Unveiling the Blueprint: Mastering the 5 Key Skills for Running Backs

In the realm of American football, the running back stands as a beacon of versatility and resilience, tasked with navigating through defensive lines and racing towards victory. To ascend to greatness in this pivotal position demands a fusion of innate talent, relentless training, and a strategic understanding of the game. Here, we dissect the five paramount skills for running backs and outline drills to propel aspiring athletes towards excellence on the gridiron, including the pathway to securing a coveted college scholarship.

1. Vision and Decision Making:

At the heart of a running back’s prowess lies their ability to read the field with keen vision, swiftly analyzing defensive formations and making split-second decisions to exploit openings.

Drill: Gap Recognition Drill

Set up a series of cones or markers to represent offensive linemen and defenders. Practice identifying running lanes and making quick decisions on which gaps to hit based on the movements of the defense. This drill hones a running back’s instinctual ability to find and exploit openings in the defense.

2. Burst and Acceleration:

The explosive burst of speed off the line of scrimmage is a defining trait of elite running backs, allowing them to evade tackles and break away for game-changing runs.

Drill: Sled Pushes and Resistance Sprints

Utilize a weighted sled or resistance bands to simulate the resistance faced during game situations. Practice exploding off the line of scrimmage and accelerating through the resistance to build lower body strength and power. This drill enhances a running back’s ability to generate explosive speed and break through tackles.

3. Ball Security:

Possessing a vice-like grip on the football is non-negotiable for running backs, as turnovers can swiftly shift the momentum of a game.

Drill: Gauntlet Drill

Set up a line of defenders equipped with pads or blocking dummies. The running back navigates through the gauntlet while defenders attempt to strip the ball. Emphasize proper ball security techniques, such as high and tight carries, to minimize the risk of fumbles. This drill ingrains the importance of ball security under pressure.

4. Versatility and Agility:

A dynamic running back is a threat both on the ground and through the air, capable of evading defenders with elusive moves and making plays in open space.

Drill: Agility Ladder Work and Catching Drills

Incorporate agility ladder drills to improve footwork, lateral quickness, and change of direction ability. Additionally, dedicate time to catching passes out of the backfield, focusing on hand-eye coordination and route-running precision. These drills cultivate the versatility and agility necessary for running backs to excel in various facets of the game.

5. Durability and Physicality:

Endurance and resilience are essential attributes for running backs, who often endure punishing hits while fighting for extra yards.

Drill: Contact and Conditioning Drills

Engage in drills that simulate game-like contact and endurance challenges, such as Oklahoma drills or pad work with blocking sleds. Emphasize proper tackling technique and conditioning to build physical toughness and endurance. This prepares running backs to withstand the rigors of a full game and emerge victorious in the battle of attrition.

Securing a College Scholarship as a Running Back:

Earning a scholarship to play running back at the collegiate level requires a combination of exceptional skill, dedication, and strategic planning. To stand out to college recruiters, aspiring running backs should:

• Maintain a stellar academic record to meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate commitment to academic excellence.
• Showcase their skills through highlight tapes and game footage, highlighting their versatility, athleticism, and on-field performance.
• Attend football camps, combines, and showcases to gain exposure and compete against top talent in front of college scouts.
• Build relationships with college coaches through proactive communication, campus visits, and participation in recruiting events.
• Seek guidance from high school coaches, mentors, and recruiting services to navigate the college recruitment process effectively.

By honing their skills, maximizing exposure, and demonstrating their value both on and off the field, aspiring running backs can increase their chances of earning a coveted college scholarship and pursuing their dreams of playing football at the next level. With dedication and determination, the journey to becoming a scholarship running back is within reach for those willing to put in the work.