One of the most useful tools for developing and refining the skills and techniques of a quarterback are properly designed drills. As such, a comprehensive plan for developing a quarterback must include a substantial amount of drill work. With all quarterbacks, consistent repeatable mechanics are vital to success. Like all things, practice makes perfect; thousands of repetitions are needed to develop the muscle memory required to becoming elite. The following basic drills will be helpful to quarterbacks at all levels.
I. Quarterback Center Exchange – To practice the proper technique of quarterback center exchange
Set Up: C C C C C QB QB QB QB
QB (gun/pistol)
Procedure: 1. Align all centers and quarterbacks on a line 5 yards apart.
2. The designated quarterback will call the cadence for all groups.
3. The coach will call out the play.
4. On quarterback cadence, the center will snap the ball – quarterback and center will take 1st step of the play called.
5. Quarterbacks will rotate.
6. Utilize gun or pistol alignment.
Coaching Points:
A) Check all quarterback stances.
B) Make sure quarterback rides with the center forward.
C) Make sure quarterback third hands the ball.
D) Work on proper first step and that all quarterback cadences are the same.
About the Author:
Recently retired coach Charlie Stubbs has over 35 years of experience with 27 on the college level. Stubbs began his coaching career at his alma mater, BYU and also coached at Alabama, Oregon State, Louisville, UNLV, Tulsa, Memphis, Nicholls State, Tennessee-Martin, and Central Missouri. He can be reached at charliestubbs86@gmail.com.