MESH Problems

Coach,
I ran the option for long time on the HS level as a coach, ran it as a player prior to that (QB). We always rode it in the conventional manner. But one day at Carson Newman College, we changed all that. We saw them "point" the ball rather than ride it. From that day to this, that is all I coach. It is so much simpler! In a conventional ride, the QB is forced to keep his head on his read while at the same time reaching back to the FB, which is a very unnatural position to physically be in. In the "point" technique, the QB attacks his read with the ball extended. If the ball is still there at the mesh point, the ball belongs to the runner, no guess work involved, he simply runs through the mesh and the ball is now firmly deposited in his cradle! If it is not there at the mesh point, that simply means that the QB has pulled it and is up field to his next read, etc. The Backs must be taught not to ever reach for the ball, as that is where 90% of all mesh point fumbles are created by that incorrect technique. To me, it is a much superior technique to the conventional ride. If you prefer to stay with the ride, the most effective drill for me has always been to teach proper technique to both QB and Dive Back and then just rep it and rep it and rep it, always giving as many reps to one side as the other(Liz and Rip) as opening to the liz side for a right handed Qb is a little different feeling than opening to the Rip, and vice versa for a leftie. I really would consider the point technique coach, as it eliminates fully the problem you are having. Your FB just knows to close down on the ball if it is still there at the mesh, if not to just continue on his path. The decison is entirely the QB's, just the same as always it has been. If you would like to talk more about this, email me at: Jerry easton1@aol.com or coacheaston@hotmail.com .

Coach Easton

There is no doubt about the ball given in the point technique in the hole. That is why it is absolutely essential to get that downhill surge by the offensive line and your QB stepping to THE EDGE OF THE HOLE AND EITHER PULLING IT OR LEAVING IT FOR THE FB TO CLOSE DOWN ON, OR LEAVE IT ALONE AND NOT TOUCH IT WHATSOEVER.
My term mesh point means that is where the FB gets the ball, or does not get it, according to the QB dictate, NOT THE USUAL TRANSLATION OF MESH IN THE CONVENTIONAL RIDE TECHNIQUE. I am not familiar with coach Sparks video. If the above coach recommends it, I'm sure he has seen it.

Coach Easton

Coach Falcon 2,

Please watch your Emails this evening and I will do my best to get you started correctly. I think you have made a very good choice to go with the point method.

Coach Easton