The Shotgun Snap in Youth Football
The shotgun snap in youth football is being used more than ever. Mobile QBs and spread offenses are really starting to open up on the youth football level. If you decide to use a formation with the QB in the shotgun, it is vital that the QB-Center snap exchange is consistently clean.
Even though shotgun formations are becoming more common, there are many coaches that are scared to use the shotgun due to fumbling concerns. With sufficient practice time, your shotgun snap exchanges will be fine. If you decide to go with the shotgun make sure you practice at least 3 different centers. If one of your centers gets hurt, you will need capable backups. Remember, practice makes perfect, reps, reps, and more reps. Get reps in before, during, and even a couple after practice.
Quick Tips for a Successful Shotgun Snap
- Shorten the youth football Quarterback’s distance from the center. The QB should not be any more than 4 yards back. This will make for an easier snap. QB heels should be at 5 yards.
- Make sure before each snap the center looks between his legs to get a visual distance of the QB.
- Make sure your QB is at the same distance every snap, make him count his steps. This will allow the center to get comfortable with the snap distance .
- The quarterback needs to have his hands out in a ready position. His hands should be out in front of his body and prepared to catch a low or high snap.
- The QB must look the football into his hands. Concentrate on catching the snap above all.
Remember, repetition is crucial for clean center/QB snap exchanges. With proper practice time the shotgun snap in youth football can be very effective. If you have an athletic QB make the defense defend the QB by putting him into a shotgun formation.
