Transcript Offensive Line Offensive lineman have to work together. Switching the right guard to the left tackle from week to week is not a.

Offensive Line
Offensive lineman have to work together.
Switching the right guard to the left tackle
from week to week is not a positive thing
for the team. By keeping the offensive line
together and practicing together this helps
insure that the unit functions as one.
As the offensive line goes,
so does the team go
Skills & Drills – Offensive Linemen
• Stance and Get-Offs
• Run Blocking
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Drive
Down
Double-Team
Cutoff
Scramble
Reach
Cut
Wedge
Pull & Trap
Combinations
• Pass Protection
• SAQ
Line Blocking Basics
• The offensive linemen have to be able to
execute the following blocks:
– Spring Practice
• Drive Block - One on one vs. a defender, either
down lineman or LB
• Double-Team - Both a post blocker and drive
blocker
• Reach Block - Sometimes called a “scoop” block,
especially if its on the backside;
• Wedge - It is not a pretty block. It is sheer brute
force
• Aggressive Pass Blocking
– Summer/Fall
• Combination Blocks - Combos and Folds between 2
adjacent linemen on down defender and LB to the
inside
• Pulling to trap or lead block
• Sprint-out Pass Blocking - Step/hinge technique
HOGS
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Once an offensive lineman has graduated to a HOGS (hand
on ground stud) he will receive a shirt stating that he is part
of the HOGS.
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All offensive lineman will also be given a sideline hat stating
that they are part of the “PLOW BOYS”. This is the only
group on the whole team that has an individual name.
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So many kids do not want to be an offensive lineman. Not
on this team. It should be a position sought out for. We
should have tryouts for offensive lineman.
OL Characteristics
Before
Now
Stance
3-point
4-point
Depth
As close to LOS as possible
As far back from LOS as possible
(Ears on hips of C)
Getting
Set
Come to LOS, get set in 2-point,
then snap into 3-point
(De La Salle)
We will run plays from the 2point stance
Come to LOS, get set in 4-point
stance
Splits
3’, but shorten on passes and
wedge.
Prefer a 4’ split between the G-T
2.5’ for G-C-G, 3’ for G-T & T-TE.
No shortening of splits for
passing or wedge
Style
Aggressive
Aggressive
Pulling
We have a couple of plays where
it will be very beneficial to
pull/trap
Will not trap
0/1-Tech
(Nose)
Must be able to handle a 0/1
technique so that our full
playbook is available to us
Must be able to handle a 0/1
technique so that our full
playbook is available to us
Stance and alignment are the first steps in the process
of a lineman completing his assignment.
A bad stance puts him at a huge disadvantage.
Football is hard enough without self-imposed
limitations.
STANCE AND ALIGNMENT
Stance
• Objective: Develop the position that will enable the
linemen to be most effective in starting their blocking
assignment
• Key Points: The most important components of
stance and start for the offense are:
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Choosing the most appropriate stance
Achieving balance
Feeling comfortable in the stance
Keeping the head and eyes up
Stance – Technique
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Feet just wider than shoulders. Inside of feet are even with outside
of shoulders.
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Toes always point directly forward. Body will go where the toes point.
We prefer the feet/toes to be even
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Squat low and prepare to drop hands
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The individual may stagger his dominant/stronger foot back but no further
than the toes even with the arch of the other foot.
Drop the rear and get low enough to place the elbows on the knees.
Drop the shoulders as well. Back should be very nearly level.
This position is viable for starting the play if desired.
Lean forward and place hand(s) on the ground
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Thumb and 1st 3 fingers should be on the ground
Pinky finger can be down if desired
Heels should be no more than 1” off the ground
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Higher and the player has too much weight on his hands
Less and it might be a tell for pass blocking
Do not adjust the feet once the hands touch
• There is a tendency to start inching the feet back and the player ends up in a
sprinter stance
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Shoulders are square to the LOS and level – not 1 shoulder higher
than the other
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Back should be flat, even arched a bit
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(for 3-pt: Off-arm should be in front of the knee, not resting on the
knee, not cocked back on the side)
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Head and eyes are up, looking for the defender
Stance – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Player tips off his direction
Emphasize using the same balanced stance on all
plays. The player must not lean left or right if he is
going to move laterally on the snap, he must not put
too much weight on his down hand when he is
going to move forward at the snap, and he must not
take too much weight off his hand when he is going
to pass set because any of these errors might give
away his intentions
Defense surprises the offense with a line game
Emphasize keeping the head up in the stance and on
the start, focusing on the defender, specifically the
landmark for the block on the defender, so that if
the landmark moves at the snap, the blocker can
adjust
Player jumps offside
Emphasize not leaning too far forward in the initial
stance because the player might lose his balance
and fall forward if he is overeager to start at the
snap. The offense should practice snapping the ball
on different snap counts (some short, some long)
every day so that the blockers can get used to
remaining poised in their stances for a different
amount of time on each play and therefore will not
jump on long counts.
