Boosting RB Speed and Agility: The 'L-Shape' Drill
At AA programs like Long Island Lutheran Crusaders, running backs need to be explosive and elusive on the field. To improve their speed and agility, Coach Thompson recommends the 'L-Shape' drill. This drill targets the RB's ability to quickly change direction and accelerate. Set up two cones in an 'L' shape, with the top of the 'L' 5 yards away from the starting point. The RB starts at the bottom of the 'L' and sprints to the top, then immediately changes direction and runs back down the other side of the 'L'. Perform 3 sets of 10 reps, with 30 seconds rest between sets. Coaching cues: 'Fast feet, quick hands' and 'Change direction, don't slow down'. This drill translates to game performance by allowing RBs to quickly adjust to defenders and create big plays.