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Coaches Handbook
Third Edition
June, 2013
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Welcome to the Fishers-Hamilton Southeastern Youth Football League (Fishers-HSE YFL). The Fishers-HSE
YFL continues to grow and provide a great opportunity for the families living within the HSE School District.
Once again, we anticipate over 1,200 youth participants in our flag and tackle leagues.
The purpose of the Fishers-HSE Youth Football program is:
To develop and maintain a properly supervised football league for youth in grades: K – 6.
To promote improved community relations by demonstrating an interest in our youth.
To encourage physical and mental growth through keen competition.
To emphasize good citizenship and scholastic achievement.
To nurture good sportsmanship and a sense of fair play.
On behalf of the Fishers-HSE YFL Board, we want to thank you for your commitment to teaching the great
sport of football to the youth of our community. To ensure that all participants (players, coaches, and parents)
have a rewarding and exciting experience, the Board has created this handbook to provide coaches with the
proper instruction to build and execute a consistent approach to coaching youth football. By using this
handbook as a guide, you will learn how to properly teach football’s fundamentals in every phase of the game
and how to run the best drills for every segment of your practice – position, group, and team.
This handbook includes the following information:
Thoughts and support from our H.S. football coaches
Coaching responsibilities and expectations
Organization and Planning Tips
Health and Wellness Information
Team Administration Tips
Again, the Board thanks you for your time, participation, and commitment to our league. We would also like to
thank all of our league and field sponsors as well as the many community members that volunteer. It is through
the dedication of our many volunteers and supportive parents and sponsors that our league continues to thrive.
We welcome your comments, suggestions, and input. Please direct all inquiries and comments to Board
President, Eric Hohlt at [email protected].
Fishers-HSE Youth Football League Board
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___________________ F O O T B A L L ___________________ 2010 Indiana 5A State Champs Head Football Coach
HCC Champs – 2009, 2010 Rick Wimmer
Dear Fishers-HSE Youth Football Coaches:
As a coach in the Fishers-HSE Youth Football organization, you have agreed to take on a responsibility that can certainly
be a rewarding experience for you; but most importantly, the opportunity you have to make a positive impact on the young
players you will coach is by far your most important charge. We have a fantastic youth sports program here in Fishers – the
youth football program certainly being one of the most successful. But the league is only as good as the coaches who work
directly with the players. How will you know if you are having the right kind of impact on your players who play for you
this year? It will not be based on how many games your team wins. Look to see how many young players return to the
game next year. If you are having a positive impact on players, they will want to keep playing. Winning certainly helps,
but winning alone does not equal a positive experience. A truly great coach will be able to impact young players in a
positive way even in those years when wins do not come easily.
No matter what level you are coaching – youth, junior high, high school, college, or pros – teaching the fundamentals is
where real coaching begins. This manual is designed to give you a blueprint for the teaching of fundamentals in a
progressive manner that will ensure that your players are successful, help them have a positive experience, give them
confidence, and provide the foundation for your team’s success. The purpose of most fundamental drills is not to evaluate
what a player can do, but it is to create a situation in which he can perform a skill or technique with success, build his
confidence, and carry over what he has learned into a game. There is a time and place for evaluation drills and conditioning
drills. Understand the difference in each and coach accordingly. Avoid the tendency of many inexperienced coaches of
spending most of the practice running plays. Focus on the fundamentals outlined in this manual and watch the success of
your team improve as their technique, confidence, and enthusiasm for the game improves.
Finally, I would remind you that you as the coach control whether or not you have good practices, show improvement, and
create positive experiences. When things are not going as you would like (I promise you, there will be those occasions),
remember that you can make a difference. Teach, don’t criticize. Praise effort, technique, and progress – not just the great
play by the star athlete.
Being a coach in the Fishers-HSE Youth Football program is certainly a tremendous responsibility but will also be a
rewarding experience when you see your players develop a love for the game, have a desire to continue, and show progress
in the fundamentals. I consider our youth coaches as extensions of our own coaching staff at Fishers HS. If I or anyone on
our staff can help you in any way, do not hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
Rick Wimmer
Head Football Coach
Fishers High School
Fishers High School, 13000 Promise Road, Fishers, IN 46038
E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 317-915-4290 x 27143
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Hamilton Southeastern Football
13910 E. 126th
Street Fisher, IN 46037
(317) 594-4190 School (317) 594-0096 Fax
Youth Coaches
First, I would like to thank you for taking the time to give back to the greatest team sport in our
country! We as a community must work together to teach our youth the “right” way to play football. I
believe in what HSE/Fishers Youth Football program is doing to develop future Royals and Tigers. I
encourage you to do the little things right as you teach the game. To me the following are a “must” as
you coach your team: make football fun, teach kids to block and tackle, and teach them how to play as
a team. I really like the fundamental time the board has put in place to help guide your practice plan.
Spend the time teaching fundamentals and stick to a simple offense that you can get better running
throughout the season. If you ever want to watch us practice or have any question for my staff we are
here to support you. Good luck and have fun!
Yours in Football
Scott May
Head Coach
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COACHING RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS
Coaching Perspective:
Football Character development through Football Fun and Fundamentals
Balancing the SPIRIT and WILL of a child
Focus on the process (preparation) and not the outcome (score). See philosophy on winning.
Coaching Objectives: Provide the best football experience for each player regardless of skill level
Leave them better than where they began the season
Develop a desire in each player to return to football the next year (Don’t be their last football Coach)
Coaching Philosophy: RESPONSIBILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, DISCIPLINE
Responsibility – TEACH each player what they are responsible for in SIMPLE 3-step progressions
Example for QB:
1. Make sure the line is set
2. Secure the ball from the center to the ball carrier or receiver
3. Carry out fake to the whistle
D-Line (Pre-snap):
1. Know your GAP responsibility (A,B, or C)
2. Great stance (Drill this every practice)
3. Explode on movement (NG watch ball movement, Tackles watch blockers)
D-Line (On Movement) “PPP”:
1. Penetrate
2. Pursue
3. Party at the ball (get to the ball)
Accountability – TEACH WHAT IS EXPECTED of each player, NO EXCUSES (own your
assignments)
Discipline – Correcting mistakes through teachable moments with a focus on the NEXT TIME.
Breakdowns are opportunities to learn. High 5 for mistakes in practice! Keep a teachable environment.
Refrain from running kids for physical mistakes. Don’t default to being punitive or shaming. Go back
to RESONSIBILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, and DISCIPLINE of TECHNIQUE.
