Running the football requires speed, physical toughness and determination. Running backs and fullbacks get most of the carries for the offensive unit in football, and improvement comes with weight training, physical conditioning and practice. Running backs and fullbacks also must work on catching passes and blocking.
Step 1
Study the playbook before taking the field. Running backs and fullbacks have multiple responsibilities and are critical pieces in the offense. Know which holes to run through and which direction to go on sweeps. Running up the middle when the play is designed to go wide can result in negative yardage.
Step 2
Run as much as possible. Running backs and fullbacks are constantly on the move during the game. Improving speed and building endurance takes year-round training, and it pays off on the field. When taking the handoff from the quarterback, run with your knees high. The running style adds power and helps you make quick cuts.
Step 3
Practice catching passes. Wide receivers and tight ends are primary targets for the quarterback, but the running back and fullback also catch plenty of passes. Most throws to the backs are shorter screens, so know how to run a quick route. Keep your eyes on the football and follow the pass into your hands.
Step 4
Stay low and block. The fullback's primary responsibility is blocking for the running back. Making solid contact with the defender while keeping your feet moving is the best way to block. Running backs and fullbacks also need to know how to stay back and block when the defense blitzes the quarterback.
Tips and Warnings
- Secure the football tightly against your body when running to prevent fumbles. Keep your head up to find open space and make clean blocks. Whether running, catching passes or blocking, always keep your feet moving.
- Lowering your head when running or blocking is not the proper technique and can lead to injuries. Avoid running with one hand on the football in short-yardage situations and goal-line dives or trying to make one-handed catches. Master switching the ball in your arms during open-field running to avoid tacklers trying to strip the ball.
Things You'll Need
- Football helmet
- Padded equipment
- Football spikes
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