Roquan Smith Hip Drop Tackle Godwin: Breaking Down The Play That Shook The NFL

Roquan Smith's hip drop tackle on Godwin left fans stunned and players talking. It wasn’t just a routine stop—it was a moment that showcased raw athleticism, technique, and a bit of old-school grit that you don’t see too often in today’s NFL. Whether you’re a linebacker hopeful or just a football fan who appreciates elite tackling, this play deserves a closer look.

So, what exactly happened during that play? How did Roquan pull it off? And why did it cause such a buzz across social media and sports shows? We’ll break it down, step by step, and even toss in some tips if you're trying to master this type of move yourself.

In this article, you’ll get an inside look at the mechanics behind the tackle, the players involved, and why this moment stands out in today’s fast-paced, high-powered league. Let’s dive in and unpack what made Roquan Smith’s hip drop tackle on Godwin one of the most talked-about plays of the season.

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Table of Contents

• Roquan Smith: A Quick Bio
• What Is a Hip Drop Tackle?
• The Godwin Tackle: A Breakdown
• Why Did This Tackle Go Viral?
• How to Master the Hip Drop Tackle
• FAQs

Roquan Smith: A Quick Bio

Roquan Smith isn’t just fast—he’s got instincts that set him apart. He came into the league with a reputation for explosive plays and has only built on that over the years. After being traded from the Bears to the Ravens, he’s become a defensive anchor. His ability to read the field, close in on ball carriers, and deliver clean, powerful hits makes him one of the most feared linebackers in the league.

What Is a Hip Drop Tackle?

So, what exactly is a hip drop tackle? You see it more often in college or high school, but it’s not as common at the pro level. It involves getting low, driving your hip into the ball carrier’s midsection, and using your body weight and momentum to bring them down. It’s a powerful move that can stop a runner in their tracks.

Some people think it's risky because of the potential for injury, especially with bigger, faster players in the NFL. But when done right, it’s effective and, honestly, kind of fun to watch. It’s a throwback to the days when football was a bit more physical and less finesse-based. Roquan Smith pulling off a textbook hip drop tackle on Godwin felt like a throwback to those days.

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Check out nfl.com for more breakdowns of elite tackling techniques.

The Godwin Tackle: A Breakdown

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the play. So, Chris Godwin had the ball on a short crossing route, right? He’s a tough guy to bring down—solid route runner, strong upper body, doesn’t go down easy. But Roquan came in low, got his hands on him quickly, and drove his hip straight into Godwin’s midsection. The result? Godwin was on the ground before he could really get his feet set.

Here’s what made it special:

• Footwork: Smith timed his steps perfectly, closing the gap in just a couple of strides.
• Low Center of Gravity: He stayed low, which gave him leverage and control.
• Body Position: His helmet was outside Godwin’s frame, which is textbook form—no leading with the head, which is great for safety and technique.
• Power: He used his entire body, not just his arms, to drive through the tackle point.

It wasn’t just a hit—it was a calculated, well-executed tackle that looked like it came straight out of a coaching manual. And honestly, it’s rare to see a pro player pull that off with such precision.

Why Did This Tackle Go Viral?

So, why did this moment get so much attention? Well, for one, Roquan Smith is already a fan favorite. He plays with energy and intensity, and people notice that. But beyond that, the tackle itself was something you don’t see too often in the NFL anymore.

With the league pushing for safer tackling methods and more emphasis on head and neck protection, the hip drop has kind of fallen out of favor. But Smith pulled it off cleanly, without any helmet-to-helmet contact. That made it not just exciting, but technically impressive too.

Plus, Godwin is a well-known player, which helped. It wasn’t some backup getting tackled—it was a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver getting stopped dead in his tracks by a linebacker who clearly knew what he was doing.

How to Master the Hip Drop Tackle

If you’re a young player or just trying to improve your tackling skills, here are some tips to help you pull off a clean, effective hip drop tackle like Roquan Smith:

1. Stay Low: You’ve got to get your hips below the ball carrier’s center of gravity. That means bending your knees and keeping your back flat.
2. Wrap and Drive: Don’t just grab and fall. Wrap your arms around the midsection and drive through the tackle point with your legs.
3. Use Your Body Weight: It’s not all about arm strength. Let your body do the work—drive with your hips and shoulders.
4. Control Your Head: Keep your head up and to the side. No leading with the helmet—safety first!
5. Practice Makes Perfect: You’re not going to pull this off in a game if you don’t drill it in practice. Repetition is key.

Want to learn more about tackling fundamentals? Learn more about proper form and technique here.

For a real-world example of how to do it right, check out our video breakdowns that break down elite tackles, including Roquan Smith’s hip drop on Godwin.

FAQs

What is a hip drop tackle in football?

A hip drop tackle is a technique where a defender lowers their body and uses their hip to make contact with the ball carrier’s midsection, driving through to bring them down. It’s effective but less common in the NFL due to injury concerns and evolving safety standards.

Did Roquan Smith injure Godwin on the tackle?

No, Roquan Smith executed the tackle cleanly. There was no helmet-to-helmet contact, and Godwin walked off the field without any apparent injury. The NFL has emphasized safer tackling techniques, and Smith’s hip drop was textbook in that regard.

Why is the hip drop tackle controversial?

The hip drop tackle can be risky because of the force applied to the ball carrier’s lower body, which may cause awkward falls or leg injuries. The NFL has been pushing for safer alternatives, but when done correctly—like Smith did—it’s still a valid and effective move.