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Winston DeLattiboudere, D-Line Coach, Arizona Cardinals

Full video on Glazier Drive: Overall Teaching of D-Line Block Destruction, Part 1: Separation

COACHING POINT: DEFENSIVE LINE SEPARATION TECHNIQUE

This coaching breakdown focuses on the critical concept of separation for defensive linemen, explaining why creating space from offensive blockers is essential for successful block destruction and play-making.

CORE PHILOSOPHY

The coach uses relatable analogies for college-aged players (17-23 years old) to explain separation: just like separating from video games improves academics or separating from a high school girlfriend reveals new opportunities, physical separation from blockers provides clarity to see the ball carrier and execute responsibilities at a higher success rate.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION & APPLICATION

Separation means creating an "intervening space" between the defensive and offensive lineman. The goal is to play on the offensive lineman's side of the ball—across that imaginary line—which allows defenders to see plays develop and react effectively.

KEY TECHNICAL ELEMENTS

• Live Low, Die Low: Maintain low pad level throughout the engagement, with bent hips, knees, and ankles
• Locked Elbows: Full extension with no bend or "chicken wings"—arms should be tight from palms to pecs
• Hand Technique: Transition from thumbs up to fingertips up while creating maximum extension
• Hip Thrust: Drive hips through the contact point while keeping eyes on your key
• Continuous Foot Movement: Never stop moving your feet during engagement

COMMON MISTAKES

Standing straight up exposes the hips to combo blocks and allows offensive linemen to bump defenders out of their gaps—a dangerous situation that must be avoided.

GAME APPLICATION

This technique applies to all positions (defensive tackles, linebackers, nickel, safeties, corners) when facing blocks. Whether defending inside zone, gap schemes, or wide zone/stretch plays, players must: separate from blockers, see the ball through their gap, disengage, and make the tackle. The film examples show successful edge-setting on third down situations where proper separation technique allowed defenders to see the play develop and make crucial stops.

BOTTOM LINE

Separation creates clarity. Extended elbows, proper hip engagement, active eyes, and moving feet—all while living on the offensive side of the line of scrimmage—gives defenders the best chance to stop the run and make plays.

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