Mastering the hunting phase of tackling is critical for defensive success, yet it's where most players develop bad habits that lead to missed tackles and big plays.
This team drill specifically targets leverage mistakes during the hunting phase, giving your defenders the confidence and technique they need to consistently make clean, effective tackles in open space.
JJ Clark is currently a Defensive Assistant with the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Clark was the DC at UTEP when the video was filmed.
His entire presentation Tackling Progression: Approach & Tracking is available on Glazier Drive.
This video presents a specialized team drill focusing on the "hunting phase" of tackling, emphasizing proper leverage to reduce missed tackles. Key points include:
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Terminology Matters: The coach emphasizes using precise language - "hunting" the football rather than just "pursuing" or "running to" the ball, which instills proper intent and mindset.
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Definition of Hunting: Defined as "straining to the football, placing the body under severe demand with the intent to physically change the shape of the ball carrier and take the football back."
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Leverage Importance: An NFL study found 77% of missed tackles result from leverage mistakes, making it the most critical component of successful tackling.
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Year-Round Practice: Proper leverage can be practiced without contact, making it trainable year-round without pads.
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Half-Line Vice Pursuit Drill: The featured drill requires:
- A "rabbit" (ball carrier) running up the field
- Safety as force player (outside-in leverage)
- Corner as secondary support after retreating 12 yards
- Remaining defenders (overhang, D-line, linebackers) pursuing inside-out, tracking the near hip
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Real-Game Application: The coach shows game footage demonstrating how the drill translates directly to game situations, with defenders maintaining proper leverage angles leading to successful tackles.
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Core Philosophy: "If your drills aren't showing up on tape, then you need to find new drills."
The video emphasizes that leverage might be the most important component of tackling technique and demonstrates a practical drill for improving this critical skill.