Player takes false steps
Emphasize keeping weight on the balls of the feet so
that the pushoff foot does not come of the ground
on the first step. Practice going left more often (for
right-handed players) to eliminate the tendency to
take the first step with the right foot on every play
which is incorrect on plays going to the left.
The specific locations in which the offensive linemen will
start the play.
ALIGNMENT
Hole Numbering
9
7
5
3
1
0
2
4
6
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The holes are used to tell the players where the ball is
going and to provide us with a consistent way of referring
to the play.
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All holes are based on the outside hip of the player. In this
scheme we will number the holes odd to the left and even
to the right.
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0, 1 are over the hips of the Center.
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9 is the far left, 8 is the far right. These are used identify the
sweeps and very wide plays
8
Line Splits
3’
Y
3’
T
3’
G
3’
3’
G
3’
T
Y
• The line split is the distance between the outside foot
of a lineman and the inside foot of the next linemen
to his outside. The split is used to spread the defense
out and make their alignments very clear.
• For our run offense, our linemen will follow these
rules:
– Since we run option, we need the splits to spread the
defense so we have room.
– We cannot close the splits down, no “herding”
Line Split Adjustments
• We want the hand-off key (HOK) to be as far
away from the FB as possible (DeMeo, I
need to look this up)
– If the HOK is head up on the OL then move 1’ to
the outside
– If the HOK is inside the OL then move the 1’ to
the inside
• If the PST has a 4i technique then
– “If he’s in the i the gap must die”
– The defense will do this to force a quick read
– Move down to 1’ (foot-to-foot) with the PSG.
That makes the 4i a 3-tech which is then doubleteamed
• Inside the +10-yard line
– Close splits to 2’ across the line
• Inside the 3-yard line
– Close splits to 1’ across the line
– Move the depth up as close as possible
• The advantage we gain from being back off the ball
is lost in the goal-line situation
Line Depth
• Linemen Depth
– We want the OL to align as deep/off the ball as
possible. We want the top of the helmet even
with the belt of the center.
– This will help with the pulling and zone/scoop
blocking
– It gives the OL time to read and react to stunts
and slants and other DL games
– The closer to the LOS our OL are the better
players they must be
• Guards align with their down hand on the
toes of the outside foot of the center
• Tackles align with the toes of their inside
foot splitting the arch of the outside foot of
the guard
Two Laws of Blocking:
Low man wins
Inside hands win
RUN BLOCKING
Play Calls and Run Blocking
• Each of the play descriptions in the playbook
has the assignment and name of the
blocking technique for each position
– The names used in the descriptions are the same
names used in this skills document
• By reviewing the play descriptions, and the
put-in schedule, it is possible to determine
the importance of each technique as well as
the sequence that the blocking techniques
need to be taught
• The following sections go through each
blocking technique and describe the block
objective, key points, notes, specific
techniques, and error resolution
Summary of Blocking Techniques
Block
Base
Summary
A drive blocking rule that gives the OL a numbering-rule system.
Combination
Blocking adjustments in which the linemen who would normally block the man over
them exchange assignments
Combo
A block between two offensive linemen, or one tackle and one tight-end, that
doubles a defensive linemen back to a linebacker.
Cut
A block used in the open field in which the offensive man takes out the legs of the
defender.
Chop
Tells the down linemen to fire low at the thighs in order to chop the defensive
linemen and to keep their hands down on Quick passes.
Cutoff
Usually described as a back-side block, meaning it is on the back side of the play.
This block is used to “cut off” a defender from getting to the play.
Double Team
Two offensive linemen combine to block one defender.
Down
Used when an OL that is supposed to pull is covered and the OL in that direction is
not covered.
Drive
The running game starts with the basic drive block where the lineman is in a one-onone situation with a defender on the line directly across from him.
Hook
The offensive linemen shuffle steps with his playside foot and puts his head on the
outside shoulder of the defender, and then turns his butt to the side of the hole.
Pull and Trap
Taking a player from over here and having him move to a block over there
Reach
The blocker has to block a defender that is either in the gap or lined up on the
blocker next to him toward where the play is going
Roll
Tells a pulling guard to seal a defender that has come hard inside.
