Rush...measure...learn

In the scientific method you create an experiment, measure the results, and then learn from the data.

This method has lead to history changing discoveries like penicilin, gravity and X-rays.

And this same method can help you discover how to disrupt an entire offense.

I’ll explain…

When you’re creating your rush plan you’re building a hypothesis (an educated guess) about how to defeat your opponent.

Then, as you’re executing your rush plan (experimenting) you will collect data on whether your rush has worked or not.

And ultimately you will need to “learn” from each rush and decide whether to adapt your plan or keep doing the same thing.

So as you’re rushing, you’ll go through multiple rush, measure, learn experiments just like a scientist.

​A real life experiment

Let’s take a look at #50 Michael Dwumfour.

He does a great job of experimenting with different rushes and adjusts his game plan based on feedback.

For his first rush he executes a side scissors (edge rush)...

...however, because the QB sets up at 5 yards he rushes too far up the field to affect him.

So his first rush experiment looked like this...

Rush: Side scissors
Measure: Too far up the field
Learn: Use power and inside rushes

In the next 3rd and long situation he could have very easily chosen to use another edge rush...

...but because he knew the QB set point was shallow he decided to test out a power rush.

​This test went a little different. The power rush put him in a great position to stay in front of the QB and get the sack.

Let’s review what Mike went through. In his first experiment he used a side scissors, but rushed too far upfield to get the sack.

Experiment #1
​Rush: Side scissors
Measure: Too far up the field
Learn: Use power and inside rushes

Experiment #2
​Rush: Power rush
Measure: Sack lunch!
Learn: Keep using power

And this resulted in getting a big time sack!

A final word

It can be frustrating to loose 1 on 1s, but think about it this way.
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​You actually end up learning more from your failures than your successes. ​
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So put on your pass rush lab coat and get to experimenting...
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...and remember with the right scientific mind set every failure gets you closer to success.

Support

If you liked this breakdown, I have more just like it in my book The Pass Rush Bible.

It features 31+ chapters with 100+ GIF examples on how to become a top tier pass rusher. You can get it now by clicking here.

-Craig over and out