Safer Tackling, Smarter Football: How Proper Technique Protects Players

Football is more than a game—it’s a tradition, a passion, and for many young athletes, a rite of passage. But as a parent or coach, you’ve likely heard the alarming stats: concussion risks, declining youth participation, and growing safety concerns.

The good news? Football doesn’t have to be dangerous to be competitive. In fact, the key to safer, more effective play lies in how we teach tackling.

At Tackle Smart Sports, we’re redefining youth football safety with rugby-inspired techniques proven to reduce head injuries while improving performance. And the best part? Texas is leading the charge.

Why Tackling Technique Matters More Than Ever

Recent mandates from the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) and the University Interscholastic League (UIL) now require all middle and high school coaches to be certified in safer tackling methods—methods that mirror what we’ve been teaching for over 30 years.

Why? Because research shows:

The tackler suffers the majority of concussions in football—not the ball carrier.
Poor form (head-down, spearing, or “big hit” tackles) increases injury risk.
Rugby-style tackling—shoulder-led, head-up, wrap-and-drive—dramatically reduces head impact.

But this isn’t just about safety. Better technique means fewer missed tackles, fewer penalties, and more confident players.

The Tackle Smart Method: 5 Keys to Safer, Stronger Tackling

Master Your Footwork Great tackling starts with your feet. Use short, controlled steps to mirror the ball carrier, then explode through contact with one powerful final step. This keeps you balanced and ready to adjust to any last-second moves.

Stay Low for Maximum Power Bend your knees—not your waist—to maintain a strong, athletic stance. A lower center of gravity gives you better leverage, making it harder for runners to shake you off while giving you more driving force.

Lead With Your Shoulder The top of your shoulder—not your head or chest—should make first contact. This technique delivers more power while keeping your head safely out of the impact zone, reducing concussion risk.

Protect Your Head Position Never tackle with your head across the ball carrier’s body (spearing). In front-on tackles, turn your head to the side. For side tackles, keep it behind the runner. Proper head placement prevents dangerous neck injuries.

Wrap & Finish Strong Contact means nothing without control. After shoulder impact, immediately wrap your arms tight and drive through the tackle. This ensures secure takedowns and eliminates broken tackles.

Together, these techniques create safer, more dominant defenders.

Why Texas Coaches & Parents Are Choosing Tackle Smart

Roger Wilson, our founder and a former pro contact-sport athlete, knows firsthand the risks of poor tackling. When his own son wanted to play football, he realized: “We can’t just hope for the best—we need to coach smarter.”

That’s why Tackle Smart Sports doesn’t just teach tackling—we combine:
30+ years of rugby-style expertise
Sports science for better athleticism
Proven methods now mandated across Texas

Join the Movement for Safer, Smarter Football

Whether you’re a parent concerned about safety or a coach looking for better results, the future of football starts with proper technique.

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Because great football isn’t just tough—it’s Tackle Smart