Welcome to Tackle Smart Sports
Icon-facebook Instagram Twitter Linkedin Youtube

5 Game-Changing Truths About Modern Football Safety

1. "Soft Tackling" is a Dangerous Myth

Why Safety and Strength Aren’t Opposites

The biggest lie in football? That protecting players means weakening the game. The truth? Proper technique makes hits more powerful AND safer. NFL teams like the Seahawks proved it with their “Hawk Tackle” system—reducing concussions while improving tackle success rates. When you stop wasting energy on reckless collisions and start using biomechanically sound form, you get harder hits with less risk. That’s not soft—that’s smart football.

2. The Concussion Math Doesn’t Lie

76% of Head Injuries Happen to the Tackler

Research shows most concussions occur from poor head positioning, not the violence of the sport. When players lead with their helmet (the old “head across the bow” method), they’re 3x more likely to suffer head trauma. Rugby-style tackling flips this script by:

  • Keeping the head behind the hit
  • Using the shoulder as the primary contact point
  • Distributing force safely

The result? Fewer injuries, more players staying in the game.

3. Confidence Changes Everything

How Safe Technique Unlocks Aggressive Play

Watch a hesitant tackler, and you’ll see the problem: Fear creates hesitation, hesitation creates missed tackles. But when players trust their technique:

  • They commit fully to contact
  • Their reaction time improves
  • They actually enjoy hitting

One Texas coach reported his team’s tackle attempts increased 40% after switching methods. The kids weren’t holding back anymore.

4. Texas is Proving It Works

Why the THSCA Mandated Change (And Your Team Should Too)

In 2022, Texas made rugby-style tackling mandatory for all high school coaches—and the results speak for themselves:

  • Fewer concussion-related forfeits
  • More players returning year after year
  • College scouts noticing cleaner technique

This isn’t a theory anymore. It’s Texas football evolution.

5. The Future Belongs to Smart Teams

How to Stay Ahead of the Curve

The revolution is here:
Ditch “head across” drills immediately
Train shoulder-led contact until it’s muscle memory
Use video analysis to clean up form
Empower players with the science behind the technique

Take the Next Step in Football Safety!

Are you a parent or coach who wants to make sure your young athlete is learning the safest, most effective tackling techniques from proven professionals? Then, SIGN UP for our newsletter to stay up to date with our regular content, including upcoming events or camps!

Click HERE to sign up!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Telegram
Pinterest
Search
Recent Post
Sign up for Newsletter

Join our newsletter to receive offers and information on upcoming events.