DEFENSIVE LINE

“It takes a thick neck to wear a crown!” -Howie Long, Oakland Raiders DL Defensive Line Key Terms • STACK/HUDDLE RESPONSIBILITIES • DIAGNOSTICS/DESTRUCTION OF BLOCKS • ALIGNMENT/NUMBERING SYSTEM – BASE/DRIVE – REACH/SCOOP • GAPS – LETTER SYSTEM – PULL • STEMMING – DOWN • STANCES – DBL TEAM – “G” SCHEME (DOWN AROUND) – PLUG – CHOP – JET – HITBACK (DOWN,DOWN, PULL) – SLANT – HIGH HAT – GOAL-LINE (60) • PASS RUSH TECHNIQUES (JET) • GET-OFF – PASS RUSH MOVES • SPEED RUSH • HARD COUNT/QUICK COUNT • DENT/RIP ST • SLAP/RIP • PLUG-1 STEP • SLAP/SWIM • DBL SLAP • HAND PLACEMENT • TWO-WAY GO – COUNTER MOVES • TACKLING • SPIN • CLUB OR HUMP • TURNOVERS • RIP TO RE-RIP • RIP TO SWIM – FUMBLE RECOVERY – INTERCEPTION – TACKLE SET LINE – RAKE/STRIP – CONTAIN • HOW TO PLAY: – PASS RUSH LANES – OPTION • MISC. – DRAW – 4-MIN DEFENSE/2-MINUTE DEFENSE – SCREEN – SUBSTITUTIONS – BOOT – READING OL STANCES – REVERSE Defensive Line

We flip-flop our defensive line. • Anchor End (AE) – Must be able to play Run/Pass. #1 All-around best DE. • Slant Tackle (ST) – Playmaker on the DL. Starts with his ability to make plays. Must Defeat DBL teams. • Nose Guard (NG) – Occupy Center. Can use different body types. • Angle Tackle (AT) – High motor. Lighter of the two DE’s. Best pass rush guy. D-LINE TECHNIQUES

Head-up Alignment

Outside Shade Alignment

Inside Shade Alignment GAPS

Our Defense is a “Gap-controlled” defense. Each defender is responsible for a gap. The front defenders (DL/LB) will protect their gap if the ball is run directly at them. They will also have responsibilities on action away from them. Defensive Fronts

We can set up our front 3 different ways

• Set front to TE/Away

• Set front to Field/ Boundary

• Set front To or Away from Formation Strength.

• Strength Call = Cat Right (RT)/Cat Left (LT) DEFENSIVE HUDDLE (STACK)

N Vs. “No-Huddle”: We will not T “stack” before every play. Cat will make a predetermined Cat T M Call and all defenders will have a wristband. A

B C

BL RESPONSIBILITIES (PRE-SNAP) MIKE: Make Def Huddle call. SC CAT: Make Strength call. SAFETY: Make coverage call for strong-side. QC BEAR: Make Down/Distance call in stack. BLOOD: Make coverage call for quick-side. NOSE: Set the Stack. FS EVERYONE ELSE: Get Communication and line-up as called. CAT RIGHT

T N T A

BL B M C CAT LEFT

A T N T BL

C M B

Blood = Walk-up on TE and Jam LONGHORN

T N T A

M B C

Longhorn: Front call that allows the front BL strength to change without flipping the entire front. AE plays a 5 tech, ST plays a shade or 2I, NG plays a 3 tech, and AT plays a 7 tech. UNBALANCED

BL T N T A

M B C

UNBALANCED: Front defenders shift 1-man to the strength. • A defensive lineman must utilize a good stance. A good stance is vital for good line play. An incorrect stance may increase errors.

• 4 Tyles of DL Stances – Plug (1st & 2nd Down – Run situations) • Base stance for D-linemen. • Strong and Powerful. • Nose, Slant and Angle will line up in a slight tilt to their pressure key. Anchor will line up square. • Feet: wider than armpits, inside foot slightly staggered. Short and powerful steps (6” steps). • Hands: Inside hand=on the ground, outside hand = ready to strike. On the snap, strike the OL’s chest w/ both hands. • Eyes: Up and on target (OL’s chest). – Jet (Pass Situations) • Sprinter Stance (keep weight on the up-foot) • Body is elongated. • 1st step should be longer in order to beat the OL thru the DL’s gap. • All weight should be forward • Go Up-field! (THE GATES HAVE OPENED!!!!!!) – Slant (30 Defense/Blitzing) • Stance should be balanced. Weight should be on the inner part of the feet (big toes) • Feet should be square, no stagger. One the snap, do not cross feet. 1st step should be 45 degrees, clearing the OL. • Hands: Once ball is snapped DL should use Slap-Rip technique to get to their gap. • Once slanted into the designated gap, do not go too far up-field, breakdown and find the ball. • If slanting across an OL, the DL may want to back-up a yard to make sure they are not cut-off. – Goal-line (60 Defense/Short Yardage) • 4 point stance. • Feet: slightly wider than shoulder width. • Keep pads low and on the snap have weight going forward. • We must get low and PENETRATE the OL! D-LINE TECHNIQUE: PRE-SNAP

• GET-OFF: Another component of good defensive line play is the ability to react on movement, or “get-off” on the ball or any movement of the offense. A good get-off takes away any advantage an OL may have of knowing the snap count. The sooner we get-off and strike the OL, the better chance we have of defeating their blocks. This skills is a trained stimulus response that can be improved upon (see “Get off Drill”). D-linemen go on MOVEMENT, not sound.

