Intercept and Score: A Complete Turnover Drill for Defensive Backs
The Intercept and Score Drill is designed to simulate game-like scenarios where defensive backs have the opportunity to intercept passes and return them for touchdowns. This drill emphasizes ball-hawking instincts, securing the football, and breaking tackles for additional yardage.
Purpose
- Ball-Hawking Instincts: Develops the ability to anticipate passing lanes and make aggressive plays on the ball.
- Interception Technique: Refines the technique for intercepting passes, including hand placement, ball security, and follow-through.
- Ball Carrier Skills: Enhances the defensive back’s ability to secure the ball and advance it after making an interception.
- Breaking Tackles: Improves the defensive back’s ability to break through tackles and create additional yardage after an interception.
Description
Drill Setup
- A stand-up or pop-up dummy is placed approximately 2-3 yards from the sideline.
- A series of 4-5 step-over bags is laid out approximately 6-8 yards beyond the dummy.
- Two players with hand shields are positioned 2-3 yards in front of the first step-over bag.
- Defensive backs line up 4-5 yards behind the dummy.
Drill Execution
- Pass and Intercept: A coach or designated passer throws a pass towards the dummy, simulating a pass. The defensive back sprints forward and aims to intercept the pass in front of the dummy at its highest point.
- Ball Security: After securing the interception, the defensive back focuses on protecting the ball and maintaining control.
- Breaking Tackles: Without losing a stride, the defensive back sprints towards the step-over bags, aiming to break through the defenders with hand shields, who will give him resistance with variable force.
- Scoring: The defensive back navigates the step-over bags, simulating a path to the end zone.
Coaching Points
- Ball-Hawking: Emphasize aggressive pursuit of the football and timing the jump to intercept the pass at its highest point.
- Ball Security: Stress the importance of securing the ball with both hands and protecting it from potential fumbles.
- Breaking Tackles: Encourage the use of leverage and proper technique to break through the shields as would be tacklers.
- Agility and Speed: Emphasize maintaining speed and agility while navigating the step-over bags.
- Follow-Through: Reinforce the importance of running through the finish line to simulate a touchdown.
Equipment
- Footballs
- Large Stand-up dummy or Pop-up Dummy
- 4-5 Large Step-over bags
- 2 Hand shields
By mastering the Intercept and Score Drill, defensive backs will develop the complete skill set necessary to create game-changing turnovers and impact the outcome of games.
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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