Linebacker Pre-Snap Checklist
How to anticipate the play
Have you ever heard the term paralysis by analysis?
It’s when someone tries to process so much information, all at once, that they just freeze.
Linebackers must avoid this at all costs.
So how can a Linebacker anticipate a play without being overloaded with information?
Here are some thoughts.
Scouting Reports
The scouting software we have these days is awesome.
I love running reports and finding tendencies.
But there comes a point when it’s just too much information to give our players.
Sure, the opponent might have a 54% chance of RUNNING over PASSING if they line up on the left hash and it’s raining outside and the wind is blowing to the North.
But does that really matter?
We want our Linebackers to play fast.
You can’t do that if you’re thinking too much.
It helps to focus on a couple key data points.
To me, these are the big three.
Personnel
Is there an extra Fullback on the field?
Extra Receivers?
This is a great starting point.
Substitutions happen early, way before the ball is snapped. It’s a simple thing to look for.
Teach the Linebackers what a particular personnel package means for a particular opponent.
They only run their bread-and-butter play when #44 is on the field.
That’s a great, usable piece of information.
Formation
How many Receivers are on each side of the Formation?
What’s the Backfield Set?
This is another key piece of information that Linebackers should consider before the snap.
It will likely lead to some sort of tendency that can be used to anticipate the play.
Situation
This is the final component of a pre-snap checklist.
And also the most important one.
A 1st and 10 play in the first quarter is very different than a 2nd a 12 play in the fourth quarter when you’re winning by 21 points.
And different situations mean different things versus different opponents.
Elite Linebackers play the situation.
Final Thoughts
Of course, you can add to this list as you see fit.
Perhaps an opponent has a massive tendency with a certain type of Motion that you just can’t ignore.
By all means, use it.
Just be careful not to overload your Linebackers with too many fancy stats.
The best Linebackers are able to cut loose and play fast.
All the best,
Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx
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