Summer Shred: Exeter Blue Hawks Linebacker Drill
The Exeter Blue Hawks are gearing up for the 2026 season with a focus on speed, agility, and tackling prowess. To help their linebackers dominate on the field, the coaching staff has developed a drill that targets the key skills needed to excel in this position. The 'Shuttle Tackle Drill' is a high-intensity workout that simulates the quick changes of direction and rapid-fire tackles that linebackers face in a game. The drill consists of 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 30-second rest between sets. Players start in a 3-yard stance, then rapidly change direction to tackle a bag or sled, focusing on keeping their feet shoulder-width apart and driving through the tackle. The coaching cue is 'Drive, Don't Dive.' This drill translates to game performance by improving a linebacker's ability to quickly close the gap and make tackles in tight spaces, a critical skill for success in Division II football.