Linebacker Pass Drops

Backpedal or Flip the Hips?

Linebackers love stopping the run.

But they must also be great at defending the pass.

When it comes to Zone Coverages, there are two main types of movement a Linebacker can use.

Let’s break down each one.

The Backpedal

A simple way to get into a Pass Drop is to backpedal.

Pros:

• Allows for great vision of the QB and the Box.

• Can react downhill to Draws and underneath throws.

Cons:

• Slower type of movement

• Linebacker must work hard to gain appropriate depth

Flipping the Hips

Another option is to have the Linebacker “flip” (or open) their hips.

Pros:

• Faster type of movement

• Allows Linebacker to get eyes to Receiver (pattern read)

Cons:

• Can be more difficult to transition downhill

• Must keep head on a swivel to see QB and Box

Here’s video of a drill I use to work on Flipping the Hips:

Final Thoughts

I don’t believe there’s a “right” or “wrong” answer when it comes to which type of movement to use.

As I’ve mentioned above, both have pros and cons.

Most Linebackers use a combination of the two movements in order to properly execute their pass coverage assignments.

All the best,

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