OSU

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ORE GON STATE

BEAV ERS

LINEBA CKE R
TECHNIQUE S
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LINEBACKERS: PERFORMANCE CHART

CATEGORY PLAYER NAMES

BRAY ELLISON SCOTT DARKINS COOK DARLIN DOGGETT

TOTAL PLAYS

Tackles (+2)
Asst Tackles (+1)
Tackle for Loss (+3)
Sack (+5)
Take Two (+1)
TOTAL TACKLES
Tattoo (+2)
QB Harass (+2)
Big Hit (+4)
Big Play (+3)
Caused Fumble (+5)
Recovered Fumble (+5)
Deflection/ Break-Ups (+3)
Interception (+6)
Blocked Kick (+6)
Safty (+4)
TOTAL XTRA POINTS
Missed Tackle (-1)
Loaf (-3)
Mental Error (-2)
Penalty (-3)

TOTAL POINTS
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A “PRO”
(A PROFESSIONAL WHO PLAYS FOOTBALL)

1. Always early
Needs to study on own: game plan, ready list, opponents film or notebook
to prepare for start of day’s work.

2. Mentally alert
Adds to provided information by own additional observations.

3. Mentally inquisitive
Inquires of other players or coaches on their observations of situations.

4. Mentally challenging
Will not allow himself to error in practice - always reinforces defensive call with
“reminders” prior to snap.

5. Physically prepared
Never tires in practice or game - motivates and pushes himself in practice -
sprints to ball every time.

6. “Competes”
Thrives on challenges - the tougher the better. Especially one-on-one
physical contests.

7. Football player
Plays hard to the ball and thrives on being physical thru the ball.

8. A “leader”
By example, he epitomizes the way the game should be played.
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1. Learns defensive scheme

2. Learns and habitize techniques

1. Aligns properly and is ready to Adjust and play

2. He always Finishes the play

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OSU Linebackers 5
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All good defenses have GREAT Linebackers! What we are looking for in our Linebackers at the OREGON STATE
BEAVERS is a player who can STUFF the run with the athletic ability to cover both running backs and receivers in
their routes.We must always OUT HUSTLE, OUT HIT, AND BE MENTALLY TOUGHER than anybody on the
field.

We look for the following characteristics in our Linebackers:

1. LEADERSHIP

2. GREAT FOOTBALL INSTINCTS

3. TOUGHNESS

4. ATHLETIC ABILITY

5. HATE TO LOOK BAD ATTITUDE

GENERAL:

There is not another position on defense that enables you to get as much action as linebacker. You are directly
involved in the running game and must play a vital part in pass defense.

Because of the need for great linebacking in order to be champions, you must work harder than any other member
of the football team must. Your time must be spent between run and pass, and therefor; it is important that you
spend twice as much time concentrating during the time spent on and off the field. The thing that beats any team
is mistakes. Do not ever become an "I thought" player. You either know it or you don't.

As inside linebackers, we accept the responsibility of coordinating the front. It is our responsibility to call the
defense, locate the tight end, and make any necessary calls at the LOS. You must be a leader.

This season we will be much improved in our understanding of each opponent. Each of us will clearly comprehend
what we must accomplish in order to obtain possession of the football.
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OUT HUSTLE

OUT HIT

BE MENTALLY TOUGH
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A. Linebackers versus the Run and Pass

1. Eyes: The proper use of your eyes is as important to you as any other
physical skill.
What a player keys and sees will help him react. You must see correctly in
order to make the proper reaction.

2. Feet: Feet are important for every defensive football player. You can’t be.
successful if your feet are slow.

3. Hands: Know how to deliver the “hand shiver” and where to “grab” the
offensive player.

• Forearm/Shoulder: We would prefer to use our hands, but sometimes the

offensive play will dictate when we use a forearm/shoulder - valuable because of the size of
opposing lineman.
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ALIGNMENT

ASSIGNMENT

ADJUSTMENT
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PRIOR TO THE GAME

1. Know and recognize formation and alignment sets.

2. Know individual and team strengths.
3. Know opponent tendencies.
4. Know our adjustments - game situations.

WHAT WE MUST BE AWARE OF DURING THE GAME

1. Know situation and time (down, distance, and field position).

2. During timeouts and on the sideline, find out where and how they are attacking.
3. Remember to loosen your depth on long yardage downs.
4. Remind team of opponent's tactics:
a. Draws
b. Screens
c. Bootleg
d. Delays
e. Reverses
5. Be a leader.

