Here is a link to a previous posts regarding long snapping:
LONG SNAPPER ON PUNTS
The long snapper must develop the ability to fire the ball back to the punter. We begin teaching the long snap at 10 yards, which is also the same distance they begin their warm-up. The distance is then extended to the proper distance. The aiming spot for the snapper is the punter’s belly button.
Once the snap has been made, the snapper must rise up “through the window” to execute their blocking responsibilities and/or release into coverage. However, the snapper’s number one priority is an accurate snap. The blocking schemes are designed to buy time until the snapper is in position to make their blocks.
LONG SNAPPER ON FIELD GOAL ATTEMPTS
The ball must always arrive exactly at the location the holder feels most comfortable, whether over the kicking spot, or at his body. The snap should never be above the holder’s numbers. The hips must stay down in order to keep the ball down. A good aiming spot is the holder’s back shoulder because that will typically deliver the ball directly to his body.
HOLDERS
The holder should always verify the placement of the tee or spot, which should be 7⅓ yards behind the LOS. The holder should position themselves with the front knee down, about six inches in front of the tee or spot marked by the kicker if kicking off of the ground. The back knee is up about six to eight inches behind the tee or spot, creating a backstop type effect. When waiting for the snap, the near hip, or edge of the butt should rest just inside the calf, as opposed to an erect position. This puts the holder in position to reach for misdirected snaps, and still get them on the “spot”.
The holder will keep their eyes at the kicker until they indicate that they are ready. The kicker will then turn their eyes to the snapper, reaching toward the snapper with the forward hand.
When the ball is snapped, catch the ball and place it on the tee or on the spot. The holder must be sure-handed, as this will allow the holder to make quick adjustments to place the ball and for the location of the laces, if necessary. The ball should be lightly held with the forefinger of the backhand. Focus on the ball from the snap to placing it on the tee or spot, until the ball is struck. The holder is responsible for telling the kicker where they struck the ball.
The primary job of the holder is to consistently present the ball to the placekicker. The football should be held straight up and down, vertical. Tilting the football in any direction can change the location of the sweet spot. However, leaning the ball backward about a ¼ inch lowers the sweet spot making it easier for the placekicker to hit. Do not lean it too far back because it makes the ball harder to strike. Actually, the holder must work with the kicker to find out exactly how they want the ball presented to them. Then work hard at being consistent and precise with each hold.
About the Author of this post:
Jerry Campbell has over 30 years of high school and college coaching experience. He has experience as a head coach, offensive coordinator, and various position coaches. He has written numerous football coaching articles in various publications, is the author of over 30 books on coaching football, and has produced 12 coaching video series. Additionally, he is a nationally sought after speaker on the coaching clinic circuit.