Defensive Backs: Techniques, Fundamentals, Tips and Drills (Part II)

In the December issue of AFM, we discussed tips for defensive backs, basic techniques, backpedaling techniques, and how to change direction. In this issue, we will discuss knowing the interception point, stripping the receiver, playing the ball, playing the blocker on a run play, secondary run support and contain, coverage support and pursuit angles.

INTERCEPTION POINT

    After your defensive backs recognize each pattern, they must learn where the ball will usually be caught by the receiver. This point is known as the “Interception Point.” It is usually a point six to eight yards in front of the receiver at the moment the DB recognizes the pattern. They should drive to the interception point. Diagram 1 shows a slant route and diagram 2 shows the interception point.