Characteristics of a Great Quarterback

GridironChat.com Podcast Episode 08

Leader of the Team

The Quarterback must earn the respect of his teammates in order to be a great leader. He must leade the team by example, and be a source of strength to the team in tough times.

Outwork Everyone Else

He shows commitment throughout the season and the off-season. He must display the attitude that nothing is more important than this team and their success. If he will do this, it will justify his being treated differently from the rest.

Confidence

A Quarterback's confidence will allow him to make a great play, at any time. He can forget the mistakes, and believe that he will fix them and it will be perfect the next time. He can take criticism, but does not let it crush him.

Accountability

If the Quarterback is going to be the leader, he must also be accountable. He can take responsibility for the failures of his team, taking pressure off the rest. If he will do this, and rally his team to push forward with his leadership, he can then be held accountable for the team's success. And that should be the dream of every great quarterback.

Intelligence

Quarterbacks need to have a basic understanding of defense in order to be successful. They do not have to know it all, just that which is necessary for their team's offense.

Decision Making

Quick decisions are a major part of a Quarterback's life. He can decide to call an audible at the line, choose his receiver in a split second, throw it away if it's not there. He can decide to give, keep or pitch on the option run. He can step back and call a timeout when things don't look right.

Footwork

A great quarterback is made from the head up and the waist down. The power and accuracy in his throws comes from great footwork. Great footwork comes from thousands of repetitions. Again, he must outwork everyone else on the field.

Throwing Ability

The Quarterback must have the ability to do what is asked of his arm in the context of his offense. Not every quarterback needs to have a cannon. But he must have the power, accuracy, and speed of release necessary for his team's offense. Throwing ability can, and should, be developed, in a player who displays other characteristics.

Physical Size

A very overrated quality for a Quarterback. He does not have to be 6'4" to make plays. The coach should design his offense to create throwing lanes for a smaller Quarterback. It is more important to have all of the other tools first, and then work with his physical limitations thereafter.

Speed, Quickness, and Allusiveness

A Quarterback who can make something happen when it all breaks down is an invaluable weapon. The defense may be able to account for all of the receivers, but if they have to account for the QB as a weapon, even when the ball does not leave his hands, it adds an extra dimension to the offense.