This is an excerpt from Complete Running Back (Human Kinetics, 2016), written by Auburn running backs coach Tim Horton.
One-on-One Route Versus Linebacker Drill
PURPOSE
Compete against linebackers or safeties.
PROCEDURE
1. You need a quarterback, center, linebacker, two trash cans, and footballs. Arrange a hose in a straight line at the 7-yard line (I don’t like to put the drill on a solid line). The running back will go away from the end zone. A center or an extra quarterback snaps the ball.
2. The coach calls the passing play to be executed.
3. The quarterback takes the snap from the center. The running back executes the route.
4. The quarterbacks and running backs rotate in every time.
COACHING POINTS
· Use proper footwork. (This is a great time to overemphasize.)
· Use the correct route technique and route depth.
· Finish the drill by sprinting 10 yards after the catch.
· This drill sets up a great competition between running backs and linebackers. It usually works best to call man beaters such as option, angle, run away, wheel, and seam routes.
· Keep score and make it a competition.
Diagram One-on-One Route vs. Linebacker
Excerpted from Complete Running Back by Tim Horton. ©2016. Reprinted with permission from Human Kinetics. All rights reserved. No reproduction, transmission, or display is permitted without the written permission of Human Kinetics, Inc.