Basics: The low chop tackle

The low chop tackle brings the ball carrier down quickly. It then offers the opportunity to turn the ball over. This type of tackle isolates the ball carrier from his support and also stops or delay offloads.

Learn the basics of a chop tackle by ensuring the players use it as a side-on tackle.

1. Split the players into pairs with a ball per pair. Have the ball carrier at one end of the box, and the defender at the side of the box.
2. The ball carrier runs through the box and scores at the far side. The defender stops them using a low chop tackle.
3. Begin with jogging and build up to full speed. Once mastered encourage the defender to then get to their feet and challenge for the ball.

1. Introduce a support player with a ruck pad for the attacker to make challenging for the ball after the tackle more realistic.
2. Add a second defender to again make the situation just after the chop tackle more realistic.

TECHNIQUE

• Get close to the ball carrier.
• Aim at the lower thigh.
• Shoulder in first, then a tight grip pulling the attacker’s legs together.
• Drive through by powering beyond the ball carrier’s legs.
• Be urgent: get back on feet and challenge for the ball.

Note:
Make a big point of excellent technique. Ask non-contact players to help observe and make comments.