Building a Hungry Defensive Line

Our overall philosophy with our front four is to create 1-and-1 match ups as quickly as possible. We are fast flow with our inside linebackers, therefore the 2-on-1 combinations quickly turn into 1-on-1 blocks. We expect our defensive lineman to win those 1-on-1 battles. We expect these guys to be playmakers, not space eaters. The only situation that we actually tie up two is the double-team block with our three technique. Other than that exception, we are coaching technique to escape blockers and make plays. Technique and Fundamentals We are very fortunate here at Virginia Tech that our practice format allows the defensive line a minimum of 30 minutes of individual time each day to concentrate on technique and fundamental work. Each practice, he work on what I call \"our daily musts\" - hand placement, get off and escapes. There are several ways we work inside hand placement. One such