Unlock Turnover Potential: DB Drills That Dominate from the West Virginia Mountaineers
Jul 10, 2024 10:00 pm
Coach -
West Virginia is on the brink of getting into the top 25 and some early success in 2024 could put them there.
Today, we kick in the 2nd installment of our Top 25 list coming in at another Honorable Mention is West Virginia. Accompanying their ranking is a variety of coaches with the focus on Co-DC and DB’s coach ShaDon Brown.
Season Preview Capsule
The West Virginia Mountaineers aim to dominate both offensively and defensively in 2024. Their offense is powered by a strong offensive line that excelled in the rushing game last year. Sophomore running back CJ Donaldson is a touchdown machine, with freshman Jahiem White providing a speedy alternative. Dual-threat quarterback Garrett Greene boasts a low interception rate, and the receiving corps is strengthened by Oklahoma State transfer Jaden Bray.
On defense, the Mountaineers will count on a fierce pass rush led by returning end Sean Martin. Despite losing top tackler Lee Kpogba, linebacker Ben Cutter leads a unit enhanced by transfers. The secondary features a solid safety duo in Aubrey Burks and Anthony Wilson, with transfer corners TJ Crandall and Ayden Garnes fortifying the defense.
Offense:
- Dominant offensive line paves the way for a strong rushing attack.
- Potent running back duo of CJ Donaldson (power) and Jahiem White (speed).
- Dual-threat quarterback Garrett Greene with a minimized interception rate.
Defense:
- Relentless pass rush led by Sean Martin.
- Strong safety duo of Aubrey Burks and Anthony Wilson.
- Bolstered linebacker depth with key transfers.
- Transfer cornerbacks solidify the secondary.
Clinic: Defensive Back Fundamentals
With the transfer portal more active than ever, the college football landscape is constantly changing, and coaches must adapt quickly.
They need a process and confidence in their teachings, as there is little time to get new players acclimated to their systems and defensive schemes. This is why a solid set of Everyday Drills (EDD) is a game changer, allowing for maximum growth during individual drill periods.
In this video, Coach Brown shares his EDD.
Video: Everyday Drills
Most drills will focus on specific skills. For man coverage teams, this means lots of backpedaling, pure steps, kick steps, and widening the departure of the man from a pressed position. For those playing off-man or zone techniques, the drills will vary accordingly. These drills are tailored to address current weaknesses and prepare for challenges that will arise during the season.
Defensive back (DB) play can be broken down into two categories: coverage and everything else. While other skills need to be taught, the front-end skills of coverage are vital. The transition then moves to tackling and creating turnovers. This offseason, a trend emerged showing defensive backs are increasingly able to generate turnovers even after the catch. This could be due to receivers' lower ball security or improved coaching techniques for DBs.
Video: Ball Straps
After a catch is made, defensive backs strive for a pass breakup (PBU). However, there is an opportunity to create turnovers by playing through the receiver's arms and eyes. When the ball leaves a high and tight position, it becomes more susceptible to fumbles. Defenders can exploit this by creating separation.
Turnovers can also occur when ball carriers turn toward the defender or loosen their grip on the ball. This is a crucial area for turnovers, and many teams use specific drills to take advantage of these opportunities.
Video: 4 Point Hawk Roll
Tracking and tackling drills should be a constant focus for DB coaches. Typically, there is at least 10 yards of running room before anyone else can reach the offensive player. Some stationary tackling drills may seem difficult to apply, but the techniques are the same. These drills reduce wear and tear on athletes, keeping their legs fresh and focusing on muscle memory.
Catch all these on display in this clinic and on the field this season starting August 31st when the Country Roads lead to Milan Puskar Stadium and John Denver blares as the Mountaineers take on Penn State.
Compete!
Coach Kauffman, Coach Grabowski & the CoachesClinic Team
Other Clinics from the West Virginia Staff:
DL Run Game Progression - Andrew Jackson, DL
Defensive Line Fundamentals and Drills - Andrew Jackson, DL
WVU DL Run Game - Andrew Jackson, DL
West Virginia Special Teams - Tony Thompson, ST Analyst
Mountaineer Techniques - Return Units - Tony Thompson, ST Analyst
Punt Protection & Coverage - Tony Thompson, ST Analyst
DL Philosophy & Drills - Jaysen Thompson, DL Graduate Assistant