Read the head drill

Purpose

To teach the DL to read and recognize the type of block of the opposing OL by his first headmovement, and condition the correct response.

Description

This is a progression drill,

first have 3 DL at a time lineup facing the coach, who will do the head motions. Have the DL react to the motions quickly.

The second progression will be to pair up the DL, and a coach standing behind the designated DL signaling the kind of block and snapcount to the designated OL. Have the DL react to the movement of the opposing OL.

The third progression will be to line up one DL to three OL to work on correct reaction on away- and combination blocks (i.e. trap- or double-team blocks). Again the coach will stand behind the DL and signal block and snapcount. (To extend this you also can include linebackers.)

Coaching Points

Make sure DL focus on a point of the head/helmet.
Have them react as quick as possible.
Work more on quickness and correct technique, than on overpowering the blocker.

Equipment

Page comments

2 Comments

shatay wrote at 12.06.2008 04:59

defensive-line-drills: How should the DL react? Do what when reading the head, reading the opposing OL, the combo blocks? Correct technique - what's the technique you speak of?

shatay wrote at 12.06.2008 04:59

How should the DL react? Do what when reading the head, reading the opposing OL, the combo blocks? Correct technique - what's the technique you speak of?