Building Endurance and Accuracy: The Down The Line Drill for Quarterbacks on the Move
The “Down The Line Drill” is a fantastic addition to your quarterback training program. This drill combines essential elements of throwing on the run with conditioning, creating a well-rounded exercise that hones both physical skills and throwing mechanics.
Purpose
- Throwing on the Run Mechanics: This drill allows quarterbacks to practice throwing the football accurately while maintaining proper mechanics during continuous movement. It simulates game situations where they need to escape pressure or extend plays by throwing on the run.
- Conditioning for Stamina: The constant running and throwing involved in this drill builds cardiovascular endurance, a crucial attribute for quarterbacks who need to perform at their peak throughout the game. This drill helps them maintain their throwing accuracy even when fatigued.
Description
- Partner Up: Quarterbacks pair up and position themselves at one end of the practice field.
- Maintaining Distance: They begin by jogging or running down the length of the field, maintaining a consistent distance of 10-15 yards apart.
- Throwing on the Move: One quarterback initiates the drill by throwing the football to their partner while continuing to run. The receiving quarterback catches the ball and immediately throws it back to their partner, maintaining the same running pace and spacing.
- Focus on Release Speed: Emphasize the importance of a quick release when throwing the ball. This is crucial for on-field situations where split seconds can determine the success of a play. While running is part of the drill, the focus should be on increasing throwing release speed, not necessarily running speed.
Variation
Changing Angles: For a more challenging variation, the quarterback holding the ball can slow down their running speed while their partner accelerates. This puts the receiving quarterback slightly ahead and forces the throwing quarterback to adjust their throwing angle for an accurate completion. This variation simulates situations where quarterbacks need to throw on the run while facing pressure from defenders who may disrupt their initial throwing lane.
Coaching Points
- Body Positioning: Remind quarterbacks to maintain proper body positioning throughout the drill. This includes squaring their shoulders and hips towards their target at the beginning of the throwing motion, even while in motion. This ensures they generate power and maintain accuracy.
- Lead the Throw: The throwing quarterback should aim slightly ahead of the receiving quarterback, leading them into the throw. This allows the receiving quarterback to catch the ball in stride and continue running at a constant speed without having to adjust their pace or direction.
- Head Movement: Encourage quarterbacks to keep their heads up and maintain focus on their target throughout the drill. This allows them to track the ball effectively and anticipate throws.
Equipment
- Footballs (1 per pair of quarterbacks)
This drill can be adapted to fit the conditioning level of your quarterbacks. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase the length of the field runs as their endurance improves.
By incorporating the “Down The Line Drill” with its variations into your training program, you can equip your quarterbacks with the necessary skills to excel at throwing on the run. They’ll develop the throwing accuracy, stamina, and adaptability needed to make crucial throws under pressure and extend plays for offensive success.
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