• HARD COUNT/QUICK COUNT: An offense will try to utilize a hard count in situations to cause the defense to jump off-sides. This usually occurs in a short yardage situation. The offense can also use a quick count to catch the defense off guard. The DL will utilize a “D.JO” call. D.JO stands for DON’T JUMP OFF- SIDES. This call will make the DL aware of a quick/hard count and if it is a short yardage situation. D-LINE TECHNIQUE: FOOTWORK/HANDS

• FOOTWORK (PLUG): In addition to a great stance and excellent get-off, a good 1st step is paramount for good defensive line technique. Out of the PLUG stance, the 1st step will ALWAYS be the same, regardless of blocking scheme. The step should be short and powerful (6”). The step should replace the downed hand. DL will read the OL’s block on the 2nd step. The foot that is staggered back and the hand that is down must work in harmony. Same hand, same foot. • FOOTWORK (JET): The 1st step from the JET stance should be very long. Get up-field with the 1st step, it is designed to “close the gap” between DL and OL, thus creating speed during pass rush technique. • HAND PLACEMENT: Proper hand placement will help DL react to blocks and control the blocker. After the “get-off” and 1st step, the DL’s aiming point is the OL’s chest plate. Hands should strike the chest plate with the thumbs up and in close proximity of each other, and elbows tight to the body. When striking the OL, “lock out” the elbows to create separation between the DL and OL. Do not expose the chest to the OL. If the OL does get their hands inside ours, we must replace our hands to gain the dominant position (see “Hand Drills”). Proper use of hands allows the DL to defeat blocks with various techniques: push-pull, shed, grab, and pull-press, etc. DEFENSIVE LINE TERMS • READING STANCES: OL may not be good at disguising if they are going to run or pass. If a OL has a lot of weight forward (rabbit) they will probably be run blocking. If an OL has their weight back, or light (bird), they are probably going to pass block or pull. By reading stances, the DL might be able to tip off what the offense is doing.

• CONTAIN: On pass plays, the DE’s are responsible for containing the QB as well as the ball carrier on runs. Contain is not allowing the ball carrier outside of the defender. The DE must cut the field off to the ball carrier and force him inside where there is more defensive help. Losing contain will allow the ball carrier to have more room to run freely and less defenders to contend with. When rushing the QB, DL should aim for the QB’s up-field shoulder. If the DE loses contain on the QB, the QB will be forced to step inside the pocket (where there is defensive help) instead of escaping outside.

• PASS RUSH LANES: DL must maintain proper pass rush lanes when rushing the passer. Interior DL (Nose/Slant) must not be on the same side of the ball, or DE’s to crash inside and lose contain on a straight rush. These errors create running and throwing lanes for the offense. DE’s must squeeze from outside-in, keeping contain. Interior DL must collapse the pocket while not opening up inside running and passing lanes. NEVER GO DEEPER THAN THE BALL!!!! DEFENSIVE LINE TERMS • 4-MINUTE DEFENSE: Refers to crunch time near the end of a game. The defense is losing and must make a stop to get the ball back to our offense. The defense MUST hustle, get off piles after plays, force turnovers, deny 1st downs, and make plays in order to get off the field!

• 2-MINUTE DEFENSE: In the final two minutes of a game, a trailing offense may try to use Up-tempo/no-huddle in order to move the ball down the field and score quickly. It is crucial for the defense to know this situation. (Does the offense need a FG to win? Touchdown? How will a score effect the game? ) In a 2-minute situation, the defense must get lined-up and ready for anything the offense might do. Big plays are important: sacks, pressures, and turnovers. Tackle players in bounds and keep the clock running.

• SUBSTITUTIONS: Our defense plays multiple fronts and like to rotate many players to keep them fresh. As a DL, they must always be ready and near the DL coach while the defense is on the field. Many players play both sides of the ball. Quickly see your offensive coach for any corrections, get some water and be ready to answer the call on defense. Our defense may jump between a 4-front and 3-front, or even our goal line/short yards package. DEFENSIVE LINE TERMS

• TURNOVERS: The main objective of the defense is to stop the opponent from scoring and get the ball in the hands of our offense so they are able to score. One of the best ways to accomplish this task is to CREATE TURNOVERS. In order to create turnovers, we must make an effort to strip the ball from the ball carrier. One ball strip technique the DL could employ is “punching” the ball from behind after securing the tackle. Another method would be to “strip” or “rake” down on top of the ball after securing the tackle. A general rule of good defense is the first man makes the tackle, then the remaining defenders attempt to strip the ball. Versus a QB, ALWAYS RAKE THE FOOTBALL!

