QB Wizard Jim Barker Thinks More Quarterbacks Should Be Doing “The Dak”
The “Dak Dance” has become a viral pre-game tradition from Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
But what you might not know about Prescott’s odd pregame routine is that it isn’t a dance at all. This is a warm-up drill he acquired from quarterback coach Tom House. Some of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, Tom Brady and Drew Brees, have worked with House as well as hundreds of MLB pitchers including Hall of Fame legends Nolan Ryan and Randy Johnson.
Scoolu’s personal quarterback coach, Jim Barker, is one of the sport’s most elite QB coaches and has worked alongside and studied throwing technique from Tom House. Barker is currently a football operations consultant for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats where he was brought on for his QB and offensive wizardry. He has also served as a head coach and general manager for the Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts. Barker’s career has spanned over 40 years where he has held positions in the CFL, XFL and NCAA. Barker has won an impressive four Grey Cups and is on the doorstep of a fifth this weekend.
Barker explained that “Dak uses the drill to loosen up and initiate rotation with his hips allowing for those explosive passes he is acclaimed for.”
The routine is certainly appearing to work as Prescott is ranked first overall in the NFL in the quarterback position for passing yards at 3,321.
Barker brings a unique combination of coaching experience to Scoolu that he has acquired through coaching football at the highest level as well as coaching baseball in the NCAA.
Barker expanded to say that “the goal of the rapid hip movement and swivel in this drill is meant to create separation between his upper and lower body. The drill is intended to provide a QB the ability to throw off their back foot and from odd angles if needed.”
Barker’s expertise is displayed in his individualized training programs with his athletes where he aims to ensure QB’s are biometrically sound while at the same time improving their overall football IQ.
It is no surprise that Hamilton finds themselves in Manitoba this weekend for the Grey Cup. The team led the league with 31 passes of 30-plus yards and set a franchise record for most wins in one season with 13, clinching their first Grey Cup berth since 2014. It definitely didn’t take long for Barker to make an impact on his new club.