Scramble
Scramble block is a variation of the drive block where the OL drives low at the hip or
thigh of the defender. A drive block with hands on the ground
Stalk
Tells the receiver to mirror the defender and stay between him and the runner.
Wedge
A mass of blockers charging down the field like a herd of elephants
Zone
Tells the OL to take a lateral step at 90-degrees and then turn upfield to block the
defender.
Big On Big
B-O-B is the blocking scheme for Quick, Stop, and Fan pass protection schemes.
Fan
A Big on Big pass protection scheme.
Quick
Tells the linement to aggressively pass protect.
Stop
A Big on Big pass protection scheme.
Blocking Inventory
• Based on the assignments and techniques
for the (current) plays, it is logical to look as
the following blocks as being necessary skills
for the OL to have:
– Drive Block
• On DL
• On LB
– Cutoff
– Double-Team
• With the current playlist, expending
time/resources on teaching other blocking
techniques does not contribute to the OL
developing the proper skill set.
The running game starts with the basic drive block
where the lineman is in a one-on-one situation with a
defender on the line directly across from him.
DRIVE BLOCK
Drive Block (DW Forum)
•
I watched Murphy's talk on DVD, I believe it was at the second DW
forum on how his offensive linemen take two short steps, I mean
six inches long, and get into their block.
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Then, I recently read the book on De La Salle football, and read a
brief article written by Coach Ladoceaur on how his line gets off
the ball in those first two, short steps.
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But neither the video nor the article explained exactly why taking
two SHORT steps is so important. Maybe I'm just a dim bulb, but it
made sense to me that if you take two longer steps and did it faster
than the other guy, that would be an advantage . . . but, of course,
that is almost impossible because the two players are so close to
each other.
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So, I lined up my kids and watched them very, very closely. And
now it all makes sense. Just as Murphy said, you have to teach
those kids to take two quick short steps and plant them on the
ground, seven cleats on the turf. The key is that they must be
SHORT steps, because your linemen are going to catch those
defensive linemen with their second, longer step before they get
that foot planted. That is the key to it all. Maybe this is obvious to
most of you, but to me it was huge to understand this. Even if your
guys are slower than the defense, momentum is destroyed when
that offensive lineman catches that defender with his foot in the air
taking his second step. Will the defender get that foot down? Sure.
But it is too late. The OL has already started going forward on his
third step. The defender has been stopped and is now trying to
recover, but the battle is lost.
Drive Block (DW Forum) II
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And let me tell you the results. Two kids, whom I've
coached for three years now and have always been
minimum play kids, are now kicking the living crap out of
my bigger, faster, stronger linemen. Those two kids have
the absolute best form of anyone else. They get those two
short steps down bang, bang, and then start driving. We
did the Sumo drill the other night, and these two guys
finished first and second, and I would have said prior to
that drill that the odds of that happening were about a
gizzillion to one. All the other linemen took notice, and now
most of them are concentrating, and I mean really
concentrating, on taking those two steps. Two of them
came over the other night and asked me to help them work
on their steps, they were so impressed with the results
shown by those two others who are doing it right.
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Just to add a little bit coach ... that first step is a directional
step ... it gets us headed WHERE we want to go ... then that
second step is the power step ... we are getting it down as
quickly as we possibly can because contact will come
during this step no matter what you do ... you can get your
step down and have power or you can get caught in
midstep and have no power ...
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That is the reason we use LEG and spend so much time
repping our LEG progression ... to stay low on our
directional step and to explode with maximum force on our
power step
Drive Block (1-1)
• Objective:
– This is a one-on-one block and is the foundation
for all calls and formations
• Job is to drive the defender off the LOS and keep
him occupied so the back can pick a hole to run
through
• Key Points:
– The most important components of the drive
block are:
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Creating a base of power
Proper footwork
Contacting the defender at the landmark
Follow-trough
• Notes:
– First step ties, second step wins
– Remember: Influence the defender by making
him react to his gap control. Shaded defenders
are normally gap defenders
– If you get a head-up defender helmet placement
is the play side ear
Drive Block – Technique
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Start in good stance
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First Step (“Tie” step)
– On snap drive down hand back (may want to “load” both
arms) while taking a 6” step with dominant/back foot.
– Eyes lock on the landmark – the top of the numbers on the
chest of the defender. Head must stay low.
