Unlocking Defensive End Dominance: The 'Shed and Chase' Drill
For defensive ends at Division 2 programs like Detroit King Crusaders, developing the ability to shed blocks and chase down ball carriers is crucial. To improve this skill, coaches can implement the 'Shed and Chase' drill. Set up three cones in a row, 5 yards apart. Defensive ends start at the first cone, with a blocker at the second cone. On the whistle, the defensive end must shed the blocker and chase the ball carrier (a teammate running through the third cone). Perform 3 sets of 10 reps, with 30 seconds rest between sets. Coaching cues include: 'Keep your head up,' 'Stay low and explosive,' and 'Chase the ball, not the blocker.' This drill translates to game performance by improving the defensive end's ability to quickly shed blocks and pursue the ball carrier, increasing their overall effectiveness on the field.