Drops, Drives, and When to Rip It

If you’re an experienced player trying to master third shot strategy, you've probably asked the same question that haunts players at every level: Should I drop it or drive it?

On this episode of Pickleball Cheat Code, Brodie Smith and Tanner Tomassi go deep into the decision-making behind drops, drives, and the all-important fourth shot. This isn’t beginner-level stuff—this is about game planning, exploiting opponents, and knowing why you're choosing a shot, not just how to hit it.

If you want to elevate your transition game and control more points from the start, this episode has your blueprint.

Third Shot Drive vs. Drop: What's the Smart Play?

The age-old debate continues: third shot drop or drive?

Tanner breaks it down like this:

  • Drops are ideal when you're under control, can get underneath the ball, and your team needs time to move in.

  • Drives are dangerous when you're off balance or your contact point is below the net—but deadly effective when you're set and can pressure the other team.

Pro Insight: If you're popping up drops because you're not set, you're better off hitting a safer drive. Don't force the reset if it's not there.

Targeting Matters More Than Technique

Whether it's a drop or a drive, your placement is what creates the advantage.

Here’s what the pros suggest:

  • Drops should go to the backhand side, unless your opponent wants that ball (then reverse it).

  • Drives are best middle or at the inside foot of the stronger player. Don’t just blast it—aim with intent.

And if you're playing mixed? Tanner emphasizes this:

  • “Know who the aggressor is. Don’t mindlessly hit every third to the girl or guy—adjust your targets based on how the fourth shot plays out.”

The Fourth Shot: The Real MVP

Most people obsess over the third. But as Brodie and Tanner explain, it's the fourth that dictates the rally.

Here’s why:

  • A strong fourth shot (especially a drive or heavy push volley) sets up chaos, speedups, or a rushed fifth.

  • At higher levels, who takes the fourth and how they take it is often more important than the third.

Tactical Tip: If your partner has a cannon for a fourth shot, play to that. Slide over and let them take it—even if it means giving up a little ground.

Drill the Sequence, Not Just the Shot

If you’re serious about mastering this part of the game, stop drilling in isolation.

Instead:

  • Run third + fourth patterns together with a partner.

  • Mix in decision-making. Don’t just drop every third. Practice identifying the right shot based on depth, height, and your position.

  • Add transition work. Your movement after the third is just as important as the shot itself.

Final Word: Don’t Let Your Third Shot Be a Guess

At the advanced level, every decision needs a reason. Tanner and Brodie show that there’s no right answer between drop or drive—it’s about understanding your own strengths, recognizing the moment, and building patterns that keep your opponents guessing.

Whether you're crashing, holding back, or forcing a fourth shot battle, the real cheat code is intentionality.

So stop asking “should I drop or drive?” and start asking: “why am I hitting this shot?”

🎧 Want more insights like this? Listen to Pickleball Cheat Code on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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