ALIGNMENT, STANCE, KEY, MOVEMENT

I. ALIGNMENTS
A. MACK – Base, Align to execute
WILL - Base, Align to execute
SAM - Base, Align to execute
* Coaching Point - Your alignment may change according to coverage, backfield set
or formation.
B. Your depth off the ball is Heels at 4 yards, this will
vary by your run and pass responsibility.
* Coaching Point - Your depth will be adjusted by your
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II. STANCE
A. Most initial linebacker movement is made in a lateral direction. Therefore, the
stance is a parallel two-point stance. Essentially, it is football's basic hitting
positions.

B. The feet are shoulder width apart

C. Both heels are on the ground, but the weight is placed on the balls of the feet.

D. The knees are bent slightly.

E. The upper body is coiled, but not tense. The hands dangle at approximately
knee level.

F. The eyes should be focused on the offensive key.

* Coaching Point - It is important to assume a stance that when you move

laterally. You don't have to raise or lower yourself.
III. KEY
A. Primary Key - Offensive Backs - will provide basic read, we will Track him for
our initial key, run to or away, or pass.

B. Secondary Key - Will be the offensive line.

C. We must know which back is our key ,prior to every `play we must identify if
we are in or out of the box

WE MUST BE DISCIPLINED TO READ OUR KEYS AND REACT ACCORDINGLY EVERY

TIME!
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IV. MOVEMENT

A. Shuffle without crossing the feet, until you know where the ball is going.

1. Lean in the direction you want to go.

2. Short jab step with the lead foot.
3. Then slide the back foot laterally.

B. Keep the elbows close to the body as you shuffle.

C. When the shuffle is not fast enough, it is necessary to run laterally.

1. Keep the shoulders parallel to the LOS and swing the arms naturally.
2. Cross over with the back foot and open the hips, still keeping the
shoulders parallel to the LOS.

D. General thoughts regarding movement:

1. Turn the shoulders to run.

2. Do not waste motion or become over-extended.
3. All movement must be done with maximum effort.
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When you strike a blow it must be a coordinated explosion of the legs, hips, back,
shoulder, and arm. It is essential in striking a blow to:

1. Maintain a good base.

2. Keep the shoulders square.
3. Keep your head up.
4. Get chin under pad.
5. Unload - Do not catch.

I. Blocker attacks above the waist - Deliver

1. Shuffle and keep the leverage arm free.

2. Take a short step toward the Blocker with the inside foot.
3. Strike with the hands and lockout elbows up through the Blocker. The blow is
struck with the palm of the hands under the Blocker's pads. Grip cloth lock out
elbows.

* Coaching Point - Do not wind up or waste motion as the blow is delivered.

4. The majority of your power will come from your hip snap and leg explosion.
5. Maintain a balanced position and do not over-extend.
6. Accelerate the feet upon contact with short, choppy steps, keeping the head
up and the back arched.
7. Use the outside hand to push and throw off the offensive man. Do not stay
blocked.
8. Keep the shoulders parallel to the LOS.
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II. Blocker attacks below the waist - Deliver hand shiver

1. Concentrate on the Blocker, but be able to see the ball carrier peripherally.

2. React to the Blocker's head and slide in that direction striving to maintain
leverage.

3. Strike the Blocker's helmet and/or shoulder pads with your hands, locking your arms out,
and thrusting your feet backward to gain separation. Try and get the Blocker's head
turned.

