Sept. 4, 2009
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Archive: Long Snapping | Training Table | Punt Returning | Video Crew
1. Disguise your intentions: You have to disguise your plays. The element of surprise is always good in any kind of game, but to be successful, you have to be able to execute. As a defense, you like to converse with the opposing team every now and then and we definitely will make our presence felt when we can. Getting into the minds of the offensive players is always a plus and we try to vocally or by using any kind of movement, hand gestures or body language.
2. It is chess match getting to the quarterback: Whether it is the running back or an offensive lineman, they are about equally as difficult to get by. If you are rushing the tackle, you have to have good hands and good hip movement. If you are rushing the running back, you have to be ready for the cut block or for him to surprise you with something else. It is like a chess match with anyone you go against, especially a good blocker.
3. Getting a sack feels as good as it looks: It is a beautiful feeling. You work so hard and just for everything to go perfectly on a specific play is great. It is just great when you see no one between you and the quarterback.
4. You can’t be greedy: It is definitely a tough decision as to when to hit the quarterback, and sometimes you are reluctant to hit him. But sometimes you have to let it loose and play. It is definitely a judgment call. You can’t run in there blindly because that would do nothing but penalize the team.
5. Know your opponent: Based on film study, you pretty much know what type of blockers you are going against. It is all about making adjustments, and the better you are at doing that, the more successful you are going to be. Blitzing can be a great weapon to use against any offense if you execute properly.