Create RELENTLESS Pass Rushers: 6 Must-Have D-Line Drills - Chuka Ndulue

As a D-Line coach, you need to help every pass rusher have a primary move, a counter, and a great get-off.

In the video below, Colorado State D-Line Coach Chuka Ndulue, shows practice film and game application of six drills that he uses with his offensive linemen.

His entire presentation on D-Line Pass Rush Fundamentals & Drills is posted on Glazier Drive.

1. The Step Through Drill - Focuses on teaching players to bend at the top of their rush, which is crucial for reaching quarterbacks with a launch point at 6.5-7 yards. The technique emphasizes toe positioning ("wherever you're going, that's where your toe is pointing") and turning toward the quarterback.

2. Three-Step Approach - Players should reach their offensive lineman in two steps, with the third step beginning to point toward the quarterback. This creates the proper angle for pass rushing.

3. Upper Body Rotation - The instructor stresses the importance of rotating shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage to negate offensive linemen's hand placement (at "10 and 2").

4. College vs. NFL Differences - The coach notes that NFL quarterbacks typically stay in the pocket more while college quarterbacks tend to run, requiring different rush techniques and angles.

5. Hand Combat Techniques - Rather than club moves, the coach prefers forearm swipes for greater surface area when engaging with offensive linemen's hands ("when you beat the hands, you beat the man").

6. Flexibility Assessment - The drills help identify which players have the hip flexibility for finesse moves versus those who might be better suited for power rushing techniques.