The QB Keeper

Quarterback Keeper Game: Teaching “Set, Show, Snap, Sell” to Young Athletes

By Todd Greenwell

The quarterback keeper game has long been a staple in offensive football, especially when you want to keep defenses honest and capitalize on aggressive edge play. Over the years, I’ve refined how I teach this concept, particularly for younger athletes who are still developing their football IQ and physical coordination. The key coaching points I emphasize are simple but powerful: Set, Show, Snap, Sell. (Headset to helmet by Dub Maddox)

Set the Stage

The first step is alignment and demeanor. The quarterback must “set” with urgency and confidence. This means getting under center or into the mesh point with a body language that screams handoff. Younger players often rush this step, so I coach them to pause just long enough to let the defense read “run” and set their attack . It is subtle but critical part of the deception.

Show the Fake

“Show” is all about selling the handoff. I teach my quarterbacks to exaggerate the ball action—extend the arms while sinking lower to become less visible to defenders. For younger athletes, I’ve adapted this by using visual cues and slow-motion drills. We’ll walk through the fake repeatedly, emphasizing posture and hand placement until it becomes second nature.

Snap the Decision

“Snap” is the moment of truth. The quarterback must snap his head with the path of the would be ball carrier and hold steady and still to keep the defenders on the would be ball carrier. For youth players Itonpractice this skill I use color-coded wristbands to reinforce the snap and sell process. The goal is to build confidence in the pace without overwhelming them with too many variables.

Sell the Keep

Finally, “Sell” is what separates good from great. To sell he must continue to carry out the fake as if the back still has it. I coach my players to keep climb for two additional steps. For younger athletes, I’ve found that using mirror drills and peer feedback helps them understand the pace their fake must take.

Final Thoughts

Teaching the quarterback keeper game to younger athletes requires patience, creativity, and a commitment to fundamentals. By breaking it down into Set, Show, Snap, Sell, I’ve been able to help players at all levels—from youth to high school—grasp the importance of timing, deception, and decision-making. It’s not just about gaining yards; it’s about teaching

football intelligence in a way that sticks.

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