• FUMBLE RECOVERY: After stripping the ball, we need to recover the ball. If the ball is on the ground and you have room to run, “scoop and score.” When scooping the ball, keep the ball in FRONT of you. Don’t reach from the side to pick it up. If you miss it from the side, YOU MISSED IT! If you keep the ball in front and miss it, you may be able to accidentally kick the ball forward, and get another shot at recovery. Once you recover the ball, “secure the points” and cover it before advancing the ball. If you see the ball fumbled in a lot of traffic , “fall on the ball.” Make sure not to roll over the ball, you may lose it in the process. Secure the ball by keeping it under your body. Get in the fetal position if possible with your top leg protecting the ball. A lot can go on in the bottom of a pile. Make sure you come up with the ball.

• INTERCEPTION: A DL may be in the position to catch an interception. A tipped ball can happen at the LOS, or a DL can react well to a screen. Either way, catch the ball at its highest point. Once the ball is caught, we must secure the ball by covering the points before advancing it. If you are on the field when a teammate get an interception, you become a blocker. If the QB is attempting to tackle your teammate, he would be a nice target to block! DEFENSIVE LINE TERMS

• BLITZES: Our defense has an extensive blitz package. The blitzes must be memorized by the DL as well as LBs, and secondary players. Blitzes will be drilled almost daily in practice. Most of the blitzes involve gap exchanges with a LB. DL will have to use a Slant stance and slant technique. We must get to the gap we are slanting toward. If you are expected to cross an entire body of an OL to get to an opposite gap as in a ROCK stunt or MIKE X stunt, you may want to back-up off the ball to improve your angle to beat the OL.

• “COLD” CALL: A “cold” call will be made by a LB or Safety if a blitz must be called off. Many times we may have to call off a stunt/blitz because a TE is on the line creating problems with coverage or execution if we were to run the stunt/blitz called.

• TACKLING: Once a DL has defeated their blocks and have given great effort, they are expected to make the tackle. When tackling, our body position must be low and athletic. We want to have a “z” in our legs and be as square as possible to the ball carrier. DL should strike on the rise and roll their hips. Keep the head up (see what you hit!) and our neck bowed. Throw your arms through the armpits of the ball carrier and club your hands behind his back. Wrap-up, but don’t clasp your hands. If your hands are clasped and you fall on them you could end up breaking your wrist. Club only. Lift the BC and drive your feet, taking the opponent to the ground. If making a side tackle, we want our head across the front of the ball carrier, still keeping your head up, hitting on the rise, and driving our feet. D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• The OL will use a variety of schemes and techniques in order to block a DL. Good DL must be able to react and defeat any blocking technique or scheme presented to him.

• BASE/DRIVE BLOCK – OL directly charges at the defender in an effort to clear the DL out of the way and push them back.

• How to Defeat the Block: A DL must strike the OL with both hands, knocking him back into the hole he came from while rolling the hips and driving feet. This block will be a train wreck. Shed the block and make the play!

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• REACH/SCOOP– Reach/scoop blocks are part of a zone blocking scheme. The OL wants to wheel their hips around on the DL to cut him off from the ball.

• How to Defeat the Block: DL must take a good 1st step, get hands on the OL, and react to the scoop on their 2nd step. Press the OL back and use Push-Pull to turn the OL’s shoulders and rip back arm thru and burst to the ball. If the OL turns out the DL, the reach block becomes a drive block. Fight pressure WITH pressure.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• PULL AWAY– The OL, usually a Guard, is going to trap another defender. The DL should chase pullers and look for the ball. Pull = Collision. Depending on the game plan, DE’s may chase pullers unless the are Boot or reverse players.

• How to Defeat the Block: DL must take a good 1st step. Get hands on the puller and grab shoulder pads. By employing this technique it will allow the DL to defeat another OL trying to block back, or fill, the DL. The DL will chase the puller to the point of attack and to the ball carrier.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• DOWN BLOCK– OL blocks down man next to DL. If a DL sees this they need to be prepared to be trapped, most likely by a pulling guard. “Down = Trap.”

• How to Defeat the Block: DL must take a good 1st step and get hands on the OL. On the 2nd step the DL reacts to the down block by hanging on to the shoulder pad of the OL, and not letting the OL get to the next level or another DL. DL must then turn their hips and be ready to play the oncoming trapper while staying as tight as possible to the LOS. “Wrong-arm” the trapper, which consists of taking the outside arm and rip thru the inside hip of the trapper, thus causing the ball to spill to LBs or other DL. If you read a down block, DO NOT RUN UPFIELD!!!!

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• DBL TEAM BLOCK – A double team is the mother of all drive blocks. Two OL try to block a single DL at the same time. If the OL is successful they may clear a running lane as well as chip-off to a 2nd level player, such as a LB or Safety.

