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Here are the three main reasons why players lose the contact battle.
Many players approach contact upright or, if they do arrive with a low strong stance, they drive into the tackle but then allow their torso to rise and fail to keep their body parallel to the ground.
Players have poor security of the ball, because it is held in one hand or not close enough to the body. Two hands must be on the ball, with it tucked tight to the body, underneath the sternum and away from contact.
Players must try to get to ground without putting a hand down to cushion themselves. They place the ball once they are down and not in the act of falling.
They must not rush the placement but remain in two-handed control of the ball. Once placed, the ball is stationary, not bobbing or rolling around.
Leading with the chest opens up the body. Contact leading with the shoulder protects the body, face and ball, and is a harder body part for the collision.
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