Game version
Cone-call game: a partner calls a cone and you move to it with a smooth start. Swap callers and rest fully.
Ball Get-Off
Defensive line work: move on the ball, not on a voice, and win the first two steps.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Get in your stance across from a partner holding the ball on the ground.
Core: 10. Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Football, partner
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Speed
The steps
How it works
- Get in your stance across from a partner holding the ball on the ground.
- Your partner calls fake counts and then moves the ball.
- Explode on the ball movement only and sprint 5 yards.
- Do 12 starts; count how many you moved on the ball.
Coaching point
Eyes on the ball, not the voice.
Safety: Warm up first, run on flat, dry ground and stop if a muscle feels tight. On hot days drink water and rest in the shade, and stop if you feel dizzy or get a headache. If you hear thunder, go inside.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a distance: Less (5 yards), Core (10), More (15). Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.
Story
You are a receiver leaving the line smoothly on the signal.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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