FOLLOWING ARE THE 5 major components that a receiver must exhibit on every play.
1. Proper Stance, Start. A WR must have a comfortable stance, with the inside foot up and the outside foot slightly back. The front knee is slightly bent with body weight slightly forward. The receiver’s head should be looking in with eyes focused on the ball. Hands must be held chest-high.
2. Great Release. The WR must get release from the defender. He must get a 1- or 2-step release against bump man coverage. He must win the hand battle, cut off the DB and get back on track for the route. Preferably, the WR puts the DB on his back.
3. Relentless Blocking. Good blocking is an attitude. A WR must develop a blocking mentality and make it a priority to his game. He should be physical and be a factor on each play. Strive to take the DB out of his comfort zone by using a variety of blocks.
4. Route Discipline. The WR must make precise cuts at the proper depth. Work to get repetitions on a variety of routes such as slant, fade, post curl and comeback routes.
5. Catching The Ball. Receivers must work to develop their hands. Emphasis is placed on catching the ball out and away from the body and pulling it in securely. He must practice catching balls from all angles.
—Brian Hill, Offensive Coordinator,
Garden City Community College,
Garden City, Kan.