QBs

Quarterbacks

“An offense must have a proficient player at the quarterback position. Lack of ability at the other offensive positions may be covered up, or compensated for, but if a team attempts to play with a quarterback who lacks the physical skills and mental abilities for the position, the weakness quickly will become evident to everyone.”
[Only] “For a passing team, pure athletic skill – speed and running ability – is not nearly as important as the player’s ability to set up correctly and throw the ball accuratly with good velocity to the proper receiver.”

Tom Bass
Drill Progresssion by Coach Mariani

Drill Progresssion by Coach Mariani

These are the quarterback drill progressions as run by Iona College Gaels head coach Fred P. Mariani in 2007:

Agility Drills

Agility Drills

The days of the immobile, flat-footed quarterback who simply distributes the ball by handoff, pitch or pass are long gone. Of course, dropping back - when playing under center - is a crucial mobility skill that most quarterbacks must master. But running skills, whether on a classic option play or a zone read play, have long since been added to the list of required skills for quarterbacks.

Ball Handling

Ball Handling

Because the quarterback handles the ball on almost every single offensive play, his ball-handling skills must be practiced in practice beyond simply running plays. Having a firm grip on the ball at all times is very important so that he doesn't lose the ball on an unexpected hit. The more a quarterback practices these ball-handling drills - which don't have to be done during practice, so they don't eat up valuable practice time - the fewer mishandled balls you'll see from your quarterback in practice and games.

quarterback drop

Warm-Up Throwing Routine

Every great throw starts with a proper warm-up. This 5-drill sequence is designed to progressively guide your quarterbacks through a dynamic warm-up routine, focusing on key throwing mechanics while preparing them for on-field performance. Each drill builds upon the previous one, creating a smooth transition from controlled movements to a complete throwing motion.

qb-throwing-oblivious-to-the-rush

Passing Drills

A quarterback's ability to deliver accurate passes under pressure is paramount to a team's success. The following passing drills are designed to enhance technique, accuracy, and decision-making. By incorporating these exercises into your quarterback's training regimen, you can significantly improve their overall passing performance and elevate your team's offensive capabilities.

Running Backs RBs
QBs
WRs