Spark Elusive Moves: The “Rabbit Drill” for Open-Field Domination
The “Rabbit Drill” is a dynamic tool for honing the elusive skills of wide receivers (WRs) and running backs (RBs) in open-field situations. This drill simulates one-on-one scenarios where the ball carrier needs to evade a defender’s tackle and race towards the end zone. By incorporating key coaching points and variations, the “Rabbit Drill” equips WRs and RBs with the agility, footwork, acceleration, and ball security necessary to break tackles and maximize yardage after the catch (YAC) or reception.
Purpose
- Develop Elusive Maneuvers: The drill emphasizes the importance of executing a “set-up move” to create space and leverage against the defender. WRs and RBs practice using shifty footwork, sharp cuts, and deceptive jukes to evade tackles and gain an edge in open-field situations.
- Refine Open-Field Acceleration: The drill trains WRs and RBs to maintain explosive acceleration throughout the drill, emphasizing the crucial role of maintaining speed after contact or the initial cut. This discourages hesitation and ensures they can outrun pursuing defenders.
- Enhance Ball Security: The drill reinforces the importance of ball protection even during the evasion process. WRs and RBs practice catching and tucking the ball away securely while maintaining their focus on reaching the end zone.
Description
Drill Setup
- Ball Carrier and Defender Positioning: Align the ball carrier (WR or RB) holding a football midway between the right hash and the near sideline, approximately five yards behind the 25-yard line. Position a defensive back ten yards directly in front of the ball carrier, simulating the initial tackler. Five yards behind the ball carrier, place another defender who acts as the “rabbit.”
- Playing Area: Mark the boundaries of the drill using cones at the four corners: the right hash mark, the near sideline, the 25-yard line, and the goal line. This creates a designated playing area for the drill.
Drill Execution
- Evasion Options: The ball carrier is instructed to choose either a left or right cut to evade the tackle from the defender directly in front of them. The “rabbit” serves as a pursuer, applying pressure to ensure the ball carrier does not hesitate in their decision or execution.
- Full-Speed Execution: On the coach’s command, the ball carrier sprints towards the goal line at full speed. The defender directly in front attempts to tackle the ball carrier in the open field, mirroring a realistic tackling scenario.
Variation
- QB or Coach Throw: Incorporate a QB or coach to throw a pass to the WR. The “rabbit” defender starts their pursuit only once the WR catches the ball and secures it by tucking it into their chest.
- Game-like Scenario: This variation adds a layer of game-like realism, forcing the WR to focus on catching and securing the ball quickly while also being aware of the impending pursuit from the “rabbit” defender.
Coaching Points
- Set-Up Move Emphasis: Stress the importance of the WR or RB using a well-timed “set-up move” such as a head fake, shoulder dip, or stutter step to create space and deception against the initial defender.
- Open-Field Acceleration: Emphasize maintaining explosive acceleration throughout the drill. WRs and RBs should focus on pushing through any initial contact and maintaining their top speed to outrun the pursuing defender. Breaking down in stride allows the defender to catch up and potentially make the tackle.
- Ball Security Priority: Reinforce the importance of ball protection throughout the drill, even during the cut and evasion maneuvers. WRs and RBs should practice catching the ball and immediately tucking it into their chest with their elbows in for optimal ball security.
Equipment
- Footballs
- Cones (to mark drill boundaries and players’ starting points)
- Optional: Quarterback (QB)
The “Rabbit Drill” with its variations is a valuable tool for developing well-rounded WRs and RBs who can thrive in open-field situations. By incorporating this drill into their practice routine, WRs and RBs can refine their elusive maneuvers, open-field acceleration, and ball security, ultimately leading to more successful break tackles, extended plays, and game-changing gains. WRs and RBs emerge from this drill with the agility, speed, and awareness to become elusive threats in the open field, leaving defenders grasping at air as they race towards the end zone.
Originally contributed in 2007 by Coach Mike Emendorfer, Head Coach at University of Wisconsin at Platteville – he retired in November 2021 after the conclusion of the 2021 season – The Platteville Pioneers are playing in the NCAA III – Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
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