A quarterback has the responsibility of making handoffs or pitchouts to running backs and throwing accurate passes to receivers. It all starts with receiving the snap from center and getting a good grip on the football. A quarterback's confidence improves with his ability to handle the football without making mistakes that lead to turnovers. Little League football quarterback drills teach fundamentals needed for good ball handling and proper footwork.
Handoff and Pitchout
Quarterbacks must learn the proper way to hold the football when making a handoff or pitchout to a running back. The snap from the center is always controlled with both hands. From that point, the ball is positioned differently depending on the type of running play.
Set the handoff drill with an offensive center, a quarterback and a running back lined up in a typical formation. The coach designates a handoff to the right or left side of the center. The quarterback calls signals and receives the snap with both hands. He must take a quick jab step in the direction of the hand off and put the ball out with one hand. The quarterback must ensure that the running back receives the handoff.
The pitchout drill starts as the first. The coach calls a pitchout to the right or left. The quarterback calls signals and receives the ball from the center. He takes a quick step back in the direction the pitchout is called and positions the football at his side. He runs parallel with the line of scrimmage and makes an underhand pitchout to the running back. The drills should be conducted at each practice to maintain the timing of a handoff and the accuracy of a pitchout.
Shoot and Throw
The shoot and throw drill is used to perfect the center snap in a shotgun formation and teach the quarterback to make quick passes. The combination of a good snap and a quick throw is effective in catching the defense by surprise.
Set the drill with the quarterback 4 yards deep behind the center. A wide receiver lines up 10 yards to the right or left of the center. The quarterback calls signals and must control the shotgun snap with both hands. He must bring the football up to the side of his head quickly, set his feet in the direction of the receiver and immediately throw the football. Run the drill to both sides of the field to accustom the quarterback to throwing in either direction.
Slide Drill
The slide drill teaches quarterbacks to avoid a strong pass rush. When the slide technique is used in games, it forces the defense to adjust in order to contain the quarterback and prevent a scramble for extra yardage.
Stage the drill with a center, quarterback and two pass rush defenders. The defenders line up on each side of the center. At the whistle, the ball is centered and the quarterback drops back to pass. As the quarterback sets up, a second whistle releases the defenders to rush the quarterback. The quarterback must time the defensive charge and sidestep to avoid the rush.
Moving too soon allows the defenders to chase the quarterback. Moving too late results in a sack. The coach should use different defenders to alter the timing of the rush. This develops the quarterback's awareness of the pass rush.
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