Philosophy on winning: Focus on the process and not the outcome
Win every play, win every rep, win every moment, win on and off the field
If you did your very best, then you were successful
Winning is a product of doing the right things
Win games in practice
Coaching style: Know your style and coach within yourself
STRATEGIC
MOTIVATIONAL
FUNDAMENTAL
HYBRID
How to motivate: DIRECTLY: Replace, give instruction, put them back in
INDIRECTLY: Through competition as often as possible. Losers pay or winners gain
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IMPORTANT NOTES:
Know the players spirit – Positive vs. Negative tolerance
Be CLEAR, CONSISTENT and CONSICE with your instruction
CONNECT AND GET BUY IN
USE THEIR NAME
TELL THEM YOU BELIEVE IN THEM
BE HONEST WITH THEM
LOOK THEM IN THE EYE
AFFIRM – Build their confidence through honest affirmation
Goals and Objectives: Facilitate a great football experience to ensure that we are not their last football coach
Clearly communicate coaching responsibilities and performance expectations
Confirm that everyone understands what is expected
Make training and continual learning a top priority
Regularly provide specific performance feedback
Make sure people know how they’re doing
Consistently recognize and reward positive performance
Hold people accountable for negative behavior and performance
Communication: Coaching sets the pace to get the best out of others while giving the best of yourself. -- David
Cottrell
Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely
simple – that's creativity. -- Charles Mingus
Teach them patiently: Tell them, tell them what you told them, ask them what you told them, and
then tell them again, don’t default to coaching effort, get buy in!
The style and tone of your communications are messages in and of themselves. ~Eric Harvey
Coaching Tips:
Things good coaches do:
Keep perspective
Coach with an enthusiastic attitude
Tell them that you believe in them
Coach with positive energy
Be patient, be organized
Balance discipline and fun
Coach every play
Talk to players on their level
Give only one correction at a time
Repetition pays off
Encourage parents to help out
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Things NOT to do:
Don’t lose perspective
Don’t let your assistants or your parents lose perspective
Don’t try to beat the other team but instead try to win every play
Don’t swear
Don’t coach the other team’s players
Don’t make fun of players
Don’t coach your own kid, don’t let your assistant coach his kid
Don’t give up on a kid
Don’t take a close call in your favor
Don’t touch a kid in anger or frustration
Don’t intimidate a kid by yelling at him; take a knee as speak at his level
Don’t take cell calls during practice or games
ORGANIZATION AND PLANNING
Practice Plan The practice plan was designed as a 1 hour set plan for all Rec coaches. The second hour is to
use at your discretion.
This plan is not to be deviated from and everyone will follow. If you choose not to follow this
plan, you risk the possibility of not being a coach the following year.
Practice plan is located on the youth football league website under the coaches tab. Please
download and have a copy with you at practice at all times.
Preparation, tempo, results: Preparation:
Always have a plan
Follow a master schedule for the sake of others including the 1 hour practice plan.
Tempo:
Coach on the run
Keep up a steady pace and minimize standing around
Quick transitions from one drill to another; run from station to station
Build on one technique to the next
Try not to over-coach. Correct 1 thing and then move on.
Challenge practice plan awareness to promote leadership
Results:
Start with the end in mind and communicate what success looks like
Drill technique, explain how the drill translates to on the field success
Challenge your team with their duties and how they won’t be the weak link
Celebrate when things come together; pass out something special
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Practices: Prior to the first game, each team is permitted a total of ten (10) practices with no more than three
practices per week A week is defined as Sunday through Saturday Prior to the first game, practices may be held on Sundays after 1:00 pm Sunday practices ARE allowed after the first game as long as you have 100% consensus of ALL
parents. They must start at 1:00 pm or after. There will be a two-hour time limit for all practices After your first game, you are ONLY allowed 2 practices per week. Locations of practices for each grade are determined by the league in consultation with the SPORTS
office. Locations will be announced after teams are formed.
Rules: Please download the official rules from the youth football website. The board votes on some changes to the
rules more frequently than the manual, therefore, the following sections should be treated as a guideline and not
as the “official” rules. Please go to the coaches tab to download the official rules.
Offensive Alignment: The offensive alignment of the Fishers HSE youth football league will consist of a center, two guards, two
tackles and two ends. The offensive line will be balanced with a maximum split of 2 feet unless the ends are
split wide. The offensive ends may be split or tight with the line remaining balanced. The backfield is
defined as behind and not outside the Offensive Tackles. Running backs must be a minimum of 1 yard off
the line of scrimmage. There are to be no less than two backs in the backfield with the Quarterback counting as
one of the backs. Therefore, you are allowed to have one running back in the backfield, but the formation must
still remain balanced if outside the tackles (i.e. three eligible receivers on the same side of the football is
not allowed.).
Defensive Alignment: The Fishers HSE youth football league will line up in a standard 5-2 or 5-3 defense. A 6-2 defense may be used
for short yardage situations.
Standard 5-2 defense: The Defensive tackles adn nose guard must be in a 3 or 4 point stance. The DT will be
head up over the Offensive Tackles and the Nose will be head up on the Center. The Defensive Ends must line
head up over the TE. If the TE is split out wider than 3 yards, then the defensive end may line up inside the TE.
The Linebackers must line head up on the offensive guards at a minimum of 3 yards off the line of scrimmage.
Cornerbacks must line up outside the defensive end and be a minimum of 3 yards off the line of scrimmage.
The two safeties must line up 6 yards off the line of scrimmage.
Standard 5-3 defense: Defensive tackles and nose guard must be in a 3 or 4 point stance. Nose guard must
align head up over the center. Defensive tackles must align head up over the offensive tackle. Defensive ends
must align head up on the tight end. If the ends are split more than 3 yards, the ends may play inside the
offensive end. Linebackers must line up with the Middle LB directly behind the NT and the two outside LBs
directly behind the Defensive Ends. All three LBs must be 3 yards off the ball. Cornerbacks must line up
outside the defensive end and be 3 yards off the line of scrimmage. One safety must line up 6 yards off the line
of scrimmage.
Standard 6-2 defense: Defensive guards and tackles must be in a 3 or 4 point stance. Defensive guards
must align head up to the offensive guards.Defensive tackles must align head up to the offensive
tackles. Defensive ends must align head up to the tight end. If the ends are split more than 3 yards, the
defensive ends may play inside the offensive end. Linebackers must line up head up to the offensive
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guards and be deeper than the heels of the defensive down lineman. Cornerbacks must line up outside
the defensive end and be 3 yards off the line of scrimmage at all times. Safeties must line up 3 yards
deeper than the linebackers.
Special Teams: As with any football game that is played, special teams will become a vital role in the outcome of the game.
