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OBJECTIVE
This drill is designed to teach the players how to execute a proper exchange or snap. Prior to working on this drill the center should have worked on the Center Station Drill and the quarterback would have worked on the Quarterback Station Drill. As time progresses and preparations are being made for the up-coming game, running backs can be added to this drill.
POINTS OF EMPHASIS
The Center's Stance. The center's stance should be essentially the same as a three-point stance adjusted slightly so that the center's butt is at a point compatible with the height of the quarterback and his stance allows for the ball to be extended out near the front of his head approximately in line with his right ear. In the younger ages the center will use two hands to make the snap and the ball will be placed parallel to the line of scrimmage so that it is not necessary for the center to turn the ball when snapping it. For older players the ball is placed perpendicular to the line of scrimmage and the center must rotate the ball 90 degrees on the snap. When ready to make the snap the center should have his head up.
The Quarterback's Stance. The quarterback takes a position close behind the center with his feet in a slightly narrow stance--not quite as wide as shoulder width--and approximately square to the line of scrimmage or just slightly staggered. His knees should be slightly bent to accommodate the center's size. His head should be up and eyes looking straight ahead not down at the ball.
The quarterback's top hand should be firmly against the center's butt. Check that there is no space between the quarterback's hands and the center's butt.
Check that the quarterback's cadence allows time for the offensive linemen to get "ready" and get "set"; i.e. take several seconds between "set" and "ready" and "hut".
Check that the quarterback does not pull out from under the center too soon. He must "ride" the center briefly after the snap.
Check that the quarterback seats or secures the ball in his third hand (his stomach) immediately upon receiving the exchange.
Check that the center delivers the ball hard and fast. Encourage him to snap it hard enough to sting the quarterback's hands.
Check that the center keeps his head up during the exchange.
SETUP
The center and the quarterback take up their positions with proper stances prior to starting the drill. The coach will call the cadence initially, then the quarterback.
EXECUTION
The quarterback positions his hands together at the base to form a V. His right hand is on top (assuming a right handed quarterback). He then puts his hands between the center's legs and positions his top hand firmly against the center's buttocks with the fingers of his hands spread. His hands must be far enough forward so that his wrist is under the center's butt. Pressure against the center's butt is maintained by using the bottom hand to push against the top hand. This ensures that the quarterback keeps his hands together at the base during the exchange.
After looking at both sides of the line, the quarterback calls the cadence and loudly slowly allowing time for the offensive linemen to get down into their stances. When the ball is snapped the center will fire out to block and the quarterback must "ride" the center briefly by extending his hands slightly before pulling out from under the center. When pulling out from the center the quarterback pulls the ball back into his stomach (his third hand) to secure it while positioning himself for an upcoming hand off.
EXAMPLES
SKILL PROGRESSION MATRIX
DRILL PARAMETERS
Duration
10 Miinutes
Level of Contact
0 - AIR
EQUIPMENT
1 Football
COMMENTS
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