4. Keep the shoulders parallel to the LOS and be the first to move after separation.

5. Use your hands when taking on Blocker in the open field.

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III. Dip and Whip

1. This technique will be used by the backside linebackers to defeat a cutoff

block by the center or the guard, where the backs have taken a wide angle.
2. Give ground if necessary.

* Coaching Point - Never give more than two yards, come under the Blocker.

3. Dip the back shoulder and forearm and whip it through the Blocker's head.
4. Push off with the front hand, keeping the feet back.
5. Regain the ground lost and regain the proper angle on the football.

IV. Crack Block

1. Go under all crack blocks unless the Blocker is too flat to beat then use a dip
and whip technique with the inside shoulder and forearm.
2. Turn shoulders and change up whether you avoid Blocker or run through the
Blocker.

V. Shoulder Pull

1. This technique will be used when the Blocker has a cut off angle on you.
2. Strike the Blocker with your inside arm, working the outside 2/3's of the
Blocker.
3. Pull hard with your outside hand on the outside pad of the Blocker, and get
over the top of the Blocker.
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VI. GAP FILL

1. This technique will be used when the Blocker has position on you and the ball
carrier or second blocker is tight to the first blocker.

2. Take the Blocker on right down the middle, make contact on the offensive’s
side of the LOS and explode through the blockers in the back field.

3. Make the ball spill outside and backward, we must always go for the second
man, weather he is a blocker or the ball carrier.
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Pursuit, Tackling, Fumble Recovery 16
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I. PURSUIT

A. Keep the ball carrier on your leverage shoulder against a wider play to your side.

B. Pursue laterally until the ball carrier has turned up field and then attack with
proper leverage.

C. When the ball carrier goes away, maintain a position which will take away the cut
back.

D. Make the ball carrier run in a lateral direction. Do not create a seam for him to
run up field.

E. Take a deeper angle when the football is further away.

F. When you get to the ball, arrive in a bad mood.

G. Why do we pursue to the football? When we run to the football good things will
happens like:

1. Making a game saving tackle.

2. Making a hit that causes a fumble.
3. Recovering a fumble.
4. Making an interception.
5. Tipping a ball that causes an interception.
6. Throwing a block that breaks a runner on an
interception.
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II. TACKLING

A. A correct tackle results when the defensive man has collided with the ball carrier, where by
the ball carrier is put on his back.

B. Stay square in a good football position when approaching the ball carrier.

C. Do not raise or lower yourself from a good hitting position. Hitters are knee benders.
D. Bow the neck, keep the eyes open and stay square with the ball carrier.

E. In tackling it is important to hit on the rise, by ripping the arms and shooting the hips
through the ball carrier.

F. Accelerate the foot movement with the feet shoulder width apart and wrap the arms with
authority. Grab cloth.

G. Always keep you head up and your back arched. Never hit with the top of your helmet.

H. Drive through the ball carrier and don't stop until the whistle has blown.

I. Also keep the following in mind in open field tackling:

1. Attack the ball carrier. Force him to make a decision. Take away a side and
know where your help will come from.
2. When possible, use the sideline to your advantage by being under control and
taking away the cutback.
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Pursuit, Tackling, Fumble Recovery 18
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III. FUMBLE RECOVERY

A. When the ball is on the ground, we must dive after it by

extending our arms, pulling the ball into our body, and lying on
our side in a cradle position.

B. When recovering a fumble on the sideline make sure to use

your body as screen to keep the ball from going out of bounds.

C. When the ball is on the ground and you can scoop the ball,
secure the football and score. If their doubt of recovery
possession of the football is primary.
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Run Responsibility 19
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I. LINEBACKER RULES REGARDING RUN RESPONSIBILITY OFF THE BALL

A. If flow comes to your side, play fill responsibility. Fill to the

V of the neck of YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
B. If flow goes away, play flow to partner's gap. Play over the top or cut back
depending on run entry assignment.
C. When playing fill, attack the ball carrier with leverage, moving toward the LOS.
D. When playing your gap, strike through the face with the inside or outside arm
keeping your other arm free, and force the ball
carrier back to your help.
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II. LINEBACKER PROGRESSION

A. In order to maximize our success as linebackers, it becomes necessary to follow a

series of progressions. The following is the progression for running plays.

