Tulane’s Push, Point, Pull Tech to Teach WR Breakpoints

Oct 23, 2017 | Pass Game Mechanics, Position Groups, Wide Receivers

By Derrick Sherman
Offensive Analyst
Tulane University (LA)
Twitter: @CoachSherms

 

Introduction:

Each offense has dozens of different routes and there is never enough time to get all the necessary reps to perfect each one. Luckily, there are enough similarities in the routes and concepts that we do have enough time to focus on the fundamentals then put it all together on the field (90 degree cut, 45-degree cut, speed cut). Here at Tulane, we use a series of drills to become better route runners by concentrating on the different breaks that are common throughout our route tree.

We are very away that all of our receivers are different. That means that these breaks will be different from man to man. It is up to us as a coach to make sure each individual is efficient, quick, and explosive as he can possibly be. Our goal is to master the technique and do it faster each day.

The 3 P's Push-Point-Pull

Everyone has their own buzz words. Here at Tulane, we use push, point, and pull in every break to create a common language that gets the players focused on the keys to running great routes.

PUSH: The receiver will push his plant step into the ground while dropping his hips. He will need to keep his shoulders over his knees, and his knees over his toes. This helps to provide proper balance in the cut.

POINT: The next step in the progression should point the receiver toward his next destination. This ensures that there are no wasted steps going somewhere other than exactly where he should be aiming.

PULL: Lastly, the receiver should pull his inside elbow to pull and turn his hips, shoulders and head around all in unison. This ensures that we are efficient and explosive while ready to make catch

The drills that follow all help us rep and prefect these techniques on a daily basis. Each of these drills requires 4 cones and footballs.

Box Drill

Process/Coaching Points

  • Start with cones in a square 5 yards apart. (Work to get them further apart as your group progresses)
  • Simulates any routes with 90 degree cut
  • Shoulders over Knees over Toes
  • Push, Point, Pull
  • Violent Arms
  • Don’t turn shoulders early
  • Don’t over extend trying to reach the cone

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