Sean Spencer, Texas A&M Univ: Fundamentals to Advanced Techniques

This course delivers a comprehensive breakdown of the art and science behind effective pass rushing, blending foundational principles with advanced techniques used at the highest levels of football. Designed for coaches and athletes alike, it emphasizes discipline, precision, and situational awareness in defensive line play.

Participants will explore the Four Minimums stance, alignment, assignment, and get-off simple elements that require no talent but create the foundation for elite performance. From there, the course advances into group rush integrity, set line recognition, and reading offensive linemen’s shoulders to determine the most effective move.

Through real game film, pro-level case studies, and drill-to-application teaching, learners will study:

• The difference between speed and power rushers and how to maximize individual strengths.

• Inside vs. outside rush principles, including square, vertical, and horizontal shoulder reads.

• The “sword and shield” philosophy for disciplined hand combat.

• Middle push and B-gap control techniques to maintain rush integrity.

• Drill progressions for moves such as dip-and-rip, ghost, long arm, and tomahawk.

• Strategies to affect throwing lanes, force turnovers, and rush as a unit.

This program builds from fundamental footwork and body positioning to nuanced adjustments against various tackle sets, ensuring participants not only understand what to do, but why it works in live competition.

By the end, coaches and players will leave with a toolbox of drills, teaching progressions, and rush strategies that translate directly from practice to game day success.