1. READ - Recognition of the key and reaction to it.

2. MOVEMENT - Proper footwork needed to get to your area of

responsibility.

3. STRIKE - Utilization of the upper body and lower Body to defeat a

Blocker.

4. HOLD or AVOID - Staying in control of the Blocker until the ball has
declared or avoiding Blocker to get to ball carrier.

5. SHED - The quick acceleration off the Blocker to the ball carrier. The
utilization of the hands and feet are critical.

6. PURSUE - Relentless desire to get to the ball.

7. TACKLE - A collision and take down between the linebacker and ball
carrier.
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DEF EN SE LINEBACKER KEYS - MACK , WILL, AND SAM
Always key the most reliable player to initially direct your movement. A correct initial reaction to your key
is vital if you are to make the play.

We will place keys into two categories:

A. Primary - The key which is the most reliable to initially

give play direction to you.

B. Secondary - Keys which will help you determine run, pass

or where your play entry will be and how fast you
should react.

Mack, Sam, and Will Keys (Base / Over/Under)

Look to the near back across pads of the offensive line. You must focus on the back and
track his path, this will take you to your assignment.

A. Primary - Near back, or backs

B. Secondary - Guard, far back (Will: Tackle / Guard)

UNDER
BASE OVER

W S w
W S s
M
M m
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LINEBACKER KEYS (CONT.) 22
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B. MACK / WILL/ SAM - in the “box” (Tackle to Tight End)

1. Keying:

a. Vision back key to playside guard. Pass responsibility and backfield set will
influence keying. Your initial key will only trigger your first step. You must continue to
key and locate the ball. You now play through your specific responsibility or attack point
on L.O.S.

2. Basic Reads:

a. Tight Read - Backfield action is hard into A or B gap.

b. Perimeter Read - Backfield action is quick and outside.

c. Stack Read - Backfield action is less direct, but still inside and has cutback
potential. The ball can hit anywhere inside the box (Tight End to Tight End).

d. Away Read - Backfield action is away from you. Ball can hit from the far A-gap to
outside.

e. Counter Reads - Backfield action starts in one direction and ball carrier hits in the
other direction.
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LINEBACKER KEYS (CONT.) 23
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3. Basic Tools

A. Stance: The proper stance permits quick and powerful movement in any direction.
Each individual will have subtle differences in their stance.

Base - Feet should be no wider than shoulder width. Feet should be parallel - can have slight
stagger. Toes pointed up the field - heels behind toes.

Weight - On balls of feet with heels slightly raised.

Body - Legs slightly bent. Keep back slightly arched and head up. Height of stance is regulated
by the bend in the knees.

Arms - Bent in a natural position, fingertips may be on thigh.

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GENERAL POINTS IN PASS COVERAGE 24
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A. General Principles in Zone Coverage

1. Initial Drop Technique

a. Aiming Point
Every time we drop we will have an initial aiming point, We will relate to a receiver In coverage.
The outside backers will relate to the number 2,3 receivers and the middle backer will
relate to the number 3 receiver.We must slide to the receivers and not work for depth
and look for new 2’s and 3’s underneath and check quaterback.

b. Vision Point vs. 3- Step QB Drop (“90 / 90”)

On any 3-Step drop by the QB, we can be a factor, but the receiver must be located
(“visioned”) by 6 yards into his route. This usually is by the 3rd step of LBer drop. We
must recognize formations and call out alerts to jump patterns.

2. Pass Key (Pattern Read)

On every zone drop, the LBer (inside/outside) pass receiver to key. Once the key is established, this will
determine the angle of the drop. This angle will put the LBer in a better and faster cover position on a
receiver. Remember, a pass key can only go:
2 or 3 Inside
2 or 3 Outside
2 or 3 Straight
2 or 3 Block
2 or 3 Release across formation in the backfield
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GENERAL POINTS IN PASS COVERAGE 25
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3. Disrupt Receivers

Disrupt receivers anytime it is possible without disrupting your own drop. Be sure to communicate the
receivers route to other defenders, especially crossing routes. Get to position quickly.

