Rough Riders' Pre-Season CB Drill: 'Shadow and React'
At Roosevelt High School, our 11AA Rough Riders are gearing up for a dominant defense. For cornerbacks, we're implementing the 'Shadow and React' drill to improve their reaction time and footwork. This drill consists of 3 sets of 10 reps: 1) The coach or trainer will simulate a receiver's route by moving horizontally along the sideline, 2) The CB will shadow the receiver, staying 5 yards off, and 3) On a verbal cue, the CB will react to the receiver's cut, changing direction to stay in coverage. Coaching cues: 'Stay loose, stay low,' and 'React, don't anticipate.' This drill translates to game performance by mirroring the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of receiver routes. It also enhances the CB's ability to stay in phase with the receiver, making it difficult for them to get separation.