Quarterback grip and throwing footwork

Setup

1. Pairs face each other 8 yards apart, one ball per pair, with 10 yards between pairs.
2. Use a ball size that fits the player's hand. Every player throws, not just the QBs.

How it runs

1. One knee: kneel on the throwing-side knee, front shoulder to the partner. 10 throws each.
2. Square: stand facing the partner, feet still, and throw with the upper body only. 10 throws each.
3. Step and throw: move back to 12–15 yards. Start side-on, step to the target and throw. 10 throws each.
4. The partner gives a target with two hands at the chest after every catch.

Coaching points

• Grip: fingertips across the laces, a small gap between the palm and the ball.
• Hold the ball at chest height with two hands until the throw starts.
• Elbow up at shoulder height or higher; the ball goes back by the ear.
• Step at the target with the front foot, toes pointing at it.
• Hips turn, then shoulders, then the arm; release high and out in front.
• Follow through: thumb points down, throwing hand finishes by the opposite hip.

Common mistakes

• Ball held in the palm, so it wobbles instead of spinning.
• Elbow dropping below the shoulder, giving a side-arm throw.
• Stepping across the body, so the ball sails off target.
• Arm-only throws with no hip turn.
• No follow-through, stopping the arm at release.