• How to Defeat the Block: To defeat a dbl team, first the DL must have good footwork by taking a great 1st step. Second, treat the main blocker of the two OL as a base block. Using two hands, knock the main blocker back will driving our legs. Keep your hands on the primary blocker and lean into he secondary blocker. If both OL stay on the DL = make a pile and drop the knee nearest the secondary blocker, while maintaining contact on the primary blocker. If one of the OL chips-off = split the double team and make the play on the ball carrier.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• G SCHEME – This type of block is a gap exchange between two OL. Besides being called a G-Scheme, it can also be referred to as a “horn” block or “down around.” The G- Scheme can be employed by an OL to solve angle problems with a defensive front in their blocking schemes. This block can be very similar to a trap block to a DL, instead of the backside guard pull, an onside guard may “quick pull”.

• How to Defeat the Block: DL must press the back block of the OL. “Fight pressure with pressure” is a concept used by the DL to defeat the back block. The ball is where the pressure of the OL’s block is coming from. Squeeze the blocker’s body in that direction, by doing so we have cut off the gap that the LB must defend. While squeezing the OL, DL must keep their shoulders square and also keep the outside arm/leg free in order to play the gap we are now defending. Maintain control of the gap until the ball crosses the LOS, then pursue the BC. Do not go behind the blocker to pursue the ball, this is a poor angle and the DL will not get there.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• CHOP BLOCK – This type of block occurs when an OL is trying to take out a DL’s legs. This type of block can be utilized in the quick passing game to prevent a DL from knocking down quick throws by keeping their hands down instead of in the flight path of the ball.

• How to Defeat the Block: The DL must react quickly when seeing this block. As the DL is getting chopped, “sprawl” your hips (similar to a wrestler) then press off the OL’s back and jump up while getting the hands up to block a quick, low pass. Moving your feet will also ensure that the Chop Block is not effective.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• HIT-BACK BLOCK – This type of block is one of the more difficult blocks a NG has to defend, but must be mastered through repetition. This type of block is a “down-down-kick” in order to trap a weak-side DE. The OC and play-side OG/OT will block back on the DL, and the back-side OG will trap the play-side DE.

• How to Defeat the Block: The 3 tech will treat this scheme as a G-scheme. The NG must initially play the OC’s block as a scoop, but must feel the pressure of the P/S OG, who is trying the wash him inside. The NG must see the visual key of the B/S OG trapping. There are three techniques that can be used by the NG to defeat this block: 1. Fight back into the guard blocking him (fight pressure with pressure), 2. Run thru the gap and grab the shoulder pads of the pulling guard (sling shot), or 3. Cross face of the down block of the OG. If an OL runs a lot of hit-back blocking, the NG should utilize more than one of the previous techniques described in order to create problems for the OL. Using the same technique over and over will make the NG a “sitting duck.”

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DEFEATING BLOCKS

• HIGH HAT BLOCK – High hat = Pass! Even if a DL is in a PLUG technique, they may face a high hat block. When the OL gives a “high hat” look, DL must recognize pass quickly! This may turn into a bull rush situation if we are plugging because we already have our hands on the OL and are in the process of pushing him backwards.

• How to Defeat the Block: Continue to bull rush as long as the OL retreats, but once the OL “sets” the DL must work a move (slap-rip) and pressure the QB! “Advance, don’t dance!” Always be moving towards the passer. An effective way to get out of a bull rush is to release the outside arm and press the OL with one-arm. The one-arm technique will make the DL’s arm longer (“One arm is longer than two.”) and will create separation. After creating this separation, can work a variety of pass rush moves to get to the QB.

A T N T D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DIAGONSIS OF PLAYS

• OPTION – A play where the offense has the ability choose or “option” who gets the ball. The QB can hand-off the ball to the running (dive), toss the ball to the deep back (pitch), or run the ball himself (keep).

• How to Defeat the Option: The only way the option can be defeated is by assignment football. Each player must execute their option responsibility. Depending on game plan, stunt called, or front, option responsibilities may change. Our base option responsibilities are as follows: NG/3 tech/LBs = Dive, AE/AT = QB, and Outside Safeties = Pitch. Simply put, each defender should tackle THEIR responsibility EVERY play! DIVE

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QB PITCH D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DIAGONSIS OF PLAYS

• DRAW – A play where the OL will give the DL a “high hat” look to sell the pass, but the QB will hand the ball off to a RB. This play often works because the DL goes to far up-field thus widening the running lanes for the back. The OL will also try and “club” or “invite” the DL up-field.

• How to Defeat the Draw: The DL must recognize draw in order to defeat this play! After making the recognition of draw, retrace your steps (go back to the original gap that the DL was to defend). If DL is in a Jet situation = go to the ball. The DL will stop the run on the way to the QB, thus Jetting is effective against the draw play.

T N T A D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DIAGONSIS OF PLAYS

• SCREEN– A screen is similar to the Draw, which invites the DL up-field, but the QB will dump the ball to a receiver behind the LOS. The OL will show pass then once the DL gets passed the OL, the OL will either pull one way or another and block the 2nd level players.

• How to Defeat the Screen: Great recognition by the DL and LBs is crucial to defeating the screen. The DL must recognize an “easy” pass rush because the OL is inviting them up-field. Thus, react to the ball. Play what you see, and attack the screener!

