How to Do a Running Drill for Defensive Backs in Football

Defensive backs need the speed of a wide receiver and the hitting ability of a linebacker. One of the most difficult skills that a defensive back has to master is the ability to break to the football on a running play after defending a receiver who fakes a pass route. A good defender can help support the run effectively by improving his skills through running drills.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what front and coverage the defense aligns in primarily. Incorporate the spacing and alignment for the defensive backs so that they know the proper angles to attack the ball carrier in all of the drills. Make sure the drills replicate the action the players can expect to see during a game.

    • 2

      Assess the athletic ability of the defensive backs. The better athletes can play tighter coverage and the lesser athletes need to back away from the offensive players. By understanding the abilities of the defensive backs, you can decide how best to teach the defensive backs to break to the football during a running play.

    • 3

      Choose the best backpedal and break technique. Some coaches prefer to use the T-step while others use the foot chop. Utilize both techniques to redirect and break to the football, but keep in mind that some athletes are better at one than the other. Teach both techniques and have the individual player use the technique that allows him to support against the run the fastest.

    • 4

      Simulate the backpedal and break into the practice drills. Set two cones 5 yards on either side of the coach. Have the defensive back stand in front of the coach and perform a quality backpedal. Make sure the defensive back stays in a straight line. On a command, the defensive back performs the T-step or foot chop technique and breaks to the cone that the coach directs.

    • 5

      Focus on the footwork of the break technique and the acceleration out of the cut. At the breaking point of the t-step, the back foot looks like the crossing of the letter T. This foot plant stops the momentum of the defensive back and allows him to redirect to the football. With the foot chop technique, the player quickly chops his feet at the top of his break and then accelerates to the football. Start slow with both of these techniques and work up to full speed when the player masters the proper break technique.

    • 6

      Incorporate the tackle after the break technique progression. In this version of the drill, add a ball carrier behind the coach. After the defensive back backpedals several yards, the ball carrier breaks on an angle to the right or left. The defensive back executes his break technique and attacks the ball carrier. Stress proper tackling technique once the defensive back makes contact.