The Sensory Specialist: Refining QB Touch with the Globetrottering Drill
A quarterback’s connection with the football goes beyond just grip strength. The “Sensory Specialist” drill hones their sense of touch and awareness of the ball’s position, even when it’s not directly in their hands. This heightened “feel” for the pigskin translates to smoother handoffs, more precise throws on the run, and improved ball security in all situations.
Purpose
- Develop Tactile Awareness: This drill refines the quarterback’s sense of touch regarding the football. By performing these unique ball transfers, they become more attuned to the feel of the ball throughout the movement, even when it’s not in their dominant hand.
- Enhance Ball Control: The drill emphasizes maintaining control of the football throughout the entire sequence. They must focus on smooth transitions and a firm grip, even when the ball is behind their back or between their legs.
- Improve Hand-Eye Coordination: While not explicitly a hand-eye coordination drill, the act of “feeling” for the football and anticipating its location helps quarterbacks develop a better sense of where the ball is in space, even if they can’t see it directly. This can be beneficial for throws on the run or blind handoffs.
Description
- Starting Position: Quarterbacks begin standing upright with their feet shoulder-width apart in a balanced athletic stance. They hold the football comfortably in front of their body with both hands, mimicking their pre-snap grip.
- Around the Waist:
- Right Hand Transfer: They initiate the drill by using their right hand to bring the football down and around their back to their lower back area.
- Left Hand Exchange: While the football is behind their back, they quickly switch hands, using their left hand to reach back and grab the ball.
- Front and Repeat: Their left hand then brings the football back up and around to the front of their body.
- Right Hand Takeover: Finally, they complete the sequence by transferring the ball back to their dominant (right) hand, ready to begin again.
- Figure Eights Around the Legs:
- Right Hand Down Low: They begin by using their right hand to bring the football down between their legs.
- Left Hand Retrieval: As the ball passes between their legs, their left hand reaches behind them to snag the football.
- Left Leg Wrap: Maintaining control with their left hand, they then circle the football around their left leg.
- Right Hand Recapture: Finally, they reach their right hand down and through their legs again to retrieve the football and bring it back up to their starting position.
- Direction Changes and Speed: Throughout the drill, quarterbacks should frequently change directions, alternating between the “around the waist” and “figure eight” sequences. As they become comfortable, gradually increase the speed of the repetitions while maintaining proper control of the football.
Progressions
- Introduce Partner Handoffs: Once comfortable with the solo drill, introduce a partner to simulate handoffs. This adds an element of realism and challenges quarterbacks to maintain control while transferring the ball to another player.
- Incorporate Footwork Drills (for the “around the waist part”): As proficiency increases, incorporate light footwork drills like shuffles, lunges, or footwork patterns while performing the globetrottering sequences. This simulates situations on the field where they might need to maintain ball control while moving around.
- Progression to Throws: Eventually, progress to incorporating the globetrottering motion into a throwing sequence. This allows them to practice transitioning from the drill’s movements to a complete throwing motion while maintaining ball control.
Coaching Points
- Focus on Smooth Transitions: Emphasize the importance of smooth and controlled hand movements throughout the drill. Abrupt movements or fumbling transitions can disrupt the drill’s purpose and potentially lead to fumbles.
- Maintain a Firm Grip: Reinforce the importance of maintaining a firm grip on the football, even during the transfers. This ensures they can maintain control and react quickly if needed.
- Keep Your Eyes Up: While the drill focuses on feel, encourage quarterbacks to keep their eyes focused forward throughout the repetitions. This simulates a game situation where they need to maintain awareness of the field while handling the ball.
- Mind Your Body Mechanics: Remind quarterbacks to maintain proper body posture and footwork throughout the drill. Avoid hunching over or bending at the waist excessively, as this can hinder their balance and ability to react quickly.
Equipment
- Footballs (1 per quarterback)
By implementing the Globetrottering Drill and these coaching points, you can refine your quarterbacks’ sense of touch and awareness of the football. Their heightened “feel” for the pigskin will translate to smoother handoffs, more precise throws on the run, and improved ball security in all situations. This drill equips them to be true “sensory specialists,” in complete control of the football and ready to orchestrate your offense to victory.
