Defesive back.

Question
So ive seeen that you gave real good advice on the db poistion. I wanted some advice of how should i be able to make varsity next year. i am a sophmore 125 lb and 5'6. im a pretty small football player i wouldnt say im really fast but i am quick. despite my lack of weight my head coach actually really likes my because i do alright for someone my sixe at practice. i just needed some advice on what i could do to improve my hitten and tackling.Like any weight exercise or anything i can do to improve what i can do on the feild. Also i was wondering about gaining weight. of course everyone tells me to hit the weight room but i dont think its quite working. i was also wondering if there is anything i could do to improve my coverage like anything about a reciver i could study to improve it such as like there positioning or how many steps they take on routes or something. Thank you really much and i really need the extra advice

Answer
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.  I have been working at several football clinics.

Hitting and tackling we can look at right now.  In order to become a better hitter and tackler you need to hit and tackle.  Well, not necessarily.  You need to work on your technique more than anything and this can be done without hitting.  The best I have found is actually available on Youtube:

Viator Football - Tackling Drills
http://youtu.be/QB8zyTgsp8g

That will help with technique.  Harder hitting comes with familiarity.  The more you tackle the more you become accustomed to it.



As far a improving your coverage skills I would say that is as simple as alignment, assignment and technique.  How you align on a receiver should be precise.  The more precise the better your coverage will be.  Knowing your assignment should become second nature (i.e. Cover 2 Safety is deeper than deepest receiver).  Never leave anything up to guessing.  If you have a question ask.  A coach would rather be asked something repeatedly than for you not to be prepared.  Footwork is an integral part of your technique.  The better your footwork, the easier your coverage will become.


Gaining weight I cannot help you there.  The best I can do is tell you to eat healthy and lift.  I have had players that spent their four years in the weight room and put on little weight, but became extremely strong.  I had a player as a freshmen come in at 5'5" 95 pounds.  He was a 5'8" 230 pound All-League senior.


Best of luck to you and remember that your first job out there is to have fun.