Explosive Edge: 3A DEs Get Ready with the 'Rip and Rip' Drill
This summer, 3A defensive end prospects can take their game to the next level with the 'Rip and Rip' drill. Designed to improve speed, agility, and hand placement, this drill is perfect for O'Dea Fighting Irish linemen looking to dominate on the gridiron. The drill consists of three sets of 10 reps: 1) Rip through a 10-yard cone course with feet shoulder-width apart, focusing on explosive acceleration. 2) Rip through the same course with feet together, emphasizing quick change of direction. 3) Rip through the course while maintaining a 45-degree angle, simulating a defensive end's pursuit angle. Coaches should cue players to 'rip' the ground with their feet and 'attack' the cone course. This drill translates to game performance by improving a defensive end's ability to quickly close the gap and make plays in the backfield.