In football, ball security refers to the ability of a player to maintain the ball while the opposing team attempts to create a fumble. Because running backs often receive the greatest amount of hits with the ball in their hands, ball security is especially significant.
Football players have a saying “ball security is job security” that emphasizes the importance of figuring out this part of their game.
Fumbling the football at a professional level is a very costly mistake. A fumble in football results in a turnover if the other team is able to return it.
As a result, the opposing team will get possession of the ball and start their offense.
Aside from a touchdown, a fumble is likely the biggest impact a running back can have on a football game. In order to avoid these sorts of situations running backs need to be sure to keep the ball protected at all times.
It is imperative to keep the ball away from your opponents. When running with the ball in your hands, keep it towards the nearest sideline.
If you run down the right side of the field, you should hold the ball in your right hand. If you cut across the field to the left sideline, you should hold the ball in your left hand.
It is always important to play the ball in the opposite direction from where the defender is coming from. This will make it more difficult for them to grab or hit the ball.
Five Points of Pressure to Avoid Fumbles
Despite holding onto the ball seeming fairly simple, there is actually quite a bit of technique involved. Below we will discuss the five points of pressure that can be used to improve ball control.
Chest
Football players must avoid letting the ball fall off their chest when carrying the ball. They must keep the ball tight to their chest with the point of the ball pointing upwards.
Defenders can hit many parts of the ball if the ball comes off your chest.
Fingertips
The point of your middle finger and index finger should fit between your middle finger and your index finger when you grip the ball in football.
If you want to keep the object in your grasp, squeeze your fingers while carrying it.
Palm
You must maintain good ball security by keeping your palm glued to the ball. If your palm comes off the ball, defenders can hit the back half and create a fumble.
Maintain a tight grip on the football by keeping your palm tight against it.
Bicep
The back half of the football should be tucked inside your bicep, and the ball should be pushed against your chest with your bicep.
By doing so, the bicep will protect the football from side or behind punches.
Forearm
Lastly, the forearm supports the football from the bottom. Defendants often try to force a fumble by swinging a punch underneath the players.
You should avoid this by keeping your forearm in the proper position.
For more information on ball security in football, read our guide on the definition of a strip or find out if a player is allowed to fumble forward.