4. Head on “Swivel”

Once the pattern is read and the LBer is in the throwing lane, the head must get back to the QB and
the ball. Final Read in Zone is QB to break on ball. Stay low in your stance with shoulders forward.
“Zone” close enough to threaten receivers to catch the ball. Do not “Zone” empty area - Zone to
receivers. Do not defend “grass”.

5. Steel 2nd Base

When we key the set and transfer of the Quarterback we must treat him as a Pitcher that we are
trying to get a jump on to steel 2nd base in baseball.
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5. Breaking on Ball

The LBer must work back to QB, since the receiver is usually working back to QB. Be sure to get the ball
at its highest point. You must sprint to the ball in the air - no matter where you are in relation to the ball
and/or receiver.

6. Intercept

Catch the ball with two hands and concentrate on front tip of the ball. After catch secure the ball and get
outside the #’s immediately.

NOTE:
The QB sets at various depths. This will determine the depth of the receivers route. We
must recognize the set, transfer, and release by the quarterback.

3 Step Drop = Short / Quick Routes (5-6 yards)

5 Step Drop = Medium Routes (8-12 yards)

7 Step Drop = Deep / Crossing Routes (15+ yards)

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C. General Principles of Man Coverage

1. Receiver Concentration

In M/M, the LBer must concentrate on his man totally. The exact positioning will vary based on
where help is coming from in the coverage. Concentrate on the base of his numbers.
2. Help

There are basically three ways to play M/M - help inside, help outside, and no help. Your positioning
will vary based on the help - but your techniques will remain basically the same. Always know
where your help will come from.

3. Make Tackle

Always be in position to make the tackle - never be out of position to make the play
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A. Basic Coverage Techniques in M/M

1. Footwork

Take short, quick steps. Shuffle as long as the receiver is vertical - never cross over. Shuffle forward
early to get in “position” with proper footwork (try not to open gates and
let receiver have a free release).

2. Position

When holding an inside position, “form a wall” and never allow the receiver inside. Extend the
arms and catch the receiver. Don’t allow the receiver into your body. If the receiver gets his shoulders
into you, he will be able to explode away. When you feel this technique, use your palms as
cushions, “glue” on the receiver - do not give him a hard surface to use as a launching pad.
Make sure you stay low, bend at the knees and ankles and keep your feet alive.

3. Closing on the Receiver

Once the receiver has committed, sprint to him. Close the cushion. Look to the receiver
and don’t look for the ball until you are close enough to touch him. Once you can touch
him, get in-stride, work your hips to the receiver and look to the QB.
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4. Closing to the ball in the air

When the ball is thrown, accelerate and meet the ball at its highest point. If going for interception,
get the ball at its highest point (work hips tight to the receiver). If the receiver is too far from you -
catch up!

5. Strip Receiver

When making the tackle on the receiver, make certain you “strip” the arm you are closest to and
drive the arm down. Be sure of the tackle - “strip and wrap”.

6. Block for man who intercepts

Block the intended receiver, he normally makes the tackle. A block on him usually means a long
return.
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E. M/M Coverage - LB’s

1. Concentrate on base of #’s and hips of your man.

2. Know where you will get help.

3. Get to 2 yards from receiver quickly.

4. Build a wall on inside 3/4’s of his body with shoulders square.

5. Soft catch receiver. Get inside hand on his inside hip.

6. Sprint to proper coverage position on receiver. (“Do I convert” or know when to

convert”).

7. Get control of your man

8. Strip and wrap or intercept.

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Pass Rush Techniques 31
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A. General Points

1. Get off the ball quickly. A good start is critical - limit lateral movement. Keep feet moving at all costs.
Keep hands inside Blocker’s hands. Don’t stop so you have to re-start. Keep separation from Blocker and
be sure not to lose sight of the QB. Feel the Blocker and see the QB! If you make moves too soon, then
Blocker can recover. If you make the move too late, you will be close to the Blocker and he will get into
your body and hold.

