Mastering the Angle Tackle: Angle Form Tackling Drill for Defensive Backs
The Angle Form Tackling Drill is designed to refine a defensive back’s ability to take efficient angles to the ball carrier and execute a proper form tackle. This drill emphasizes the importance of footwork, balance, and proper tackling technique in open-field situations.
Purpose
- Tackling Technique: Reinforces proper tackling fundamentals, including footwork, hand placement, and body positioning.
- Angle of Pursuit: Develops the ability to take efficient angles to the ball carrier, maximizing the chances of making a successful tackle.
- Balance and Control: Enhances balance and control, reducing the risk of missed tackles and injuries.
Description
Drill Setup
- Place 2 cones 5 yards apart
- Line up one half of the defensive backs behind one cone and the other half behind the other cone.
- Declare one side as tacklers, the other as the ball carriers
Drill Execution
- Stance and Alignment: Both players adopt a ready stance.
- Ball Carrier’s Movement: The ball carrier initiates movement by running at a 45-degree angle away from the defender.
- Tackler’s Pursuit: The defender takes an appropriate angle to intercept the ball carrier, focusing on maintaining proper technique and closing the distance.
- Form Tackle: Upon contact, the defender executes a proper form tackle, emphasizing wrapping up and driving through the tackle.
- Role Reversal: After the form tackle, the players take their place at the end of the opposite line.
Coaching Points
- Tackling Technique: Reinforce proper tackling fundamentals, including eye placement, shoulder tackling, and driving through the tackle.
- Angle of Pursuit: Emphasize the importance of taking a direct path to the ball carrier, avoiding unnecessary lateral movement.
- Footwork: Encourage quick, controlled steps and proper foot placement to maintain balance and power.
- Hand Placement: Stress the importance of using the hands to secure the tackle.
- Finishing the Tackle: Emphasize driving through the tackle and bringing the ball carrier to the ground under control.
Equipment
- Cones (to mark the starting points)
- Footballs (for ball carriers)
By mastering the Angle Form Tackling Drill, defensive backs will develop the skills and confidence needed to make effective tackles in open-field 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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