• If ball is coming over the OL then the head should go to the
middle of the numbers
• If ball is going to the gap on each side then the head should go to
the numbers on that side
– Back stays flat, parallel to the ground
•
Step 2 is the power step (the “win” step)
– Step to where the defender had his hand on the ground
– Bring both hands up and into the chest of the defender, lifting
him up
• Hands should be as close together as possible
• Keep the thumbs up, pointing toward the sky
• Keep the elbows down
– Arch the back which will drop the hips. This will provide
leverage
•
Continue to drive with short (6” or less) choppy steps
– Keep feet 6” wider than the shoulders
– Step on the toes of the defender
Drive Block – Linebacker
• Similar to base drive block – Get off low,
take steps to get to the LB
• Just before contact dip down low again to
gain leverage
• Put forehead on the number to the hole side
• Hit leading with top of shoulder pad, getting
under his shoulder pads, and get hands on
inside of his chest
• The LB will usually try to take on this block
with a shoulder, trying to get under the
blocker, and then use shoulder and forearm
as a “flipper” to shed the block
– Getting hands on inside will allow the OL to
control him and stay on the block longer
Drive Block – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Player makes very hard initial hit but stops feet
This usually results in a good hit but then the feet
stop after 2 steps. Against a good player he will use
their balance to defeat the OL. The OL must block
through the defender and be aware that he is not
likely to drive him 5 yards downfield.
Blocker stops moving feet on contact
Blockers must keep their feet going even after the
initial hit. Have them practice driving a sled or
teammate holding a bag, keeping the feet driving at
all times.
Blocker grabs the defenders shoulders with his
hands
The urge is to grab the defender to stop him, but
doing can become a bad habit and result in holding
calls. Require the OL to maintain inside hand
position and keep their feet moving to sustain every
block.
Defender gets past the blocker
Usually the blocker is playing with his pads too high
if the defender eludes him. If the pads are high, the
blocker is standing too tall, limiting his ability to
mover laterally and causing him to lose his balance
or lunge at the defender. Have the players work on
starts with a low pad level. Stress to blockers the
need to play with their pads below the defenders
pads
Blocker crosses over with second step
The second step was too big. Linemen must work on
getting the second step back on the ground quickly.
In practice have the OL take 10 steps in blocking
position without crossing over
Blocker falls forward
The blocker has too much weight forward on his
toes. When a defender moves, the lineman who has
too much weight forward will have difficulty keeping
his balance.
Used when an OL that is supposed to pull is covered
and the OL in that direction is not covered.
DOWN BLOCK
Down Block
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Objective:
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Block the defender away from the hole, usually to the inside gap.
Key Points:
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First step is down the line forcing the defender to react to his gap
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30-to-45 degree angle step toward the defender
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Stay low - keep stomach on the thigh
Aim head for defender’s far hip or shoulder
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Keep outside hand up and aimed for the defender’s hip
Second step
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Get the head between the defender and the LOS
Deliver blow to the near side of the defender, driving the shoulder into the
defender’s ribcage
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Depending on the speed of the DL, this may need to be a 12” step laterally
toward the sideline to stop penetration
Helmet placement is to the near ear, don’t allow the helmet to drift across
the nose of the defender.
If the defender tries to go upfield then drive him to the sideline
If the defender tries to go to the sideline then swing the hips and shoulder to
face the sideline and create a big surface for the defender to get around
Punch placement is the near number. By making the defender react to
his gap responsibility, this will help the push and finish the defender.
Control the defender with the punch, this is the advantage the rule
change of blocking with extended arms and hands gives you
Notes:
The double-team block involves two offensive linemen
blocking one down defender and moving him out of
the area.
DOUBLE TEAM
Double-Team Block
• Objective:
– Use 2 of our OL to move a defender from his position.
Basically this is two OL drive blocking a DL out of the
way
• Key Points:
– The most important components of the double-team
block are:
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Identifying the defender
Proper footwork
Creating movement
Preventing the split
Finishing the block
• Notes:
– The double-team will attempt to drive the defender
back off the ball and into the path of the backside LB,
who should be scraping to the play
– The double-team, also a one-shoulder block, where our
two men work to stay stuck together at the hips
– The double-team block has an inside and an outside
blocker.
– This block will normally occur in the B/Bravo/G-T gap,
or in the C/Cat/T-TE gap
• Ex: Double team on DT in 3-tech on Triple
Double-Team Technique
Inside Blocker
Outside Blocker
First
Very short (3") & flat lateral gap step
with inside foot keeping shoulders
square.
A flat lateral gap step with inside foot,
keeping the shoulders square.
Second
Outside foot is up field thru the crotch
of the DL, getting hip to hip with
outside teammate
Outside foot is up field, getting hip to
hip with inside teammate. Place inside
foot in the crotch of the DL.
Next
Strike the inside breastplate of the DL
with outside hand – or both hands
(“get a little bite” to help outside
teammate – try to stand the DL up).
