Do you feel like you could benefit from some helpful tips and strategies about playing better football? Surely you can, and it will help you bring your A game on the field. There is always room for learning new advice, and pushing yourself to become a better player is what it’s all about.
For receivers, having a variety of different routes is necessary to be able to shake the defense. Practice the post, fade, hitch and quick-out routes during every practice session. The more you practice them, the more they will seem like second nature to you. Come game time, you will be able to run them with your eyes closed.
Be smart when playing defense. Don’t try to just out-muscle the offense. Be mindful of runners who might look like they are down, only to see them blow by you. Also keep an eye out for fumbles and yell out “Ball” when they happen. This gives your fellow defenders a chance to get the ball.
If you are a receiver or a running back, you should work on perfecting your stiff arm. You can fend off defenders and gain some yards and time just by using the stiff arm. It is a simple trick that involves holding the arm out in the straight line.
Follow through on the kick must be given extra attention. The kicker’s head must be down with eyes focused on the foot actually make contact with the ball. The foot should make contact with the bottom third of the ball. This motion must be followed with a direct follow-through directed at the location that the ball is desired to go.
Be sure to keep an eye on the clock and use every minute to help your team. If the game is nearing its end, and you have the ball and you’re down, you don’t want to run down the clock.
If you are a quarterback, it is important to tweak your throwing mechanics. This is done by learning proper footwork. When throwing the ball make sure that the toe of the foot opposite of your passing arm is pointed toward your receiver. Line your hips and chest toward your intended target and keep your arm close to your helmet. As you release the ball allow your arm to continue its intended path downwards.
Never use your body to try to catch the ball. Instead keep your hands away from your body and form a diamond with your hands. As the ball nears you, lean and catch the ball and tuck it into your body to help protect it from coming loose during a play.
Learn all you can about the situations you will face on the field. Understand the strategies the offense takes if you are on defense, and vice versa. It is important to know the plays your side may engage in, but if you know what the other team is likely to do, you will be able to beat them.
Learn how to properly tie your football cleats. Many players sustain ankle injuries because their football cleats are not tied tight enough. A football cleat should fit like a glove to offer the best protection to your feet and ankles. Always pull the laces as tight as possible for added protection.
It’s easier to be good at what you do if you truly enjoy doing it. Without the love of the game, there isn’t much reason to be on the field. Try focusing on having fun when you’re on the field, instead of worrying about winning or losing. This is a great way to stay motivated and improve your skills.
As you tackle a player, it is important to keep your head high. You never want to run into another player head-first. This is also called spearing. Spearing is banned and can injure yourself.
Take account of where you messed up after each practice and game. You don’t play as many football games as you do baseball and basketball game in a season, so your chances for redemption are much less. That being so, you need to quickly figure out where you messed up, own the mistake, and work to correct it. Redeem yourself that very next game.
During a close game, it is important to effectively manage the timeclock. One of the best ways to manage the timeclock is run the ball as much as possible. However, you must change up your plays to keep the defense from shutting you down. Run a play and try to get a first down while watching the clock.
Now you are equipped with some solid tips that should motivate you out on the football field. Take what you have learned, and remember that practice must be part of your routine. You will see improvement, and make sure you realize that you must always keep learning. That is what honing your talent is all about.
