Smash Pass Counters: Knee Frame Drill

Addressing the smash pass, the knee frame drill is introduced to prevent being flattened by larger opponents. When the opponent attempts to pin the legs together, it's crucial to establish a frame underneath their head immediately to prevent them from getting tight and sprawling to pass the guard.

1. As the opponent locks their hands, place the knee shield and establish the frame with the pinky near the opponent's ear and the hand cupping their shoulder.
2. Use the grip to push down on the opponent's shoulder while lifting the wrist and elbow, creating a strong frame to prevent the opponent from lowering their head.
3. When the opponent drives forward with their weight on the legs, preventing leg movement, open the frame to create space for the knee.
4. Combine the knee and frame to create significant space, allowing for a reset to half guard or transition to another position such as closed guard or full butterfly guard.
5. The drill focuses on preventing the smash by framing under the neck, lifting the head, freeing the knee, and driving the opponent's weight to the side to create openings for various attacks or guard transitions.

It's emphasized that the timing of establishing the frame is critical, and once the space is created, there are multiple options available, including resetting the guard or attacking with leg locks.