How to Teach Interception Drills

Have you ever heard the expression, "A strong defense is the best offense?" It is a diplomatic and war strategy developed centuries ago, but it is true in football today. Taking the ball away from an opposing offense sets your team up for victory. The drills below have helped thousands of players become better pass defenders. Defensive backs and linebackers often have pass coverage responsibility. Once the quarterback or another offensive player, throws the ball, everyone becomes a receiver. These skills will help you be in the right place, ready to grab the ball for your team.

Things You'll Need

  • Football field
  • Football players
  • Footballs
  • Cones or hash marks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Line up players in two lines facing each other for a ball drill. Each set of players has a ball. One column of players is at a 90-degree angle from the other. The other group throws the ball at its partner at half speed and shouts ball when the ball is halfway toward the other player. The receiver then turns, sees the ball and catches it. Repeat this for a few minutes every day.

    • 2

      Line up players one after the other about three yards apart for a tip drill. A coach throws a ball in the direction of the first player, who tips it behind him to the second player. The second player makes the catch and shouts "bingo." Repeat for several minutes.

    • 3

      Line up the defense against a quarterback and center. When the quarterback begins his throwing motion, the underneath zone players read the quarterback's eyes, stop their drop and prepare to move to the ball. The player nearest the ball calls out, "I have it" over and over again and focuses on making the interception. Once the interception is made, he will shout "bingo" and advance.

    • 4

      Throw a ball at different angles to give safeties and corners opportunities to catch passes. The defensive backs should be backpedaling in reaction to your movements.