Strike the outside breastplate of the
DL with the hands. Aim for the
shoulder and ribcage of the defender.
Eyes must go immediately to the
inside as you work up field to “build
the wall” to the first LB’er offside (be
alert for play side LB’er running thru
the inside gap as you go for first LB’er
offside).
If the DL comes inside, lock onto him,
and outside teammate will “build the
wall” at the second level.
Finish
Both OL continue to drive the DL while maintaining lower pad level
Notes
Both teammates are working together – both are blocking gap – upstream
(from the DL to the first LB’er offside).
Double-Team – Variations
• Post and Pivot
– Same as the base double-team, but the outside
OL drives into the DL hip (scramble block)
• Drive the DL laterally down the LOS
• Aim for the hips, not the knees which is chop block
and is illegal
• Scramble
– Both OL drive low at the defender, hip or thigh
level, with their heads pinning the defender
between them
• Seal with their shoulders and hips
– Usually the quickest way to get movement on the
DL
3 Possible Defensive Responses
• Split the block
– The DL will probably try to turn his shoulders,
making himself “thin” and try to drive between
the blockers
– This is prevented by working very hard on the
seal between the two OL
• Hips and shoulders together
• Attack one of the blockers
– Usually the DL will try to spin out of the doubleteam
– This is prevented by the OL maintaining outside
pressure with their helmets and outside arms
• Drop and create a pile
– The defender may just “drop and grab grass” to
prevent being moved out of the area
• Blockers must stay on their feet, avoid falling
down, and continue to try and push the DL
backward out of the hole.
Double-Team Block – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Down defender splits the double-team
The blockers did not get shoulder-toshoulder as they started the double-team. In
two-on-one drills emphasize control of the
down defender with each blocker’s inside
shoulder
Double-team does not create movement
The blocker’s pad level is too high, or one of
the blockers bumped the other off the
double-team, losing the two-to-one
advantage
One of the blockers loses his footing
Although the blockers are pushing forward
aggressively they must always keep their
feet under them, not getting too much
weight on their toes, so that if the defender
moves they don’t fall down. If one of the
blockers falls down then the double-team
loses its two-to-one advantage.
Usually described as a back-side block, meaning it is
on the back side of the play. This block is used to “cut
off” a defender from getting to the play.
CUTOFF BLOCK
Cutoff (Reach/Scoop)
• Objective:
– The OL is to cutoff the defender from pursuing the
play.
• Usually on a sweep or the backside
• A variation can also be used to get the PSG under a 3technique DL and get to the LB (Midline)
• OL is going to reduce his shoulder to get under the DL/DE
tech and attack the linebacker
• We teach this technique as pickin’ grass
• Key Points:
– Dip and Rip, Going to the right
•
•
•
•
6 inch step with right foot, flat along the LOS,
Throw (forcefully) right elbow back
Take left elbow to inside of right knee
Left foot steps directly in front of the first step, twist the
shoulders to "Get Small“
– Left hand should be in position to “pick grass”
• Rip with the left hand through to the 2nd level (never up)
• He picks grass with his outside arm and gets his eyes to
the LB
• Note:
– See: SCOOP/SLIP DRILL
Scramble block is a variation of the drive block where
the OL drives low at the hip or thigh of the defender.
A drive block with hands on the ground
SCRAMBLE BLOCK
Scramble Block
• Objective:
– Used by quick-hitting teams (plays) to control a
defender by staying in his legs
• Key Points:
– OL uses his shoulder and upper and lower arms to
create a triangular blocking surface
• This is the “older” style of blocking
– OL drives off as in the regular drive block, but the
landmark is the hip or thigh of the defender
– Use the off hand on the ground to add more
stability to the blocking position.
– Head is to the playside of the defender
• Pinch with the ear
• Look to the sky
– Arch back and lift the defender off the ground
• Decreases his stability/balance
• Increases OL balance by adding weight
• Notes:
The blocker has to block a defender that is either in
the gap or lined up on the blocker next to him toward
where the play is going
REACH BLOCK
Reach Block
• Objective:
– Block a defender in the playside gap and prevent him
from being part of the play.
• Key Points:
– This is almost a pull-block
– Drop step toward the playside gap, throw back the
playside elbow, turn and run
• Aim for the outside number of the defender
• Wider the defender, the more lateral the step must be
– By the third step the OL must have contact, turning
into the defender and getting his hands on the
defender
– Then try to square up with the defender and
stop/hinder his progress
• Notes:
– Not usually called near the point of attack
• OL has some distance/time to work with
– Usually with the OT/TE trying to reach the DE on a
sweep or outside play
– Get hands on the defender and deter him from running
freely to the play
Reach Block – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Blocker’s first step is too far downfield
The first step on the reach block must point to the
outside number of the defender. The wider the
defender is aligned, the deeper the step must be.
