"CaachingPaints:

i$iffi i,}ff*.#i,{iililljf,Tfl:jffi ,i:{*f $':i'l',':f#rxte'u'isder'H::lli:+r:i,':iffi ,'ffi ldiifr .,:hffi tiiif :il*!.i;il.i'#"'ll'

als0 stay with the TE in coverage t0 t

x

x /.-\x x x (TE)----\

- ,'-r t(DB) |\--'z I

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LOS

86

DRltt *72; THE CRACK BtOCK

oblective:To improve the ability of adefensive back todefeat or play off 0f awidereceiver's crack block.

Eoui,nent Need ed : None.

Description:The &ill involves two playefs at a time.one player acts as a defensive back(DB), while the other serves as a wide receiver {WB}-eachin his normaloffensive anddefensive alignment and stance. When the c0ach commands "HlT" 0r slaps the fo0tball,the WF attempts tocrack block the DB. The defender should quickly lead the situationand decide upon one of three courses 0f action. First, he can attempt t0 beat the blockby quickly hitting up-field and forcing the runwide and deep(see Oiagram A, below).Second, he can read the crack black and quickly turn his back to the blocker, therebYcausing theblocker t0 clip him (see Diagram B, below). Third, the DB can deleatthe crackblock by attacking the blocker, driving his inside forearm and shoulder pad through thecrack blocker's chest from the inside t0 outside (see Diagram C, below). All playelsshould be allowed several repetit ions at crack blocking and being crack blocked.

CoachilgPoints.

. The defender should ouicklvdecide which course 0f action hewilltakewhenconfronting a crack block-read the crack block. beat it upfield, turn his back andget clipped, or defeat the blocker.

. The DB should not g0 under or inside a u ack block lsuch a reaction willjust makethe craak block easy lor a b\ockerl. \n this instance, a blocker will simpll "wall thedefender off" thereby allowing the play to make it t0 the outside. A DB should besmart... read quickly... and act decisively.

@x^ \ \

xxxx

@Diagram A

"9 , , r r I

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@oiagramB

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Diagram Cffiffi

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DRILt #73:THE FTARE Bt0CK

0bt'ectlvert0 implove the abil ity of a defensive back t0 defeat the bl0ck of a back

flaring out of the backfield

Equipnent Needed:Nore

Descl ,0r tonr lhedr i l l inv0lvesplacngtheolavers npairs one player acts as a ,

oe'eriive back {DB). who's alisned as a '0rled uffilTil'J::t"H,'fi::;L'#

'::;: ln:lT',HH:'l';i::,iffffi.x:i:;;tommands, r,rT,' or s,aps trre -ft"ib";ii il,; ;;.;;il;;l .itrtp', to s" tn outside p'sii'n on tne DB lhe DB ,

*:i[:*llglrulliil :t; .Ji,l't'I:'it Iti:li'i:iB":i:i:1iil?l*::l'the offense and the defense

CoachingPoints:

. The defender sh0uld quickly move int0 the backfield' drive his inside arm up

itlirJgh ;h. h;Ji.o;itck ;f the blocker and trY to turn the bl0cker's head -

uofieid. The DB will end up outside, in c0ntro! and in positi0n t0 intercept tne

;itch if the aforemention;d steps are executed properly'

'::iill::ff ilii?$?Hl:ifl:lTTfi t'J','],'.'j:ilHil"'#f l1tlil'ffi';il;-ili *;;nJ basicallv disrupi the timins 0f the plav

@--------.,x xxx

@

88

COVERAGE

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8S

DRI[[ #?4: LATERAI GOVER

lbjective:Io deuelop ability 0f a d€fensive back t0 stay with the receiver'

L qu ipnen t N e e d ed : None.

Descr,;otion: Ihe coach nas lhe defensive back stand with his han0s behind his bdcl

rii*. 'u'oti*rtntna tte-yard lines A receiver or a Iunning back (Bc)then assumes

an of'erstve Dosition, facinq tl 'e delensive back 0n the coachs c0mmand b0 Ine

ritrrri". ol'urt trrt r"lerily, back and folth between lhe t,ard lines The defens've

u.rf rtiUr! tuiuratt}/, ,overing 0r mirroling the offensive player' After about ten .,rro.Or oi O.Ck-*O t.Ith la-teral movement, the coach commands"'Cut'" at which

time the 0ffensive pla\/eI tu'ns and attempts t0 run up-lreld The defensive back

brinqs fis hards t'0m behind his back and.ams the teceiver as he atlempts t0 rurl

,pliirrl.irt ir,t. ,-ttues to covet the receiver for about ten yards oI until the

coach halts the dril l.

CoachingPoints:

. The coaLh sh0uld require rhe defensive back t0 keep his hands behind his bacl

d,r'inq all lareldl movement and jam Ihe offensive playel as s00n as poss 0le

afteithe offensive player turns upJield

. As Dlavers become proficient with this dril l, the offensive player should run at

top speed once he turns up-field as the defensive back attempts t0 cover nlm

DRI[L #75: DEEP C0VER

qbjective:fo develop the ability of a defensive back to cover the receiver g0ingdeep.

