First year R. I began the season focusing on the left tackle pre-snap to observe for false starts. However, if the guard or tackle is just quicker than the other linemen, that movement is perceived as too early, when in fact it is with the snap. I recently tried focusing on the ball, with my guard, tackle, and backs in my peripheral vision. I feel that has helped me determine if players are false starting or are just quick off the ball. Thoughts? Where do you as an R focus your eyes?
See Bossman's message regarding false starts.
As for your 'eyes' after the snap, there are different thoughts all around the country about keys. When I first started in FBS, the R took the tackle to his near side. Couple of years later, I attended an NFLRA clinic, and learned that (at that time) NFL Rs would always key the tackle to the H's side, unless Team A was in a trips formation to the L's side. That was because the H would drift downfield when the action showed pass, leaving the tackle to his side somewhat unobserved, if the R was keying the tackle to the L's side. I presented that to our conference at out next pre-season clinic, and we adopted that technique. I don't think the NFL is strictly doing that any longer. They are following a concept of "areas or responsibility," which is a very advanced concept, requiring the R to scan an area, and progress from threat to threat, as they present themselves.
The CCA manuals say to look through to the opposite tackle. Other manuals says to take the tackle on your side.
Find out what your organization wants. The most important thing is to coordinate with your U and your wings, to make sure you are all looking at different people, and that you ALL progress to the greatest threat in your view.
But, once the QB is threatened you must shift your attention to him (pass/fumble, RPS, TGT, ING, etc.).
