Passing the football
All
players are to learn two things i.e blocking and then receiving and the passing
and catching to score.
Kinds of football catches
This
topic is based on methods and positions to catch the ball based on receiver. If
receiver cannot receive the ball and faces problems then the real problem is
with his own technique than the quarterback. It helps to create good team
chemistry among receiver and the quarterback.
Balls in Frame
Head-On Balls
These kinds
of balls can be easily caught with hands windowed in diamond shape and keeping
hand in front of chest with elbows bent.
This
technique is highly used in training sessions rather than in matches.
Crossfield Balls
In
order to catch the crossfield ball, the receiver has to keep his eyes on the
ball and run towards the stride so that the timing is perfect for catching. With
the correct position, receiver then catches the ball properly in diamond
position. Twisting upper body just a bit, will make catching comfortable and
easier.
High Balls
We can
encounter high balls on the following conditions:
Facing Quarterback
When
the ball is thrown to receiver, he needs to receive the ball leaning forward
and up high. He must see the ball moving all the way into his hands. The
receiver must always keep the ball in sight. This kind of catch is hard to do
with the gears. Since quick reflections are essential for this method, drills
and practices should be carried out.
Receivers
should be encouraged to stay on ground unless it’s absolutely necessary to
jump. Some players develop bad habit of jumping unnecessarily thinking that it
helps them catching but players shouldn’t jump in such a way unless it’s
compulsorily necessary.
With
eyes on the ball, the receiver must jump precisely with correct timing. It
needs lots of drills for perfection.
Moving Continuously Across the Field (Dig/Drag)
In
order to catch the crossfield ball, the receiver has to keep his eyes on the
ball and run towards the stride so that the timing is perfect for catching.
Until and unless the ball is easily unreachable from the ground, jumping isn’t
necessary. This method of receiving is too important when the receiver is
catching pace.
Underthrown Deep Ball (Fade/Corner/Post)
As
strange as it sounds, the underthrown deep ball should be changed into high
ball. As the receiver realizes the deep ball he needs to quickly turn back and
receive the ball as high ball. Then, he needs to jump so high that the defender
cannot catch it. The receiver must have optimum level of concentration for this
catch. In case receiver is against a defender, he should be blocking with
helmet and pads, like in basketball and then receive the ball.
In case the defender is near to the ball than receiver, receiver needs to become the defender and then intercept the ball. It should be done carefully as it may lead to penalties as well.