In this video, you will see a great variety in the 5 linebacker tackling drills--some chaotic like a game, some to teach game-like reactions, and some to develop fundamental techniques. If you aren't using these already, you'll definitely want to add them to your practice scripts!
The coach in the video is Grant Caserta. Grant is the Linebackers Coach at Ferris State University in Michigan. He has several online clinics available on demand on Glazier Drive. This video comes from his presentation on: Ferris Tackling Evaluations & Drill Work
The drills are:
6 Cone Box: The defenders are forced to start at different angles to the ball carrier. The drill forces the linebacker to work back into leverage. Variation: Start the players jogging in a tight circle. It adds a level of chaos and decision making.
2 on 2 Leverage Drill: A blocker is included in the drill. No one knows who will get the ball until the coach throws it. One Linebacker needs to get leverage on the ball. The other needs to shed the blocker. The drill teaches the concept that you don't have to make every tackle on every play, but you do have to establish your leverage.
3 Way Drop and Leverage: The drill allows the coach to check each player's tackling approach footwork.
Swoop Footwork Drill: Teaches linebacker to react when the running back stutters his feet to stutter their feet to prepare for the ball carrier to change directions. The second purpose of the drill is to teach tacklers to have their near foot up as they approach the ball carrier.
Engaged Tackling Drill: Works the linebacker on the skill of tackling a ball carrier while engaged with a blocker. These tackles happen on the line of scrimmage or in the box.