Eo u iDn e nt N e e d e d : Nor'e.

Description:Ihe dtill inu0lve s pairing up the players. 0ne player acts as a defensiveback (DB), while the other serves as a receiver {R). The coach has the defensive backassume a defensive stance, while standing astride one of the yard lines. A receivetthen takes up an offensive positi0n about three yards in front of the defensive back,astride the same yard line, facing the defensive back. 0n the coach's command,"G0," the 0ffensive player runs a weave pattern d0wn the yard line at three'quarters speed, limiting the weave to n0 nore than three yards from the yard line.The defensive back performs this dril l with his hands behind his back. staying lowand crouched and without crossing his feet. After the defensive back has run abouttwenty yards, the coach should terminate the dril l, have the two players recoverand have two 0ther players assurne the proper positions t0 start the dril l again.

CoachinaPoints:

The coach should require the defensive backs t0 keep their hands claspedbehind their backs throughout the dril l and concentrate 0n n0t crossing theirfeet.

As the defensive backs become proficient at this dril l, they should be r€quiredt0 incrbase both the speed and the distance they must run during the dIil l.

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9l

DRllt #76: SPEED TURN

oblectlver T0 develop the ability 0f a detensive back t0 cover a receiver who isrunning a post-cotner or a cornet-posl r0uIe

E qu ipne n t N e ed ed : Nane.

,escrl0rloniThedefensive back assumes adefensive stance five to seven ya'ds Ini,oni ot anO tacins tf'e coach.0n the codchs commdnd G0 " the defensive back

staris uacl-peOaiing while turning alternately to the inside and th€ outside' in .,resoonse ro Ihe coach's hand signals Alter the playel IUns back ab0ut l5 yards tne

coach should give the command Bleak " This is a signal to the plaver t0 execute a

ouick. tiqht toll or turn t0 the outside as though coverinq a braking recelver runnlng a

oasr ouit.tn Atter rLnning about 10 Yards past tl 'e point when the commanoIBreak was qiven, the c0ach shoul0 stop the dlrll and have the player Ieturn t0 Ine

line of playeri waiting their tuln to run the dril l

CoachingPaints:

. The coach should require the players t0 gradually increase the speed at which

iheyi;n this dril l as ihey rnaster the techniques involved in the dril l

. Varielv a1d 0r0oression can be added to this dril l by using a receiver' ln this

i.rt-, 'Jiinrtint"r*rh or another oflensive plaYer would throw a pass t0 the

receiver afler he makes his break on his route to give the detenslve bach a

chance to Pla\/ the ball

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DRlt t #77: BUMP AND RUN

qbjective:Io develop the ability of a def€nsive back to bump a receiver off his rorlet0 improve the abiiity of a defensive back to l0ok throLrgh a receiver t0 the ba l;t0have a defensive back practice c0ntinuing t0 cover his z0ne after burnping a receiver.

EouiDnen( Needed: A foolball.

Des cription:fhe dtill inv o lves pairing rp defensive players who alternate beingreceivers and defensive backs. The receivers line uD in a three-Doint stance with thecoach acting as the quarterback. The defensive player lines up in a good defensivestance t0 cover the receiver. When the coach drops back to pass. the receiver runseither a slant'in or a slant'out route (as directed by the coach). The defensive backlets the receiver get close to him and then gives him a quick, hard bump. lf thereceiver slants in or runs straight at the defensive player, the defender should bumpthe receiver's inside shoulder. lf the receiver turns out, the DB should bump thereceivels 0utside shoulder. After the bump by the defender, the coach sh0uld throwthe footballtoward the defensive player. Eoth players should try t0 catch the ball.Players should alternate receiver and defensive back roles.

Coachino Points:

The coach should enrphasize to the defensive back that he sh0uld let thereceiver get cl0se to him before bumping him. The defender should notoverextend and get 0ff balance when trying to b!mp the receiver.

The defensive player sh0uld always "100k through" the receiver t0 theq,arterback. Fe should always watch tl^e ba...

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DBlt[ # 78: THREE-YARD C0VER DRltt

0blec tlver T0 enhance the ability 0f a defensive back to be alert t0 the recerver smJ".mentr: to pttrtice leing in a comlortable defensve stanceit0 perfect the startfrom a defensive stance and toeliminatethe false stalts and unnecessary sleps

Eouionent Nee de d: A Ioolball.

Descl/ol/onr lhe driltinvolves pairifg,p the defens ve bdcks One plaYer acts as a, rGuSi fnl. *nie tr't o tnet serves is a defensive back {D B} De pendrng upon the,-i*nrtunrti, tt ttt puirs of players can perform this dril lat the same time Their*

"." r' i. to uo.ri tnree ya'ds opa't in a tnree point slance, while delensrve backs

take u0 d delensive stance three yards 0ff the lece vers 0n the coachs movement lTner.*l Oaor Orir *it' te ball like a quarterback showng pass) the Ieceiver sprints atioo r o.r-O foi upo.otut e ly ten yardi The delensive back back-pedals trVing n0t to

ii6uJ ir'e "te 'uit to get eien with him w irhin the 10 yard s After the tecervers have run

10 vards- the coacn should throw ihe foolball loward the center 01 tne 0elenslveri#'r. nt in., ooir, otih the recervers a1d rhe delelsive backs all converge on thei.riinJ uit."pito r""h ir The leceivers and defensive baLks should then allernatetheir positions.