T N T A D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DIAGONSIS OF PLAYS

• BOOT– A bootleg, or “boot,” is a pass action employed by the QB. The QB will usually make a run fake, and reverse out in order to gain space outside the DE’s in order to pass the ball downfield or run.

• How to Defeat the Boot: The “C” gap player, or contain player, must not let the QB get outside of him. He must CONTAIN the QB! The contain player, usually the DE, must stay at the level of the QB and turn him inside. Don’t run at the ball carrier, run straight up-field to the level he is running to. If the DE runs at the QB, the QB can bow deeper and get outside the DE.

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YES NO D-LINE TECHNIQUE: DIAGONSIS OF PLAYS

• REVERSE– A reverse is an offensive play that begins to flow one direction, usually a sweep, then gets handed-off behind the LOS to another player coming from the opposite direction.

• How to Defeat the Reverse: The contain player cannot “chase” the initial play and “stay home.” Get to the level of the reverse and turn the ball back inside to the defense. The technique for defeating a reverse is similar to

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NO

YES PASS RUSH TECHNIQUE • All DL must have at least two pass rush techniques mastered. All pass rush moves can be performed out of our “Jet” stance and incorporate the philosophy of “same hand/same foot” (Do not cross feet or slap with one arm and step with the opposite foot). PASS RUSH MOVES • SPEED/RACE: Out run the OL to the QB. If the DL has speed he shouldn’t have to make contact with the OL. This creates problems for the offense.

• DENT/RIP: Part of a speed rush move that employs a chop by the DL. DL will chop the outside arm of the OL with his inside hand. The DL will quickly chop DOWN and rip UP in order to clear his blocker.

• SLAP/RIP: This move is the most popular among DL. The DL steps and slaps the OL with his outside foot and hand while turning his chest and shoulders. Then rips the trail arm and leg through, stepping past the OL’s hips and bursting to the QB.

• SLAP/SWIM: Similar to Slap/Rip. The difference being instead of ripping the trail arm, the DL will punch is arm over the OL’s shoulder pads and drive his elbow in the OL’s back. The DL should then push-off the OL’s back and speed burst to the QB. Coaching Point: The Swim should be tight to the OL’s shoulder pads, no sky hook. Shorter DL should not use the swim vs. taller OL. PASS RUSH TECHNIQUE • All DL must have at least two pass rush techniques mastered. All pass rush moves can be performed out of our “Jet” stance and incorporate the philosophy of “same hand/same foot” (Do not cross feet or slap with one arm and step with the opposite foot). PASS RUSH MOVES • DBL SLAP: The DL begin the rush by appearing to cross the OL’s body simulating a slant technique, then gently tap the opposite shoulder, then come back to original side with a violent slap/rip.

• 2-WAY GO: This pass rush move allows the 3 technique (Slant Tackle) to take an inside or outside rush versus a OG. This move is effective because it limits the reaction of the OG if the 3 tech rushes the B gap. The 3 tech should alert the LB that he may use this move that way the LB can adjust versus the run.

• TACKLE SET LINE: This is an advanced concept where the DE must determine if the OT has widened too much allowing the tackle to take an inside move to the QB (similar to a 2-way go), while still maintaining contain responsibilities. The tackle set line is an imaginary line running from the DE thru the OT to the QB. If the OT widens outside of the line, the DE may rush inside the OT. PASS RUSH TECHNIQUE • In addition to employing great technique on pass rushes, a DL must have a counter move in case the first move does not work. COUNTER MOVES

• SPIN: The spin move can be an effective counter move. A rusher starts out with a slap/rip, getting the rip in deep. If he gets to the level of the QB, he should spin back inside instead of running up-field. To spin, rip up under the OL’s armpit until the DL sees their fist. When the OL leans into the DL, plant the foot closest to the OL (same foot as the rip hand), and lean into the OL using a motion similar to sitting in a chair. Spin to the outside swinging the outside arm and point the outside toe towards the QB (the body will go wherever the toe is pointed). Sprint to the QB once the DL has swung their body around.

• CLUB(HUMP): Similar to the spin. Get to the level of the QB, use the OL’s momentum and Club him by then use a rip technique. Plant outside foot up-field and as OL’s weight is going up-field, step and club him with your inside arm/leg then burst to the QB.

• RIP TO RE-RIP: Sometimes during Slap/Rip, the rip gets stuck. DL may need to pull out the rip and re-rip it. Burst to the QB.

• RIP TO SWIM: If an OL leans on your rip, use the OL’s body weight to defeat him. Take out your rip and swim over the top. Burst to the QB. DEFENSIVE LINE DRILLS

• BAG DRILLS • BOX DRILL • GET OFF DRILL • ALTERNATING PASS RUSH DRILL • HOOPS • HAND COMBAT DRILLS • SPIDER DRILL • PUSH/PULL DRILL • 4PT/6PT DRILL • 1 ON 1 PASS RUSH • BIG PICTURE DRILL DEF. LINE DRILLS: BAG DRILLS

EQUIPMENT: Use 6 flat bags to represent 5 OL and 1 TE, and 2 pop-up dummies.

