Fullback is a power position in the offensive backfield. Fullbacks are assigned as lead blockers on running plays to the middle of the line and off tackle. On passing plays they must block linebackers or cornerbacks that blitz up the middle or from the outside. Fullbacks are seldom used as receivers, but are often called to carry the ball in short-yardage situations. Drills for football fullbacks are designed to teach pass blocking, getting to blocks and ball control.
Attack Blocking
Attack blocking drills teach fullbacks how to locate a blitzing defender and make an effective block close to the line of scrimmage. Set the drill with three blocking dummies 3 yards apart along the line of scrimmage. A defender lines up behind each dummy as a potential blitzer. The fullback lines up in position three yards behind the quarterback. The coach stands behind the fullback and silently signals which defender will blitz.
At the whistle, the quarterback drops back to pass as the fullback takes two steps forward and sets to make a block. The fullback must locate the blitzing defender, charge in that direction and make the block. The coach signals alternate defenders to blitz during the drill.
Mobility Drill
Mobility drills improve the fullback's balance and footwork needed to make blocks as a lead blocker for the running back. The drill teaches fullbacks to charge into the hole created by offensive linemen, spot the attacking linebacker and get to that block.
Set the drill with three blocking dummies 1-yard apart along the line of scrimmage. A defender lines up 3-yards behind each dummy. The coach calls a running play to the right or left of the middle blocking dummy and signals which defender will move into that gap.
The fullback lines up 3 yards behind the quarterback. At the whistle, the fullback charges into the hole and must determine which defender is attempting to fill the gap. The fullback must keep his weight over his feet and use proper footwork to change direction and make an effective block. The coach should call the play to both sides and signal alternate defenders to charge the gap.
Slam Drill
As a ball carrier, the fullback's responsibility is controlling the football in short yardage situations. Defensive linemen and linebackers are trained to collapse running lanes and attempt to dislodge the football and cause a fumble. The slam drill teaches fullbacks how to protect the football when hit by multiple defenders.
Place two blocking dummies 1-yard apart at the line of scrimmage. Four defenders line up directly behind each blocking dummy to form two slam lines. The fullback lines up 3 yards behind the quarterback. At the whistle, the quarterback hands off to the fullback. The fullback charges ahead, receives the handoff and runs through the slam lines. The fullback must hold the ball with both arms and protect it with his body as defenders slam at the ball with their fists and attempt to dislodge it.
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