Description

Winston October, Offensive Coordinator, William & Mary

Full video on Glazier Drive: WR Blocking on the Perimeter

TENNIS BALL SHUFFLE DRILL BREAKDOWN FOR FOOTBALL COACHES

This training video covers a progressive blocking drill system designed to improve wide receiver's ability to block. The instructor breaks down three interconnected phases that build upon each other to develop proper blocking fundamentals.

TENNIS BALL SHUFFLE TECHNIQUE

The foundational drill involves two players facing each other across the width of the football field. Each player starts with a tennis ball in their right hand, throws it to their teammate, catches the return with their left hand, crosses over, and continues the pattern while moving laterally.

This drill serves multiple purposes: it helps players control their pace, teaches proper weight distribution forward, maintains thumbs-up hand positioning for attacking blocks, and allows for recognition calls during execution. Players can communicate responsibilities like "drive right" or identify left/right assignments while performing the drill, which reduces mental errors.

MERRY-GO-ROUND PROGRESSION

The second phase introduces a popup bag for engagement work on perimeter blocking. Players maintain thumbs-up positioning and execute two hits on command - first going right, then redirecting left. This teaches proper redirection techniques on blocks. A critical coaching point is that the popup bag should remain stationary during contact. If the bag moves, it indicates the player is holding or lunging, which could result in penalties. The drill emphasizes fast feet and proper hand placement while avoiding chest contact that allows defenders to gain leverage.

CAT WILLIAMS "WAIT FOR IT" DRILL

The final phase combines the tennis ball shuffle with timing and engagement. Players perform the shuffle movement, then wait for the command before attacking with thumbs up and proper hand position. This teaches patience and proper timing rather than jumping early or lunging at defenders. The progression shows how the foundational shuffle movement translates directly into game situations.

RUNNER RESPONSIBILITIES

Running backs are taught to "climb the ladder" - working vertically through gaps rather than being told specific running lanes. The goal is to gain at least five yards while the blockers maintain their assignments. Runners must keep their heads up, maintain contact with blocks, and execute through the created gaps.

DRILL TO GAME TRANSLATION

The video concludes with game footage (CFL action) demonstrating how these drill techniques appear in actual play. The footage shows players in the tennis ball shuffle position before engagement, illustrating how the drill work directly translates to game situations. The emphasis throughout is that football players are extensions of their drill work, making these fundamental techniques crucial for game success.

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