Sharpening the Press Technique: The Defensive Back Counterpunch Drill
The Counterpunch Drill is designed to refine a defensive back’s ability to effectively use their hands to disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage. This drill emphasizes proper hand placement, timing, and footwork to gain leverage and control in press coverage situations.
Purpose
- Hand Placement and Technique: Develops proper hand placement and striking technique for effective press coverage.
- Footwork and Balance: Enhances footwork, balance, and lateral quickness to maintain position and control against the receiver.
- Physicality: Fosters a physical and aggressive approach to press coverage, disrupting the receiver’s release and momentum.
Description
Drill Setup
- Defensive backs line up in two lines in front of a blocking sled or a partner holding hand shields.
Drill Execution
- Initial Stance: Defensive backs assume a press coverage stance, with hands extended and ready to engage.
- First Strike: On command, defensive backs deliver a powerful strike with their inside hand, aiming to contact the blocker’s chest or shoulder pad while simultaneously take a short lateral step with their outside foot.
- Counterpunch: Following the initial strike, defensive backs quickly counter with a strike from their outside hand, combined with a short lateral step of their inside foot.
- Disengagement: After delivering the counterpunch, defensive backs focus on disengaging from the blocker turning to the inside and sprint off the sled for about 4-5 yards.
Coaching Points
- Hand Placement: Emphasize proper hand placement, targeting the receiver’s chest or shoulder pads for maximum impact.
- Footwork: Encourage quick, controlled footwork to maintain balance and leverage.
- Timing: Stress the importance of timing the strikes to disrupt the receiver’s release.
- Physicality: Foster a mentality of aggression and physicality in the hands.
- Balance: Emphasize maintaining a balanced stance throughout the drill and not leaning into the punches.
Equipment
- Blocking sled or hand shields (optional).
By mastering the Counterpunch Drill, defensive backs will develop the physicality, technique, and mental toughness required to excel in press coverage situations.
Originally contributed in 2007 by Coach Leon Criner (✝️ Nov. 14, 2014), at the time Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator and Jimmy Sims, at the time Assistant Professor of Health & Physical Education / Head Football Coach at Los Angeles Valley College – The Los Angeles Valley College Monarchs played then in the Western States Conference, now in the SCFA, Southern California Football Association.
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