The Fishers HSE youth tackle football league allows kickoffs, Kickoff Returns, punts and field goals at the 4th,
5th, and 6th grade levels. Fig. 3,42 and 5 show the alignment for each. It is important that each coach teaches
the proper running lanes in both kickoffs and punts. Please refer to the rules section for the grade specific rules
for each special team.
Coaching Points:
Kick-Off Team
1. RUN FULL SPEED, speed beats blocks!
2. Run straight ahead for the first 8 to 10 yards then converge on the ball.
3. Keep your head on a swivel, figure out who is trying to block you
4. Stay in your lane; do not run way out to avoid the block. Run right at the guy supposed to
block you to freeze him, then at the last second cut one way or the other. Duck your shoulder
to run through the block.
5. The two gunners go straight to the football (middle player on both sides of kicker).
6. The left five on the coverage team should aim to make the tackle with their inside or right
shoulder.
7. The right five on the coverage team should aim to make the tackle with their inside or left
shoulder.
8. The outside two players have contain, squeeze down from the outside. Do not go past the ball
carrier and do not stay too far behind the rest of the group either.
9. Gang Tackle!
Kick-Off Return
1. Watch for onside kicks.
2. Review front five blocking assignments.
3. The second row sets the wedge on the inside guy closest to the ball.
4. The second row should make sure the ball goes beyond them, set the wedge and then they
block the first opposite color jersey.
5. Deep backs, call it, field the ball, the other player makes sure he fields it.
6. The other deep back then hits the first guy down field in an opposite color jersey.
7. The player that has the ball heads straight up field, make one cut and go. DO NOT dance
around or go sideways, go North/South.
8. Make a big plays
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS
NEW FOR ALL COACHES! Beginning January 2013, S.P.O.R.T.S. is requiring all head and assistant coaches to complete
Concussion Training either through their sport’s coaches meeting (when it is offered) or through the
CDC Online Concussion Course link below which takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The
training course needs to be completed before the first practice. After completion of the online course,
please email your completion certificate to [email protected], fax to 845-5687 or drop off at the
S.P.O.R.T.S. office. Training will need to be completed every three years.
Resource: http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html
THE FACTS ON CONCUSSIONS: A concussion is a brain injury.
All concussions are serious.
Concussions can occur without loss of consciousness.
Concussions can occur in any sport.
Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can help prevent further
injury or even death.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION? Concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury, is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth—causing the brain to bounce around or twist within the skull. This sudden movement of the brain can cause stretching and tearing of brain cells, damaging the cells and creating chemical changes in the brain.
HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE A POSSIBLE CONCUSSION? To help spot a concussion, you should watch for and ask others to report the following two things:
1. A forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head.
2. Any concussion signs or symptoms, such as a change in the athlete’s behavior, thinking, or
physical functioning.
Signs and symptoms of concussion generally show up soon after the injury. But the full effect of the
injury may not be noticeable at first. For example, in the first few minutes the athlete might be slightly
confused or appear a little bit dazed, but an hour later he or she can’t recall coming to the practice or
game. You should repeatedly check for signs of concussion and also tell parents what to watch out for
at home. Any worsening of concussion signs or symptoms indicates a medical emergency.
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Dehydration and youth sports: Curb the risk
If you're sweltering in the stands at a youth sporting event, imagine what it's like for the athletes.
Learn who's at risk of dehydration — and how to prevent it.
By Mayo Clinic staff
Children don't adapt as well as adults do to exercise in hot, humid weather. They produce more heat, sweat less
and may be less likely to drink enough fluids during exercise — all of which increase the risk of dehydration. In
turn, dehydration can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. But you
don't need to worry from the sidelines. Understand how heat-related problems happen and know how to prevent
them.
Who's at risk
Any child who exercises in the heat may be at risk of dehydration. The concern is often greatest for
young athletes who participate in football, soccer, cross-country and other sports that start in late
summer. Your child may be particularly vulnerable to dehydration and other heat-related illnesses
during summer workouts if he or she:
Rarely exercises
Is overweight or obese
Has had a recent illness that caused vomiting or diarrhea
Has had a previous heat-related illness
Football players face special risks in the heat when exercising hard while wearing full protective gear.
Acclimating to the heat
Heat-related problems are most likely within the first few days of practice. That's why it's best to take
it easy at first, gradually increasing the amount of activity — and the amount of protective equipment
— as the days pass. Young athletes may need up to two weeks to safely acclimate to the heat.
During hot and humid conditions, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages coaches to:
Reduce the intensity of physical activity lasting more than 15 minutes
Require young athletes to drink plenty of fluids before practice and during regular beverage
breaks — even if they aren't thirsty
Limit clothing to a single layer of light-colored, lightweight material
Know when to slow down — or call it quits
Sometimes it's simply too hot and muggy to go full throttle on the field. To determine when heat and
humidity make strenuous exercise risky for young athletes, your child's coach may monitor the wet
bulb globe temperature (WBGT) — the standard index of temperature and humidity combined. If the
WBGT is too high, outdoor athletic activities may need to be limited or canceled.
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Spotting dehydration and other heat-related problemsEven mild dehydration can affect your child's
athletic performance and make him or her lethargic and irritable. Left untreated, dehydration increases
the risk of other heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Encourage your child to pay attention to early signs and symptoms of dehydration, including:
Dry or sticky mouth
Thirst
Headache
Dizziness
Cramps
Excessive fatigue
Remind your child that he or she is responsible for reporting these signs and symptoms to the coach
right away. Don't let embarrassment keep your child on the field. If dehydration is detected early,
fluids and rest may be all that's needed. If your child seems confused or loses consciousness, seek
emergency care.
Prevention is key If your child plays sports in hot weather, encourage him or her to drink plenty of fluids before, during
and after practices and games. Teach your child the signs and symptoms of dehydration, as well as the
importance of speaking up if they occur. Involve your child's coach, too. Talk to the coach about
adjusting the intensity of practice depending on the temperature and humidity on the field — and
support the coach's decision to cancel games and practices when it's dangerously hot outside.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dehydration/SM00037
HELMET FITTING INSTRUCTIONS
http://usafootball.com/sites/default/files/Helmet%20Fitting.pdf
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TEAM ADMINISTRATION
Team Administration can be broken down into several different aspects, from communication, to putting
together a team practice plan to interacting with the parents and fans. In this section, we will focus on three (3)
aspects of team administration:
1. Communication – team and parents
2. Organization
3. Assembling a coaching staff
Communication: Your ability to communicate effectively with your players, coaches, parents, officials and fans will go
a long way into determining your success as a coach. It was once said, that the style and tone of your
communications are messages in and of themselves. Effective communication has many forms, both
verbal and non-verbal. In this section we will focus our communication skills with our players, our
coaches and our parents.
