To have a team that dominates the defensive side of the ball, there are characteristics that must be instilled within the players. Defensive players are not like those other guys. They are not out for newspaper fame, or for mind-blowing stats. Rather, the best defensive players work within their system – but with an intensity and fire that a mortal human being could never grasp.

A great defender must have an understanding of the football defense he plays within. Great football players learn that the game is bigger than the individual, and the thrill of victory can best be obtained through the subjugation of one’s own ego. Each of the 11 defenders on a football defense has a responsibility. Committing to that responsibility, first and foremost above personal desires and personal safety, is becoming a true ‘team player’. 11 defenders with whole-hearted commitment to their individual responsibilities first, will lay the building blocks of a great defense.

Defensive players develop a passion for the football. They must salivate for the football. From the opening kick-off to the final whistle, these men desire to get in on every tackle at all costs. They pursue with an intensity of purpose that is rarely seen in other vocations. There is an instinctive understanding of proper pursuit angles, which has been developed and solidified through countless repetitions in practice. A great football defense includes 11 men who want to get to the football, know how to get to the football, and treat the pursuit of the football as if their life depended on it.

Finally, the great defenders excel at the point of impact. They are willing to explode all of their might and power into a ball carrier, with little concern for their own well-being. It is important to teach defenders perfect tackling technique through repetition in practice. At the point of impact, on the biggest play of their life, they will not think about helmet placement or fast feet. They will simply look to punish the opponent. For their want of physical contact, they spend hours upon hours in the weight room and on the field in the off-season, building size and speed to ensure that they will win every collision.

Remember, great football defenders are not born. They are made.

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