Building Tackling Champions: Step-by-Step Progression Drills for Linebackers
Mastering proper tackling technique is a cornerstone skill for any successful linebacker. These Tackling Progression Drills provide a structured approach for linebackers to refine their tackling form, starting with fundamental positioning and progressing towards full-contact execution.
Purpose
- Develop Proper Tackling Technique: The drill breaks down tackling into key phases, allowing linebackers to focus on specific aspects of form and leverage throughout the process.
- Gradual Progression: By starting with basic positioning drills and gradually progressing to full-contact tackles, the drill allows linebackers to build confidence and perfect technique before escalating intensity.
- Partner Practice: Working with partners allows linebackers to receive immediate feedback and correct mistakes efficiently.
Description
Drill Setup
- Partner Up: Divide linebackers into pairs and designate one defender and one offender for each set of repetitions.
- Progression Phases: The drill incorporates three key phases that progressively build upon each other:
- Fit: Focuses on establishing proper body positioning for tackling.
- Fit and Lift: Introduces the concept of leverage by incorporating hip roll and lifting the offensive partner.
- Form Tackle: Combines all elements into a full-contact tackle execution.
Drill Execution
(For each phase)
- Single File: Line up the defender-offender pairs in a single file, one behind the other.
- Start Slow and Progress: Begin by having each pair execute the current phase one after another. As linebackers demonstrate proper technique consistently, gradually transition to performing the phases simultaneously across all pairs.
- Repeat for Both Sides: Ensure linebackers practice proper technique with both their right and left shoulders throughout the drill progressions.
Phase 1: Fit
- On Command: The coach instructs the designated defenders to walk up to their partners and establish a proper tackling “fit” position.
- Hold and Correct: Linebackers hold this position while the coach evaluates their form, offering corrections and adjustments as needed. Key points for fit include:
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Knees bent
- Back straight
- Head up with eyes focused on the target
- Arms wrapped around buttocks
- Leading shoulder aligned with the offender’s belt buckle
Phase 2: Fit and Lift
- Double Command: The coach instructs the defenders to establish a good fit position on the first command. On the second command, they transition to a “fit and lift” action.
- Hip Roll and Lift: Linebackers initiate a hip roll while extending their legs, driving upwards to lift their partners slightly off the ground and taking them backwards a few steps. Offenders should assist the lift by hopping upwards slightly on the second command.
- Leverage Emphasis: The coach stresses the importance of leverage throughout this phase. The hip roll and leg extension are crucial for creating leverage and driving the offensive player backwards.
Phase 3: Form Tackle
- Starting Distance: Position defenders and offenders approximately 5 yards apart.
- Offender Approach: On the coach’s signal, the designated offender jogs towards the defender in a straight line.
- Proper Form Tackle: The defender meets the offender in a proper tackling position and executes a full-contact tackle, emphasizing proper form and leverage. This includes:
- Maintaining a low center of gravity
- Wrapping the arms around the offender’s legs
- Driving through the hips to take the offender down to the ground
- Completing the tackle by securing the ball carrier
- Angle Tackling: Introduce variations where the offender jogs towards the defender at a 45-degree angle, simulating tackling situations in game scenarios.
Coaching Points
- Consistency Throughout: Emphasize the importance of maintaining proper form throughout all phases of the drill, from initial fit to completion of the tackle.
- Offender Cooperation: Instruct offenders to jog at a consistent pace and avoid changing direction or speed during the drill. Their goal is to provide a realistic target for tackling practice.
- Gradual Intensity Increase: As linebackers demonstrate proper technique consistently, gradually increase the jogging speed of the offenders. However, maintain a focus on proper form rather than intense contact.
- Visual Cues: Consider incorporating visual cues, such as cones or tape lines on the ground, to help linebackers establish proper fit positions and tackling angles.
Equipment
The Tackling Progression Drills provide a valuable tool for developing well-rounded linebackers with the technical proficiency and confidence necessary to dominate on the field. By incorporating these drills into your training program, you equip your linebackers with a structured approach to tackling that focuses on building a strong foundation, refining key elements of form, and progressing towards game-realistic situations. The drills’ versatility allows for customization, letting you adjust difficulty and introduce variations as your linebackers progress. So, next practice session, grab your linebackers and get them working on the Tackling Progression Drills – their tackling prowess will thank you for it!