CoachingPoints:

. The coach should emphasize the importance 0f a defensive back being alert for the

receiver's movementi, keeping a low stance and not making false starts orunnecessaly steps.

. The difficulty of this drill can be incleased by having thedeJensive backs line up

five, seven oinine yards off the receiver and increase the distance the recelversprlnii OowntiefA app,opriately (ie. for every twoyards deeper the detensiveoiaver lines uo, the receiver sprints five yards deeper)

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DRIL[ # t9: C0MPETE T0ll{TERCEPT

qbjective:IoimrIwe conpetitive instincts; t0 enhance interception technhues.

Eo ui one n t N e ed e d : A loolball.

Desc ption:Iheplayerclorm two equallines facing each other approximately 15 yardsapart.one lineis designated as offensive players (F),while theotherserves asdefensive backs (DB). Thecoachstands t0 the side o{ the offensive players and startsthe drillby simulating the centersnap 0f the lootba ll {slap the ball, bark "hike," etc}. Thedrillbegins by having the first player in each line run toward the other playel thecoachthrows the ballin between the players. The players react t0 the ballin a one-on,oneattempt tocatch the f0otball.once the ballhas been caught, the player returns the ballto thecoach and the next two players begin.

Coachino Points:

A defensive player should keephis eyes on the football, protectthe ballwith hisbody, and reach the ballashigh as possible in theair.

The coach can colrtrol who catches the balland keep this drillrelatively collision-free bywhere he throws the ball.

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I95

DRI[[ #80: DEPTH PERCEPTI0N

ob,bcllveiT0 imDrove the ability ol a defensive back tointercept the longer pass;toinciease comoeiittve instincts: to Draclice a defensive backs interceptiontechniques.

Eou i D nent N eed ed : A loolball.

DescfipllonrThe plavers lorm two equal lines facing each other approxrmatelY 3040 vdi aoart.0ne I'ne acts as oilensive plaYers {B) while lhe 0ther serves asaefLnsivb backs (081. The coach stands 0n lhe sideline with the offensive players.nO'sti,it tn. Otltt U\/ simulatrng the center snap of the football The first pl€yer ineacn line runs toward the other at lull speed The coach lhen throws the ball Inbetween the 0lavers approximatelY 20 yards down the field The players react tothe ball in a oire-bn oni attempt to catch the football once the ball has beencauqht, tl 'e plaver returns the ball by runnrng it back t0 the c0ach and then g0es t0tne end 0f the oDposite line. The coach can help contr0l the competrtrveness ol tnlsdnll and help keep it fairlY injury-lree by where he throws the football

CoachingPoints:

. The defensive back should keep his eyes on the f00tball, plotect the ball withhis Dody, and reach the ball as high as possible in the air

. Once a defender has intercepted a pass, he should let his teammates kn0w thathe has the ball and that they sh0uld throw a bl0ck fof him by h0lleling aprearranged codeword (e.g., "Fire," "Bingo," etc.)

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96

DRt[[ # 81: DEFENDTNG THE CUBt

1bjective:foinrjove the ability 0f a defensive back to overtake and step in front 0fa receiver and intercept the ball without interferinq.

Eq uipn e n t N eed ed : A I oatball.

Description:Ihe playerc form a single line facing the c0ach at a distance of about20 yards. At the coach's directjon, the first two players in line run toward the c0ach(the first at half-speed, and the second player at % speed). The coach throws thefootball near the first player (R) at approximately the same time that the secondplayer, {DB) overtakes him. The first player serves as a receiver while the sec0ndplayer acts as a delensive back. The intercepting player must step in front of thereceiver, intercept the ballwithout making bodily contact and then return theintercepted baI to the coach. The pat then returls t0 the end 0f lhe line of olavers.They swirch rherr order in line (defense to offense and v:ce-versal.

Coachina Paints:

The defender must step around, in front of, or over the shoulder 0f the receiverwithout making contact before the ballarrives.

0nce he has intercepted the ball, the defender must keep his eyes on thefootball until it is under his arm with his hand covering the pojnt of the ball.

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DRIL[ #82: DEfEND|ltlc THE OUT AND UP

oblectiver To improve rhe ability otdefensive Dacks t0 react t0 and cover the 0ut

and-up route wtthout getting beat 0eep

Equipne nt Ne eded: Several f 0otballs

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ill,t,,j*lffi iil#fl;niL:hr*';:"w*lr*"i:l':"'l'*;'*nx-running a "Go toute.

CoachingPoints:

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DRlt t # 83: THE SPEED TURN

qbjective:Io inrfave Ihe ability of a defensive back to cover the p0st c0rnef moveby a receiver with0ut getting beat deep.

Equipnent Needed: Several footballs.

