Packers’ Screen Is A No Go Vs Donte Jackson

One of the recent trends in the game is the proliferation of the WR screen. Offenses are trying to get the ball to their athletes in space and challenge defensive backs to make the tackle. So what is a defender to do? Well, let’s take a look at how Donte Jackson here is able to defend the Packers’ exceptional screen attack.

It starts with recognition. As soon as the WR pivots, Jackson stops his pedal to redirect downhill. He displays excellent change of direction when doing so and there are no wasted steps.Very important when defending a screen.

Finally, he has to execute the open-field tackle, which is no easy task. He does a nice job coming to balance and lining up the target. Then he wraps and gets the screen receiver on the ground.

You can see what a big play this screen is if Donte Jackson doesn’t make this tackle, but in this case he was up to the task. 

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