Blockers frequently take a first step that is not
lateral enough to point them toward their target.
Have them watch videotape of themselves doing
this technique in practice and concentrate on
placement of the first step.
Blocker stops moving feet on contact
Blockers must keep the feet going, even after
striking the initial blow. Have them practice driving a
sled or teammate holding a bag, keeping the feet
driving at all times.
Blocker grabs the defender’s shoulders
The urge is to grab an opponent to stop him. The
blocker must work the hands to the proper position
and use the legs to drive the defender.
Blocker ‘wheels” in the hole
Some blockers turn their shoulders to far toward the
sideline in attempting a reach block. Although they
are still trying to work the defender toward the
outside they are no longer in position to reach the
defender because they have turned their back into
the hole and are in essence working on the
defender’s inside half instead of the outside half.
Although they want to stretch the defender toward
the sideline, they cannot turn and face the sideline
on this block; they attack the defender’s outside
arm and try to gain leverage outside the defender.
Blocker crosses over with second step
The second step was too big. Linemen must work on
getting the second step back on the ground quickly.
In practice, have linemen take 10 steps in blocking
position without crossing over.
Blocker falls forward
The blocker has too much weight forward on his
toes. When a defender move, the lineman who has
too much weight forward will have difficulty keeping
his balance
The OL will take out the legs of the DL and create a
pile of bodies at the LOS
CUT BLOCK
Chop Block
• Objective:
– Used by quick-hitting teams (plays) to control a
defender by taking out the his legs and putting
him on the ground
• Key Points:
– Offensive linemen fire out low at the thighs in
order to take out the legs (chop) of the defensive
linemen
• Notes:
– This has to be a 1-1 block because if it is used
with another OL it may be judged to be an illegal
chop block and is a penalty
A mass of blockers charging down the field like a herd
of elephants
WEDGE BLOCK
Wedge Block
• Objective: Form a wall of blockers that are shoulderto-shoulder protecting the running back
• Notes:
– This is not an elegant block. It is not a pretty block. It is
sheer brute force.
– See the “Installing the Wedge” for additional insights
on the Wedge
• Technique:
– The C is the apex of the wedge
• Other linemen get into formation on the apex
• C does not drive block, he stands up the N and the other
OL drive him forward
– Inside shoulder is in the armpit of the OL to their
inside.
– Outside arm is free to ward off defenders
– Inside arm/elbow is in small of the back of the player
to the inside
• Cannot grasp the jersey or otherwise link with another
player
– All players charge down the field in formation
• The back will be tucked into the wedge formation
• The OL are low and charge ahead like a wall of elephants
B
E
B
T
N
T
E
Taking a player from over here and having him move
to a block over there
PULL AND TRAP
Pull or Trap Block
• Objective:
– Move an OL from one position to another location to
block a defender
• Key Points:
– Pull blocker takes drop step and takes track to inside
hip of defender
• Throw the pull-side elbow back, hard, to get the body to
turn in the direction of the pull
– The elbow will end up behind the pull-side hip
• Opposite arm is thrown toward pull-side to help the body
turn
• Drop the pull-side foot back 6”-12” and point the toes in
the direction of the pull
• Lay the chest and stomach on the thigh to keep low
– Run down the LOS, staying low, until the blow is
delivered
– On contact allow base to explode
• Pull to the left, hit with left shoulder
• Pull to the right, hit with the right shoulder
• Notes:
– Takes advantage of penetrating defenders
Pull or Trap – Log Block
• The log block is used when the defender
does not have outside contain or is slanting
to the inside against the pull
• In that situation the OL will not be able to
block the defender to the outside and will
have to block the defender to the inside
• If the puller reads that the trap is not
possible then the following changes are
required:
– Change the aiming point to the point of the
shoulder of the defender
– Make contact with the inside/upfield shoulder
– When contact made then swing hips around to
the outside and pin the defender to the inside
– Inside hand goes just below his shoulder
– Upfield hand then comes around to control him
to the outside
Pull/Trap Block – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Blocker collides with adjacent
linemen
The blocker took a poor first step. The first step must be a
drop step, not a step straight down the LOS> Although
the linemen is excited about the opportunity to pull and
trap or kick out a defender, he cannot be in such a hurry
that he fails to execute the proper drop step. Remind him
that he will get their slower if he collides with a
teammate.
