Longsnap FAQ's

Here is where you will find Frequently Asked Questions that visitors to the site ask about tips and hints to the art of Longsnapping:

Q: Are there any other drills that you do besides the ones you have listed?
A: No I don't, everything that is listed is what I do to get better.

Q: How do I get better and more accurate?
A: Practice, Practice, Practice. The only way to get better is through repetition.

Q: Is there anything you do different snapping in the rain?
A: I grip the ball a little bit lighter. Not a whole lot but just a little. I
do not squeeze the ball as tight as I do on a normal snap.

Q: Is there anything you do different snapping in the wind?
A: No. Just make sure you have a tight spiral. A tighter spiral will cut
through the wind easier. In my mind wind can alter the snap the most.

Q: Do you have any tips to attain a tighter spiral when snapping?
A: The best way I work on my spiral is to throw the ball like a QB. Just work on throwing the ball. I grip the ball when snapping like I throw it. So if I am having any trouble with and inconsistant spiral then I just throw the ball more. I do not have any specific things to work on a spiral. Just try to throw a better spiral when tossing the ball around. Another reason you'll usually see me and Brian Urlacher tossing the ball around before games.

Q: When snapping, do you find its best to always keep your head down and looking at the target until you have released, or is it better to keep your head up so as to see blockers?
A: When I snap I keep my head down and look at the punter and holder. It is a little harder to block this way, but you can compensate by backpedaling after release.

Q: What is the average size of professional longsnappers in your estimation?
A: I do not know if there is really an average size of an NFL
longsnapper. We vary from say 6'5'' to 6'1'' and 300lbs to 235lbs.

Q: What is the best way to quicken my longsnaps?
A: I think that improving your entire body strength will help you quicken your snap. One exercise that I like is the Hang Cleans . I think snapping takes your whole body and the Hang Clean work your entire body. My snap time is around .70. You start the time of the snap once the ball moves and stop the clock once the punter touches the ball.

Q: What type of weight lifting should I do as a longsnapper?
A: There are a few lifts that I think are best for longsnappers. First off, I think total body strength is the best. So use these lifts a supplemental lifts to your normal work out. If you are not already doing Hang Cleans or Power Cleans , I believe these are the best lift to do. Also work on your back muscles with pulldowns and seated rows. Longsnapping involves your entire body when doing it, so make sure you are also strengthening your legs. There is no perfect lift for longsnapping so maybe you will find out something that is better for you.

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