Offense will win you games, defense will win you a championship. If you have rules regarding playing time or all players must start, it is very important to choose the best players on your team for your defensive unit.
Your formation
Choosing your defensive formation depends on the kids you have picked for your defensive team. I typically choose a 4-3 or a 5-3, though on my 4-3 I move the Strong Safety up to play run support.
Who are my key players?
Because the outside is so vulnerable, picking your defensive ends is vital to the success of your football team. You need to pick two of your more athletic tacklers for these two positions. The defensive end must contain the outside and prevent the running backs from getting outside.
Your next important defensive players are your linebackers. Your linebackers are the guys who are always looking for "live meat", who always want to make a tackle and clean up the play. In addition, your free safety is the "safety valve" on defense, nothing should get behind him.
Tackling and Pursuit
Tackling and ball pursuit are the keys to defense. DO NOT put kids on defense who are unwilling to tackle. You should run tackling drills and ball pursuit drills each week.