Blocker fails to move the
defender
The blocker is playing too high. Some linemen stand too
tall when they pull, so when they get to the defender,
they have no base of power in the lower body and
cannot move the defender even though they have some
momentum. Work the linemen in a chute where they
stay low when they pull.
Defender spills the block
On this play, the defender who gets his helmet downfield
best will win. Defenders are often taught to spill a trap
block or kick out block by getting the helmet inside and
taking on the block with the outside shoulder.
Conversely, the pulling linemen is taught to get his
helmet downfield and execute the block with his playside
shoulder. To trap a defender who is going to try to spill
the block, the offensive linemen must attack the
defender on a downhill course, getting far enough inside
the defender that he cannot get underneath the blocker
and spill the play.
Blocker stops moving feet on
contact
Blockers must keep the feet going, even after striking the
initial blow. Have them practice driving the sled or a
teammate or holding a bag, keeping the feet driving at all
times.
Blocker falls forward
The blocker has too much weight forward on his toes.
When a defender moves, the linemen who has too much
weight forward will have difficulty keeping his balance
Types of Pulling
• G
– Alerts play side G/T that he is pulling
– Will kickout or log EMLOS
– Puller does not cross the rear of the Center
• Power
– Call tells G/T that he is targeting the 2nd level,
not trapping
– May be from backside or play side
• Trap
– Alerts backside G/T that he will be pulling to play
side
– Will kickout or log EMLOS
– Will cross the rear of the Center
Pulling – G & Trap
G – Play side on EMLOS/ Target
B
E
B
T
N
T
E
Trap – Backside pulls to play side
B
E
T
B
N
T
E
Pulling – Power
Pull from backside and look for 2nd level
Pull around the DE and look inside (LB)
B
B
E
T
N
T
E
Pull around the DE and look outside (DB)
B
E
T
B
N
T
E
B
T
T
Combination blocks are blocking adjustments in which
the linemen who would normally block the man over
them exchange assignments
COMBINATION BLOCKS
Combo Block
•
Used to work first and second level defenders
•
Gets better angle on the down defender
•
Blocker on down defender takes track to near ear and hip
•
Fold blocker takes drop step and works off hip of down block
•
Two offensive lineman track a defensive lineman and a linebacker
•
We have four eyes on the backer
•
We secure the down guy first
•
Players will step hippo (hip to hip)
•
Linemen must not get split
•
Drive d-lineman into backer, come off at backer level, don’t chase
•
Cross Block – Both defenders are on the LOS
•
Fold Block – One defender is on the LOS, one is off as a linebacker
Combo/Fold Blocking Calls
Action
Call
Which Side?
(Usually a call by the
Center)
Target Gap?
Who Goes First?
Lima
Left
Romeo
Right
Alpha
A-Gap (C-G)
Bravo
B-Gap (G-T)
Charlie
C-Gap 9 (T-E)
Charlie
Center (C) goes first
Golf
Guard (G) goes first
Tango
Tackle (T) goes first
Echo
End (E) goes first
OR
India
Inside (I) player goes first
Oscar
Outside (O) player goes first
These calls are based on the military phonetic alphabet. Any naming convention
for the calls may be used as long as they are understood by the coaches and
players
Gap Naming – Alpha, Bravo, Charlie
Alpha, Bravo, Charlie refer to the gap between
the players that will combo.
Alpha Combo (A Gap)
Bravo Combo (B Gap)
Charlie Combo (C Gap)
Fold: Alpha India – Center & Guard
Alpha – Center & Guard
Lima – Left
India – Inside blocker goes first
Charlie – Center goes first
B
T
T
Alpha – Center & Guard
Romeo – Right
India – Inside blocker goes first
Charlie – Center goes first
B
T
T
Fold: Alpha Oscar – Center & Guard
Alpha – Center & Guard
Lima – Left
Oscar – Outside blocker goes first
Golf – Guard goes first
B
B
T
Alpha – Center & Guard
Romeo - Right
Oscar – Outside blocker goes first
Golf – Guard goes first
B
B
T
Fold: Bravo – Guard & Tackle
Bravo – Guard and Tackle
India – Inside blocker goes first
Golf – Guard goes first
B
T
B
T
B
T
Bravo – Guard and Tackle
Oscar – Outside blocker goes first
Tango – Tackle goes first
B
T
B
T
Fold: Charlie – Tackle & TE
Charlie –Tackle and End
India – Inside blocker goes first
Tango – Tackle goes first
W
M
T
T
E
Charlie –Tackle and End
Oscar – Outside blocker goes first
Echo – End goes first
B
E
T
N
T
E
B
Drills and techniques specific to the offensive line.
