Defensive Back Perfect Break Drill

Purpose

The purpose of this Defensive Back Perfect Break Drill is to teach and work on the perfect break and perfect interception angle when covering a wide receiver running an out route.

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 about 4 yards into the field facing off the field
4. One Defensive Back playing the Wide Receiver lines up at the sideline, about 1 yard off the yardline opposite to the coach.
5. Upon command the “receiver” runs his route (a 8-12 yard out)
6. On the cut of the receiver, the coach throws the ball to him, and the Defensive Back breaks and takes the perfect interception angle to intercept the pass.

Coaching Points

1. On receiver cut, shorten stride
2. Quicken feet
3. Maintain inside leverage
4. Plant opposite foot of receiver cut
5. Drive step quickly (short step)
6. Turn “plant” foot 45 degrees
7. Don’t round off your break
8. Plant step shorter or same as back pedal
9. Accelerate to the ball
10. To change direction, throw your elbow, shoulder and hips in the desired direction
11. In changing direction, “rollover” the leg nearest to direction you want to go
12. Keep shoulder level the same or lower through out break

Equipment

• Football(s)

This Defensive Back Perfect Break 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.