A clean handoff needs timing and trust. The QB places the ball into the running back’s hands. The running back keeps their eyes forward, not looking back at the QB.

What you need: One football. Open grass or field.

Setup: Pair the kids. One is the QB, one is the running back. Line them up at a starting point.

How to run it:

  1. The QB holds the ball in front of their body. The RB runs beside them or slightly ahead.
  2. The QB places the ball into the RB’s hands. The RB doesn’t reach back or turn around. Eyes forward.
  3. Once the RB has the ball, they keep running.
  4. Start walking through it slowly. Do 5 reps.
  5. Then do it jogging. Do 5 reps. Finally, do it at a controlled sprint. Do 5 reps.

What to watch: Does the RB look back at the QB or keep their eyes forward? Eyes forward the whole time. They trust the QB to put it in their hands.

If they’re struggling: Have them stand still first. QB hands off to RB while stationary. Get the grip and placement right first.

If they’ve got it: Add a defender approaching from the side. The QB has to get the ball off before the defender arrives.