DC's Playbook: 5 Group Defensive Drills Top Programs Use Daily

Glazier Football • February 2, 2025

Every successful defense is built on a foundation of consistent, well-executed team drills that develop both individual skills and group cohesion.

In this video, Kasey Smith, Defensive Coordinator, Gainesville HS, GA shares five essential defensive drills that top programs rely on daily to build championship-caliber defenses – drills that have proven successful for a championship high school program.

Coach Smith's entire presentation can be viewed at: Team/Group Drills Defensive Coordinators Should Implement on Glazier Drive.

Summary of the defensive drills and coaching points covered in the video:

Read and React "Dent Technique" Drill

Focuses on defensive triangle reads (backside guard to near back)
Emphasizes proper eye discipline ("see a little, see a lot")
Teaches proper leverage and hand placement
Stresses creating knockback while maintaining inside leverage

Group Half Line Drill

Works on gap schemes with live offensive looks
Teaches backers to recognize pull calls and proper fitting
Uses film study from college/NFL to demonstrate techniques
Emphasizes leverage player responsibilities

Pod Drills

Two-on-one work focusing on specific techniques
Practices against various blocking schemes (doubles, scoops, pin and pulls)
Emphasizes quality repetitions against strong competition

Five Technique Work

Focuses on "heavy technique" principles
Teaches zone defense principles with emphasis on eye discipline
Works on chase techniques and proper gap control

Shell Drill

Full-team drill incorporating multiple offensive looks
Practices against runs, passes, screens, and RPOs
Works on proper defensive fits and angles
Runs at a fast pace with regular rotation of units

The video emphasizes game-like situations, proper technique, and the importance of repetition with quality opponents. Coach Smith stresses the importance of fundamentals while maintaining a fast practice tempo to maximize learning opportunities.