Communication with your team: Perspective/Expectation:
As a coach, make sure you have the correct perspective on the game. These are young kids. For
many of them, this will be their first experience with football. Remember, your goal should be that
each one of your kids has a positive football experience and that they can’t wait to come back the
following season.
Set the tone from day one. Have a team meeting to go over goals and objectives, as well as your
expectations for your communication with them (when the coach talks, all eyes on him) and their
communication with you (respect, yes sir, no sir).
Be Positive, encourage and be honest. Tell them what they did well, encourage them to continue to
try and help to correct their performance at each phase of the drill, play etc in a positive manner.
Speak to them on their level. If you are one on one with a player, take a knee and speak to them at
eye level. It will be the little things that make the biggest difference.
Three (3) “C’s”of Effective Communication:
Clear – Organize your thoughts and understand your subject as completely as possible. Do not beat
around the bush trying to make a point. In fact, the simpler, the better.
Concise - Don’t feel that you have to belabor a point in order to get it across. Many times you can
say more with using fewer words.
Consistent – be consistent in your approach. If you are all over the board in your communication,
your kids will have no idea what direction you want them to follow.
Non Verbal Communication:
Just as important as the words we use are the actions that you portray. Non verbal communication is just as
important as verbal communication. Your body language can speak louder than words to a player on your team.
A pat on the back, a quick high five or a fist bump can speak volumes just as much as a stern look.
Communication with the Parents: A coach can really set the tone for the season with his interaction with the parents. A positive interaction with
the parents will go a long way into making for a positive experience for you, your team and the league. As it is
with any relationship, it will be important to set the tone early and to communicate with the parents often. Here
are a couple of key points to put into practice.
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Team Parent:
The most important role as a coach is learning to delegate to others to help out when and where appropriate.
The role of a team parent(s) will be critical to the flow and direction of the team. A team parent will be key,
especially during the first three weeks of the season in helping with any fund raising that may take place, with
the distribution of the uniforms, picture day and any other administrative tasks that need to be accomplished.
Ask for a parent to volunteer to help you out as soon as you have your team assembled. It will go a long way
towards making your life easier.
Communicating soon and often:
Once your season begins, set up a parent meeting at your first practice. This should take about 10 mins and will
allow you to set the tone for the season as well as your expectations. Attached is a copy of an outline for what a
parent meeting might look like.
Parent Meeting Outline:
Introduce yourself, coaching staff and background
Explain goals of the team
Cover methods of communication (emails, etc.) as well as when communication should take place
(outside of practice, 24 hours after a game, etc.)
Discuss conduct of players and coaches
Discuss conduct of parents
Review practice schedule and practice expectations
Cover any house -keeping items (equipment, uniforms, picture day)
Introduce Team parent
Discuss ways Parents can help with the team
Provide time for Q and A
Organization: Whether this is your first season of coaching or your 10
th, you will find the more organized you are the better
your experience will be. Many of the successful coaches in this league are masters of organization. Parents will
be spending a ton of their time in bringing their kids to practice and to games. If they see someone that is
unorganized their assumptions will be that either you don’t care about what you are doing or that you are in over
your head. In this area, perception is reality.
Organizational Ideas:
Be to practice early – allow yourself plenty of time to set up the field for drills, stations and have all
equipment lined out. Ask parents for their help in setting up the field, which is a great way to get them
involved.
Print out your practice plan – have a copy of the practice plan and exactly what you will do and how
much time each drill/station will take. Make sure to give a copy of your practice plan to each coach and
ensure that they have a complete understanding of how you want each drill done.
Extra Equipment and Accessories: Have extra mouthpieces, helmet pads; chin straps and helmet clips
(where applicable). Keep an extra whistle in your bag as well as your first aid kit and a copy of the
rules. Bring these materials with you to all practices and games. You will be thankful you did.
Weekly update: Once a week, send out a note to the parents to let them know how things are going
within the season. Make sure to keep things positive and up-beat. Don’t over communicate as many of
the parents can get buried in e-mails. You want your messages to be timely and relevant. Your weekly
update should include the upcoming practice schedule and game schedule as well as any other important
info you wish to relay.
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Assembling a Coaching Staff: Coaching is one of the greatest experiences that you can be involved with in your son’s life. But, you can’t do it
all alone and for the sake of your sanity, it will be important to enlist the help of others. As a head coach, the
coaching staff that you put together will be your responsibility as you will be held accountable for their actions
during practice and during games. It is important that you enlist assistant coaches that understand your goals
and expectations and who can work together and bring unique strengths to your staff. Avoid the trap of coaches
who only mirror the strengths you bring to the team. The coaches on your staff must all take a similar approach
to coaching, interaction with the players and parents and interactions with one another. You should meet with
your coaching staff on a regular basis (before or after practice) to discuss what’s working, what’s not and how
you will all work to get better.
ADDITIONAL DRILLS BEYOND PRACTICE PLAN
Quarterback and Receiver Drills: Long Toss---start quarterbacks 10 yards apart and have them throw 3 throws from each spot going back
to 30 yards apart
Knee Drill---opposite knee down on the ground with ball on the ground. Bring the ball up above the
ear with point of ball straight back, hold it and throw snapping the hand down to the opposite pinkie toe.
Coaching points: point of ball should be straight back, bent back, follow through down to opposite pinky toe
Feet parallel---stand with feet shoulder width apart. Start ball out in front and bring it up like knee drill
but don’t pause at the top. Snapping off the throw should have QB fall forward
Coaching points: point of ball straight back, non shoulder to target, throwing hand to opposite hip, should be
falling forward when finished
Bounce to throw---QB starts opposite his set up with feet slightly chopping. When receiver claps first
time the QB gets in to the throwing position and on the second clap, the QB should step and throw. Feet
should never stop with the chopping.
Coaching points: shoulder should be to target, point of ball straight back, follow through, and natural stride.
DON’T OVERSTRIDE WHEN STEPPING
Mini drop---start with ball in throwing pocket and take a mini three step drop. Shoulder to target, two
hands on the ball, step and throw. Snap off the ball.
Roll out---QB should start under center with a receiver five yards downfield in the flat. QB should
mock the snap get ball to stomach, fake a handoff and roll out throwing the man in the flat. On rollout,
QB should get chin to opposite shoulder and continue downhill at the target while snapping off the
throw. The QB should be throwing off his opposite foot and continuing at the receiver even after he has
thrown the ball. Do Not Allow the QB to stop and throw.
