As with any journey that is worth the trip, the time varies before you level up. I started to “run” midway through the spring season with the Memphis Express. It hit me as Coach Singletary and I were discussing primary tackler frequency within position groups during one of our weekly tackling meeting. Tackling evaluation through the 5 Fights is now a part of my everyday routine. As my two-year-old son chases my five-year-old son around the house, I find myself explaining to him that it is his poor Track as the reason he does not Connect and asking my wife if they are teaching proper leverage at his preschool. Every piece of film I see begins with straining to find the tackler’s feet, quickly followed by the evaluation of the tackler’s reshape and if there was a removal of the ball carrier’s “second breath.” Tackling is not the same anymore and room for improvement is everywhere. This lifestyle is evident in what shows up on film.

RELATED CONTENT: The day my tackling world changed - Part 1

As previously mentioned, I left my post as the defensive coordinator at Bridgewater College (Va.) following the 2018 season to join the Memphis Express of the AAF. However, I was fortunate to stay abreast with the progress the staff and players at Bridgewater were making through spring practice video. While I was with the Express “walking” in Memphis (great tune), I was “running” because of the growth that was evident on film and what can happen when a defensive group clicks.

· Cross-Reference Date: Data is the foundation of the Advanced Tackling System. When you start to run with the ATS, the important numbers that are produced should be mined deeper to see connections with scheme and performance. First, the primary tackler numbers that are at the heart of the evaluation should be connected with the total tackling numbers. Production is the name of the game in football. Are your productive players and positions showing up in both versions of the tackle? Also, field location (vertically and horizontally) of primary tackles can be sorted based on position group and huddle calls. Are the correct position groups or players making the tackles where they should be? Finally, are your tackling drills accurately representing the game data for your unit and specific position groups? Disclaimer: don’t let numbers become overwhelming. Know what you and your staff can handle and build up gradually.

· Extra Layer of Decision: If there was one line at the heart of the ATS and the 5 Fights, it would be quick and purposeful decision-making in chaos. As discussed earlier, that is defensive football. The ATS has allowed me to see the value in adding decision-making opportunities for our players in all situations. We look to challenge the players to use “laser focus” in the tackle but that concept is now prevalent in all we do together: in the huddle, in meetings and in the classroom. Turn down the background noise, trust what you see and take your shot.

· Spread the Word: The best part of the football profession is the fellowship. I believe there are very few jobs out there where competitors and strangers are so open to sharing and learning what works for them in this great game. The ATS and the 5 Fights are what the game needs and people deserve to know what it can do for the longevity of our game and its players. The good news is the pitch is easy because the 5 Fights are indisputable, good defensive football and the KPIs just give a name to what is already in all defensive coaches’ subconscious.

RELATED CONTENT: The day my tackling world changed - Part 2

I still remember July 21, 2018 as the day my tackling world changed. I am proud of the journey so far and know that there is no end in sight. I can’t wait to begin my “sprint.”