In the video I posted yesterday I discussed why catch technique is a solid technique to use vs. slot WRs.  I also showed you how not playing worked to the disadvantage of a USC defensive back in a game vs. the Texas Longhorns.

In this video today,  you get to see examples of catch technique played the right way and get a visual of how it can be very effective against slot WRs vs. all routes.

In the video,  Marco Wilson,  who is my younger son, is observed in various slot coverage situations from practice during his freshman year at the University of Florida.  You will notice the way he holds his line as the WR approaches.  You will also observe his aggressive but not overly so nature at the point of impact.

It is important what is in the head of the defensive back playing catch technique at the moment the WR reaches him.  The one thing that should be in the head of the defender is “contact” as opposed to “run”.  This small detail matters.  What is in your head at that moment will dictate what your body does.

If you are thinking “run” when that WR reaches you then you will open your hips,  your shoulders will fall back and your contact will be soft.  Most often you will miss the WR completely.  It would be similar to a batter in baseball thinking get out of the way the ball as it is approaching the plate.  If that is what you are thinking then it will be very difficult to make contact with the ball.

If you are thinking “contact” as the WR reaches you then you are more likely to stay square, move your feet in front of the WRs frame and make solid contact with both hands to disrupt his route.  The key is to stop the WRs feet and thus his momentum.  We want to make him stop and have to start again.  This totally disrupts the timing of the offensive play and throws the QB off.  So to you use my baseball analogy,  the batter thinking contact while the ball is approaching is more likely to keep his eye on the ball and move the bat towards it giving himself a better chance of achieving the objective.

Enjoy the video and if you have any feedback or questions about this video or the member’s area,  you can send me an email to: cwilson@alleyesdbcamp.com

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