LB 101 (Part 1): Stance and First Step

Mar 26, 2025

Great Linebackers use great fundamentals.

These are the building blocks of elite Linebacker play.

Welcome to LB 101.

In this 7-Part series I will introduce the basics.

We’ll start with stance and first step.

Let’s get right into it.

Concepts

When I think about stance, I think about balance.

Linebackers must be ready to move in any direction at the snap.

I also think about comfort.

Linebackers should be able to live in their stance.

And finally, I think about vision.

Linebackers must be able to see their keys in their stance.

If a Linebacker’s stance provides balance, comfort, and vision, they’re probably using the correct stance.

A few specifics.

Feet should be about shoulder width apart.

Maybe a little wider.

If the feet get too wide, though, it can impact a Linebacker’s first step.

Weight should be slightly forward.

They should have a good bend at the ankles, knees, and waist.

This will create a good low pad level.

Hands can be up and ready, at the sides, or lightly resting on the thighs.

But these are just starting points.

Any of these specifics can be adjusted in the name of comfort, balance, or vision.

Those are the key concepts.

A Linebacker’s first step will vary based on their system.

Some coaches believe in a “Read Step”.

This is an automatic first step with a pre-determined foot.

There is value in a Read Step, though I don’t personally use one.

The other option is to have the Linebacker READ the play and then REACT with their first step.

Again, those reactions will vary from program to program.

Through all this variation, I will offer one concrete thought:

Whatever your system, Linebackers should work to eliminate any false steps.

This will help them gain ground and get a good start to the play.

The stance and first step provide the foundation.

This is a key starting point when it comes to good Linebacker play.

Click here for Part 2 of the LB 101 Series, which is all about Linebacker Movement.

Take care,

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