TFS#45: Gator Roll Pass

The other day I was rewatching some matches from 2022 and the slick passing of Tainan Dalpra caught my eye...again.

I could nerd out about his passing styles and techniques but today I wanted to focus on the Gator Roll. Everyone can pull it off.

The setup starts off in the Reverse De La Riva (RDLR). The RDLR is a common way to defend the classic knee cut pass and you’re going to run into this for the rest of your Jiu-Jitsu. So this gator roll will always be available.

Also, before we jump in, you can watch the gator roll here (1:22) .

1. Control Cross Collar

Typically when trying to pass, you'll grab the same side collar as you attempt to stabilize your position and control their head.

But for the gator roll, you’ll want the cross collar.

2. “Crazy Dog” Grip

With your other arm, you’ll weave through the top leg (the knee shield leg) and grab the pant by their knee.

It’s this grip that will help you clear the RDLR. You’ll posture up, bringing your hips up in the air while punching down on the leg to pop the RDLR hook off.

3. Shin Slice

Now you want to use the shin slice to free your knee. You’ll simply angle your knee sideways and slide out over their shin.

One detail you’ll want to work on is to place the newly free leg in between their leg, putting yourself into a leg weave position. See below:

This leg positions will also prevent your opponent from getting up.

4. Gator Roll

Now you’re ready to roll. But a few details before you do…

Place your head on their chest and turn your chest up.

When you’re rolling and facing up towards the ceiling, this is where you let go of the crazy dog grip.

Then you begin pulling your partner towards you.

To complete the pass, you’ll top spin and end up on their back.

For Your Jiu-Jitsu

→ Check out how Tainan pulls off the Gator Roll here. I highly recommend watching the entire match in slow mo so you can pick up on the finer details of this passing.

→ If you’re like me and work a 9-5 job, I’ve found 10 ways that my job has helped me with my Jiu-Jitsu.

→ You don’t have to do all 54 mobility drills in one session. But I would recommend picking 4-5 each week.

Give the gator roll a shot. It's a lot of fun and I promise you your teammates won't see it coming.