Description:I he drill inuo lve s pairing up the players 0ne player acts as a defensiveback(DB), while the 0ther player serves as a receiver {R). The two players start thisdril lapproximately 10 yards apart, with the coach and the receiver on the line 0fscrimmage and the defensive back heads'up 0n the receiver. The coach c0mrnencesthe dril l by slapping the football 0r calling "Set." The recejver starts to r!n a postroute, which causes the defender to turn and run with him. once the defensive backhas turned, the receiver then turns and runs for the corner. ln the process, hecrosses the face of the defensive back. The defensive back must then turn his backto the line of scrim0rage and sprint to catch the receiver.

CoachingPoints:

The defensive back sh0uld read the quarterback's (coach's )eyes whilemaintaining cl0se proximity t0 the receiver.

Instead 0f crossing over in front of the receiver, the defensive back shou d roliquickly {i.e., perform a speed turn)and maintain the ploper inside and deepp0srtr0n.

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DRltt #84: THE CAT AND M0USE

1bjective:Io inprcve lhe ability of a defensive back t0 cover deep routes.

Equipnent Needed: Seueral f00tballs.

Descriptian:Ihe dtillirtuolves pairing up the players 0ne player acts as a defensiveback{DB), while the other serves as a receive(R} The dril l begins with the coach,the defensive back and the receiver 0n the line 0f scrimrnage The players line !pfive yards from the sideline, while the coach is positioned inside the hashmark. Thedefensive back is facing the receiver, with his back to the coach and his hand 0n thereceiver while he sprints straight downfield on a f ly pattern The d€fensive backtrails the receiver on his inside shoulder, trying to squeeze him into the sidelineOnce the receiver has gone 20'25 yards, the coach throws him a pass which bothplayers g0I0r.

CoachingPoints:

The defensive back should read the receiver's head and eyes while maintainingcontact with back of the receiver's deepest hand.

The defender should lo0k back oveI his inside shoulder, maintaining contactwith the receiver and time his move/jump for football once the pass has beentnr0wn.

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DBlt[ #85: THE JUMP BAtI

1bjective:fo inrl ove the defensive back s jumping abiiity, timing and level ofcompetitiveness; t0 practice "fighting" for the ball.

Equ i pn e n t N e ed ed : A tootball.

Desc ption:fhe &illinyolves two defenders facing the coach at a distance of aboutten yards. The coach throws the ballinto the air high enough between the twodefenders that both players must leave the ground in order t0 retrieve the ball at itshighest point.

Coaching Points:

. The defensive back must watch the ball. time his leap and fight t0 get to thehighest p0ssible pojnt off of the ground.

. The coach should pair players 0f similar abilit ies and repeat this dril l at leastthree times for each pair of defenders.

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DRIL[ # 86: THE DOG FIGHT

0blertlvei To improve the defensive back's timing,level0f competitiveness andinterception skills.

Equipnent Needed: A f ootball

,escrlpllonr Tl'e dr il l involves tw0 defendels faci' lg the coach lrom a distance of 2-3

vards Tl'e coacn Deqirs rhe 0'irl by signaling b0th players t0 slart back-pedal'ngirqe-bv-s oe. The coicn then m0tiors 'efl ot IighI with tne football wh ch ls a cueto lhe defenders Io break in tne same direction rhe coach rhen thl0ws the ball

;;tween the two defensive backs, causing them t0 fight t0 get the intelcepti0n'

Coaching Paints:

. The defensive back shoLrld watch the quartelback s eyes and the football ' while

timing his leap and fighting t0 get t0 the ball

. The coach should pair players 0f mlxed abilit ies and skills and repeat this dril l

severaltimes for each plaver until the proper aggressive attitude is exhibited bY

the defenders.

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102

DRll-t #87: THE STRIPPER

qbjective:Ioimrfouethe ability of a defensive back to take the ball out of thehands of of "strip a receiver of the footbal..

Equipnent Needed: A football.

Desc ription:Ihe dtill involves pairing up the players.one player acts as a receiver{R), while the 0ther serves as a defender {DB). Each pair l ines up facing the coachfrom a distance of approximateiy 10-15 yafds. The coach assumes a position nearthe center 0f the field, with the players 10-15 yards off toward one sideline. 0n asignalfrom the coach, both players run toward the center 0f the field t0 a p0intdirectly opposit€ the coach. The coach then passes the ball to the receiver. Thedefender reaches around the receiver with his outside hand trying to dislodge theball. The players should be given several repetitions from both sidelines, both as areceiver and a defender.

CoachingPoints:

. The defensive back should watch the coach's eyes and the football. He shouldtime his strip to dislodge the ball only after the 0ffensive player has t0uchedthe bal l .

. The defensive back should use his inside arm to keep contact with the receiver.The defender must be prepared to tackle the receiver in case his outside armd0es not strip the ba ll from the receiver's hands.

St?ipPoint

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DRI[[ # 88: BUTT-T0-BUTT STRIP

)bjective:Ioinrf)ve lhe ability ol a defensive back t0 c0me around the receiverwh0 has already caught the balland strip it out 0f his hands.

Eq u ipnent N e ed ed : A toold]all.

