Four Downs to Score

How to run it

Flag 4-on-4 from the 10-yard line: the offense has four downs to score a touchdown. First down: a jet sweep to the left, the flag is pulled at the 5. Second down: the slant behind the rusher's back into the end zone. Kids learn downs, field position and using the whole width.

Set-up

The offense's line on the opponents' 10-yard line, the end zone marked with discs. Offense (blue): center, quarterback in shotgun and two receivers. Defense (red): a rusher 7 yards from the ball, two cornerbacks and a safety.

Instructions

1. 1First down from the 10. The offense is in formation, the defense covers the receivers.
2. 2Motion: the right receiver runs across before the snap.
3. 3Snap to the quarterback – the rusher may go.
4. 4Jet sweep: the receiver takes the ball at full speed in front of the quarterback.
5. 5He runs wide to the left. The left receiver takes his cornerback deep.
6. 6Up the sideline – the safety comes down, breaks down and pulls the flag at the 5.
7. 7Second down from the 5: everyone lines up and the ball goes back to the center.
8. 8The receiver goes out to his spot. The offense is set for one second.
9. 9Snap.
10. 10Fade on the left, slant on the right, the center runs a short hook. The rusher comes at the quarterback.
11. 11The quarterback throws the slant before the rusher gets there – the ball meets the receiver in the end zone.
12. 12Caught in the end zone: touchdown! Switch offense and defense.

Coaching points

• Say clearly which down it is and how far there is to go.
• Plan two plays in the huddle: a run and a pass.
• The rusher always starts 7 yards away and may only go on the snap.
• Let the quarterback count to four – then the ball must be gone.

Variations

Equipment

• 6 × Markers