Game-Changing TE Drill for LL Programs: 'Route Runner'
At Southington High School, our tight ends are working on a drill that will take their route-running skills to the next level. We call it the 'Route Runner.' Here's how to set it up: Divide the TEs into pairs, with one player as the receiver and the other as the defender. Set up a series of cones to create a 5-yard route. The receiver will start at the line of scrimmage, and the defender will start 5 yards off the line. The receiver will run the route, and the defender will try to stay with them. We're looking for the receiver to run crisp, sharp cuts, and the defender to stay in phase. We'll do 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 30-second rest between sets. Coaching cues include 'hands up' for the receiver to keep their hands up and ready to catch, and 'stay in phase' for the defender to stay with the receiver. This drill translates to game performance by improving the TE's ability to separate from defenders and make plays down the field.