Descriptiln:fhe dtill inuo lves qrouping the playels in pairs.one playe{ acts as areceiver {R), while the other serves as a defensive back (08) Each pair l ines up withthe receiver facing the coach and the defender who has his back to him {butt't0-butt). The pair is positioned l0l5 yards away from the coach The coachstafts thedrill by passing the ball to the receiver. N0 "commands" are used in this dril l. Thedefender reacis to the sound of the receiver's hands hittinq the ball by immediatelyturning around and attempting to strip the ballby pulling on one 0r both of thereceivers arms. The players should be given several repetitions as both I€ceiver anddefendef.

CoachingPoints:

. The defensive back should listen carefully, react instantane0usly t0 the soundof the f00tballhitting the receivert hands, time his turn and strip the ballcarefully.

. The defender sh0uld use his arms t0 keep contact with the leceiver' Thedefender must be prepared t0 tackle the defender in case the effort to strip theball from the receiver's hands is unsuccesstul.

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DRlL[ #89: BUTT-T0-BUTT FtRE

O^b/ectlye; T0 improve the ability of a defensive back t0 react qujckly to the call of"Ball" and come around the receiver without making physical contact with him.

Equipnent Needed: A foolball.

Desctiptia_n:fhe dtill involves grouping the players in pairs. one player acts as a'eceiver {Bl, while the other serves as a defensive back {DB). The piayers assume aposition ten yards in front of the coach. The receiver faces the coach, while thedefender has his back to the rec€iver. To begin the dril l, the coach throws the ball t0the receiver. When the ball gets to within three yards of the receiver. all of thedefensive backs who are n0t currently panicipdting in the dril l yell 'gall." ihedefender then snaps around in front of the recejver with0ut maki0q contact wjthhrm l-le looks for the ball, intercepts jt, and returns it to the coach.

Coachino Points:

The defensive back should listen carefully, react instantaneously t0 the cail,and time his effort t0 move and intercept the ball with0ut making physicalcontact with the receiver carefully.

To increase the level of difficuhy of this dril l, the coach can req!ire the defenderto snap over the right side of the receiver while he throws the ball t0 theoutside left 0f the receiver.

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DBltl # 90: TlPAllD BIOCK

Ibiective:Io in$ove the abilitY ol a defensive back to transition rapidly from

deiense to offense and block potential tacklers

Eluilnent Needed: Atootball; a bl0cking dummy'

Descfrbtlot;The drillinvolves grouping the players in pairs Both plaYers-act as

defenders. Each oair l ines up with the first player lP-11 facing the coach rom a,

distance ot aoproximately 10 yards awaY with a bl0cking dummy beslde nrm lne

second 0laver (P-2) assumes a position on a line facing the coach at a olstanc.e or

aDDroximately 20 yards. The coach starts the dril l by passing the ball t0 rne nrsr

olirnriur uiir, *rio tipt the ball back over his head to the second defender' The

o.rorri uJi*otr. i^tei.epts the ball hollers a command {e g "BING0 '/ "G0" /;it i i." etc.) and runs ttre ball back to the coach As s00n as the first player hears

the "iodeword,' he blocks the dummY who lepresents a potential receiver (formerly

on offense, now on delense ) Players should be given sevelal repetltlons as D01n Ine

first and second rnan in line.

CoachingPoints:

. The first defender sh0uld tip the ball high, Iisten and block the 'dummy" at the

warst.

. The second defender should catch the ball at its highest point, yell thetransition'to-offense codeword loudly enough that all teammates can heal ano

sprint the ballbacktothe coach.

t06

DRttt #91: TEAM Ttp

0bFcrlyei T0 improve the ability 0f a defensive back to concentrate on lhe ball at alltrmesjto practice keeping the ballin play.

Equipnent Needed: A lootball.

Descflpli0nrThe coach has the players form a single line, with about two Vardsbetween each player. The tirst playe. {P.11 in line should be aD0roximatelv 20 vardsaway fr0m the coach, Iacing hrm. When the coach raises the f0otball showinooass.the first player in line runs toward the coach. After the player runs a few varJj, thecoach throws a h gh pass t0 the player. lhe player 0oes 10t catch the bali. but ti0sit up in the €ir ro the second player lP.2), who wj l;kew;se tip the ball r0 the rhirdplayer {P-3), and so 0n. The last playef in line catches the bail and tosses it back tothe c0ach. The players then line up again, with the second player movino to the firstplayer position, the prevr0us fisr player movjng to rhe end of the line, eic. Thecoach sh0uld continue this dril l until all players have had the chance to be in thef irst-player position.

Coaching Paints:

. The coach sh0uld emphasize the importance of everyone keeping their eyes onthe bal l .

. The c0ach should establish as a basic g0al that each player tips the football t0the player behind him and that the last player ln line must catch the ball withoutIetting it hit the ground.

