Many people want to be the best at football. However, just watching games on television or in person won’t get you to that level. Playing like a professional requires that you do ample homework. Use these tips to become a better football player.

You are always a part of the team in the game of football. There are members of that team who support you; why not do the same for them? Avoid hogging the ball because you think you’re a star. Support your team by being a team player instead of a ball hog.

TIP! In football always remember that you’re part of a bigger team. You and your teammates should equally support one another.

Listen to what your teammates are saying. You will probably disagree on a lot of things but always remember that you are a team and that winning is your common goal. Even the smallest idea from a player can be the thing that tips the scales in the team’s favor.

After you establish a workout plan, keep to it. You don’t want to begin a specific workout routine only to alter it the following week. Sticking with it will give you the most benefit. Avoid quitting and starting something new over and over again.

You must learn to read the different formations of opposing teams. When you take a look at the offensive lineup, you can learn a lot about what their intentions are as far as the upcoming play. Watch college and pro football games in order to learn different formations and create a playbook with various plays.

TIP! Don’t play football if you aren’t wearing your safety equipment. If you aren’t properly outfitted then you run the risk of getting a serious injury.

Watch how professionals play to become better. Replicate what they do in your own games. It might seem pretty obvious, but the greatest players are the ones that study from the best and learn.

If you’re a kicker, strive to learn how to kick a 50 yard field goal. A great way to learn to kick long distance is to build up strength using various weight lifting techniques. It also increases flexibility, which in turn helps you with the long kicks. Stretch daily to become more flexible.

Warm up ahead of any time you exert yourself. If you are injured, you can be sidelined for a while. Stay strong with exercise.

TIP! When you play football always remember that safety comes first. Dangerous injuries are possible if you are not careful.

Put five cones about five yards away from each other to improve hip flexibility. Starting at one end, run in a zigzag pattern between them as quickly as possible. Make sure your eyes stay up and you are aware as you run.

If you only play half well, you are only getting half of any reward. You will end up kicking yourself when your halfhearted play ends up losing the game for your whole team. Keep your passion foremost and put forth a supreme effort to win.

It is clear that there is much to learn if you want to play football like a pro. You are at your current skill level because of some helpful tips. Work hard and you will be rewarded for your efforts.