Coaching points: non-throwing shoulder should be to target, following through on delivery and run through
target (wr)
Ball Drills---each WR has a ball about 10 seconds each:
around the back
around each leg
figure eight
robber drill
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Focus the Wide Receivers on eye contact with the ball and getting use to the feel of the ball.
Catching drills---every catch tuck the ball away
WR on back on the ground and thrower above (clock drill)
Throw 3-5 throws over the head, out to the right, under the belt out to the left and right at the
person
Hands out in front, shoulders off the ground, under the belt pinkies together, above the waist
first fingers together forming a triangle, right at you same as above the waist
stand up 5 yards apart and do the same thing as on ground
one handed catch---one line to the right/left of you. The wide receivers will run out
from you throw the ball at different trajectories making each wide receiver catch it with
one hand
then make them catch it in the bucket with hands and elbows together
Mirror dodge/score drill
Michigan drill
Running Backs: *Backs must be physical and fearless.
*Ball security is the number one responsibility and priority.
*Must run with a forward lean (chin over toes).
*Feet should never stop.
*Yards after contact is a must.
*Run through arm tackles, make people miss, and finish runs.
*Backs must be able to pass block, run block, run routes, and catch the ball.
Run Blocking (Drive): *Dip: lower hips, bend knees, flat back, head up, feet never stop
*Cock: 1st step 4” power step, arms & fists cocked simult. w/1
st step.
*Tuck: accelerate through defender, 4” 2nd
step.
*Punch: punch occurs simult. w/2nd
step, hit w/triangle, thumbs up.
*Speed feet: feet kept wide, short choppy steps.
Fit/Punch: This drill only involves the hands. Partner up the backs and have the back already in the dip, cock,
tuck position. On command, the back will punch using proper technique. It should be a short, powerful punch. Fit/Explode: This drill involves the hands and feet. Partner up the backs and have the back already in the dip
position. On command, the back will go through the cock, tuck and punch phase of blocking. Again, the steps
should be short and the punch powerful. Fit & Drive: Start the back in the fit position with his partner. Hands should be on partner’s chest with his
facemask on partners breastplate. Knees bent, flat back. On command, the back should “duckwalk” his partner
until the whistle. Finish the block. Attack Block: Separate the partners 3-5 yards apart. The back will now get in a 3 point stance and attack the
defender putting it all together. Drive the defender until the whistle and always finish the block by bench
pressing the defender away and stay low. Attack block w/movement: Partners are 5 yards apart. The defender will come downhill at a 45 degree angle
at coach’s decision. The back will start in a 3 point stance and on command will attack the defender and react to
the direction of the defender. Use same techniques and make sure to keep head in front.
Tough man: Put two backs in a 3 point stance facing each other with a one yard distance between them. On
command, the two backs are trying to drive the other one and gain control of the other one. Backs are fighting
for inside hand position and the toughest, strongest man will win.
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Pass Blocking: *Go meet the defender – don’t wait. (meet as close to LOS as possible)
*Keep feet moving (buzzing) & stay low
*Punch and recoil-don’t lunge or get top heavy
*Always stay between the defender and the QB.
*Mirror dodge with the defender
Mirror dodge: with and without hands. Partner up the backs and have one guy be the back and the other be the
defender. This drill involves staying low with feet buzzing. The defender moves laterally back and forth
several times. The back should be mirroring his movement and maintain proper technique. First time through
the back only uses his feet (hands behind back) and second time through the back can now use his feet and
hands.
Pass block/fit position: Position the back next to the defender in a good fit position (knees bent, hands on
defenders chest, etc) On command, the defender will attempt to get around the back using quick moves trying
to get to the QB (coach). The back should keep feet buzzing and use proper technique described in the coaching
points above. The back should keep the defender away from the QB for approx. 4 seconds.
Pass block/normal alignment: Position the back in a normal alignment (5 yds away from LOS). This time the
back will have to attack the defender and try to meet him as close to LOS as possible and pass pro for approx. 4
seconds. Have the defender wait one second before rushing the QB (coach).
Blitz reads: Have two defenders this time (DE and LB). The back now must attack defenders inside out. The
back will attack LOS focusing on LB. If LB does not come, the back will shuffle outside to pass pro DE. The
coach should mix it up as to who he blitzes. If DE comes, then must wait one second.
RB drills/footwork: Ball Security: Have backs get in lines of 3 and spread out. All backs need a football. Backs should have 4
points of pressure on the football at all times. (bicep, ribcage, forearm, and eagle claw) Squeeze the football and
don’t swing it when you run. The phrase for holding the football is “high and tight.” The point of the football
should be up near neck. On command, the coach will have backs chop feet while holding the football properly.
Do this holding the ball in both hands. After a couple times, now have the backs switch the ball back and forth.
Backs switch the ball over the top and the ball should never leave contact with the body.
Line drills: This is a series of moves the backs will make that should be used to help avoid/run through
defenders. Keep the backs in there lines of 3. You will need 15 yds and cones set up every 5 yds. The backs
will perform the moves every 5 yds. The six moves are placing hand down, spinning with hand down, hit and
spin standing up, lift drill, studder step, and power cuts. See diagram below
Handoff Drill: This drill teaches/reinforces the backs the proper way to take a
handoff. When taking a handoff, the inside arm is up at the clavicle and the other arm is at the naval. Backs
should have eyes forward looking at the defense and don’t reach for the ball. The QB will place the ball in the
large pocket. See diagram below
Cones/Bag Drill: This is a footwork drill in which the backs can improve quickness and footwork. Put out 5 or
6 cones or bags evenly spaced. The backs (with football in hand and holding it properly), will go through a
series of footwork drills. Ex: high knees with one foot in each hole, high knees with two feet in each hole,
slide/jump cut in between each hole, fast feet between each hole, lateral shuffle, etc. You can also put a
defender at the end of the cones/bags and have the backs work on lift or spin. See diagram below
Rope Maze: This is another footwork drill that can improve quickness and footwork. The backs (with football
in hand and holding it properly), will go through a series of footwork drills. Ex: every hole, every other hole,
crossover, diagonal hop, shuffle, lateral plant, etc.
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Combo Drill: This is a footwork drill that incorporates lateral cone hops (quick feet), jump cut, and sprint cut.
The back will do lateral cone hops keeping shoulders square, then will sprint to the middle of the bag and jump
cut, then accelerate to full speed towards cone, and finally sprint cut when the back reaches the cone. See
diagram below
Figure 8: This is a footwork drill that involves quick feet, changing direction, acceleration, and ball handling.
