Proper Hip Flip Mechanics; an Analysis

Perhaps you don’t know or maybe you’ve been in this member’s area enough to find out but being able to flip your hips is an essential skill for a defensive back in coverage.  Like everything you do as a defensive back,  there is a right way and a wrong way.

In the video at the end of this post,  I break down the mechanics of a pair of athletes that I am currently training for the NFL combine / pro days in 2022.  One is a converted linebacker to safety and the other is a pure linebacker trying also to learn the skills.  The one in the first clips has done several sessions with me,  the other was in his first session trying to grasp the skill.

What you can see from the film is the direct effects of the proper mechanics on proper execution and the effects of poor mechanics on trying to perform the essential skill.  One thing that is routinely ignored by defenders is their upper body.  The focus is usually on the feet but whether you realize it or not,  your upper body is going to affect your feet.  Your upper body provides balance through weight distribution.  Even distribution of the upper body weight results in proper footwork and results.  Uneven distribution of upper body weight leads to a loss of balance and slow reactions as your legs try to push your upper body back to balance while trying to change direction.

You can see what I am talking about in the video.  Enjoy and as always if you have any questions,  feel free to email me at cwilson@alleyesdbcamp.com – Thank you for being a member.

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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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