Rushing the Quarterback: A DE Drill for 5A Programs
Defensive Ends at 5A programs like the Reed Raiders are looking to improve their pass rush and disrupt opposing offenses. One drill to help achieve this is the 'Shuttle Rush' drill. Players will line up 10 yards off the line of scrimmage, with a quarterback standing 5 yards behind the center. On the coach's signal, the DE will rush towards the quarterback, then immediately change direction and 'shuttle' back to the line of scrimmage. This drill should be performed for 3 sets of 10 reps, with 30 seconds rest between sets. Coaching cues include 'explosive start' and 'quick transition.' This drill translates to game performance by improving the DE's ability to rapidly change direction and accelerate towards the quarterback, making it difficult for them to step up and complete a pass.