Sharpen Focus in a Crowd: The “Playing Catch Gauntlet” Drill for Concentrated Receivers
The “Playing Catch Gauntlet” drill is a dynamic variation of the “Blurr Drill,” designed to hone wide receivers’ (WRs) concentration and focus on catching the ball amidst distractions. This drill simulates the chaotic environment of a game where teammates and defenders might be moving around the receiver while they attempt to catch a pass. By incorporating key coaching points and focusing on maintaining focus, the “Playing Catch Gauntlet” drill equips WRs with the mental toughness and concentration needed to secure receptions effectively even in a crowded environment.
Purpose
Enhance Focus Under Pressure: The drill challenges WRs to maintain laser focus on the ball and catching mechanics despite distractions from teammates waving their arms. This prepares them for the in-game environment where defenders might try to disrupt their focus during a play.
Develop Situational Awareness: While maintaining focus on the ball, WRs must also be aware of their teammates’ movements within the gauntlet. This helps them adjust their positioning slightly if necessary to avoid collisions or disruptions.
Refine Low-Trajectory Catches: The drill emphasizes catching low-trajectory throws, a scenario frequently encountered in short passing situations or underneath routes.
Description
Drill Setup
Gauntlet Formation: Have 10-14 players (ideally a mix of WRs and other offensive players) line up parallel to each other, facing each other approximately four to five feet apart. This creates a “gauntlet” that the WRs will need to catch the ball through.
Coaching Tip: For a more organized setup, consider using cones to mark the boundaries of the gauntlet, ensuring players maintain consistent spacing.
WR Positioning: Position two WRs, one at each end of the gauntlet, facing each other. These are the players who will be catching the throws.
Drill Execution
Throwing and Distraction: A coach or quarterback (QB) throws the ball with a low trajectory towards one of the WRs positioned at the ends of the gauntlet. While the ball is in the air, the players forming the gauntlet actively wave their arms around the ball in an attempt to distract the catching WR, but without making physical contact with the ball or the WR.
Low-Trajectory Catch: The catching WR must maintain focus on the ball’s trajectory despite the distractions. They should extend their hands, focus on catching the ball with their hands (not their body), and secure the catch before turning their body fully towards the thrower.
Repeat and Rotate: Each WR catches four balls with distractions. Once both WRs have completed their sets, the players forming the gauntlet rotate one position to the side, and the next two WRs in line step up to become the receivers. This ensures all players get a chance to practice catching with distractions.
Coaching Points
Maintain Focus: Emphasize the importance of maintaining unwavering focus on the ball throughout the drill, regardless of the distractions. Remind WRs to track the ball’s trajectory with their eyes and not get fooled by the arm movements of the players in the gauntlet.
Head and Eye Movement: Instruct WRs to keep their head moving slightly to track the ball’s trajectory, even while maintaining focus. This allows them to adjust their hands and body positioning as needed.
Catch with Hands: Stress the importance of catching the ball with their hands, not their body. Remind them to create a large target with their fingers extended and bring the ball securely into their chest after the catch. Proper hand placement is crucial for securing low-trajectory throws.
Situational Awareness: While maintaining focus on the ball, encourage WRs to be aware of their immediate surroundings within the gauntlet. This helps them avoid collisions with teammates who might be moving around them.
Proper Tuck Away: Remind WRs to practice the proper “high and tight” tucking technique after catching the ball, bringing it close to their chest with their elbows tucked in for optimal ball security.
Equipment
Footballs
(Optional) Cones (to mark the gauntlet boundaries – see Coaching Tip above)
The “Playing Catch Gauntlet” drill is a valuable tool for developing well-rounded WRs who can excel in dynamic offensive schemes. By incorporating this drill into their practice routine, WRs can refine their focus, catching technique, and situational awareness, ultimately leading to more consistent success on the field. WRs emerge from this drill with the confidence to maintain focus amidst distractions, navigate crowded situations, and make crucial catches that contribute significantly to the team’s offensive success.
