A more realistic picture is obtained when the formation is laid down, but that will not happen on every dirt dive. When you do lay down the formation, make sure your have a good box position. Do not reach for the grips. Move your torso deeper into the slot. Pay attention to your distance from the people immediately in front of you.
Most people err on being too far away from the centerpoint.
You can give the person next to you a gentle tug with your arm to let them know they need to be deeper, stick their legs out or box out their body position. You do not need to look out towards the end of the wacker. Keep looking through the center and maintain your position. Fly into your slot until the grip starts to disappear from your peripheral vision. Your arms should be boxed out and be able to take the grip easily.