Set up 4 cones evenly spaced in about a 5 yd area. The back will run a figure 8 and switch the ball halfway
through the drill. Set up 2 stations of this and have two backs race against each other. This drill will show
which back has the best feet. Do this in both directions. See the diagram below
Purdue Drill: This is a footwork drill that involves quick feet, changing direction, acceleration, and ball
handling. Set up 4 cones evenly spaced in about a 5 yd area. The back will 1.shuffle, touch the top of each cone
and switch ball, 2. shuffle back and touch the top of each cone, 3. sprint, square cut around cone, switch ball, 4.
spin with hand down around cone, 5. sprint, square cut around cone and score. Backs should do this in both
directions. See diagram below
Blaster: This drill teaches the backs how to run through arm tackles, keep pad level down, head up, bull neck,
ball security (cover with two hands) and accelerate through defenders. The blaster is a piece of equipment that
is on the practice field. The backs start from a distance of approximately 5 yds away with a ball in their hands.
The coach stands on the opposite side of the blaster facing the backs. When the backs come through the blaster
using the proper technique, the coach should step to one side or the other. The back will cut opposite from the
direction that the coach steps. See diagram below.
Blast Drill: This drill teaches the backs how to run through arm tackles, keep pad level down, head up, bull
neck, ball security (cover with two hands) and accelerate through defenders. You will need two bag holders and
a line of backs with footballs in their hands. The backs are 5 yds from the two bag holders (which are standing
shoulder to shoulder holding their bags). The bag holders are trying to prevent the ball carrier from splitting
them. The back, using proper technique, will try to split the two defenders. If he is unable to split them, he will
spin tightly and quickly to the side of least resistance and then accelerate for 5 more yards. See diagram below
Receiving Drills: Perfect Catch: The backs will start in a line behind one another. The coach will start 5-10 yds in front of them.
The back will run about ¾ speed straight down the line and catch the ball from the coach using proper catching
techniques (use hands, look the ball all the way in, catch and tuck it away, etc). The coach can throw a good
ball the first time through, high ball next, low ball next, bad ball, etc. Just mix things up. See diagram below
Holler Ball: The backs are 10 yds away from the coach. The first back will come out and turn their back to the
coach. On command, the coach will say “set” and the back starts chopping his feet, the coach says “go” and the
back will quickly turn around, focus on the ball, and catch the ball using proper technique. The coach should
throw the ball right after saying “go.” This drill works on reacting to the ball and making the catch. See
diagram below.
Over the shoulder: The backs will be in a line right next to the coach. With backs running about ¾ speed, the
coach will throw the ball over the right shoulder, then left shoulder, and then right over their head. Again, the
backs will need to concentrate and focus on the ball all the way in. This teaches the backs how to look over the
correct shoulder and catching the ball from different angles. See diagram below.
Top of the Route: This receiving drill, the backs will start at the top or end of the route. This allows the backs
to get more repetitions at catching because the back does not have to run the entire route. Whether running flat
routes, swing routes, option routes, etc, the back will start at the end of the route. The coach again will say,
“set” and the back chops his feet and “go” and the back will flip their head around and finish the route while
catching the ball. The back should catch the ball, tuck it away, and run north/south up the field.
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Complete Route: In this drill, the back would run the entire route from his position in the backfield. Whether
running flat routes, swing routes, option routes, etc, the back would run the complete route from start to finish.
Again, the back should catch the ball, tuck it away, and run north/south up the field.
O-Line Drills: FIT DRILL PROGRESSION: (start with bags)
1. Fit
2. Fit and Walk
3. Fit and Drive
4. Mule
a. Coaching points- Head up, Bite heart out, Hands inside (squeeze elbows), wide base (wedge
steps)
b. SOONER – WIDER-QUICKER REACH BLOCK PROGRESSION (INSIDE HAND)
1. Reach and Run – Quick bucket step and run- move around cone and don’t hit w/ trail foot)
Fit to Fit Bags (Hips and Hands)
2. Double Reach Drill (High Intensity!.)
a. Face mask to face mask –down the line on the whistle
3. Backside –
a. Cut (reach)
b. Back Block (reach)
c. Flipper – reach (veer/base Tuff)
DOUBLE TEAM 1. Fit –n- drive (Walk)
a. hands and hips
b. Fire to fit
i. Emphasize 4 hands on DLineman-MOVEMENT BEFORE COMBO OFF!
ii. Fire to flipper –reach down- outside man flipper- man to 2nd
level
c. Full speed Double team
H.I. TEAM BLOCKING/TACKLING DRILLS 3 to Make 10
X
X
X
C
BALL
CARRIE
R
20
Make a 10 yard box -you will have 3 OL and 3 DL the coach will give run direction and snap count from
behind DL so they can’t see it – the offense has 3 downs to make 10 yards. Make it game like, should be
full speed – use whistle to stop drill mark the ball and go to for 3 plays. All –one on one blocking. You can
do this with all positions
4 on 4 Blocking drill
coach
This drill is to work on Reach Block again set up looks like 3 to make 10 but now 4 on 4. coach will give
direction and snap count. The runner picks up ball and must run down the sideline –sweep like play keep
cones wide so you have some room (diagram above is too tight) – we go 3 downs per group and don’t move
the ball like we do on 3 to make 10. Aim for the outside number and run!!!
ADDITIONAL DRILLS 1. Tackling for O-Line
a. 1 man sled (great for hip roll and leg drive)
b. Angle tackle
c. Oklahoma/score (get off the ground fast and speed feet High Intensity)
d. Triple Butt (utilize tires good contact and leg drive)
2. Team period (emphasize blocking)
a. Reach drill (toss play)
i. Get hat on hat and block full offense vs. defense working on Reach technique only – set
your defense look up and run reach right and left out of the formations you want
ii. Don’t go long 5 min! start a period with this for tempo
3. 11 on 11 pass
a. 7 on 7 but full line and full defense.
b. All passing game good for QB’s and everyone to work just passing game with a full defense.
Control what you want to see –I.e. blitz, coverage
c. Again 7 min period and move on
d. Good time for offense to run TRAP and DRAW(defense usually running up field and get good
success)
4. Conditioning – Team
a. Team 40’s 3 groups – give time to meet 21 sec. give them some rest time but it should be while
the other groups are running – we don’t do a lot
b. Perfect plays (5 yards then run 35)
i. Up to 3 groups running plays – one after the other
ii. Emphasize long count
BALL
CARRIE
R
X
X
X
X
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c. Sideline to hash –Team (Big guys, Backers, WR.. split them up by position)
d. Sideline to 2nd
hash
e. Cross fields
f. Gassers (across field and back)
*Make conditioning count – compete, set a time, give them a number and keep it short – we stop
conditioning weekly 2 DAYS before games because we want fresh legs on game day.