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DRIIt # 92: REACT ANO ACCETERATE

0biecrvei T0 improve the ability of a defensive back t0 read the quartelbacksmovements, teact quickl\/ and intercept the football

Eouionent Needed: Several f ootballs

DescrrlloniThe dril l involves havinq players line up three abreast appr0ximalely 15-2O vards awav lrom lhe coach. The middle plaYer acts as a defender {DBl while thetwo outside piayers serve as receivets {R) The coach starts the dril l by commandlng"Set." He then slaps the ball and turns his shoulders and steps t0ward one of thetwo receivers. The defender reacts to the coach s {q uarterbac k's ) body movementbv sorinrinq toward the receivet on the indicated side of the lield. When he getswithin a vaid or two ol the receiver, the coach passes the ball t0 that receiver'caJSing everyone in the gloup tocall 'BALL " The defender lhen lifts his headouicktvl tocaies tne foot-ball and intercepts the ball. Playels should each be given

severaloDDoltunities t0 be the "man in the middle"

Coaching Paints:

. The middle man must watch the coach's (qualterback s)front foot which willindicate to him which directi0n he should 90.

. The first move 0f the defender should be a heads-down sprint t0 his left or .rioht. followed bv a heads-up sealch for the football When lhe interceptron rsm"aae. Lne defender should call 0ul the codeword and sprint the ball back to thecoach.

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DRI[[ # 93;2-0]rt-t VERT|CAt STRETCH

1bjective:fo inr[ ove the ability 0f a defensive back (a z-deep safety) to Drotect hiszone against an equal vertical stretch by two wide receivers, react quickiy;;;Intercept the t00f ball.

Equipnent Needed: A football.

Desuiption:The dtilt involves having a defensive back {DB) align himself 10 ya,dsaway Irom-and [acing the c0ach in the middle of the held. Two players, acrino asreceivers lB). position themselves beside rhe c0acl. an equatdiitaice on,,intir,O.of the defender (ab0ut a yard outside hashmark). The coach stans the dril l bvcommanding "Set." He then slaps the ball, which is a signal to each receiver iosprint straight down the field. The defensive back musi back,pedal, all the whilekeepi0g his eyes on the coach {quanerback). He must never allow either r€ceiver t0get behind him. When the coach iquarterback)turns to throw the ball to one oi thereceivers, the defender reacts by sprint.ng toward ar interception p0int. Whe,t thsnterceptt0n is made, the defeqder cal,s out the codeword and sprjnts the ball backt0 the coach. Players are then rotated s0 that each has several opportunjties t0 beboth the defender and the receiver.

Coachino Points:

The detensive back shou'd warch the coach's (quarterback,sleyes wh:le keeDin0b0rh receivers in tront 0l him by "sing peripheralvision.

The receivers shouldjust keep runnirg straight down the field.0nce the ball hasbeen thr0wn they should n0t go for the f00tball in order t0 prevent coll lsi0nsand possible injuries.

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DRllt #94: THE HASH MABK DRltt

flifi fi xf ,liill"'J,'.H::iil ii : if,:'filHl'.'I,'fl [1'J,T."'i'i: l,'.\ff fi :'"Eou i,nent N e ed e d: A I ootball

3fi'.Tflff ;iq: i{ i!I!*lifr i;^$"3,i''e,,::.*fi ii :iir,{*i,::i'iiirhsl:ur+**fit**tt*'n'*N*ffi*lTfi;jl',fs[','.'ff ttfi *i;'fl sji?'tJ"'.'ffi lfl lfl ;:,:ffi ;n',,',.'r'.*'noil1 g',l:t ll lt',,lo*.[?il,[? "'

o one 0r the rece ive rs T he

::ll;, Ii:Hlid:::'ff ll::;u,:*;:::ifi;i.{ il,isi:?i',f,T1l":l:,oioortunities to be both the defender ard lhe Iece'ver'

CaachingPaints:

'*'ri:f ffi ffi :1,'J,t]x,Y,j;,'iJl,',.*"ff i',',11:::i1l':ff #iJi'.*''thrown bviprrntinq to tl 'e interceDtion po'nl

' l;J; j;lf:';','.n?:i?iT"ffilil if, :?1#iili'"'ji;':itjiiii'if,T,,"i 'n'hr',nro*i

if,t. ft.tbarl to give lhe delensrve back the opporLunity t0

cover att tne distance between the hash malks

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DEltt # 95: COVEB D0Wtrl

2bjective:.Io inri.oue the ability ol a defender to break on the ball once it is thrown,react quickly and intercept the football;t0 practice tipping the ball.

Equipnent Needed: A toolball.

Desuipti1n:Ihe coach acting as the quarterback, thfows aQainst a n0rmal3 deeD4-deep or full delensive alignment. The coach begins the drit, by commandinq ,Sei.He then slaps the ball to start the defenders m0viqg in response l0 the foorSall {i.e.,the coach moves the ball to the left-the defenders slide rioht, etc.l The coach thenthrows the ball at any 0ne of his defensive backs. Each defender is reouired to (i0the ball ;nt0 the air with0ut intercepting it. As soon as the defenders in0w wheiethe ball has been thrown, they sprint t0 that area. The second plaver must a,s0 ttDthe ball, f0llowed by the third player, ard so on. Finatly, the last pl;yer in trneintercepts the ball, yells the codeword for an interception, and returns the ball tothe coach.

Coachino Points:

The defenders should watch the coach's (quarterback's) eyes, sprint t0 the ba ll,tip it in the air and beat the interc€ptor back to the line of scrimmage.

The last man t0 t0uch the ball leaps, intercepts the ball, and runs the ball backto the coach.

