Quick Strike

Purpose:

To develop and refine defensive lineman’s punch and technique off the snap.

Equipment:

• 3-5 Stationary Dummy
• Bags/Popsicle Bags, Ball on a stick.

Setup:

Players will start on their knees in front of the bags with a partner holding the bag steady.

Instructions:

1. When the coach snaps the ball, the players will bring the|hands together and strike the Dummy.
2. The player will quickly reset, as this is a fast-paced drill, and the coach will snap the ball again promptly after the players reset.
3. After 15-30 seconds, have a new group of players step up and have the current ones rotate to holding the bags.

Coaching Tips:

• The ideal strike is just outside the numbers while still staying inside the frame of the offensive lineman.
•   By putting the players on their knees, we isolate the upper body and put the focus on developing proper technique with the hands.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

• Emphasize the importance of keeping their head up while striking to develop good habits and avoid injury.
• Encourage players to focus on accuracy by practicing striking with the palms of their hands and aiming for the chest of the dummy.
• Reinforce the importance of quick hand movement, instructing them to snap their hands back quickly to their starting position for fast resets.

Tips for Older Athletes:

• Teach them to work on explosive power by driving their hips forward as they strike, combining the movement with strong arm extension.
• Emphasize the importance of hand placement, aiming for the inside shoulder pads to control the offensive lineman.
• Encourage them to vary their striking techniques, practicing different strikes like rip, swim, or club moves to improve their pass-rushing repertoire.