INSIDE the SESSION: Top of the Route Drill

This is a new segment that I am experimenting with on All Eyes DB Camp.  I am going to show you clips from some of my training sessions to aid you in understanding and comprehending some of the drills that I incorporate into my sessions.

IN this episode we are working on a Top of the Route Drill.  Basically we are simulating the WR being down the field and getting into this route.  The DB is covering him and focusing on three important things.

(1) Keeping this eyes low:  To be able to stick to the WR and follow his every move,  your eyes have to be right.  The right place for your eyes are down low on his hip waiting for him to make a move.  Keeping the eyes low slows everything down for the DB.  The hips move slower than the shoulders and head so keeping the eyes low will make it a whole lot harder for the WR to shake you.

(2) Keeping the hips low:  Keeping the hips low will keep the DB prepped for any sudden change of direction by the WR.  Hips that are low are ready to move in another direction as opposed to hips that are up high.  If your hips are up high,  you will need to get them low after seeing the WR break and that’s a wasted step you can not afford in a game decided on inches.  If you stay ready you never have to get ready.

(3) Keeping your distance:  You will notice the DBs in the drill using their downfield hand to punch the WR during the route.  This is done to keep your distance from the WR so he can’t lean his body on you and push off at the top of his route to get separation.  It also allows you to keep your eyes on the WRs hip as you would need space away from him to do so.  ON top of all that,  popping the WR with your hand is also annoying and distracting for the WR.

In the video you will hear me coaching up the athletes.  Take notes on the instruction and as always,  if you have any questions,  feel free to email me: cwilson@alleyesdbcamp.com

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alleyesdbcamp

Owner at All Eyes DB Camp

Chad Wilson is the founder of All Eyes DB Camp and a former standout defensive back for the Miami Hurricanes. After an elite collegiate career, Wilson spent a season with the Seattle Seahawks before transitioning into coaching. A 3-time Florida state champion defensive coordinator, he has spent over 20 years developing the "All Eyes" blueprint that has produced NFL All-Pros and stars like Xavien Howard, Patrick Surtain II, Tyson Campbell, Minkah Fitzpatrick and more. His coaching system is proven at the highest levels—his own sons, Quincy and Marco Wilson, both excelled as starters in the SEC before being drafted into the NFL.

Chad is the author of "101 DB Tips"—The Ultimate DB Reference Guide. You can find more information on the manual and how to order your copy in the sidebar and footer of this page.

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