How To Force A Fumble In Football

Forcing a turnover on defense always has huge implications on the football field. Defensive players want to stop the opposing offense from moving the ball and scoring. Often the best way to do this is to take the ball away. Forcing a fumble is a way to give your team the ball and help seize control of the game. Many coaches urge their players to go after the ball when tackling.

Step 1

Drive your helmet directly at the ball when you prepare to tackle the opposing team's ball carrier. You should not use your helmet as an implement to help you make the tackle. It can lead to injuries for both you and the player you are tackling. You should try to drive your shoulder into his midsection to stop him in in his tracks and bring him down to the ground. Your head will go to the side and if you can place your helmet directly on the ball, there is a good chance to drive the ball out of the ball carrier's possession and create a fumble.

Step 2

Punch the ball as you go in for a tackle. If you are chasing the runner down from behind, you should have a clear view of the ball. Time your hit so that you can drive your fist through the ball just as the ball carrier is swinging his arm back during the running process. If you make contact with a hard punch in the center of the football, it will often go flying out of the ball-carrier's possession and give your team a chance to recover.

Step 3

Wrap your right arm around the quarterback's midsection when you are going to sack him. As you gain control of the quarterback, take your left arm and try to rake the ball out of the quarterback's possession with a hard, downward pulling motion. This will allow the ball to come free in the backfield. This play is called the sack and strip. If you have a teammate who is close to the quarterback, he may be able to pick up the ball on the hop and take it in for a defensive touchdown

Step 4

Hold the ball carrier up for a fraction of a second when you are preparing to make a tackle. Instead of taking him down to the ground the instant you gain control, you may be able to force a fumble or help a teammate force a fumble by holding the ball carrier up for a short time. When you stop the ball carrier in his tracks, a teammate can come by with a hard shot and force the ball out of his possession or you can wrestle the ball out of his grasp with a well-placed rip move with your hand.