- Home
- Sports and Activities
- Coaching and Officiating
- American Football
- Complete Linebacking
Learn from a legend. Lou Tepper, coach to more than 20 NFL linebackers, including 3 Butkus Award winners, has created the most in-depth book ever written on football’s most important defensive position.
In Complete Linebacking, players and coaches receive a clinic on fundamentals, presnap keys, and techniques used by inside and outside linebackers in specific defenses, including the 32, 31, 52, 51, and 33. Coverage includes 4 key linebacker diagnostic tests, 44 drills to improve linebacking skills, presnap communication, relaying defense signals from the sideline, and special practice and game grading systems to evaluate and maximize performance.
The authoritative guide on playing the position, Complete Linebacking is a must-have for any linebacker, head coach, or defensive coach in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving game.
Part I Linebacker Profile
Chapter 1. Physical Qualities
Chapter 2. Linebacker Intangibles
Part II Fundamentals
Chapter 3. Hit and Shed
Chapter 4. Pursuit
Chapter 5. Tackling
Chapter 6. Zone Coverage Skills
Chapter 7. Man Coverage Skills
Part III Presnap Activity
Chapter 8. Seconds Signaling the Defense
Chapter 9. Seconds Presnap Information
Part IV Techniques
Chapter 10. Linebacker Technique Terminology
Chapter 11. 32 Technique
Chapter 12. 31 Technique
Chapter 13. 51 and 52 Techniques
Chapter 14. Hawk Technique
Chapter 15. Middle Linebacker Technique
Chapter 16. 5 Techniques
Chapter 17. 7 and 9 Techniques
Chapter 18. 3-3 Gold Medal Defense
Chapter 19. 3-3 Techniques
Part V Teaching and Learning
Chapter 20. Teaching Style
Chapter 21. Practice Organization
Chapter 22. Linebacker Grading
Lou Tepper brings more than 45 years of experience as a college football coach to Complete Linebacking. Since 2012, Tepper has served as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Buffalo. As head coach, Tepper has won over 100 games, with stints at the University of Illinois (1991-96), Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (2000-05), and Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2006-10).
He took the Illini to three bowl games, including a win in the 1994 Liberty Bowl. At Edinboro, Tepper led his teams to three Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) titles and two NCAA Division II playoff appearances. He was twice named PSAC West Coach of the Year. At Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he led the Crimson Hawks to an NCAA playoff appearance and was named PSAC West Coach of the Year for the third time.
In compiling an impressive 101-75-2 overall record as head coach, Tepper is well known for his genius on the defensive side of the ball. Tepper held the positions of defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Louisiana State University (1997-99); defensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Illinois (1988-91); linebackers coach, defensive coordinator, and assistant head coach at the University of Colorado (1983-87); and linebackers coach at Virginia Tech (1978-82).
As linebackers coach, Tepper mentored three Butkus Award winners—Colorado’s Alfred Williams and Illinois’ Dana Howard and Kevin Hardy—and developed more than 20 NFL linebackers, including Simeon Rice and John Holecek. In recognition of his accomplishments and decade of service to the school, the University of Illinois endowed the Lou Tepper Football Scholarship to benefit linebackers in 2006.
“Lou Tepper’s knowledge and ability to teach and coach the linebacker position is OUTSTANDING! He is considered one of the best at any level!”
Sean Payton-- Head Coach New Orleans Saints
“This is perhaps the most comprehensive position book ever written, and Lou Tepper is one of the best to have ever coached the position.”
Grant Teaff-- Executive Director American Football Coaches Association
“Lou Tepper is one of the best teachers and defensive minds I’ve ever worked with. His coaching point of ‘see a little, see a lot, see a lot, see a little’ defines the details and focus in his coaching. Winning is in Lou Tepper’s blood. As you turn each page you will become closer to helping young men reach their goals. Enjoy learning linebacker play from one of the finest in football.”
Jeff Quinn-- Head Football Coach State University of New York at Buffalo
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Four Hit-and-Shed Drills for Developing a Championship Base
A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers.
Hit-and-Shed Drills
Here are a sampling of drills to get proper repetitions for each of the coaching points discussed in chapter 1. A correct base will yield tremendous results, but to achieve it you must drill it so often that it becomes the only comfortable reaction to blockers. Linebackers must become like cats and always land with a correct base.
Use your imagination to create other meaningful drills to improve the areas in which your team needs work.
Air Drill
This is the first drill we use after a linebacker understands the three possible bases. The purpose is to get a high number of repetitions with a correct base. It takes little effort and produces repetitions quickly. We often see our linebackers doing this drill on their own before practice.
Put all your linebackers on a line facing you. On the command "ready hit" each steps forward with his front foot. Check to see initially that their weight is over the lead foot. Remind them that the step is a short one, so they can get good hip roll. Also check that they point the toe at the target. Once they have the concepts, get a ton of reps with the right foot and then the left by having them return to their original stance immediately after the "ready hit" command (see figure 3.9).
Air drill. On "ready hit" all Bs set their right-footed base repeatedly.
Shuffle Set Drill
This is another high-repetition drill without contact that can be done with or without pads. It introduces movements while setting a base. Simply have the linebackers align on the sideline every 5 yards all facing the same direction. On command have them shuffle down their line (see figure 3.10). When they hear "left" or "right," they should establish a base with the assigned foot. Then they push off that base and continue to shuffle, usually to the near hash, and set their base against the air at least four to six times.
The shuffle is discussed with pursuit in chapter 4. This drill ties that movement in a high-contact area to a perfect base. Stress that the linebacker's base should be short and firm with weight over the lead (front) foot. Also focus on pushing off the lead foot as the key to separation from the blocker.
Shuffle set drill. The B1 line shuffles and sets a right-footed base on command from the coach until reaching the hash. B2 and B3 lines follow from the hash back to the sideline setting footed bases.
Sled, One-Step Drill
This drill provides limited contact one step away from a perfect base. After your players establish the correct compact base, you can emphasize hip roll.
Any sled will do, but we prefer a stationary seven-man sled. Draw five 1-yard lines in front of and parallel to the sled. Seven players align one step (usually 1 yard) from contact, each shading a pad with his lead foot aligned in the middle of the pad.
On a "ready hit" command each of the seven linebackers steps with his lead foot and lightly touches the pad with his contact surface. The emphasis is always on foot placement first. Get the desired base and all else will fall into place. Practice a right-footed base and the next time up a left-footed one. Again, you can do many repetitions in a short time.
After a few times through without contact, have them explode with their hips off that base. Players should feel the power surge as the sled rocks upward off the ground (see figure 3.11).
Seven-man sled, one-step drill. Bs are setting their right-footed bases here.
Sled Approach Drill
Again, any sled will work, but a stationary seven-man sled allows more players to drill. Draw lines on the field so players know their depths.
Back up the linebackers at various depths so that on "ready hit" they can approach and set their bases on the designated pads. Now the athlete gets to work on his particular approach. Some will skip or hop to set their bases. That's fine as long as they plant the front foot before they contact the pad. It should be bang, bang. First the foot hits the ground, and then the player makes contact with the pad. If the player makes contact with the pad first, the front foot is in the air on contact, resulting in the dreaded pancake base.
This is another drill individual athletes can do in prepractice. It gives them great confidence in their approach to setting a base (see figure 3.12).
Seven-man sled approach drill. Bs are setting right-footed bases here.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Signaling Calls to the Defense
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game.
Since writing the first edition of Complete Linebacking in 1997, the biggest change in football occurred with the transition from the 25-second clock to the 40-second clock. In 1997 offenses and defenses generally huddled unless in 2-minute situations. Today defenses rarely can huddle, and in 2013 our team faced only one offense who did.
