The Power of the 'Pier Step': A Breakdown of Kool-Aid McKinstry's Soft Press Technique

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» In this episode:

• Break down the "pier step" and why it's a key first move in soft press coverage.

• Analyze the timing and placement of the off-hand jam to disrupt the receiver's route.

• Illustrate how to maintain top-shoulder leverage to control the receiver downfield.

• Detail the proper body positioning to effectively defend the back-shoulder fade.

• Demonstrate how to finish the play by swiping through the ball for a pass breakup.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

0:08 The "Pier Step": The Key to Reading the Receiver

0:45 Correct Hand Placement & Patience

1:54 Hinging Open & Reacting to the Vertical Release

2:04 The Off-Hand Jam: How to "Stab the Pec"

2:14 Staying on Top: Owning the Route & Hip-Reading

3:10 How This Technique Defeats the Back-Shoulder Fade

3:32 The Finish: Swiping Through the Ball for the PBU 3:57 Full Speed Replay & Summary

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» Other resources:

MatchQuarters DB 101: Defending a Low Red Zone Fade with Alabama's Kool-Aid McKinstry

Colorado Buffaloes CB DJ McKinney's Soft Press Technique

Soft Press Technique vs. a Fade Route

MatchQuarters DB 101: Soft Press Technique

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© 2025 MatchQuarters | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.

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