How to execute Dwight Freeney's spin move

Dwight Freeney is my all time favorite defensive end. The future hall of famer has many great pass rush moves, but the one he is most famous for is the spin move. I've had many coaches that have loved the spin and many who have hated it and I can see why.

When it's done incorrectly it opens up huge lanes that make it easy for the QB to scramble, but when done correctly it can be one of the most effective pass rush moves out there. Today, I will be breaking down the correct way to do a spin.

Below is the clip I will be breaking down

Key the first movement

Whether it's the blocker or the ball, the DE should get off on the first twitch of movement on the line of scrimmage

Sell speed

The blocker needs to believe that the DE is speed rushing for this move to work. So, the DE needs to grab green grass with his first two steps and keep his pads down

Chop to get vertical pads

Remember how the DE needed to sell speed? This is the icing on the cake. The chop will get the blocker to commit to the speed rush and turn his pads vertical.

Ice pick

The DE should imagine they have an ice pick in their and they are trying to jam it into the middle of the blocker's back. Just make note that there shouldn't be any space between the blocker and the DE as he is spinning.

The wrong way

The key with an effective spin move is to sell speed in order to turn a blocker's pads. When the DE stands up and shakes, the blocker doesn't feel threatened upfield and is able to keep his pads horizontal.

One more note

Crucial that the guard be occupied by a defensive body... can't be spinning that fast into the B gap and have a guard waiting to take the DE's head off.

Support

If you liked this breakdown, I have more just like it in my book The Pass Rush Bible. It features 31+ chapters on how to become a top tier pass rusher. You can get it now by clicking here.

-Craig over and out