Alley Tackle Breakdown: Techniques and Drills for Tackling in Space - Marcus Woodson

Arkansas Co-DC/DB Coach Marcus Woodson illustrates the angle tackle in space through detailed drill demonstrations, game footage, and coaching commentary, providing coaches with actionable insights for improving defensive performance in open-field tackling scenarios.

The video (Tackling in Space: Alley Tackle) is one of the 10 lessons from his Marcus Woodson DB System.

 

Key Coaching Insights

The video provides a comprehensive breakdown of the alley tackle technique, focusing on critical defensive fundamentals for football coaches. Key coaching points include:

  1. Tackling Technique Fundamentals
    • Maintain three essential body bends: ankles, knees, and waist
    • Keep eyes below the ball carrier's eyes
    • Punch through and explode with hips on contact
    • Track the near hip of the ball carrier

  2. Critical Defensive Principles
    • Emphasize fanatical effort and player-to-player accountability
    • Maintain leverage and eliminate cutback opportunities
    • Prioritize balance and body control
    • Use cleats in the grass for better positioning

  3. Practical Drill Demonstrations
    • PVC pipe drill for improving balance and body control
    • Pursuit drills simulating game-like scenarios
    • Practice techniques for different tackle situations (wrap and roll, post safety approaches)

  4. Team Defense Philosophy
    • Encourage players to assume teammates might miss tackles
    • Emphasize team support and collective effort
    • Focus on getting multiple defenders to the ball
    • Celebrate defensive successes together

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