Harlon Barnett, Northwestern, Asst Head Coach/Safeties Coach
Full video on Glazier Drive: 2 Tackling Drills Your DBs NEED to Master
This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.
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MICHIGAN STATE TACKLING DRILLS
This presentation covers two key tackling drills emphasizing proper technique and game execution.
BUDDY TACKLE DRILL
Setup:
- Two pop-up dummies, quarterback, one receiver, two defenders
- QB pitches to receiver, defenders run around dummies for two-on-one tackle
Core Technique – Same Foot, Same Shoulder:
- Left defender: left foot, left shoulder
- Right defender: right foot, right shoulder
- Maintain pad level throughout
Execution Goals:
- Drive ball carrier backward toward quarterback
- Pick him up and drive through contact
- Force QB to move out of way
Key Coaching Points:
- Run Through Contact: Never stop your feet
- Use Buddy Leverage: Work together as tandem
- Stay Violent and Physical: Deliver flush contact
- Maintain Leverage: Better to miss with leverage than lose positioning
CIRCLE CHASE DRILL (SIDELINE TACKLE)
Setup:
- QB with ball, receiver around pop-up, two defenders (one chasing, one tackling)
- Simulates sideline pursuit situation
Execution Sequence:
- Chasing defender lets receiver catch first
- Then attacks ball for strip attempt
- Tackling defender comes tight inside-out
- Use sideline as extra defender
Tackling Technique:
- Long Stride: Burst to close distance
- Short Stride: Controlled approach
- Flat Step: Plant and tackle
- Right foot, right shoulder when forcing sideline
Critical Points:
- Come tight around bag, not wide
- Chasing defender focuses on ball disruption
- Tackling defender uses proper pursuit angle
- “Greatest defender is the sideline – never misses”
PHILOSOPHY: “Drill should show up in the game” – practice with game intensity and proper technique always.