35 Under 35 Presents | DeMarcus Van Dyke, USF | Cornerback Box Drills

DeMarcus Van Dyke, currently serves as the cornerbacks coach for the University of South Florida (USF). Heading into his second season in Tampa, Coach Van Dyke helped lead USF to a successful 2024 campaign with a 7-6 record, capped by an unforgettable 5-overtime victory over San Jose State in the Hawai’i Bowl. Before joining USF, he sharpened his coaching skills at Asa College, the University of Miami, and Florida International following a six-year NFL career. Coach Van Dyke was a member of the 2025 35 Under 35 class.

Mastering the Box Drill for Press Technique

The Box Drill is a cornerstone drill for cornerbacks aiming to refine their press technique, enhance their reactions, and dominate the first 5 yards at the line of scrimmage. Here’s how Coach Van Dyke sets up and executes the drill:

General Setup:

• Create a 5-yard box on the sideline.

Objectives of the Drill:

1. Improve press technique.
2. Feel the physical demands of press technique.
3. Master winning the first 5 yards against wide receivers.

Cornerback Stance:

A proper stance is crucial to executing the drill effectively. Follow these key points:

• Feet shoulder-width apart—not too wide or too narrow.
• Maintain a solid knee bend.
• Hands up and ready to engage.
• Position yourself 1.5 yards off the receiver.

Box Drill Execution:

Initial Movement:

• The wide receiver inches off the ball while the cornerback processes and moves straight backward.

Second Movement:

1. The WR inches off and then cuts right or left.
2. The CB reacts with a 45-degree angle to cut off the WR.
3. Both return to the starting point.
4. The WR repeats the movement in the opposite direction, and the CB adjusts accordingly.

Third Movement:

1. The WR inches and runs in one direction.
2. The CB reacts, cuts off the route, and finishes with a catch.

Points of Emphasis:

• Hand Placement: Aim for the WR’s pectoral area to land on the shoulder. Never use the same hand as the WR’s direction—always use the opposite hand.
• Footwork: Avoid crossing over; use a “Step N Replace” technique.
• Awareness: React to where the WR is going, not where they are.
• Pad Level: Maintain proper pad level for balance and agility.

Drill Variations:

• Perform without using hands to focus solely on cutting off the WR.
• Adjust the drill for individual cornerbacks’ skill levels.
• Incorporate catching a deep ball for added versatility.

Live Reps

Throughout live practice demonstrations, Coach Van Dyke emphasizes tailoring techniques to each athlete’s unique abilities. His hands-on coaching approach ensures every cornerback gets the most out of the Box Drill.

Why This Drill Matters

The Box Drill is an essential tool for improving press technique and overall cornerback performance. The video below shows how Coach Van Dyke coaches it.