For players and staff, signaling calls to the defense can be some of the most anxious and exciting moments in the game. Coaches and players must exchange information quickly and precisely. The communication must be clear. One inaccurate word can change the entire concept of the original call. The quicker the information is signaled, the more confident the unit will be and the more time they will have to study the offense at the line of scrimmage.
Signals
Our staff introduces our defensive signals on the first day of practice. It is a language of its own that must become second nature. Time is so precious on game day that all must feel comfortable with the signal system. We use our signals on every snap of inside drills, 7-on-7, and all-team periods at every practice session throughout the year.
As our scheme unfolds, we gesture the base calls frequently. We give those repeated calls multiple signals. For example, a common front, stunt, or coverage may have three different hand motions for a given opponent. A blitz, if decoded, could be attacked effectively by the opposing offense. Even though we may man blitz only five times in a game, we use multiple signals to hinder the offense from stealing them. Last season one opponent had two graduate assistants assigned to our signals to decipher them!
Alfred Williams played as a true freshman as our rush linebacker. He was not a powerful run player early on, but he was an immediate-impact pass rusher. Alfred and Simeon Rice were similar. Alfred won the 1990 Butkus Award and became All-Pro after being drafted in the first round.
Courtesy of University of Colorado Athletics
Back in the days of the 25-second clock, a defensive coach had the luxury of waiting until after the offensive signal was given, and it was rare the defensive signal could be used in time to help the offense. Now with the 40-second clock, a stolen signal can be used to easily change the offensive call. If the defense doesn't get the signal in quickly and the offense is in an up-tempo mode, that defense is put at a real disadvantage.
Choose your communication system carefully. Hand signals and wristbands are common, and each has their advantages. Just make sure the calls are received clearly and on time.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Linebacker Technique
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques.
A linebacker or coach should be able to recognize styles of play similar to his own. To accomplish this task we need a common language to describe the techniques. We use numbers for techniques in which linebackers play unprotected over blockers at the line of scrimmage. We use names for techniques in which a linebacker is protected by a fellow defender from the potential blocker directly over him.
Numbered techniques have two digits when the linebacker plays off the line of scrimmage. The first digit refers to his frontside responsibility (see figure 10.1).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483077_ebook_Main.jpg
Gaps are numbered for frontside responsibilities.
A linebacker off the line of scrimmage has a double-digit technique beginning with a 3 if he is responsible for the frontside guard-tackle gap or a 5 if accountable for the tackle-end gap.
His second digit has to do with his backside movement. When the linebacker is required to "fast flow," or run, on action away from him, he is given the second digit of 1. Usually a fast-flow linebacker must fill an unattended backside gap as in figure 10.2.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483078_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 31 technique in a two-gap responsibility.
The 31 technique linebacker has the 3 gap with flow to him and the away 1 gap with flow away.
When the linebacker's backside obligation is to shuffle with no particular gap responsibility away from him, he is a single-gap player. His backside digit, in our system, is a 2. Figure 10.3 shows a 32 technique player. Other defenders are responsible for all backside gaps.
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483079_ebook_Main.jpg
Linebacker B2 with 32 technique in a single-gap responsibility.
Numbered techniques with single digits refer to outside linebackers on the line of scrimmage who are liable for that gap only, on flow to or flow away (see figure 10.4).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483080_ebook_Main.jpg
Outside linebacker technique numbers with single digits.
An outside linebacker could be responsible on the line of scrimmage for the 5 gap (tackle - tight end gap), the 7 gap (referred to as the alley), or contain (referred to as a 9 technique).
We use names for linebacker techniques that provide some protection for the linebacker. Figure 10.5 shows a nest technique. We call it a nest because the linebacker sits in a protected cradle that can be designed for weaker or younger players (see figure 10.5).
http://www.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/DAM/125/E6103_483081_ebook_Main.jpg
Nest technique protects B1 from the guard and tackle initially.
Learn more about Complete Linebacking, Second Edition.
Related Books