This dril l should be repeated if the ball hits the gf0und or if any of the playerswho tipped the ball do not cross the line of scrimmage before the defender wh0intercepted the ball.

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DBILL # 96: PASS PURSUIT

oblecllver Io improve the abil itY 0f a deJensive back t0 get qu;ckly to his drop €rea

uslq tne p,opeipursuit angle, t0 practice Ieacting t0 intercepting the foolball

Eoui Dn e n t N e ed ed : A, loolball.

Descriltion:Ihe coach'acting as the quarterback. throws against a normal 3-deep'

ffixi;; i ;;f.*;; at;tnirent rne coact' oegrns the drill bv c0mmanding "-Set''

i. i# rruol irtiar ,t stlart the delenoers mov ng in response to the football The

,ou.ri,,"'u 't'uisi,t d,0p'back pass to evaruat;illiiiifJii;ii::iltl]ll,"'**,

"defensive backfield aIe properly covered. l(

[:ft1;:lix :l: **l':*r;'lt*lt:'l*h'.lr:i"'ffi ;l::,::,'':llryni :lliy,*itu:ni'i1t:i'J;IH[ ::ff 'lJilii iLxlf iilllllSl'$ii'il]i",'ni rtit"* i-fl. OtitrOuwho intercepted the ballreturns the footballto the coach'

Coaching Points:

. The detenders sl 'ould watch the coach s (quarterback s)eYes' sprinl toihe area

where the bdll was tnlown and beal the interceptor back t0 the l lne 0I

scrimmage.

. The coacn sh0uld evaluate and correct the oefensive coverage movement t0

coverage. pulsuit angles, team hustle, etc

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DRI[[ # 97: THE MIRB0R SC0RE

1bjective:Ioinrfouethe abiiity 0f the defensive backs to use 0ne-on-one coveraoe;ro practice (eeping an 0llensive ran lrom cross,lg ll.e line of scrim"']age.

Equipnent Needed:Iwo cones 0r scrimmage vests.

Descripti1n:Iwo playets face each other at a distance of one yard. one player actsas a ba lcanier {BC), while the other acts as a defender (DB). The coach sets up twoc0nes 0r vests 2-3 yards apart 00 a line between the plavers. The coach starts thjsdfil l by commanding "Hll" This is a signal t0 both players to sprint forward towardthe line. The defensive player uses both hands ard attempts to keep the offensivep ayer from getting b0th of his feet over the line. The offensive plaver has 20seconds to get both of his feet across the line as man\/ times as possible. Theplayers'roles are then reversed in order t0 provide both players with the opportunityt0 pefform the dril l on each side 0f the line. The winner is the plaver who allows the0ffensive 0laver t0 cross the line the east number 0f times.

Coachinq Points:

The defender sh0uld concentrate on his man. He sh0uld maintain his positionand never lunge 0r leave his feet prematurely. He should keep his eyes 0pen andstrike through the numbers 0f the offensive player, putting his hands undef theoffensive player's shoulder pads.

The ball carrier should n0t run t0o low He should keep in mind that his g0a I is toget both of his feet across the l ine as many times as possible within 20sec0nds.ll he is knocked to the gr0!nd, he gets only one point and losesvaluable time.

6D(C) r_-__-_,1\--,/ V Y

I____,;

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113

DBIL[ #98: BUMP THE RECEIVEB

oblectivei To impr0ve the ability 0f a defensive back to knock a receiver off of his route

E1uiDne nt Needed: None.

DescnbtirrnrThe dril l involves two players at a time 0neactsasareceiver(Bl,while theother ;erves as a defender {DB) who is covering an outside zone The coach s tarts thlsdrill by commanding " HlT " or slapping a football The offensive player then spantsdowniield at the difender and attempts to release to the inside 0r outside Thedelender allows the receivel t0 get close en0ugh to him to bump him and attempts t0knock him off his pass route. The defender should hit lhe 0utside shoulder oi thereceiver if the receiver comes at him or releases inside The defend er shou ld hit thereceiver's inside shoulder if the receiver attempts to release 0utside Aftera0redet€rmined number of repetitions, the players'roles are revelsed in 0rder to provde'both players the opportunity to play on both offense and defense

CoachingPoints:

. Thedefender should c0ncentrate on the receiver and the quarterbacksimu ltaneous ly {look through the receiver t0 the ball) The defensive back shouldiilow the receiver to get ciose and then give him a g00d bump,without the DBlunging or losing his balance.

. The defensive back should not try t0 reach too far for the [eceiver' He maygetoverextended and lose him.A defender must be able to read whether the play is arun 0r a pass.

. Vdrietv can be added to the dril l by;ncorporat,ng a quanerbacK int0 the dril l andhavino him throw a Dass to a leceiver' who must be defended "live' by a delensrveback.-

sffiil4

FUMBLERECOVERY

DRILLS

W

ils

Drill 99: Funble Rocovsry

1bjective:Io teach delensive backs the proper method of falling on a loose football.

Equipnent Needed: A lootball.

Description: A ball is placed three to lour yards in flont of a delendel.0n command,the defensive back div€s lorward and reaches out to the ball.0n contact, thedefender pulls the ball to his stomach and curls around the ball, lying on his side toprotect himself.

