How To Coach Undersized Linebackers

Try these 3 things

Great Linebackers come in all shapes and sizes.

It would be great if all our players were big and fast and smart.

But that’s not always the case.

Here are 3 tips for coaching undersized Linebackers.

Use Speed (and Leverage)

Self awareness is underrated.

Linebackers should always play to their strengths.

Typically, players who lack in size make up for it with SPEED.

Undersized Linebackers should slip blocks whenever possible.

And when the time comes to take on an opponent, they must use great LEVERAGE.

Low pads always win.

Speed and leverage can be huge assets for undersized Linebackers.

As long as they know how to use them.

Use Scheme

Your systems should match the skills of your players.

A little bit of stunting and movement up front can go a long way in keeping your Linebackers clean.

Also, if your Linebackers are undersized, you might want to SPILL run plays as opposed to BOXING them.

This will provide more opportunities for them to chase things down, as opposed to taking things head on.

There are many ways to get things done on the football field.

Make sure your answers match the skills — and the size — of your players.

Use Smarts

When a Linebacker gets a great read and wins the race to the point of attack, their size becomes less important.

Undersized Linebackers must be fanatical with their film study and playbook knowledge.

Great anticipation, great reads, and a great understanding of the position will allow any Linebacker to make plays.

Regardless of their size.

Final Thoughts

When you’re coaching an undersized Linebacker you want to highlight the positives.

Play to their strengths and help them find success.

And, as always, all roads lead back to fundamentals.

Help your players perform by developing a system of Linebacker development.

THE LB LAB can help with this.

Learn more by clicking here.

All the best,

Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx

Take a DEEP DIVE into Linebacker fundamentals by clicking here.