Any team that is going to be strong on the defensive side of the football is going to get good play from its defensive tackles. The first priority the defensive tackles have is to serve as the anchors of the defense. They are going to hold their ground and they are not going to let the opposing center and guards push them around. They are going to try to stop the running game by dominating the blockers and not allowing the running backs to gain yardage.
Step 1
Get as low as possible before the snap of the ball. In order to have a chance to win the battle, the defensive tackles are going to want to get lower than the blockers on the opposite side of the line of scrimmage. In addition to making sure your shoulder pads are lower than his, you have to charge into him at full speed to collapse the running game.
Step 2
Push the offensive lineman aside and find the running back. After you stop the offensive line from opening a hole, you have to find the running back and tackle him. You will have an excellent chance to make the tackle if your opponent is trying to run between the tackles. If they are trying to run to the outside, you can chase him down from behind if you get through the blockers.
Step 3
Bull your way into the backfield on a passing play and attempt to prevent the quarterback from stepping up into the pocket and throwing comfortably. The quarterback wants to throw without getting hit. If you can defeat the blocker, you can get your hands up to deflect the pass, obscure the quarterback's vision or sack him if you can get to him before he lets go of the ball.
Step 4
Use your leg strength and quickness to dive on any footballs that hit the ground. You have teammates who are also trying to create havoc with the offense. They may force fumbles and you are in a perfect position to recover if the fumbles occur behind the line of scrimmage. Fall on the ball and cover it.
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