Flag Football Snap, Handoff, and Run Plays
Stations in groups of four that teach flag football running plays: the snap between the legs, the handoff to the running back, and the run outside or up the middle against a defender. It builds teamwork, ball handling, and reading open space.
How to play
- Six groups of 4 (center, QB, running back, defender) in 20 x 10 m (about 22 x 11 yd) spaces with a line of scrimmage and a cone 4 m (13 ft) to each side; everyone wears flags (2 min).
- Snap: the center hands the ball back between the legs, two hands, to the QB 2 m (6 ft) behind. Five reps, then rotate the center (3 min).
- Handoff: the running back crosses in front of the QB, inside arm up and outside arm low; the QB places the ball in that pocket. Six handoffs, walking then jogging (4 min).
- Two plays: "sweep" (outside the cone) and "dive" (straight up between the cones). The QB calls it in the huddle (4 min).
- The defender starts 6 m (20 ft) away on the snap; gaining 10 m (about 11 yd) with flags on scores. Rotate every 4 plays (7 min), then show your best play to the next group (2 min).
Rules
- The QB never tosses the ball on a handoff: place it into the runner's hands.
- No contact: the defender only pulls flags, and the runner may not stiff-arm.
- Safety: the defender waits until the runner has the ball, and always approaches from the front, never from behind.
Variations
Easier
Practice with no defender, and the runner only needs to gain 6 m (20 ft).
Standard
Groups of 4 with a snap, a handoff, two running plays, and a defender starting from 6 m (20 ft).
Harder
Add a fake: the QB fakes the handoff and keeps the ball, running the other way.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: a student using a wheelchair can be the QB and hand off to a runner passing by, or take the handoff and advance 5 m (16 ft).
- Visual impairment: use a brightly colored ball and have the QB give a voice cue right before the handoff.
- Fitness or skill level: students who tire can take extra turns at center, which involves less running.
Learning goals
- Perform a safe snap and handoff.
- Choose which way to run based on where the defender is.
- Work with teammates so the play happens on time.
Equipment for a class of 25
- foam football: 6
- flag belts: 25
- cones: 18
Teacher tip
The typical mistake is the running back looking down at the ball and slowing down: have them keep their eyes up and let the QB place the ball.
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