Tiger Tackles: A Drilling Technique for K Players at 11AA Programs
At Harrisburg Tigers' summer camp, defensive coaches are emphasizing a specific drill to improve kickers' tackling skills. The 'Tiger Tackle' drill involves a kicker starting in a 3-point stance, then explosively bursting forward to meet a blocker. The kicker must wrap up the blocker with both arms, securing them to the ground. Coaches will provide the following cues: 'Explosive, not slow,' and 'Wrap, don't grab.' This drill is set up in 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 30-second rest in between sets. The Tiger Tackle drill translates to game performance by teaching kickers to quickly close the distance and secure tackles, a crucial aspect of special teams play. By mastering this drill, Harrisburg's kickers will be better equipped to handle the physicality of 11AA competition.