Football's Offensive Team: What Makes a Good Running Back
Running backs need more skills than American football players at
other positions. During any given football game, a running back
may run the ball, catch a pass, or block an opposing player.
Occasionally, running backs are even called upon to throw a pass
or kick the ball.  On most football teams, the running back is
the best athlete on the team. The demands on him, both physical
and mental, are great. Every running back must be able to do the
following well:    • Line up in the right stance. The most
common stance for a running back is the two-point stance. A
tailback often uses the two-point stance with his hands on his
thighs, his feet shoulder width apart, and his weight on the
balls of his feet. His head is up, his legs are slightly bent at
the knees, and his feet are parallel to one another, with his
toes pointed toward the line of scrimmage.    • Receive a
handoff. A runner must receive the football from the quarterback
without fumbling. To do t