DB Fundamentals & Drills: *In the secondary, things are always tough. Therefore, we want “tough guys” playing these positions.
*DB’s have to be able to tackle, play the man in their zone, and play the ball.
*Everyday in practice should include footwork, tackling, & ball/reaction drills.
*Our theme as DB’s is “Read, React, and Attack!” React to what you read and then go attack, don’t guess.
Stance: We want a narrow base, toe to instep relationship. Corners with outside foot up & foot slightly pointed
in (pigeon toed). Safeties can play with a more parallel stance and ripper play with inside foot up in cover 3.
All DB’s should have a bend in their knees (comfortable athletic position) with hands in a relaxed position
hanging in front.
Footwork: DB’s must be able to backpedal, break on a ball, turn & run.
Retreat drill: This drill allows you to teach the fundamentals of backpedaling. 1st make sure they are in the
proper stance. Push off of the front foot to begin the retreat. DB should –keep their feet under them and close to
the ground at all times in order to react quickly out of the retreat. –stay low the entire retreat. –keep your chin
over your toes and hammer your arms. Retreat for 10 yards and focus on proper technique and smoothness,
rather than on speed.
Shuffle drill: This drill works on feet, reaction, and attacking. The DB’s will break on 4 different routes- hitch,
out, post/flag, & vertical. Have the first 3 or 4 db’s step out 5 yds. They will 1st all get in the proper stance.
The coach will then have them backpedal until he breaks them on whatever route is determined. Don’t throw a
ball. You will get more reps. Mix up the distance you have them backpedal between 5-12 yards. You don’t
have to do all of the routes each time you do this drill. Hitch-plant and break straight downhill to the coach,
Out-plant w/outside foot and break downhill at 45 degrees towards the LOS, post/flag-pop the hips & throw the
elbow (the elbow on the side you are breaking to) and break backward at 45 degrees-explode for three hard
steps, vertical-pop the hips & throw the elbow and attack directly behind you in a straight line and attack for 3
hard steps.
2 Turn: This drill works on hips, feet, not drifting out of your zone, turning and running or planting and
breaking downhill. Try to do this drill on lines to ensure the db is not drifting during the drill. Get 2 or 3 db’s
out first. The coach will start them in a backpedal for 5-10 yds. The coach will then point them in a direction to
pop their hips. The db will use a crossover step to do this and continue looking back at the coach. The coach
will then point them in the other direction to pop their hips so the db will now be facing the opposite direction.
The db should still be on that line and always have their eyes on the coach. Finally the coach will either have
them plant and break downhill or pop his head and body all the way around and explode for 3 hard steps.
3 Touch: This drill works on good backpedaling and breaking on the ball. Have a line of db’s with the 1st guy
out. He will backpedal for 5 yds and then break downhill at 45 degrees to the next cone, and then do the same
again on the next two cones. The next guy in line should go after the db in front of him breaks at 45 degrees for
the 1st time. Each db should be saying “pass” on the backpedal and “ball” on the break. This just emphasizes
the importance of communication. Each db goes twice, there and back. The next time each db will now pop
their hips and run (instead of backpedal) for 5 yds and then plant and break. This works on the crossover
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running that a db needs to do when his cushion is broken by the receiver. Again, go there and back. The db’s
should -keep their feet under them at all times, -plant on their outside foot on the break, -explode downhill, and
-use arms.
Ball/Reaction Drills: Now a ball will be used so the db can still work on footwork, reacting, breaking on a
ball, and now finishing the drill with a “bingo.”
Hard Ball: There will be a line of db’s in front of the coach about 10-15 yds away. 1st db will start in a good
stance and the coach will start him backpedaling. The coach will then have the db break straight downhill
towards him and the coach will throw the ball. Next time, coach will have the db do the same thing but this time
break downhill 45 degrees pushing off of their outside foot. Do this on both sides. Next time the coach will
have the player backpedal and then pop his hips and attack the ball at 45 degrees back. Do this on both sides.
The db -should always attack the ball at its highest point, -look the ball all the way in, and -explode towards the
end zone after they catch it yelling “bingo” to let everyone know to block for them.
Weave drill: This drill works on hips, covering your zone, & crossover step.
The first db’s out (usually 3 of them) will begin with a good stance. The coach will then send them in a short
backpedal. The coach will push the ball in the direction that he wants the group to open to. The group will pop
their hips open at 45 degrees with a crossover step covering ground. The coach will turn the same group two
more times and then throw a ball in which the db is to break on the ball attacking it at its highest point and yell
“bingo” after the pick. Go through this part of the drill twice for all groups. Then, the third time through you
will have the dbs use a centerfield turn on the third turn. This is the quickest way to recover back across your
zone. Make sure the db -throws the elbow in the direction he wants to open, -keep eyes on the qb the whole
time, and -cover the field in depth and width.
Range drill: This is good for cover 2 safeties but is also good for cover 4 corners. This drill teaches how to
play two guys in your zone and to stay deeper than the deepest in your zone. This drill is set up with 3 lines of
dbs and the coach is the qb. The middle line of db’s are the ones working this technique and the outside lines
are the receivers. One db from the middle line comes out and starts in a good stance about 5-7 yds from the
coach. The receivers run vertical routes and the coach will throw to one of the two receivers as the db must
react and make a play on the ball. The db must backpedal maintaining his cushion. Once one receiver breaks
his cushion, the db should pop his hips and open to him (get out of your backpedal and run). Keep your eyes on
the qb and stay in the middle of the two receivers. If you drift to one side, the qb will have an open throw to the
other receiver. Read the qb and react and make a play on the ball. If you have opened to one receiver and the
qb opens and throws to the other receiver, use the centerfield turn.
Beat Deep: This drill works on turning the hips and catching up to a man that has beat you. Pair up the dbs
with one being on offense and one on defense. They will switch the next time through. The defensive man is
put in a situation that he will get beat quickly because both players are on the LOS facing each other heel to
heel. The offense runs a vertical route and the db must turn his hips towards the offense and sprint to catch up.
The db should never look back until he is close enough to get into his hip pocket. You must catch up to the man
before you ever worry about the ball. Once close enough, attack the receiver’s hands when the receiver puts out
their hands and try to get a knock down. Try to punch the ball loose or strip down on the ball.
