Jon Svec

The 25 Rules of Linebacker Play:

Linebacker Rule #1:
Trust your keys.
They’ll take you to the play.

Linebacker Rule #2:
Play SQUARE.

Linebacker Rule #3:
Some blocks need to be destroyed.
Some blocks need to be avoided.

Linebacker Rule #4:
Eyes before feet.
Feet before hands.

Linebacker Rule #5:
Move with a low pad level.
It’ll help you change directions.

Linebacker Rule #6:
The key to a great Blitz is TIMING.

Linebacker Rule #7:
Run your feet through contact.

Linebacker Rule #8:
Don’t just watch film.
Study the game.

Linebacker Rule #9:
Own your Run Fit.

Linebacker Rule #10:
Pursue to the whistle.

Linebacker Rule #11:
Win the rep before the snap.
Know your alignment.
Know your assignment.

Linebackers Rule #12:
Same foot, same shoulder.

Linebacker Rule #13:
Tackles are great.
But takeaways are better.
Attack the football.

Linebacker Rule #14:
If you have LEVERAGE, fight to keep it.
If you lose LEVERAGE, fight to get it back.

Linebacker Rule #15:
When GAPS move…
Move with them.

Linebacker Rule #16:
If you bite on Play Action, get extra DEPTH.
You need to make up the yards you lost.

Linebacker Rule #17:
Dominate on Special Teams.

Linebacker Rule #18:
Angles are more important than speed.

Linebacker Rule #19:
Be patient.
But never hesitate.

Linebacker Rule #20:
Master your Stance and First Step.
Start the play right.

Linebacker Rule #21:
Always play downhill.

Linebacker Rule #22:
Pass Coverage is all about eye placement.
Know where to look.

Linebacker Rule #23:
Read the Puller.

Linebacker Rule #24:
Use efficient movements.
Never waste a step.

Linebacker Rule #25:
FINISH every play.

Linebackers:

Don’t CATCH blocks.

Attack. Attack. Attack.

Quick Linebacker coaching point:

When you’re using a POWER move, you need to defeat HALF the blocker.

When you’re using a SPEED move, you need to defeat the HANDS of the blocker.

Linebackers:

When you win with SPEED…

Stack and replace the blocker.

Linebackers:

Scrape DOWNHILL.
Close the space.
Make the play.