How to Dominate as a Boise State Running Back: The Ultimate Guide for Bronco Ball Carriers

Introduction

As a running back for the Boise State Broncos, you're expected to be a force to be reckoned with on the field. You're the heart of the offense, the one who makes the tough yards and scores the touchdowns that light up the scoreboard. But becoming a dominant running back takes more than just talent; it requires hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the game.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to excel as a Boise State running back. We'll cover everything from the basics of ball carrying to advanced techniques and strategies. Whether you're a freshman just starting out or a senior looking to make your mark, this guide has something for you.

Chapter 1: The Fundamentals of Ball Carrying

1. Proper Stance and Grip

Your stance and grip are the foundation for everything you do as a running back. A strong, balanced stance will give you the power and stability you need to break tackles and gain yards.

• Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and back straight. Keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
• Grip: Place your hands on the ball, fingers interlaced, with your thumbs on top. The ball should rest in the palm of your hand, behind the fingertips.

2. Running with Power

Power is essential for a running back. It allows you to break tackles, gain extra yards, and score touchdowns. To develop your power, focus on these key elements:

• Leg drive: Explosively extend your legs, driving through your heels and pushing off the ground.
• Arm extension: Swing your arms forward and backward, using them to generate momentum and power.
• Body lean: Lean into your run, keeping your back straight and your head up.

3. Running with Agility

Agility is just as important as power for a running back. It allows you to change direction quickly, avoid defenders, and find the open field. To improve your agility, practice the following drills:

• Cone drills: Run through a series of cones, changing direction and speed quickly.
• Ladder drills: Step through a ladder, using different foot patterns and speeds.
• Zigzag runs: Run in a zigzag pattern, weaving in and out of obstacles.

Chapter 2: Advanced Techniques and Strategies

1. Blocking

As a running back, you'll often be called upon to block for your quarterback or other ball carriers. Effective blocking can create holes in the defense and open up running lanes.

• Cut blocking: Use the outside of your foot to chop at the defender's feet, slowing them down or knocking them off balance.
• Seal blocking: Position your body between the defender and the ball carrier, preventing them from reaching the carrier.
• Pass protection: Stand in front of the quarterback and use your body to deflect or absorb oncoming defenders.

2. Route Running

Route running is essential for catching passes out of the backfield. As a running back, you need to be able to run a variety of routes, including:

• Flare route: A short, outward route towards the sideline.
• Screen pass: A short, lateral pass to a running back who is running across the field in front of the quarterback.
• Wheel route: A deep, circular route that requires the running back to run up the field and then turn and cut back towards the quarterback.

3. Footwork

Your footwork is crucial for your success as a running back. Good footwork allows you to change direction quickly, gain balance, and avoid injuries.

• Shuffle steps: Slide your feet side-to-side to move laterally without losing speed.
• Crossover steps: Bring your feet across each other to change direction while maintaining momentum.
• Cutback steps: Take a short step to the side and then change direction, creating a hole in the defense.

Chapter 3: Nutrition and Training

1. Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for a successful running back. Your diet should provide you with the energy, strength, and recovery you need to perform at your best.

• Carbohydrates: Carbs provide your body with the energy it needs to fuel your workouts and games.
• Protein: Protein helps to build and repair muscle tissue.
• Fats: Essential fats support hormone production and cell function.
• Fluids: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, sports drinks, or coconut water.

2. Training

In addition to practice, you need to engage in a comprehensive training program to improve your strength, speed, and endurance.

• Strength training: Focus on exercises that target your legs, core, and back.
• Speed training: Practice drills that improve your acceleration, top speed, and agility.
• Endurance training: Build up your cardiovascular endurance with activities like running, swimming, or biking.

Chapter 4: Mental Preparation

1. Confidence

Confidence is key for any successful athlete. As a running back, you need to believe in yourself and your abilities.

• Positive self-talk: Focus on positive thoughts and affirmations.
• Visualization: Picture yourself performing well in games and practices.
• Self-reflection: Identify your strengths and weaknesses, and work to improve upon them.

2. Focus

Focus is essential for making quick decisions and executing plays correctly. As a running back, you need to be able to block out distractions and stay focused on the game.

• Meditation: Practice meditation techniques to improve your focus and concentration.
• Deep breathing: Take deep breaths to calm your mind and center yourself.
• Visualization: Visualize yourself making successful plays and staying focused under pressure.

3. Composure

Composure is the ability to remain calm and collected under pressure. As a running back, you will face adversity in games. It's important to stay composed and make the right decisions under pressure.

• Practice self-control: Learn to control your emotions and reactions.
• Trust your training: Believe in your physical and mental preparation.
• Stay focused on the present: Don't dwell on past mistakes or worry about future outcomes.

Chapter 5: Strategies for Success

1. Offensive Scheme

The Boise State offensive scheme is designed to put the running back in position to succeed. The Broncos typically use a zone-blocking scheme, which creates holes in the defense for the running back to run through.

2. Play Calling

The offensive coordinator will call plays that are designed to take advantage of the running back's skills. This may include runs up the middle, outside runs, or pass plays out of the backfield.

3. Game Plan

The Boise State coaching staff will develop a game plan that outlines the running back's role in the offense. This plan may include specific plays that the running back is expected to execute, as well as blocking assignments and route running responsibilities.

Chapter 6: Tips and Tricks

Tips for Running Backs

• Carry the ball high and tight: Hold the ball securely above your shoulder, with your elbow tucked in.
• Protect the ball: Keep a firm grip on the ball and never expose it to potential defenders.
• Use your vision: Scan the field and identify the best running lane.
• Be patient: Wait for the play to develop before cutting or changing direction.
• Finish strong: Drive through the finish line and fight for extra yards.

Tricks for Defensive Players

• Arm tackles: Wrap your arms around the running back's legs and pull them down.
• Shoulder tackles: Use your shoulder to hit the running back's legs and drive them to the ground.
• Strip the ball: Reach for the running back's ball and try to pull it out of their grasp.
• Force a fumble: Hit the running back's arm or hand to try and knock the ball loose.
• Contain the running back: Keep the running back from breaking out into the open field by staying between them and the sideline.

Chapter 7: Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

1. What are the physical requirements for a successful running back?

   • Strength, speed, agility, balance, vision, and endurance.

2. What are the mental requirements for a successful running back?

   • Confidence, focus, composure, determination, and leadership.

3. What are the most important techniques for a running back?

   • Proper stance and grip, running with power and agility, blocking, route running, and footwork.

4. What are the most common injuries for running backs?

   • Ankle sprains, knee injuries, concussions, and hamstring strains.

5. What is the average lifespan of a running back in the NFL?

   • 3-5 years

6. Who is the most successful running back in Boise State history?

   • Ian Johnson (2005-2009)

7. Who is the current starting running back for Boise State?

   • Ashton Jeanty (2022)

8. What are the goals for the Boise State running game in 2023?

   • Rush for over 2,000 yards and average over 5 yards per