CoachingPoint:

. Variety and competition can be added to the drill by using one ball per two lormore) lines and having two {or more}players go lor a lumble recoverysimultaneously.

A@

Drill # 100: Looso Ball Funble Recovery

Abjective:Io Vaclice going after a l0ose football; to develop hand and €yecoordination

Eq u i p ne n t N e e d e d : A laotball.

Desuipti1n:Ihe coachhas the defensiv€ backs form one line ab0ut 20 yards fromhim and facing him. When the coach raises the iootballshowing pass, the firstplayer in line sprints toward him. When the player is within 10 yards 0f the coach,the coach should throw the football at the ground several yards in front of theoncoming player lthe coach should try t0 make the f00tball hit the ground s0 ittakes sorne wild bounces-i.e., release the ball sideways so that it kn!ckles). Theplayer should concentrate on keeping his eye 0n the moving balland retrieve the"fumble." The player should then toss the ball back to the coach and return to theend of the line. The coach then raises the footballagain to start the next player inthe dril l, and so on.

Coaching Poi,lts.'

ihe coach should emphasize the imponance of getting control of the bali:.lore attempting t0 pick it up and run with it.

--: coach sh0uld instruct the players t0 fall 0n the ball to make sufe 0f the.:::!,ery if they are havrng tr0uble gaining c0ntr0l 0f the ball.

HffiffiW

ll7

Drill#101: Fighr lol i l Fumble BecovsrY

1bjective:Io leach delensive backs to fight for a loose ball

E q ui pn e n t N e e d e d : A I ootball.

Descrir lrbn Two defendels line up alongside each other.0n command, the defensivebacks iall foruard, t0uch their chests t0 the ground, and scramble after a ballthat hasbeen thrown between them.

CoachingPoint:

. The coach should instluct the defender t0 pullthe balltohis stomach on contactand curl around it.

o o\ /

@@

Bon Dickerson Sr. is the head lootball coach at Temple University, a position heassumed in late 1992. Since assuming the reins 0f the 0wls'gridiron program,Dickerson has led a concerted effort to turn around Temple's fo0tball fortunes. Priort0 accepting his first head position at Temple, DickeISon served as the defensivecoordinat0r at Clemson for two years. In his two seasons 0n the Tigers' staff,Dickerson helped Clemson boast one of the nation's toughest and best defensiveunits.

A 1971 graduate of Kansas State University where he had a distinguished footballcareer, earning three letters as a cornerback fol the Wildcats, Dickerson began hiscoaching career at his alma mater in 1972 after an iniury-shortened stint as an NFIplaver. He served as KSU'S secondary coach for four seasons (1972175), beforemoving on t0 the University 0f Louisville for three years in the same positi0n. otherstops in oickers0ns coaching careerinclude the University 0fPittsbulgh (1978-'80),the University 0f Colorado under head coach Bill McCartney {1982i841, andPennsylvania State University on J0e Paterno's staff (1985r901.

Bon and his wife of 29 years, Jeannie, have two children-s0n R0n Jr. and daughterBashawn.

James A. Peterson, Ph.D., is a freelance writer. A 1966 gladuate of the Universityof California at Berkeley, Peterson served on the faculty 0f the United StatesMilitary Academy at West Point for 16 years. A prolific writer, Peterson has wlitten0r co-authored 43 books and more than 150 published articles. A Fellow of theAmerican College 0f Sports Medicine, he has appeared on sevelal nationaltelevision shows, including ABC's Good Morning America, The CBS Evening News,ABC'S Nightline, and The Home Show He and his wife of ovet 29 years, Susan, residein l\4onterey. California.

i l9

ADDITIONAL+r*+

FOOTBALLRESOURCES

**+

*GOAGHES

5 | 6.95

TITLES FROM THE I OI DRILLS SERIESI

Ol I Ol Auarterback Drills

- | steve Axmant-l tooe . r2a pp . Paper t lsBN r-57r67:1il-9 . lra,..ts

f l

El , ot ways to Run the oPtion

Nl Tony DeMeo

sl tooo ' f4o PP . PaPer r lsBN l-5716r-36a-7 ' ,16'15

il t ot neceiver orinsI Stan zweifel

,f so" . r28 pp . p6p.' ' tsBN 1-57167-1el-e r 516.t5

FROM =GHOIGE

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lrrrrlrslul BAGK rfnrllsRon Dickenson's hook of lO'1 DefensiveBack Dril ls is 6 valuable 6sset to assistany coach in deve oping the total defen-sive back. The variety and intensity ofeach dfi l lwil l make learn ng fun and enjoyable while meeting the lremendous needof every defensive back-want ing toachieve successl Waiching Ron coachwas a joyas each newdni l lwas anewchal-lenge that defensive backs leafned looverccme. This book wil l be a confidencebooster for any coach having to developthat special p layer- lhe championshipdefensive back.

- Ken HatfieldHead Football Coach

Fice University

66 There are very few coaches who know more about the position of defensive back. This book should be a tremendous help to 6nybody interested Inieaching this position the way it ought to be taught. ),

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