[N_Stripes]

I have had a few collisions in my day but I have learned that the better my report is with the players, the more likely they are to try to avoid the collision. I have good communication with the LB's and DB's. I instruct the safety to talk to me if I set up in a bad spot, etc. I make sure that everyone unpiles in a gentlemanly manner and protect the RB's and QB. They know and remember this when they shoot the gaps. If a runner is coming right at me, I pivot out to one side and let him pass on by. Kinda like opening a door for someone. Has worked well for me.

For HS we run 5 man and I set up opposite R. In college I move around a little but stay between the guards.

Keep your R straight, he has a tough job and it can become confusing. Listen for accuracy, to what options he gives the offended team captain. Listen when you can to what your partners report to him. Know what distances you should mark off and from where.
Let him know if the clock should be wound or not on the ensuing RFP. Count the Offense every play and signal to your R that you have the proper number, closed fist signals 11 players. My R and I hold up a One (index finger) to each other if we have only 10 and hold up a Two if we have twelve. We both know right then what the other has; no confusion. Count the huddle for breaking with more than 11.

Other things will come to you from others in your assoc., crew and from your R and what he looks for. Have fun together and take care of each other.