Tackling is a key part of the game of football. The objective of a tackle is to either stop a forward motion of a ball carrier or catch the ball carrier and drag him/her down. A successful tackle not only preserves a touchdown but can also change the course of a game.
The video below highlights the difficulty of trying to predict the outcome of a football game based on the plays that are made available to bet on. It also shows the importance of a good tackle in determining the outcome of the game. In the video, you will see that the quarterback is unable to complete a pass when he has a clear lane to run through. The defender who tackles him is either able to bring him down for a crucial loss or force him to fumble the ball. This could potentially turn the tide of the game.
What are the Different Types of Tackles?
The key thing to note is that there are various different types of tackles. They can be categorised according to their strengths and weaknesses. A good offensive line coach will be able to exploit these characteristics and adjust the approach each offensive player takes to tackle a particular opponent.
For example, a defensive lineman who is strong but not agile might focus more on gaining leverage rather than reaching for the ball and making a traditional tackle. Alternatively, a smaller, more agile defender might try to wrap his arms around the ball carrier and prevent him from going anywhere. This type of tackle is more commonly referred to as a ‘hug’ tackle.
When is it Good to Tackle and When is it Bad to Tackle?
If you are going to be doing any sports betting then it is important to understand when it is good and when it is bad to tackle. The following points highlight some of the essential differences between good and bad tackles:
- A good tackle is generally needed in football if you want to predict the outcome of the game.
- A good tackle is also needed if you want to change the course of the game.
- A good tackle is usually the first thing you will want to check when you see a play develop. If it looks like a good tackle is needed then do your best to make it so.
- Avoid making a tackle if you are not sure whether or not it is good. There are too many situations where a bad or unskilled tackle can result in serious injury to the player being tackled.
- If a player is struggling to get away then it is usually a good idea to make a tackle. However, if you are going to tackle a player who is clearly going to score then you might want to hold off on making a defence because they will most likely bring you down.
- Above all else, never tackle a player coming back for a pass. It is easy for an offensive lineman to block a pass rusher who is coming back for a pass.
- It is important to remember that the success of a tackle relies on many factors. For example, having a good angle at which to bring down the ball carrier is crucial, as is making sure that you are in the right place at the right time. This means that there is no absolute right or wrong answer as far as when to tackle and what type of tackle to use. Every situation is different and you will need to use your best judgement.
- Every situation is different and you will need to use your best judgement. This is one of the most important things to keep in mind if you want to be a successful sports bettor.
Tackle vs Block
Another important factor to consider when trying to predict the outcome of a football game is whether or not the ball is going to be carried for a long distance before being returned for a score. This is typically referred to as a ‘running’ play or a ‘scramble’ because the ball is constantly in motion and in constant danger of being returned for a score. Each individual player on the offensive line has a specific role to play in this type of situation and it is their job to make sure that the ball is not returned for a score. This is why it is important to have at least one player who is strong enough to withstand the brunt of the hit while maintaining their leverage. This type of tackle is typically referred to as a ‘block’ as opposed to a ‘tackle’ because the ball is more of a prop than a projectile and is not likely to go very far before being picked up.
Lane vs No Lane Tackles
In addition to knowing when to tackle it is also important to know if or when it is a good idea to make a tackle while in a specific position. This is particularly important if you are going to be doing any football betting because the odds of being in the right place at the right time are much better if the play is taking place in your favour. If you are in the correct position and the play seems like it is going well then it is usually a good idea to make a tackle. However, if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time then it could be a terrible idea to make a tackle because the risk of getting injured is too great. This is why it is important to analyse the situation before deciding whether or not to make a tackle.
An example of this would be if a running back is gaining some momentum and it looks like they are going to run for a touchdown. Now, if you are a small defensive back and are going against a bigger, stronger offensive lineman then it might be a good idea to hit them as soon as possible because it will most likely result in a fumble or a loss of yards.
On the other hand, if you are going against a smaller defensive back or a receiver who is not particularly strong then it might not be a good idea to make a tackle because there is a greater chance of them getting the ball and running for a score. If you do make the tackle however, it should not be a ‘hug’ type of tackle either because they are not particularly strong and there is a greater chance of them being injured by a powerful hit than one where they are wrapped tight around the neck.
Short vs Long Post Touchdown Paddles
Even in a situation where it is not necessary to have at least one player to block a rush then there is still a good chance that the ball carrier will stumble or lose their footing after the initial contact is made. In these situations, an immediate follow-up will almost certainly mean that you either stop the ball or bring it down for several yards. The type of tackle you use will depend on how many yards beyond the original line of scrimmage you are trying to go. If you are going for a long touchdown then you will want to be making sure that the opposition does not get the ball back.
If you are going for a short one then it may be smart to try for something like a hook or a shot put effort and rely more on power than technique. However, it is still good to have a few players who are strong enough to withstand the push of the runner when contact is initially made. In most cases, a good short-interception defender will try to maintain their leverage once contact is made and avoid giving up additional yards after the catch. The more you can do to avoid giving up additional yardage after the catch, the better your chance of making a play.
Defensive End vs Offensive Tackle
As a general rule, a good defensive end is going to be strong enough to fight off the opposing offensive tackles and also have the speed to go for long snaps or runs across the middle of the field. A good offensive tackle is generally going to be slow and unathletic which makes them easy prey for a crafty defensive end who is in perfect position to beat them at their own game. If you are going to be doing any sports betting then these are the types of players you will want to keep in mind when you are considering making a wager.
One more thing. These players usually enjoy getting after the quarterback because they feel that he is the one who is more difficult to block. Plus, it’s easy for them because he’s usually on the shorter end of the stick as far as snaps and play time is concerned.
If you want to put money down on NFL Football then it is important to keep all of this in mind and use your best judgement as to when and where to make your wager. Make sure to learn from the best and most experienced sports bettors in the industry so that you can become one yourself.