As a running back some of the most important traits are awareness, speed, running ability and blocking ability to name a few and you also need to be intelligent in order to know the plays and understand your role on each and every play.
All of these aspects can be developed and there are a number of different things you can do to improve as a running back. Here some tips to help you do just that:
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Notice Your Weaknesses
If you are able to watch back a tape of your performances then do so and make a note of where you are making mistakes. Maybe you are having trouble following your blockers or making the correct cuts when required. When you know and understand the areas you need to improve you are on the way to becoming a better running back. Ignoring criticism and problems is no way to develop as a player.
Define Your Style
Depending on your build and physical attributes you will be suited to a particular style of running. For example if you are a big and powerful build you will be much more suited to carrying the ball between the tackles whereas if you are a smaller, quicker player you will be better running to the outside and beating players with speed and agility rather than power. Make sure you know what your strengths are and play to them.
Work Hard in Drills
There are so many different drills designed to improve all the areas required to be a good running back. Rather than practicing full contact running, working through running back drills can be much more effective in helping you improve skills such as your ball control, agility, making cuts and awareness.
Work on Your Strength
When developing your strength training, don’t simply focus on one area of your body. If you build up upper body strength without working on your leg strength, then you aren’t going to develop as a running back. You need to work on getting stronger in the legs and the upper body and you will cause more problems to defenders.
Know Your Plays
Understanding the plays and knowing where you need to be following your blockers is a simple step to improving as a runner. Being organized and aware of what is going on will make it much easier for you to gain yards consistently.
Practice Catching
The running back position is not all about carrying the ball from the line of scrimmage. Being able to run routes and catch the ball downfield will make you a much more versatile and dynamic running back.
Practice Blocking
Occasionally you will not be involved as a playmaker during the game and you will be needed to protect the quarterback. Simply developing your blocking skills will make you a much more valuable running back and benefit you with more time on the field.
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Have you done this? What can you add to this tip?
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