DB Tackling Blueprint: Safe, Effective, and Game-Changing (Coug, Roll, & Profile) - Josh Christian-Young

Josh Christian-Young, DB Coach, Houston, shows multiple examples from both rugby (showing the same techniques without helmets) and the team's spring practices to illustrate each tackling method, emphasizing player safety while maintaining tackling effectiveness.

You can check out his entire Glazier Drive presentation on their Tackling Techniques on Glazier Drive.

1. Coug Tackle

• Primary tackle used by DBs and linebackers
• Shoulder-leverage contact at ball carrier's thighs
• Key technique: "eyes through thighs" or "cheek to cheek"
• Wrap, squeeze, and "drive for five" if necessary
• Requires close proximity for powerful contact
• Uses "same foot, same shoulder" positioning

2. Roll Tackle

• Same initial technique as the Coug tackle
• Used when momentum requires rolling to the ground
• Not a planned technique but a reaction to the play
• Sometimes called a "gator roll"
• Especially common in kicking game situations
• Still maintains "eyes with thighs, cheek to cheek, wrap, squeeze"

3. Profile Tackle

• Used more in the box by D-line and linebackers
• Contact made at ball carrier's pecs (higher than Coug tackle)
• Same leverage principles: wrap, squeeze, drive for five
• Often used when disengaging from blocks