Adrian Peterson:Yards After Contact

SECURE THE BALL:
As a running back, you have to take care of the ball. That means keeping it high and tight so that defenders can’t get their hands or helmets on it. And if they do, you want to have it tucked so securely that the ball never pops loose. Remember, the point of impact is the most crucial time to have the ball fully secured.

GET UNDER THE TACKLER:
This is all about winning the leverage battle. If you get lower than the man trying to tackle you, you’ll be able to drive him versus him driving you. Getting under the tackler also negates any size advantage he may have. Stay low at the point of contact with your feet under you, and it’s going to be very tough for him to take you down.

DRIVE THE LEGS:
It’s critical that you keep your forward momentum, even after absorbing a hit. Don’t allow yourself to be stood up. Stay low with a strong forward lean and keep your legs driving at all times. When your legs stop, the play stops so you always want to keep them pumping. It’s the effort you give after a hit that gets you those extra yards.

FOREARM BLOW:
Remember to use your whole body when trying to gain yards after contact. This includes giving the tackler a strong forearm blow to keep him from wrapping up. This extra jolt could be the difference between getting stopped and getting free, so make sure you bring it. At the very least, it’ll buy you some extra inches to keep the chains moving.