Purpose of the Jump Cut Drill
The purpose of the running back jump cut drill is
- To improve the ability of the runningback to attack the line-of-scrimmage full speed and adjust to the opening in the last split of a second without losing to much time.
- Especially useful for the zone play.
Description of the Jump Cut Drill
- Set 4 cones in a row about 3 feet apart. (Put 2 more cones about 3-6 feet behind the outside cones)
- Runningbacks starts about 4 to 5 yards away and approaches the middle gap.
- when he almost reaches the cones he plants both feet – more than shoulder width apart – and moves over (jumps) to the gap to the left or right without turning hips or shoulders.
- then he accelerates straight forwards for another 5-6 yards.
Tips for the Jump Cut Drill
- increase speed of approach as your running backs get better
- walk through
- 1/2 speed
- fast as you can under control
- Add QB and Handoff and adjust starting position
- first predefine the gap they should move over to,
- then coach gives them a signal as late as possible.
- or – if you have enough players – let 2 players with shields stand close behind the outside gaps and let one of them step out of that gap when the runningback plants his feet.
- you can use additional cones or towels to make the path more visible for the players
Coaching Points of the Jump Cut Drill
Emphasize
- staying low
- quick movement – runningback cannot get stuck in his plant
- hips and shoulders should always point downfield
- good accelleration downfield after the “jump-cut”
Equipment of the Jump Cut Drill
- 4-6 cones
- Ball(s)
- eventually 2 shields
- Running Back Jump Cut Drill