Have you ever wanted to sit down and watch a game of American football but you do not understand the basics of the game? This is a fascinating sport which is as much about gaining territory as it is about scoring points. For further insight into one of America’s most loved sports, read on.
Don’t play football if you aren’t wearing your safety equipment. The chance of a severe injury is extremely high. If you don’t ever have the appropriate gear, then don’t play. Possible injuries that can occur are broken bones and paralysis. It could mean that you never get to play a game of football again.
The wide receivers are some of the most athletic and fastest players on the field. When the quarterback wants to throw, he usually looks towards the wide receivers to receive the pass. In practice, you should be training yourself to become a faster runner. Sprints are a great way to increase your speed.
Understand that there is always room for improvement in your game of football. The competition will improve, and so must you, no matter how great a player you already are. Keep working at becoming even stronger, faster and smarter. When you think you’re on top, that’s when somebody can come along and knock you down.
If you want to become a great football player, you have to stick to your routine and training. This can be one of the most difficult parts of the game because you are not playing the game while training. Yet, without the routine and training when you are not playing, you will suffer come game time.
A great tip if you’re a runningback or even a receiver, is to run right off the back of a lineman. Your linemen are there for a reason. They’re trying to block a certain player in order to open up a hole for you. Take advantage of that by sticking to them like glue, making the hole wider.
Running backs are members of the offense. For a running play, the quarterback may pass the ball to a running back who will run the ball as far as he can. When the ball is going in the air, the running back may help protect the quarterback from tacklers or he may try to get open to catch a pass.
Ball carriers should figure out how to develop a great stiff arm. This play allows you to gain yardage and may even help you escape a defender. You just have to put your arm straight out.
Build power and muscles by training with box jumps. Make sure you have a very sturdy large box with a height between 2 feet and 3 feet, determined by your own height. Jump onto the edge of the box repeatedly, straightening your back each time you reach the top of the box. Repeat up to 20 times.
Try learning some tricks of the trade by watching professionals play the game. Watch film online and then take it to the practice field for 10 minutes a day. Practice it and learn how to perfect this trick so that when you need it, you have it. Don’t overuse tricks because your opponents will learn from you and figure it out.
While it is true that football takes brute strength, it is stamina that keeps you playing. If you want to enhance your stamina, choose any easy cardio exercise and perform it for a minimum of 60 minutes every day. Some examples of good cardio exercises are cycling, running and stair climbing. You really want to simplify this exercise to help increase your stamina.
It can be extremely difficult to catch a ball that is wet from the rain. So that you don’t slip in the rain, make sure your feet are pointed at the ball. That allows you to control it when it arrives. You will also want to square your hips and chest over the legs so they are all positioned the same. Put both of your hands on the football, and keep the ball to the front.
Always pretend that there is a scout watching you play. Do this at games, at team practices and even when you practice alone. If you keep your form up every time you play your position, you are teaching your body exactly how it has to move to be successful.
Work on your team work. Football is a team sport, and it is important that you and your team mates know how to work well as a team. While you are working on your skills and becoming a better player, share the skills you learn with your team to increase your game as a team.
Never use your body to try to catch the ball. Instead keep your hands away from your body and form a diamond with your hands. As the ball nears you, lean and catch the ball and tuck it into your body to help protect it from coming loose during a play.
If your opponent is really owning you in a game, think about what he’s doing wrong. There is some opening, some Achilles heel that will allow you to get the better of him. If you’re not sure, ask your coach for advice next time you get back to the sidelines.
Learn all you can about the situations you will face on the field. Understand the strategies the offense takes if you are on defense, and vice versa. It is important to know the plays your side may engage in, but if you know what the other team is likely to do, you will be able to beat them.
Now that you have read this article you should have a better idea of how the game of American football is played and what each team is striving to do. Next time a game is on, take the time to sit down and watch. You may be pleasantly surprised at how much you enjoy it.
