Handoff Exchange Drill (youth flag football drill)

The QB turns and places the ball into the runner's pocket, and the runner squeezes it through a cone gate. Most youth flag fumbles happen at the handoff, so a few minutes of this every week pays off on game day.

Setup

Put a cone where the ball is snapped. The QB (Q) stands 2 yards behind it holding the ball. Runners line up single file about 6 yards to the QB's left, a little deeper than the QB (A first, then B and C). Set two cones 4 yards apart as a gate 6 yards to the QB's right, and a finish cone upfield past the gate.

How to run it

1. The QB says "Hike!", then turns toward the runner and holds the ball out with two hands at belly height.
2. The runner starts on "Hike" and makes a pocket: inside elbow up, outside hand low, palms facing each other.
3. The QB places the ball into the pocket. The runner squeezes it with both hands and runs through the gate.
4. Past the gate, the runner tucks the ball high and tight and sprints past the finish cone.
5. The runner brings the ball back to the QB and goes to the end of the line. Switch QBs every few reps.

Coaching points

• The QB puts the ball in the pocket. The runner does not reach for it.
• Runners look upfield, not down at the ball. The pocket does the catching.
• Squeeze with both hands until through the gate, then tuck.
• Keep the runner's path flat to the gate. A curved path slows everything down.

Common mistakes

• The QB tosses the ball instead of handing it. Many youth fumbles start right here.
• The runner arrives before the QB has turned. Start the runner a step deeper.
• The runner's arms hang low, so the ball bounces off an elbow.

Used in these practice plans

• First Flag Football Practice of the Season (8 minutes)
• 6U Flag Football Practice Plan (8 minutes)

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