How to Sack a Quarterback in Football

No other defensive play, outside of a turnover, helps a defense and hurts an offense more in American football than a quarterback sack. Every time a defensive player sacks a quarterback it demoralizes an opposing offense and forces it to call plays it would normally not call or even to kick the ball. These sacks are not easy to come by and take practice to master.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Begin with proper balance when trying to sack the quarterback. At the snap of the football, maintain proper balance. Position both feet properly underneath you. If you're off-balance then a blocker will stop your motion or a quarterback will evade the pass rush.

2. Use the swim move to thwart the block attempt of the blocker. Lift either arm over the blocker, while at the same time moving forward. Use the leverage of this arm to pull the blocker forward as you move beyond the blocker to get the quarterback sack.

3. Utilize the spin move to obtain a quarterback sack. As you move to engage the blocker, spin just prior to contact. The spin can turn in either direction depending on the position of the blocker. It is important to maintain momentum during the spin move, so that you can still get to the quarterback for the sack.

4. Make a bull rush movement to record a quarterback sack. This is where you get lower than the blocker and use your power to push him backwards and eventually down to the ground. This move requires great strength and leverage. Once past the block, the defender tackles the quarterback to the ground.

5. Sustain the proper body control once the quarterback is within reach. You as the defender must have your feet underneath you and be sure that you are not out of control.

6. Understand that the quarterback must have possession of the football for the sack to occur. If the defensive player hits the quarterback too late after throwing the football, this can result in a costly personal foul penalty.