How to Hold the Football When Running

Regardless of the level of play, from pee-wee to the National Football League, a player running with the football needs to know how to hold it properly to avoid having it knocked out of his grasp. Practice the following steps and you'll be a nimble ballhandler in no time.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Receive the ball from the quarterback, whether it be via pass or hand off.

2. Tuck the ball. It should rest on the forearm and be pulled into the body with the fingers positioned on the forward tip of the ball.

3. Position the football in a way in which it is not easily accessible to the defender. When running through traffic, use two hands to hold the ball. If running near the sideline, keep the ball on the side closest to the sideline.

Tips & Warnings

• Holding the football on the side nearest the sideline will generally result in the ball going out of bounds if it is knocked out of the runner's grasp.
• Pulling the ball in close to the body and resting it on the forearm creates a cradle and makes it hard for the defender to knock away.
• Because football is usually played outdoors, weather can affect the way a ball should be held. If the ball is wet, it's a good idea to keep both hands on it at all times to prevent it from slipping out of your grasp.
• Don't hold the ball loosely or untucked. This is known as carrying the ball like a loaf of bread and greatly increases the risk of fumbling.

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