How to Make a Hard Hit in Football

Tackling is an important skill in the game of football that should be understood and practiced by all players. A tackle is used to stop a player on the opposite team from advancing the ball. A hard tackle refers to solid contact between two players that results in an immediate stopping of an offensive player's forward progress. Hard tackles begin with basic tackling skills that are properly executed.

Things You'll Need

  • Helmet
  • Shoulder pads
  • Mouthpiece
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on shoulder pads, a helmet and wear a mouthpiece for protection before practicing a tackle or playing in a game. Wear other protective equipment such as thigh, knee and hip pads, and football cleats.

    • 2

      Locate the opposing player with the ball. Move into position and square your shoulders to the opposing player before making contact.

    • 3

      Keep your eyes and head up. Never put your head down or lead with your head when making a tackle to avoid potential head, neck or spinal injuries.

    • 4

      Continue moving your feet while closing the distance between yourself and the opposing player. Do not stop your feet. Keep your feet moving so you have momentum as you make the tackle, or the ball carrier might wind up making a harder hit on you.

    • 5

      Set your hips down slightly just before you contact the opposing player. Line up your head and helmet with the outside shoulder of the opposing player to gain good body position for the tackle and prevent potentially dangerous helmet-to-helmet contact. Keep your feet moving and drive your shoulder pads into the opposing player.

    • 6

      Bring your arms up and around the body of the player as you raise your hips. Drive the player back by continuing to move your feet. Take the opposing player to the ground to complete the tackle and make a hard hit.