Tackling well is essential for any team that wants to play winning football. Blocking and tackling are the two building blocks of the game. Many players dream of making the hard-hitting tackle that separates their opponent from the football. However, players who sacrifice excellent tackling form to throw their body at their opponent may end up costing their team a big play.
Proper Tackling Position
Drive your shoulder into your opponent's midsection. Keep your eyes on your opponent's belt line. He will attempt to fake you out of position with foot fakes, shoulder moves and head feints, but it is almost impossible for a ball carrier move his hips. Wrap your arms around your opponent's midsection and keep driving with your feet until you can deposit him on the ground.
Leverage
Smaller men can bring down bigger men by gaining a leverage advantage. If you can get lower than your opponent, you have a chance to knock him off balance and bring him to the ground even if he is bigger than you are. Football coaches always tell their player that the "low man wins" the battle. Get your shoulder pads lower than your opponent's when you make contact and drive with your feet to bring him down.
Shoulder Tackle
The biggest hits often take place after a receiver has caught the ball in the middle of the field. Unless the receiver catches the ball perfectly in stride and is two yards open, chances are a defensive back is bearing in on him with a hard shoulder tackle. With this technique, the defensive player will attack the offensive player at full speed by driving his shoulder into offensive player's chest or back. This is a stunning blow that often sends the offensive player to the ground and can separate him from the ball. However, this type of tackle is risky. If the defensive player does not bring the offensive player down, he may get away and run for a big play.
Expert Advice
Ronnie Lott is a Hall of Fame defensive back who was a dominating hitter and tackler while playing for the 49ers, Raiders and Jets from 1981 through 1994. His hitting and tackling ability were a vital part of the 49ers Super Bowl teams throughout the 1980s. Lott said his emphasis was always to bring the ball carrier down effectively. "You have to know that you are going to take care of your responsibility," Lott said. "If there is any question about the tackle, you must wrap up and bring him down. However, if the receiver is vulnerable, you can bring that shoulder and separate him from the ball, creating a turnover for your team."
Danger
Players can never lead with their helmets when tackling. A player who drives with his helmet is guilty of a spearing penalty. More important, he can severely injure himself or his opponent with that kind of tackle. The NFL has banned leading with the helmet and other levels of the game have followed suit.
References
- "Play Football the NFL Way"; Tom Bass; 1991
- "The Thinking Man's Guide to Pro Football"; Paul Zimmerman; 1984
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