The Divisional Round - Defense Gets You to the Championship
Jan 19, 2025 5:56 pm
Coach -
The NFL Divisional Round will feature intense defensive battles. The Ravens' defense will aim to contain Josh Allen and the Bills' high-powered offense, while the Bills' defense will seek to disrupt Lamar Jackson and the Ravens' dynamic rushing attack.
In the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles, boasting one of the league's most dominant defenses, will face a tough test against the Los Angeles Rams' potent offense. These defensive showdowns will be pivotal in determining the outcome of these crucial playoff games. But, that is exactly why we have coaches from each of these defenses featured today to help you gain insight.
RAVENS
The Ravens defense, renowned for its physicality and aggressive style, will be a key factor in their matchup against the Bills. A cornerstone of this unit is their ferocious linebacking corps, coached by Mark DeLeone. Months of dedicated individual drills have honed their skills, emphasizing speed, agility, and tackling technique. This preparation will be key as they face the challenge of containing Josh Allen and the Bills' potent offense.
Video: Linebacker Footwork Drills
Dating back to his days in college ball, Coach DeLeone has always planned his Indy time and used it to the best of his ability. These time and drills develop all the skills that you will see on display and in this clinic the idea of appropriate blitz paths and tackling angles are going to be vital for the Ravens when attempting to disrupt and get ahold of Josh Allen.
BILLS
The idea of containing the QB goes both ways though and each of these teams will be better off if the other quarterback is off kilter. While, the edge will be incredibly important in containment especially the real havoc will come from the interior push.
Video: Interior Rush Principles
The Buffalo Bills' pass rush is a potent force, driven by a formidable defensive line. This unit excels at generating pressure, disrupting offensive timing, and forcing quarterbacks into quick decisions.
However, the true catalyst for a dominant pass rush lies in exceptional coverage. When defensive backs effectively lock down receivers, eliminating passing lanes, it empowers the defensive line to unleash their full potential, pin their ears back, and relentlessly pursue the quarterback, leading to sacks and turnovers.
EAGLES
Exceptional coverage is the unsung hero of any successful pass rush. When defensive backs seamlessly lock down receivers, eliminating passing lanes, it empowers the defensive line to unleash their full potential. Without the threat of quick, accurate throws, quarterbacks are forced to hold onto the ball longer, giving pass rushers more time to get to them. This symbiotic relationship between coverage and pass rush is important for creating havoc in the backfield and forcing turnovers. Bring in the Man Coverage techniques of the Eagles and safeties coach Joe Kasper.
Man Coverage - The Cheetah Technique
Ultimately all of these pieces on the three separate levels must play together especially at this level to execute and compete. Gain an advantage and begin your off season prep for your entire staff through diving into the content presented by these coaches at the top. Take your first step this weekend.
NFL Divisional Defense Bundle
Enjoy the games!
Coach Grabowski, Coach Kaufmann and the CoachesClinic Team