Tackling from the corner position differs from that in other positions.
The main reason? Angles.
Corners have to work an awkward outside-in angle, while every other position primarily tracks on an inside-out path.
In this article, we’re going to show you the best ways to practice tackling as a corner and how it can help you hold more edges from your original outside positioning.
Tackling From The Cornerback Position
Tackling from the outside in is different from most players, but if you’re going to have your corners be the edge of the defense, they need to take these angles to the ball carrier.
What we mean by outside-in is to ensure that their helmet and leverage are always on the outside of the ball carrier.
Here’s an example of what it looks like with a running back running toward a cornerback.
If they decide to take the inside track, a stiff-arm or hesitation move from the running back will have them lose leverage, and the sideline will be free.
How To Practice Outside-In Tackling
The key to outside-in tackling is all about leverage. The key is to force the running back to the inside and back to the meat of the defense.
The most important part about drilling this angle is to make sure the cornerback feels comfortable with his approach.
Most defenses will have the cornerback having to shed a corner, then make an outside-in tackle. Be sure to drill this positioning.
Other defenses will have the corner in zone coverage, where he needs to dip around the wide receiver, trying to block him in order to make a tackle. Be sure to drill this positioning as well. Both positionings require the cornerback to make a dodging move on the receiver (an obstacle), then redirect themselves to stay outside-in.
It’s very hard to do, so I recommend starting at the most basic level possible, then progressing to full speed and with live receivers in the mix.
Inside our membership vIQtory Pro, you’ll find exact instructions and tutorials on how to turn average defensive backs into ball-hawking nightmares for the offense.