Purpose
The purpose of this Defensive Back Backpedaling Drill is to teach and practice the correct backpedal technique for defensive backs
Description
- Defensive Backs line up in one line at the sideline (outside the field) at any given yardline.
- The coach stands with the defensive backs off the field.
- The first Defensive Back lines up on the sideline facing off the field
- Upon command he starts backpedaling along the yardline all the way to the hashmarks
- At the hashmark he shuffles over to the next yardline, and backpedals back to the sideline.
- While the previous Defensive Back is still backpedaling the next Defensive Back lines up already in his stance ready to start backpedaling.
Coaching Points
- Be Quick
- Push off front foot
- Be under control
- Chin over toes
- Shoulders over knees
- Feet close together, “skim” grass
- Elbows in at 90 degree angle
- Move arms in normal manner
- Relax your arms and shoulders
- Move arms in “sliding” action
- Never cross arms in front
- 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.