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LaMarcus Hicks, Northwestern, CB Coach

Full video on Glazier Drive: DB Fundamentals & Drills: Block Destruction & Tackling

DEVELOPING AGGRESSIVE DEFENSIVE BACKS: BLOCK DESTRUCTION AND TACKLING FUNDAMENTALS

This coaching presentation focuses on transforming defensive backs into physical, aggressive players who excel at defeating blocks and executing sound tackling in the run game.

PRESS AND SNATCH TECHNIQUE FOR BLOCK DESTRUCTION

The press and snatch drill teaches defensive backs how to engage and shed blocks from receivers. Proper hand placement combined with correct body angles generates power. Defensive backs must press into blockers with authority while maintaining the ability to quickly disengage.

Players must strike with inside hands to control the blocker's chest while maintaining a low center of gravity. The "snatch" component involves violently ripping hands off the blocker and disengaging to pursue. This explosive movement separates effective defenders from passive ones who get stuck on blocks.

USING THE SLED FOR PHYSICALITY DEVELOPMENT

The one-man sled drill develops physicality and aggression necessary for block destruction. Working against the sled allows defensive backs to practice violent hand strikes without the variables of a live blocker, helping players develop muscle memory for explosive contact.

Coaches should emphasize maintaining low pad level, driving through contact, and finishing the shed movement completely. This drill builds confidence in players' ability to deliver and absorb contact, developing the mentality that defensive backs must be physical players.

DEFEATING CUT BLOCKS WITH PUSH, GIVE, AND SHUFFLE

The "push, give, and shuffle" method provides a systematic approach to handling cut blocks. When a blocker attempts to cut, the defensive back must push down on the blocker's shoulders to control the block's trajectory. The "give" involves pulling hips back to avoid the cut while maintaining body control. The "shuffle" allows the defender to maintain his pursuit lane while clearing the blocker.

Players must practice this sequence repeatedly to develop necessary reaction time. Recognizing cut blocks early through film study and pre-snap reads, then executing the technique explosively, makes defensive backs more effective run defenders.

FUNDAMENTAL TACKLING TECHNIQUE IN SPACE

Sound tackling begins with proper visual focus. Defenders must keep eyes locked on the ball carrier's near hip, which represents the most reliable indicator of true direction and cannot fake like upper body movements.

Eliminating space through aggressive pursuit provides the second critical element. Defensive backs must sprint full speed to close distance. The "shimmy" technique helps defenders maintain control as they close on ball carriers, allowing them to break down under control and react to movements without overrunning the tackle.

ESTABLISHING LEVERAGE FOR SUCCESSFUL TACKLES

Leverage determines success in open-field tackling. Defensive backs must understand angles and positioning to force ball carriers into boundaries or pursuit help. Proper leverage means positioning yourself between the ball carrier and the sideline or goal line.

Defenders should get their head across the ball carrier's body on the upfield side, preventing cutbacks and forcing runners out of bounds. Lower body strength and pad level separate good tacklers from poor ones. Defenders must maintain a low center of gravity, bending at knees and hips.

OUTSIDE-IN TACKLE DRILL APPLICATION

The outside-in tackling drill synthesizes all fundamental techniques into game-realistic scenarios, emphasizing closing space while maintaining proper leverage. Defenders start from various positions, simulating different angles they'll face in games.

The "shoot and squeeze" maneuver represents the finishing technique. The defender shoots his inside shoulder and arms through the ball carrier while squeezing with his outside arm, wrapping up the runner securely. Coaching points should emphasize maintaining leverage throughout the entire sequence, with every step directed toward controlling the ball carrier's options.

BUILDING A PHYSICAL DEFENSIVE BACK MENTALITY

Beyond specific techniques, the goal involves developing a mentality where defensive backs embrace physicality and view run support as an opportunity. This requires consistent coaching, positive reinforcement, and accountability.

Practice structure must include regular opportunities for defensive backs to practice these skills against live competition. Position-specific periods should incorporate block destruction and tackling drills multiple times weekly. Creating competitive environments where players challenge each other accelerates development and establishes the aggressive culture necessary for effective run defense.

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