An open-field tackle can provide difficulty for defensive players, as the ball carrier often has a lot of room to make a move and gain yardage. While you should attempt to use form-tackling techniques, open-field tackling also places emphasis on slowing the runner down so your teammates can help. A single tackler often is the last line of defense in the open field, however, so learning the proper open field tackling technique is essential for all players.
On-field Awareness
Maintain awareness of the other players on the field and force the ball carrier toward your teammates. If you line up as an outside corner in a cover three zone, for example, you do not have any help to the outside. Therefore, you must force the ball carrier to the inside. In doing so, try an inside shoulder tackle, since this puts your body between the ball carrier and the outside portion of the field. As you approach the ball carrier, angle him toward your help rather than come at him head-on, as this prevents him from having room to elude you to the outside.
Approaching the Ball Carrier
When you get within four or five yards of the ball carrier, get your body under control by slowing down from an all-out sprint, dropping your hips, widening your feet and taking shorter strides. Take choppy steps, as this allows you to react quickly to the move that your opponent makes. Getting low puts you in position to make the tackle by giving you better balance and creating leverage.
Making Contact
When you make contact with the ball carrier, have your eyes on his hips, which enables you to stay focused if he makes a cut. Mirror the player with the ball with your feet parallel to him. Avoid crossing your feet as you mirror him, however, as this can cause you to fall. Stay lower than the ball carrier, try to put your face mask into the ball, hit him with your shoulder and explode with your hips on impact.
Finishing the Tackle
Once you wrap your opponent up, drive him backward and do not let go until you hear a whistle. Grab his jersey to make sure he cannot escape. If the ball carrier does not go down from the initial contact, keep driving him until he does. You should not attempt to make a big solo hit on an open-field tackle; you want to slow the ball carrier down enough for your teammates to arrive. Attempting a big hit by yourself often lets the ball carrier bounce off you and gain more yards.
References
- "Tackling Fundamentals and Techniques"; Kevin Bullis; 2000
- "Coaching Football Technical and Tactical Skills"; American Sport Education Program; 2006
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