AGILITIES DRILL: 1 Foot in each hole. (High Knees thru bags, 1 foot in between) 2 Feet in each hole. (High Knees thru bags, 2 feet in between) Laterals (Face Coach, go over top of bags, don’t cross feet.) Zig Zag Shuffle (Face Forward) In and Out (Burst forward into gap, then shuffle back) Angle Shuffle (spread out bag. Make sure DL don’t cross feet)

BLITZES/MOVEMENTS/ALIGNMENTS/GAP CONTROL DRILL: Use bags to work all of these skills. The bags can represent the Offensive Line.

DL DEF. LINE DRILLS: BOX DRILL

EQUIPMENT: 4 CONES OR POLY SPOTS.

DESCRIPTION: Warm-up drill used to improve agility of defensive linemen. They will perform one of four movements along each side of the box.

CARIOCA BACKWARD SHUFFLE

CARIOCA HIGH KNEES,QUICK FEET

DL DEF. LINE DRILLS: GET-OFF DRILL

EQUIPMENT: Football, cones (optional)

DESCRIPTION: Place the ball on the ground, move ball when wanting DL to get-off the ball. The coach can use different cadences to train DL not to jump off-sides. Can incorporate cones to give DL a finish spot or could use a stand-up dummy to work pass rush moves.

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Speed Burst to Cone. DEF. LINE DRILLS: ALT. PASS RUSH DRILL

EQUIPMENT: 4 Stand-up Dummies, 2 cones, 1 tackling dummy, and football.

DESCRIPTION: Place stand-up dummies 5 yards apart. Work various pass rush moves, always finish with a speed burst to the ball. Can also finish with a Rack on a tackling dummy, tackle, scoop ‘n score. The DL will alternate sides when performing pass rush moves through the dummies. Pass Rush Moves to work: Slap/Rip, Slap/Swim, Spin, Double Slap.

(Aerial View) Slap/Rip Slap/Rip

DL

Slap/Rip Slap/Rip Speed Burst to Cone. DEF. LINE DRILLS: HOOPS DRILL

EQUIPMENT: 2 Hoops (8’ Diameter), Footballs, 2 Cones, 2 bags.

DESCRIPTION: The hoops are a great way to work pursuit as well as body lean. Make sure to keep toes pointed towards the target. The DL will start at one cone, work around one hope and then the other hoop, finish with a speed burst to the cone. While working pursuit can work pass rush moves and ball strip techniques. Drill variations could also be: one hoop, figure 8, Chase Game (Bird/Rabbit). Go in both directions.

Coach Slap/Rip (Rake) (Bag)

DL Slap/Rip Coach (Bag) (Chop)

Speed Burst to Cone. (Aerial View) DEF. LINE DRILLS: HAND COMBAT

EQUIPMENT: Put the DL into groups of 2.

DESCRIPTION: Work the various aspects on Hand Combat. Further descriptions below. • Hand Placement Drill: Get hands inside chest of opponent. Replace your hands from underneath to his chest. Repeat drill. • Double Hand Sweep: Sweep the hands of OL with both hands from outside-in. • High Hands High: Pick the wrist off when tied up. Re-route the arm. • Low Hands Low: Chop low-hands down. • Single-Arm Hand Sweep: Arm in between OL’s arms, and sweep/chop from inside to out. • From Bull Rush: One Arm is longer than two. Pick the wrist and throw it. Rip thru OL. DEF. LINE DRILLS: SPIDER DRILL

EQUIPMENT: Put the DL into groups of 2.

DESCRIPTION: This is a block recognition drill. The DL will practice all types of blocks they will see. DL should always take a great 1st step and treat every block as a base/drive block. The coach will tell the OL what block to give the DL.

Blocks to chose from: Draw/Pass, Cut-off, Base/Drive, Zone/Reach, Down.

High Hat = Pass Pull = Collision

OL Reach/Scoop Down = Trap Base/ Drive

DL DEF. LINE DRILLS: MISC. DRILLS

EQUIPMENT: Put the DL into groups of 2.

PUSH/PULL DRILL: The is drill simulates having to push and pull the shoulder pads of an offensive linemen on a zone/reach block. They are trying to wheel their hips; we are trying to press them back, turn their shoulders, and get off the block. Start the drill with the DL/OL on their feet in a fit position. The OL will try to reach the DL outside, DL must push OL’s outside shoulder up-field while pulling OL’s inside shoulder to turn his hips and shoulders. Finish with the drill by ripping up-field and speed burst to the ball carrier.

6 PT DRILL: DL should be on their hands, knees, and toes (6 points touching the ground). The drill works hand speed. On movement, DL will strike their target (man, bag, etc.), roll their hips thru the strike, and finish with their chest on the ground.

4 PT DRILL: DL should be on their hands and toes (4 points touching the ground). The drill works hand speed as well as footwork. On movement, DL will strike their target (man, bag, etc.) while using good footwork, roll their hips thru the strike.

