Catching a football can be extremely challenging. Getting open is just part of the battle for the wide receiver. In addition to getting open, you need to have great hand-eye coordination and an instinct for the soft spot in the defense so you know where to attack. You also have to develop your hands so you can catch the ball with your fingertips in order to properly secure the ball and run with it. Receivers who try to catch the ball too close to their body have a difficult time holding onto it, and often see the ball bounce off their shoulder pads.
Step 1
Beat the defensive back off the line of scrimmage. This will enable you to get in the open and catch a pass with your arms extended away from your body, which allows you to catch the ball in your fingertips. If you can't extend your arm, your arms will be tight to your body and you won't have control with your fingertips when the ball arrives. When you beat the defensive back off the line of scrimmage, you are able to run at full speed and easily extend your arms.
Step 2
Build strength in your fingertips by squeezing a rubber ball. When you squeeze a rubber ball for 10 to15 minutes at a time you will build strength and dexterity in your fingertips. This will allow you to catch the ball much more easily. On a pass that is directly in front of you that you catch in stride, it's relatively easy to secure the ball. However, if you have to reach over your head or down by your feet, you won't have quite the control you want. Building strength in your hands by squeezing a rubber ball will help you gain that dexterity in your fingertips.
Step 3
Avoid keeping your hands in close to your body when making a catch. If you catch the ball when it is close to your chest, there's a good chance the ball will rebound off your shoulder pads and you won't be able to control it. "I always made sure I caught the ball away from my body when I had the chance," reveals Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice. "It's something that all receivers try to do."
Step 4
Pull the ball down with one hand when you can't catch it in stride. When the ball is thrown out of your range, it may be easier to reach with one hand. Pull the ball down with your fingertips into your body, then secure the ball with two hands before you start to run with it.
References
- "Play Football the NFL Way"; Tom Bass; 1991
- "Inside the Helmet"; Peter King; 1993
- Jerry Rice; Hall of Fame Wide Receiver; San Francisco, California
