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AJ Steward, Running Backs Coach, UCLA

Full video on Glazier Drive: RB Toolbox: Roll the Shoulder

RUNNING BACK TECHNIQUE: ROLLING THE SHOULDER FOR BALL SECURITY AND EXTRA YARDAGE

This transcript covers the "rolling the shoulder" technique for running backs, combining ball security with pad level fundamentals to gain extra yards after contact while protecting the football.

WHEN TO USE THIS TECHNIQUE

Roll the shoulder when a defender is near the ball but outside the 2-yard "strike zone." This is NOT a same foot/same shoulder situation or a "grab the watch" scenario because the defender isn't a true near-ball threat. It's designed to elude arm tackles and defenders coming off blocks—situations with less frequency between the ball carrier and defender.

KEY TECHNICAL COMPONENTS

• Keep single-hand ball security with elbow tucked and wrist above elbow
• Torque the body to reduce surface area for the defender to tackle
• Roll the shoulder to make yourself a smaller target
• Maintain eyes up to see the contact zone and react to defenders
• Stay vertical—don't stop your feet
• Protect the football while reducing your body width

DRILL STRUCTURE PHILOSOPHY

Keep drills under 10 yards to incentivize proper technique and prevent autopilot running. Use a live ball rather than static cones to force true muscle memory and reaction. Players must avoid, work back vertical, set up the defender, and execute the shoulder roll—creating realistic game situations where they must adjust their feet and react dynamically.

DRILL VARIATIONS

The coach demonstrates multiple setups: having backs react to the ball placement and direction, working off simulated blocks, and emphasizing the exaggerated shoulder roll with eyes up. Each variation forces the runner to reestablish their feet and create authentic muscle memory rather than just getting good at a static drill.

GAME APPLICATION AND RESULTS

Film examples show backs using the technique to:

• Force arm tackles by reducing surface area
• Fall forward for 1-3 extra yards after contact
• Create opportunities for home run plays when defenders miss
• Maintain ball security with reinforced single-hand carry
• Successfully navigate low tackles by keeping eyes up

OVERALL PHILOSOPHY

The goal is to "make defenders tackle us for four quarters" by using elite technique. Even when the play only gains 2-4 extra yards, the technique puts constant pressure on the defense and forces them to execute perfect tackles. The shoulder roll gives runners a chance at big plays while guaranteeing extra yardage after contact when executed properly.

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