DEF. LINE DRILLS: 1v1 PASS RUSH

EQUIPMENT: 4 DL (2 DE’s, 2 Int. DL) Spaced out 5 yards apart.

PASS RUSH 1 on 1 DRILL: Work Pass Rush Moves versus an OL as well as maintaining Pass Rush Lanes. NEVER RUSH DEEPER THAN THE QB!!!!

T T 5 ft N 6 ft 5 ft A

OL OL OL OL

QB (Coach) 20 ft deep DEF. LINE DRILLS: 1v1 PASS RUSH

EQUIPMENT: 4 DL (2 DE’s, 2 Int. DL) versus 5 OL + 1 TE.

4 ON 1 DRILL(BIG PICTURE): Allow the DL to work against blocking schemes they will face. Zone, Base, Trap, Pass, etc. Allows the DL to work on block recognition while incorporating snap count, multiple OL blocking schemes. The Big Picture! Can make this position specific by doing one position at a time (ex. Nose, Slant, Anchor, Angle).

N T T A DEFENSIVE LINE: ALIGNMENTS/MOVEMENTS/STUNTS

4-FRONT 4-FRONT 4-FRONT

ALIGNMENTS MOVEMENTS STUNTS • BASE • STAB • SLAM • ROCK • UNDER • MIKE X • MAT • STEM • SKIN • SMAC • 2I/4I • TIN • BEAR X • NOSE • SLING (REV) • 2I BANG LOOSE • TANK( REV) • UNDER EDGE • CAT X • DEUCE • TANGO (REV) • BAT • JET • DEUCE IN/OUT • BLUNT • PLUG • DUECE 2/AWAY • BABE • MOB/BOA/SWITCH D-LINE ALIGNMENTS

BASE 2I/4I

A T N T A T N T 4I 2I

ROCK STEM

A T N T A A T T N N T T *When Center puts hand on ball, Slant Back to Original Gap. shift back to base alignment. D-LINE ALIGNMENTS

NOSE LOOSE DEUCE

A T N T A T N T 2 2 NG: No Jam Responsibility. Find the ball! **Great call for a smaller/quick NG.

JET PLUG

A T N T A T N T

DL: No Jam Responsibility. DL: Jam OL, Play Run 1st. Rush the Passer!. D-LINE GAP EXCHANGES

STAB UNDER

T T A N A T N T

AE: “STAB” Off. Tackle. AT: Get to “B” Gap. Run STAB if having trouble Stopping Runs off-tackle.

SKIN TIN

A A T N T T N T

NG: Cross OC Face. ST: Cross Guard’s face, get to “A” Gap.. D-LINE GAMES

SLING TANK

A T T N A T N T

Twist between Slant Tackle and Nose Guard. Twist between Anchor End and Slant Tackle. Slant Penetrates. Nose will be the looper. Anchor Penetrates. Slant will be the looper.

TANGO GAME RULES

1. The Penetrator ALWAYS goes First. 2. The Looper will Loop if it is a Pass or Run Away from Him. If it is Run to him, he plays his original gap. 3. The Penetrator and Looper can swap jobs by tagging the game with a Reverse call. EX: Tango REVERSE (Nose Penetrates, Angle Loops) A T N T Sling Reverse (Nose Penetrates, Slant Loops) Tank Reverse (Slant Penetrates, Slant Loops) Twist between Angle Tackle and Nose Guard. Angle Penetrates. Nose will be the looper. DEUCE SERIES

DEUCE IN DEUCE OUT

A T N T A T N T

DEUCE 2 DEUCE AWAY

A T N T A T N T DEUCE SERIES

DEUCE BANG DEUCE DBL BANG

A T N T A T N T

B M LB taps NG/ST which gap to slant to. LB taps NG/ST which gap to slant to. B

DEUCE PLUG DEUCE SQUEEZE

A T N T C A T N T B M DL: Jam OL in front of you. Play run 1st! CAT/BEAR jam TE or play hard on edge. MIKE BLITZES/STUNTS

MIKE SLAM

T

M M

MIKE X MAT

A T N (DIVE)

C M (PITCH) M (QB) BEAR BLITZES/STUNTS

BEAR BEAR X

T

B B (QB)

(2I) BANG (UNDER) EDGE

T N

Bear Taps NG to tell NG which B gap to slant to. B (QB) CAT BLITZES/STUNTS

CAT CAT X (50) vs. TE

A (PITCH) C (QB) C

CAT X (40) CAT X (50) vs. Open Side

A T A (PITCH)

C C (QB) (QB) BLOOD BLITZES/STUNTS

BLOOD BAT

T (PITCH) BL BL (QB) B Vs TE= “COLD” Vs TE= “COLD” (DIVE) BABE BLUNT

(QB) T T (DIVE)

B BL B BL (PITCH) (PITCH) (QB) (DIVE) Vs TE= “COLD” Vs TE= “COLD” COMBINATION STUNTS/BLITZES

MOB BOA

T N T N

M B M B ST 1ST 1

SWITCH SMAC

A T T N (DIVE)