B. Specific Pass Rush Technique - Have A Plan!

1. Speed Rush

Sprint up field, and once even, or just pass Blocker’s shoulder, dip your inside shoulder and squeeze
pocket to QB. You may step inside early to set the speed rush up. Once the drive to the QB has begun, if
you are getting driven past the QB but are still closing on the QB, reach to the QB with the outside arm. If
being driven by the QB and not closing on the QB:

A. Plant the outside foot and execute ice pick move and come under Blocker.

B. Plant the inside foot, lean into the Blocker and spin under to QB. Rip outside
elbow and fist hard into the Blockers back.

When to use speed rush:

Use vs. slow “setter”

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Pass Rush Techniques 32
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2. Counter Club Rip Technique

Drive to Blocker, step fake inside - then club outside hand on outside shoulder and “Dip / Rip” inside
arm under Blocker’s armpit and close to the QB.
When to use Club Rip”
Use vs. extremely large Blocker
Use vs. blockers that are overly conscious of protection of the inside gap
Use vs. blockers that set too high

3. Swim Technique

Step - Fake Grab and Swim Past - Turn Blocker’s shoulders with a step fake inside, jump back
outside and execute swim opposite the turn. Grab cloth behind outside shoulder pad, pull and go by,
keep hips facing to QB!

When to use Swim:

Use vs. Blocker who is single blocking with no help.

Use vs. Blocker who turns his shoulders quickly, or over extends.
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CLUB ( GRAB) SWIM

A. Time your stunt - don't give the stunt away unless stunt requires.
B. Lineman - Back settles on you.
C. Drive outside arm to his outside shoulder. Get your eyes in his ear hole.
D. Work to half a man.
E. Grab cloth and turn your shoulders. Release inside hand and pull down
his shoulder with your outside hand. Throw your inside arm over his
shoulder, clear your hips and step through.
F. Get off the block.
G. Point toe to Quarterback.
H. Accelerate off the move to the Quarterback

ICE PICK SPIN

A. This move can be used when the Quarterback rolls or scrambles. It also can
be used as a counter move
B. After your first move, stop and spin back into the Blocker.
C. Point your elbow to his rib cage, then drop your hand to push off.
D. Get off the block.
E. Point toe to Quarterback.
F. Accelerate off the move to the Quarterback
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4. Power Rush

Use when you are stronger than Blocker or he is a soft setter (I.e., back) - Just get
head up. Dip and explode. Lock out and keep separation. Drive Blocker into pocket
and into QB. It is critical to keep feet moving in this technique. As you approach QB,
reach with outside arm - if you can’t, push Blocker into QB.

POWER RUSH

A. Time your stunt- don't give the stunt away unless stunt requires.
B. Lineman - Back settles on you. Drive both hands under his shoulder pads, get your
chin under his pad level, punch and lockout elbows.
C. Accelerate your feet with quick steps, lower your hips and drive him backwards.
D. Move to Quarterback.
E. Always work to half a man!

5. Step Over

Anticipate “Chop” block, especially being blocked by a back. Step over to the side (low
shed) and regain lost ground.

6. Chop Rip

Vs. a strong tackle who uses hands well. Turn chest away from him
maintain separation - chop downward on wrists and immediately convert to
rip under and turn into QB.
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Oregon State University

Beavers
325 Valley Football Center
Corvallis , OR 97331

Robin Ross
Assistant Football Coach
Linebackers
robin.ross@oregonstate.edu

Please send an e-mail to request any information regarding the presentation. Thank you.
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OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

VIDEO COORDINATOR
Greg Vaughn
GREG.VAUGHN@OREGONSTATE.EDU
Please provide complete:
8.mailing address
9.phone number
10.detailed request of materials or tape
11.name of clinic you attended
•No need to send a tape.
•Cost $15.00
•Make check payable to the OREGON STATE UNIVESITY.