Get your body in peak physical shape. College football coaches at a tryout will try to break you down to see which players have the endurance to be successful. Entering a tryout in top shape will be an immense help. Focus on endurance running, sprints and muscle strengthening for the arms, legs and core.
Practice the skills specific to your position. Tryouts give you a short period of time to impress coaches. Any shortcomings will be easily spotted. For example, quarterbacks should practice accuracy and reading defenses by working with receivers. Running backs should hone their ball security and catching out of the backfield. Defensive linemen should improve getting off the line and shedding blockers. Work with previous coaches and teammates if available.
Study film, if available, of the team you will be trying out for. Watching games of the college team will let you see what type of system the team runs. If you know what the team is looking for from each position, you have a better chance of impressing coaches. For example, a tight end may notice on film that the college frequently calls for the player in that position to stay on the line to provide pass protection. This allows the tight end to practice pass blocking and exhibit these skills at a tryout.
Talk to coaches from the college about what will be expected from you at a tryout. A coach can also tell you what positions or attributes the team is looking for. A player who played wide receiver and cornerback in high school may learn that the team is looking specifically for receivers. He can concentrate on this position and the traits that go along with it.
Gather all the materials needed for the tryout. Each college will have a different set of items that you need to bring. These may include a participation fee and tryout registration form in which you provide information about your measurements and experience. Additionally, appropriate gear, such as cleats and workout clothing, should be brought. Check with the school or coaching staff to see what the school needs from you.