The Physics of Football Tackling

Every coach knows tackling is a key to winning games, but do you know the physics of football tackling?

The two most basic functions of American football, at any level, are blocking and tackling. If you’re coming up short at either job, you’re probably not seeing a lot of success on that side of the ball.

Tackling, much like every other aspect of the game, has evolved over the years. Players have gotten bigger, faster, and stronger. The game has opened up in regards to playing behind a row of blockers, to getting the ball in open space.

In today’s episode, we’re going to discuss the fundamentals of tackling, and some drills that you can use to better prepare your athletes to make all types of tackles, whether it be open field or round the edge of the OL trying to hit a sideline.

What Is A Successful Football Tackle?

The old way of tackling was all about violence. But violence might go against your best interest when you consider the physics of football tackling.
The goal of defensive football players is to get the ball carrier to the ground as soon as possible.
Use the physics of football tackling, the sidelines, and your run fits to get the ball carrier to the ground. There is a great discussion of football run fits and some new ideas here.