C M B (QB) - LB to the off-set back = Go 2nd. “SWITCH” call M - #2 LB, if you get run away/pass = run stunt (PITCH) - #2 LB, if you get run to you = play your gap Vs TE= “COLD” PLAY DEEPER ZIP PRESSURES

OUT GO TANGO TANK GO

A T N T A T N T

M B M B MIKE/BEAR = A GAPS MIKE/BEAR = A GAPS

SLING GO PINCH GO

A T N T A T N T

M B M B MIKE/BEAR = B GAPS MIKE/BEAR = C GAPS ZIP PRESSURES

PINCH SLING/SLING REV GO TANGO TANK MOB

T A A N T T N T

M B M B MIKE/BEAR = C GAPS MIKE/BEAR = A GAP CROSS (MIKE 1ST)

OUT MOB OUT BAM

A T N T A T N T

M B M B MIKE/BEAR = A GAP CROSS (MIKE 1ST) MIKE/BEAR = A GAP CROSS (BEAR 1ST) DEFENSIVE LINE: ALIGNMENTS/MOVEMENTS/STUNTS

3-FRONT 3-FRONT 3-FRONT

SLANTS SINGLE BLITZES MULTIPLE BLITZES • 2 • MIKE X • 2 MAP • AWAY • MIKE ACE • BOW • BOW DELAY* • PINCH • 2 MIKE B • MIKE C • BOMBER* • OUT • BEAR X • TRIPLE X GAMES • BEAR ACE • BAM/WAM • ANT • UNDER EDGE • BLAC WAC • • TAN • WOLF X PINCH DBL ACE • WOLF ACE • WAC • FLEX • STAB WEDGE • SWITCH • UP • CAM • WAB 3-FRONT SLANTS

2 AWAY

A N T A N T

PINCH OUT

A N T A N T 3-FRONT LINE GAMES/ALIGNMENTS

ANT TAN

A N T A N T

*SAME RULES FOR 50 LINE GAMES APPLY FOR *SAME RULES FOR 50 LINE GAMES APPLY FOR LOOPERS AND PENETRATORS. LOOPERS AND PENETRATORS.

FLEX UP

A N T C A N T C

Vs TE= CAT/BLOOD 2X2 ALIGNMENT. Vs TE= CAT/BLOOD JAM TE. 3-FRONT ALIGNMENTS

SLIDE (DBL) SQUEEZE

W A W N T A N T B

M B M Vs TE= WOLF/BEAR JAM TE.

SLIDE (DBL) UP

A N B T C A N T BL

W M B W M Vs TE= CAT/BLOOD JAM TE. 3-FRONT BLITZES: MIKE (3-3)

MIKE X 2 MIKE B

N A N T

M W M B BLITZ vs JET MOTION.

2 MAP (MIKE & PLAYSIDE LB) MIKE ACE (3-4)

A N T A N T

W M B M B BLITZ vs JET MOTION. 3-FRONT BLITZES: BEAR (3-3)

BEAR BEAR X

A N T A N T

M B W M B W (QB)

BEAR ACE (UNDER) EDGE

A N T A N T

W M B W M B (QB) 3-FRONT BLITZES: WOLF (3-3)

WOLF WOLF X

A N T A N T

M B W M B W (QB)

WOLF ACE (STAB) WEDGE

A N T A N T

W M B W M B (QB) 3-FRONT BLITZES: CAT/BLOOD (3-3)

BLOOD CAT

A N T A N T

C M B BL C W M B W BL

BLAC FREE-GO

A N T A N T

C BL C W M B BL W M B CAT/BLOOD: NO #2 REC = BLITZ. 3-FRONT BLITZES: COMBINATION (3-3)

(PINCH) BOW BOW DELAY

A N T A N T

W M B W M B (QB) (QB) (QB) (QB) *READ STUNT.

BOMBER TRIPLE X

A N T A N T

W M B W M (QB) B *READ STUNT. (1ST ) (QB) 3-FRONT BLITZES: COMBINATION (3-3)

BAM WAM

A N T A N T

W M B W M B ST (1ST ) (1 )

BLAC WAC (PINCH)

A N T A N T

C BL (QB ) W M B (QB ) W M (PITCH ) (PITCH ) B 3-FRONT BLITZES: MIKE (3-4)

MIKE MIKE X

A N T A N T

M B M B

MIKE C (PINCH) DBL ACE

A N T A N T

M B M B (QB) 3-FRONT BLITZES: BEAR (3-4)

BEAR BEAR X

A N T A N T

M B M B (QB)

BEAR ACE BANG

A N T A N T

M B M B 3-FRONT BLITZES: CAT/WOLF (3-4)

WOLF WOLF X

A N T A N T

C M B W C M B W (PITCH)

CAT CAT X

A N T A N T

C M C M B W B W (PITCH) 3-FRONT BLITZES: COMBINATION (3-4)

WAC SWITCH

A N T A N T

C M B W C M B W (1ST ) CAM WAB

A N T A N T

C M B W C M B W (QB)