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Defensive End Drill: 'Rush and Recover' for 4A Programs
📍 Dowling Catholic Maroons·Friday, July 24, 2026·FridayNightPulse Insider
Defensive ends at 4A programs like Dowling Catholic Maroons need to be explosive off the line and agile in pursuit. The 'Rush and Recover' drill targets these skills. Set up cones 10 yards apart in a zigzag pattern. Have DEs start at the first cone, then rush to the second, planting their outside foot and rotating their body to maintain speed. After reaching the second cone, they must quickly recover to the first cone, mimicking a tackle. Repeat for 3 sets of 10 reps. Coaches should emphasize proper footwork and body rotation. This drill translates to game performance by improving DEs' ability to quickly change direction and pursue ball carriers. It also enhances their ability to recover and set up for the next play.