The Big 3 Of Linebacker Play: Eyes, Feet, Hands

The order is important

When I’m coaching up a Linebacker, it often comes down to one of 3 things:

Eyes, Feet, or Hands.

Let’s get right into it.

Eyes

A Linebacker must SEE it first.

Then go.

It starts with the READ, of course.

But even after the read, this continues throughout the entire play.

Certain run reads, for example, tell the Linebacker to immediately look front side for a Down Block.

And once a Linebacker reads pass, they must know where their eyes go next.

The eyes lead the way.

Feet

Great Linebackers are great movers.

As a Linebacker’s eyes progress through the play, the feet must follow.

This means using EFFICIENT movements.

The feet are also key when it comes to beating blocks or making tackles.

Very often, a missed play is the result of poor footwork.

Hands

Just because the hands come last, doesn’t mean they’re not important.

Great Linebackers use their hands like weapons.

A heavy strike is key for defeating blocks.

And to make a sure tackle, you need to wrap up the ball carrier.

Elite Linebackers have violent hands.

The Order

Each component requires great technique.

But very often, the coaching point has to do with the ORDER of what’s being used.

If a Linebacker tries to use their feet before their eyes, their angles suffer.

If they use their hands before their feet, they end up lunging at blockers.

Or reaching for arm tackles.

Eyes.

Feet.

Hands.

In that order.

That’s the recipe for success.

Final Thoughts

Of course, there are other body parts to coach.

The hips.

The shoulders.

Etc.

But a lot of coaching points come down to the Big 3.

A Linebacker who uses them properly — and in the proper order — is bound to make plays.

All the best,

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PS:

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Linebacker Toolbox 2.0: An e-book and clinic video series that will provide you with a solid foundation of Linebacker knowledge.

Linebacker Drills 2.0: A massive Drill Library containing over 65 Linebacker drills, complete with video commentary.

Pick up both of these resources today and take a DEEP DIVE into Linebacker play.

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