The ONE thing every Linebacker must master
It's probably not what you think
Linebackers do everything.
But there’s ONE concept they must master above everything else.
Can you guess what it is?
It’s not movement skills.
Those are important, sure.
But WHY are movement skills important?
(That’s a hint.)
Is it block destruction?
Another important skill.
But WHY is block destruction important?
(Another hint.)
Surely, then, it’s tackling?
Not quite.
But it has to do with HOW a Linebacker makes great tackles.
Ok, enough suspense.
Ready?
It’s LEVERAGE.
Leverage is the most important concept for a Linebacker because it’s the hidden component behind all the other skills.
A Linebacker needs great movement skills so they can keep their leverage.
A Linebacker needs to shed blocks so they can keep their leverage.
A Linebacker can only make great tackles if they use great leverage.
LEVERAGE.
Leverage on a ball carrier.
Leverage on a gap.
Leverage on a run fit.
Front hip leverage.
Back hip leverage.
Inside-out leverage.
Outside-in leverage.
A Linebacker who uses great LEVERAGE becomes a monster on the field.
It’s the one skill every Linebacker must master.
PS:
I’ve put together three Linebacker resources you might enjoy.
Linebacker Toolbox 2.0: An e-book and clinic video series that provides a solid foundation of Linebacker knowledge.
Linebacker Drills 2.0: A massive Drill Library containing over 65 Linebacker drills, complete with video commentary.
Linebacker Movements: An e-book and clinic video series that takes a deep dive into Linebacker movement skills.
You can also bundle all three to create the ultimate Linebacker resource.
All the best,
Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx