More Tips for Receivers:
1. Lining Up In the Same Location Every Play
This is a classic mistake. Receivers too often give up their route by where they line up on the field. For example, they might line up tight if they are running an out and line out wide, if they are running a slant. Jerry Rice would line up in the same spot whether he was running a slant, an out, a hook or a fly. He never gave up his “plan”.
2. Breaking “Out of the Blocks” the Same Every Play
When starting your route off the line of scrimmage, don’t let your speed or technique vary too much. In baseball, a good pitcher’s initial delivery on a fast ball should be similar to his initial delivery on a change up. Keep them guessing! Some receivers will run a different speed for a different route or they might lighten up and run undisciplined routes if they know they are not getting the ball. Try to behave with the same intensity on all plays. It will help your performance tremendously and also help your offense be successful. It’s often your decoy route that deceives defense and allows another receiver on your team to make a big play. Remember, it’s a team sport!
3. Practice and Hands Drills
You are never too good to stop practicing. Keeping your hands sharp and ready for game day is crucial. Rice used to have a ball machine throw at the highest speed to keep his hands (hand-eye coordination) in the best condition
4. Be Slippery and Elusive
In “Bump and Run”, don’t let the defensive back get his hands on you or your shoulder pads. The moment he does, your route is destroyed. Swat and Swim like a defensive lineman, but don’t let him get leverage or control. Practice your hand work for each route on the route tree and win the battle at the line. If need be, back a half yard off the line of scrimmage (but not in the back field) and make it hard for the defensive back to reach you. This early separation can make a big difference in getting free and open.
Plays to beat man coverage
