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Setup:

For this drill you’ll need two cones, two quarterbacks, two running backs, and two footballs.

Purpose:

To give your players a more game-like situation in which to practice giving and receiving handoffs.

Execution:

With each quarterback behind their cone, football in hand, and the running backs in tow behind as well, call hike.

On this signal, the quarterbacks should pivot, opening up to the right side, as the running backs run up to receive the handoff with their pocket open wide. They’ll then clamp down and burst past the cone, then turn around and come back to do the same drill again – to the left side this time.

Coaching Tips:

You want to make sure your players are getting a good ‘mesh’ as well. By mesh I mean that as the handoff is happening, the running back should just brush the quarterback with his inside shoulder. Otherwise, you run the risk of the running back coming out too wide or too tight, forcing the quarterback to overextend or get jammed up.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Emphasize the importance of the correct stance for both quarterbacks and running backs. For QBs, they should be relaxed with knees slightly bent. For running backs, they should ensure their “pocket” (the area where they’ll receive the ball) is firm and secure with fingers pointing down and the elbow bent at roughly 90 degrees.
  • Younger players should be reminded to clearly communicate during the handoff. Whether it’s a vocal cue or a non-verbal one, ensuring both the quarterback and running back are on the same page is vital to avoid fumbles.
  • Encourage younger players to keep their eyes on the ball until it’s safely in their hands. This minimizes the chance of a dropped handoff and reinforces good habits.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • Challenge experienced players by varying the speed of the running backs during the handoff. This can train them to adapt their technique based on different game situations.
  • Footwork is crucial for a successful handoff. Experienced quarterbacks should work on the precision of their pivots and steps, ensuring they’re consistent each time. Likewise, running backs should focus on the exactness of their approach, ensuring they’re neither too close nor too far from the quarterback during the handoff.
  • To further increase the game-like feel, occasionally introduce a passive defender to the drill. This will push both the quarterback and the running back to make quicker decisions and sharper moves, mimicking the pressure of an actual game situation.
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