Most coaches will agree that probably the toughest challenge for a defender is making an open field tackle in space. It’s a problem at every level. Ask defensive coordinators across the country. The offensive player – whether it’s a running back or receiver – essentially knows where he’s going while the defender doesn’t.
In this issue of GS, two articles address this challenge. Shawn Myszka, the director of athletic performance for Explosive Edge Athletics, authors “Slamming on the Brakes: The Need for Deceleration Training.” Myszka explains the stretch-shortening cycle that can improve a defensive player’s deceleration. Essentially, the defender attempts to lower his center of mass by flexing at both the bone and hip joints to shorten his movement. The ideal result is not overrunning the ball carrier.
“Defensive Space Player Drills” can also help improve a defender’s ability to tackle in space. Ed Carberry, the head coach at Southwestern College, illustrates four drills for defensive players. The ‘Tracking Drill’, the ‘Gain Ground Drill,’ the ‘Open Field Blocking Drill,’ and the ‘Last Man Drill’ are all intended to help defenders tackle in space. Keys are knowing where your defensive help is, using various angles to shorten the distance to the runner, and leveraging the ball carrier.
Hopefully, both articles will be of use to defensive coaches. We welcome your feedback and hope you enjoy this issue of GS.
Respectfully,
Rex Lardner
Managing Editor