Nine Defensive Drills Youth Football Teams Need to Run by Brandon Ogle, ThoughtCo. August 20, 2018 | 0 minutes, 41 seconds read The score tackling drill can assist in building linebackers who can shoot the gap and tackle running backs before they reach the next line of defense. As the head coach of a youth football team, it is important to develop a balanced defense that excels at the fundamentals. In doing so, you’ll initially separate the entire defense into three primary groups: defensive backs, linebackers and defensive lineman. This will allow you to teach the most important individual skills that are required for each group. Listed below are nine defensive drills you should run your youth team through. Cone Plant Reaction Drill This drill is something all defensive positions can work, but it should primarily be utilized by defensive backs. This drill works on a player’s ability to change direction and backpedal. Read the rest at ThoughtCo. sports in this article Football tags in this article Training & Drills