Tackling: DB’s should tackle everyday. They must be physical and be BIG HITTERS!! The terms we use are
DIP (sink your hips), COCK (bring arms back), TUCK (roll hips), PUNCH (shoot the hands), and SPEED
FEET
Form Tackle: This is a good drill to work on the fundamentals of tackling. You will work 3 different angles:
straight at the defense, 45 degrees to the right and then to the left. This is a ½ speed drill to really work on the
proper tackling technique and everyone stays up, no one goes to the ground. The proper technique for the db is
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–hit chest to chest, -hit on the rise, -slide head to the ball, -use arms to club and wrap up the man, -hands should
grab jersey, -keep feet moving on contact.
Sideline Tackle: This drill works on closing the gap between you and the ball carrier, using an inside out angle
forcing the ball carrier to run laterally, and not allowing cutback. Start with the ball carrier and db facing each
other from 10 yds. The ball carrier will start running straight at the db with the db closing the gap between him
and the ball carrier. He will do this by staying low and buzzing feet under control. When they reach the cone
that was set at 5 yds, the ball carrier can choose to cut right or left towards the cones that were placed there. The
db -must react to his cut, -stay on the back hip so not to allow cutback, and -explode through the ball carrier.
Next time through have the ball carrier cut the other direction. This drill can be run at ¾ speed
Open Field: This drill is an intense tackling drill that teaches the db to attack the ball carrier (don’t wait), take a
side away from the ball carrier (pursuit or sideline), and realize that we are the last line of defense. Make a 10
by 10 box using cones on the goal line with the db and the ball carrier lying on their backs with the top of the
helmets facing each other. On the “hit” command both guys pop up with the ball carrier trying to score past the
goal line and the db trying to stop him. The db should –attack the ball carrier, -take a side away, and –make the
play. The offense can make any move he wants in between the cones.
Getting off Blocks: DB’s must be able to get off of blocks to make tackles. They must attack the blocker and
get the blocker off balance before making the play.
Mirror Dodge: This drill is good because it is a good offensive drill at the same time it is a good defensive
drill. It teaches the db’s how to get inside hand position, punch the receiver to get them off balance, and then
separate and shed by dip and rip or being more physical. It is good to use actual receivers to go against. Put two
cones 5 yds apart and a third cone 5 yds behind right between the other two. The db will start on the third cone
and the receiver will start in between the two cones. On the “hit” command, the db is trying to get past the two
cones by using the techniques mentioned above and the receiver is trying to prevent that using his techniques.
After the db has past the 2 cones he will then jog around back to his cone and they will go more times before
they are finished. It is a good competitive, physical drill that works both sides of the ball.
Michigan drill: This drill is very similar to mirror dodge except now it is more game like because there is a
ball carrier. Set up 4 cones in a box 10 yds wide and 5 yds deep. The db is aligned 5 yds off of the receiver and
will take two backpedal steps before attacking the receiver. On the “hit” command, a coach will toss the ball to
a back running an outside run towards the 4 cones. The receiver will attempt to stalk block the db. The db
should again attack the receiver (after his 2 backpedal steps), get inside hand position, punch the receiver,
separate and shed, and now finish the drill by fitting up on the ball carrier and speeding his feet. This again
should be a highly competitive and physical drill.
Jams: If you are going to play cover 2, you must work with corners on getting their hands on the receivers and
re-routing them.
Shotgun jams: This drill works on moving the feet and jamming the receiver. Line up 4 receivers in a vertical
line. They can run any release (inside or outside) staying in the 10 by 10 box. The coach will send each
receiver on his command, giving the db time to get ready for the next receiver. All 4 receivers will go before
rotating in a new db. –The feet are the most important. They should always be moving. –Jam with both hands
(thumbs up), -don’t overextend or lunge on a jam (short, quick punches), -keep feet under you at all times and
don’t get too wide of a base, -keep shoulder square to the LOS, -stay under control. We just want to disrupt the
receiver’s route and are not trying to knock down the receiver.
Run Rotations/Pass Drops: As a DB, before the snap on every play, you need to know if you are a run player
or a pass player. If you are a run player, come up now on run. If you are a pass player, you must stay back until
the ball crosses the LOS.
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*Run rotations: In cover 2, 3, or 4 we will always have to 2 run players and 2 pass players. In cover 2-
corners are run players and safeties are pass players. In cover 3-ripper and weak side corner are run players and
strong side corner and free safety are pass players. In cover 4-safeties are run players and corners are pass
players. The terms that we use for run at you is primary (aim 1 and 1 off OLB), contain (check #1 for HB pass,
then turn ball carrier inside), force (work inside out to play ball carrier when he is forced to cutback), and
backside (last line of defense).
*Pass Drops: Cover 3 pass drops are corners and free safety are responsible for 1/3 of the field each.
They should stay deeper than the deepest in their zone. Ripper has curl to flat. Cover 2 pass drops are that the
safeties are responsible for ½ of the field each. They should stay deeper than the deepest in their half of the
field. Corners Funnel/Jam #1 and read #2. They do this from 5 yds depth and are responsible for the flats.
Cover 4 pass drops are that the corners have ½ of the field each and should stay deeper than the deepest in their
zone. Safeties are responsible for the seam 1st, curl 2
nd, and flat 3
rd.
Combo Routes: You can do this 2 receivers against 1 DB or 2 on 2. Either way it is combination routes run by
2 receivers forcing the db’s to understand responsibilities for the different route combinations. Examples would
be 2 verticals, slant-flat, wheel, smash route, etc. The coach would say the coverage to be in and the db’s would
have to communicate the different route combo’s and be in the correct position to stop the play. As a coach, you
can work this drill with no ball first just to get more reps. The key is understanding what coverage you are in
and communicating the combo route to one another. This is a great game like drill.
Pre-Practice Drills: The pre-practice is a 10-minute period each day for warm up and to begin practice. I use
two different pre-practice plans to keep things a little different each day. I alternate these plans every other day.
Day 1: Agilities (high knees, heel kicks, shuffle, and fast feet)
Dirt drills (shuffle and ¼ eagles)
Scoop and Score (coach rolls the ball on the ground and the player will scoop up the ball off to
the side and go score). Convert turnovers into TD’s
Hard Ball (break straight up)
Day 2: Agilities (high knees, heel kicks, shuffle, and fast feet)
Dirt Drills (Seat rolls and belly slams)
Strip Drill (DB’s need a partner and a ball. Offensive guy carries the ball loosely in outside arm
and runs ½ speed. DB comes from behind and either punches the ball out or violently rips the ball out
of the arm of the offense coming over the top)
Hard Ball (break downhill at 45 degrees on both sides)