The Gauntlet Drill

Offensive Drill

This drill helps ball carriers learn to hold the ball securely.

POINTS OF EMPHASIS

• • Check that the ball carrier has both points of the ball covered and uses four points of contact to protect the ball—fingers, forearm, bicep and chest. Confirm he has it in a "high, tight, no air" position. The ball carrier should run low with his head and eyes up and should keep his feet moving. Make sure linemen do not tackle or impede the runner.

SETUP 

Form two lines of players separated by four feet (the Gauntlet). A ball carrier (RB) with the ball securely possessed is prepared to run at full speed between the two lines of players.  Have a short line of ball carriers at either end of the line waiting their turn.

EXECUTION 

On the coach's command, the ball carrier (RB) starts at the beginning of the line with the ball securely held in a "high, tight, no air" position and runs at full speed through the line.  The players in each line slap at the ball, punch it from behind or pull on the ball carrier's arms trying to cause a fumble without stopping or impeding the ball carrier. When the ball carrier reaches the end he gives the ball to the waiting RB to repeat the drill. Rotate players between RBs and linemen.

EXAMPLE

SKILL PROGRESSION MATRIX

DRILL PARAMETERS

EQUIPMENT

2 stand up dummies

COMMENTS