How to Prevent Fumbles - Quarterback Drills

As a quarterback, you have a responsibility to your team to prevent fumbles so that you can get the ball into the hands of your play makers and win games. Here are some grip drills to help you prevent fumbles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Drop and Catch
   
   This drill is simple but highly effective. Start by holding the football below you as you bend over at the waist. Drop the ball and immediately grip it again before it hits the ground. You can continue with one hand and switch to the other or quickly drop with one hand and grip with the other. For more difficulty, stand up and move the ball out in front of you. The longer you let the ball fall, the harder it is to re grip.

2. Tip Flip
   
   Another simple drill you can do while talking to your buddies or waiting for practice to start. Simply grip the tip of the ball on the bottom so it is pointing up and flip the ball 180 degrees to catch the other tip. Soon you will learn how to flip the ball in any direction and quickly without even looking at it.

3. Wet Toss
   
   A common way for quarterbacks to fumble the football is by letting it slip out of their grip while throwing. This tends to happen when the ball is slick for rain, snow or sweat. The easiest way to prevent this from happening during a game is to practice throwing a slick ball. Soak a towel and put it in your belt before tossing the ball. Then before every throw wet your hand on the towel. Because you are doing it in a relaxed practice, you will focus on maintaining grip and control on the release. Soon you will be able to wear your towel during practice to simulate a wet ball during a rainy game. You will gain confidence in your ability to pass during any weather conditions and make yourself more valuable to your team.

Resources

• Alternative Fit - Fierce Training Info for Athletes