The safest way to carry a football is high and tight against your body, using five points of pressure: fingertips over the front point, palm on the ball, forearm along its side, biceps squeezing it and the back point tucked into the elbow and rib cage. Carry the ball in the arm away from defenders, usually the sideline arm when running outside, and switch arms when you change direction. In traffic or when about to be tackled, cover the ball with both hands and arms. These habits dramatically reduce fumbles, and ball security is one of the most important skills for any ball carrier, from running backs to receivers and quarterbacks.
Why ball security matters
Turnovers are among the biggest factors in winning and losing football games. A fumble can end a drive, give the opponent great field position or even lead directly to points. Coaches often say that the ball is the team’s most important possession, and players who protect it earn trust and playing time. Good ball carrying technique does not slow a runner down when practiced consistently; it simply becomes the natural way to hold the ball.
The five points of pressure
| Point | What it does |
|---|---|
| Fingertips | Cover the front point of the ball so it cannot be pulled forward |
| Palm | Presses on the ball to hold it firmly |
| Forearm | Runs along the side of the ball for support |
| Biceps | Squeezes the ball against the body |
| Elbow and rib cage | Lock the back point of the ball in place |
When all five points are engaged, there are no gaps where a defender can punch or rip the ball loose. The ball should feel like part of your body, held high near the chest rather than swinging at your hip.
Carrying styles and when to use them
| Style | When to use it |
|---|---|
| High and tight (one arm) | Open field running |
| Outside arm | Running near the sideline, keeping the ball away from defenders |
| Two hands over the ball | In traffic, between the tackles or when being tackled |
| Tuck and cover when falling | Going to the ground, protecting the ball from the ground and defenders |
High and tight. The default carry. With five points of pressure, the ball is secure while one arm stays free for balance or a stiff arm.
Outside arm. Carry the ball in the arm farthest from the nearest defender, usually the sideline arm. This puts your body between the defender and the ball. When you cut back across the field, switch arms so the ball stays away from pursuit.
Two hands over the ball. When running through a crowded line of scrimmage or about to be hit by multiple defenders, place your free hand over the front point of the ball and pull it tight to your chest. This is sometimes called covering up.
Falling with the ball. When going to the ground, keep both arms around the ball and avoid reaching out with it to catch yourself. The ground can knock a loosely held ball free.
How to switch arms safely
- Switch in space, not in traffic, when you have time.
- Bring the ball across your body in front of your chest, not away from it.
- Use your free hand to secure the front point as the ball transfers.
- Lock in five points of pressure with the new arm immediately.
Switching arms takes practice. Many coaches drill it on cone cuts so that players do it automatically when changing direction.
Ball security by position
Running backs. Running backs carry the ball most often and face the most defenders trying to strip it. They must master all carrying styles and know when to cover up in traffic.
Receivers. After the catch, receivers should immediately secure the ball high and tight before turning upfield. Many fumbles happen when receivers start running before tucking the ball.
Quarterbacks. Quarterbacks protect the ball in the pocket by holding it with two hands when moving and keeping it close when scrambling. When running, they use the same techniques as running backs.
Defenders after turnovers. Defenders who intercept passes or recover fumbles should also secure the ball quickly, especially when returning it through traffic.
Building ball security habits
Ball security is mostly about habit. Under game pressure, players fall back on what they practice every day, so good technique must become automatic. Coaches often emphasize carrying the ball correctly during every drill, not just in ball security periods, and they correct loose carries immediately. Some teams track fumbles in practice and celebrate players who go long stretches without losing the ball. Strength also helps: grip, forearm and upper body strength make it easier to hold the ball tight when hit. Exercises such as farmer’s carries, towel pull-ups and wrist curls can support better grip.
What to do after a fumble
If the ball does come loose, the ball carrier and teammates should react immediately. The priority is to recover the ball rather than pick it up and run, especially in traffic. Players should fall on the ball, curling around it and securing it with both arms. Afterward, reviewing film can reveal whether the fumble came from poor technique, fatigue or a strong defensive play, which helps players correct the issue.
Carrying in bad weather
Rain, snow and cold make the ball slippery and hands less sensitive, increasing fumble risk. In poor weather, carriers should be even more disciplined about five points of pressure and covering up in traffic. Gloves designed for grip in wet conditions can help, and teams often practice with wet balls so players get used to the feel. Quarterbacks and running backs also need to take extra care with handoffs, making sure the exchange is secure before moving.
Drills
- Gauntlet. Run between two lines of players who try to strip the ball with punches and pulls.
- Cone switch drill. Run around cones, switching arms on each cut.
- Partner strip drill. A partner tries to punch or rip the ball as you walk, jog and then run.
- Ball carry all day. Some coaches have players carry a football around practice or school to build habits.
- Falling drills. Practice going to the ground while protecting the ball with both arms.
How defenders try to force fumbles
Understanding how defenders attack the ball helps carriers protect it. Common techniques include punching down on the ball from behind, ripping at the ball with both hands while a teammate makes the tackle, and hitting the ball carrier’s arm as they are wrapped up. Defenders especially target runners who let the ball drift away from their body or carry it loosely in open space. Carriers who keep five points of pressure and cover up in traffic give defenders very few chances.
Common mistakes
- Letting the ball drift away from the body while running.
- Carrying the ball in the arm closest to defenders.
- Swinging the ball when pumping the arms.
- Switching arms in traffic or behind the body.
- Reaching the ball out for extra yards or when falling.
- Starting to run before securing the catch.
Health note: ball carrying involves contact. Wear properly fitted equipment and learn safe techniques for taking hits and falling.
Frequently asked questions
Which arm should I carry the football in?
The arm away from defenders, usually the sideline arm when running outside.
Why do fumbles happen?
Most fumbles happen when the ball drifts away from the body or the carrier fails to cover it in traffic.
When should I use two hands on the ball?
In traffic, when about to be tackled by multiple defenders or when going to the ground.
