Speed to the Ball: A Linebacker Drill for 5A Programs
This summer, linebacker coaches at 5A programs like the Rocky Mountain Grizzlies can improve their players' reaction time and tackling ability with the 'Speed to the Ball' drill. Set up cones in a zig-zag pattern, 5 yards apart. Divide linebackers into pairs, with one player as the ball carrier and the other as the tackler. The ball carrier starts at the first cone, and the tackler starts 5 yards behind. The ball carrier weaves through the cones, and the tackler must react quickly to the ball carrier's movement and make a tackle. Perform 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 30-second rest between sets. Coaching cues include 'eyes on the ball' and 'stay low.' This drill translates to game performance by improving linebackers' ability to read the play and make quick decisions, ultimately leading to more tackles and turnovers.