The goal in most cases is to quickly narrow the distance between yourself and the defensive back. You want him to turn and begin running deep. Once you've got your defender turned around and running, you'll be able to execute your pass route and make the catch.
When faced with a defensive player directly in front of you on the line of scrimmage, you'll have to adjust your release so that you avoid being held up and delayed from getting downfield. Faced with this kind of coverage, you'll want to:
1. Instead of stepping up with your back foot, bring your back foot forward but angled away from the defender
2. Create separation and a small space to work
3. You have the opportunity to bring your arm closest to the defensive back up past your shoulder - use it
4. This ripping up motion will usually be enough to get the defender's hand(s) off your jersey
If a receiver is having trouble getting open, it's often a result of his being late coming off the ball. Don't be late coming off the ball. You need to make certain you're not stepping back with your front foot as you release. This will cause you to lag as you get started. Against tight press coverage, where the defensive back lines right up in front of you, do not spend a great deal of time trying to fake the DB moving only your head and shoulders but not moving upfield - it will only slow your release on the snap.
Because the ability to start quickly is essential for a wide receiver to find success, this is another skill that you can practice at home in addition to your work on the practice field. Make certain you've got a good forward lean in your stance and that you take a good first step.
Repetition is key.
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