Defensive Back Backpedaling Drill

Purpose

The purpose of this Defensive Back Backpedaling Drill is to teach and practice the correct backpedal technique for defensive backs

Description

  1. Defensive Backs line up in one line at the sideline (outside the field) at any given yardline.
  2. The coach stands with the defensive backs off the field.
  3. The first Defensive Back lines up on the sideline facing off the field
  4. Upon command he starts backpedaling along the yardline all the way to the hashmarks
  5. At the hashmark he shuffles over to the next yardline, and backpedals back to the sideline.
  6. While the previous Defensive Back is still backpedaling the next Defensive Back lines up already in his stance ready to start backpedaling.

Coaching Points

  1. Be Quick
  2. Push off front foot
  3. Be under control
  4. Chin over toes
  5. Shoulders over knees
  6. Feet close together, “skim” grass
  7. Elbows in at 90 degree angle
  8. Move arms in normal manner
  9. Relax your arms and shoulders
  10. Move arms in “sliding” action
  11. Never cross arms in front
  12. Maintain leverage on the receiver

Equipment

  • none

This Defensive Back Backpedal Drill is contributed by ©2007 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.