Some good, some not so good. But a decent place to
start from.
RUN BLOCKING DRILLS
Blocking Squares
•
Purpose:
– To teach blocking
techniques
•
Equipment:
– 4 cones,
– 3 blocking dummies
– Field marking
•
Execution:
– Create a 6-ft. square on the
field and mark the spot
where the diagonals meet
– Put a defender/dummy
inside the perimeter of the
square and an offensive
linemen on the outside the
square
– On snap have the OL block
the DL out of the square.
Start in position 1 and move
to 2, and then 3
•
Coaching points
– Start with dummies and
gradually add resistance
– Pair up players by size for
full resistance
– Players maintain contact
and drive until the DL is out
of the square
X
OL 1
OL 2
OL 3
East-West
•
Purpose:
– To determine who is better blocker
– To teach blocking techniques
•
Equipment:
– 12 cones,
•
Execution:
– Create 3 2x3 yard blocking zones
– Put two OL in each blocking zone
– On the cadence each tries to force his partner out of the
blocking zone with drive block
– Blocking must be legal
– Winners move 1 zone to the right (East), losers to the left
(West)
– Winners and losers rotate back in
•
Coaching points
– Players maintain contact and drive until the opponent is out of
the blocking zone
– Winners (better OL) will end on the East side, lesser blockers
will end in the West.
Pulling and Trapping
•
Purpose:
– To teach trapping techniques
•
Equipment:
– 4 blocking dummies
•
Execution:
– Line up the 4 dummies on the LOS
– Use 3 OL in various combinations of blocking and trapping
•
Coaching Points:
– The pulling OL blocks with the outside shoulder, keeping his
head toward the LOS
– Vary the angle and drive techniques to help the puller
recognize a free defender
– Switch the pulling drill from right to left after each OL has
gone through the drill
– OL maintain contact until the whistle blows
OL 1
OL 2
OL 3
OL 1
OL 2
OL 3
Pulling and Trapping - Technique
•
Technique: Trap Pull Step
•
1 STEP: From 3 Point stance Lineman picks up foot and
turns it 90 degrees and steps while pivoting other foot also.
Lineman needs to throw elbow on first step while keeping
back flat.
•
2nd STEP: Step with other foot keeping good base and
pump arms when running and keep a flat black.
Pull and Lead
• Purpose:
– To teach OL Perimeter pulling techniques
• Equipment:
– 4 blocking dummies, cone
• Execution:
– Line up the 4 dummies on the LOS
– Use 3 OL in various combinations of blocking and
trapping
• Coaching Points:
– OL should pull with depth to avoid congestion at the
LOS
– Keep head up field
– Switch drill from side to side
– Maintain contact until whistle blows
OL
OL
OL
OL
Wax On Wax Off - Hand Combatives
•
Face both the blocker off together with the pass blocker in
a pass protection stance
– Hands should be attached in a snatched position
•
Defender will try and remove the hands of the blocker by
clubbing down or from underneath
•
The blocker will replace his hands by rotating his arms
accordingly (wax on, wax off)
•
Once blockers are comfortable then add the kick slide while
maintaining proper base
•
This is one of the most important drills for the blockers to
master because it teaches the proper leverage and punch
– This is also an excellent drill for the DL/DE’s to work on
breaking the grip of the OL
Goal Post Combo Scrape and Pick-Up
•
Combo scrape and pick-up is great for punch and fit with a
player simulating a LB scraping off the backside of the goal
post
•
Depending on which side the LB scrapes will dictate which
lineman will pick up the flowing LB
•
Both OL start from their stance. Upon firing out and fitting
up with the bag they will not come off the combo with each
other until the scraping LB gets to the same level as the
blockers
•
LB sits at a depth of 3-5 yards and then begins his scrape
once both OL have fit up on the bag
•
Coaching Point: This is a great drill for practicing zone
footwork, both inside or outside zone
Base Check - Push and Pull
•
Have the OL get into a good pass protection stance
•
Have their partner push from different sides, trying to
make the OL lose his wide base set
– Partner can either push or pull
•
Make the blocker maintain his base by sliding to recover,
never crossing the feet, never losing shoulder width base
•
Blocker should start out with arms behind him and then
work base with arms fully extended
Backside Cutoff/Cut
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman how to cut off an inside technique and
use the cut block as a change up.
•Technique:
– Line up one of the bean bags and have 1 lineman hold
it. Offensive lineman should line up 1 man away from
bag.
– On cadence lineman takes drop step footwork and runs
on 45 degree angle, pointing head to inside of bean
bag. When lineman approaches bag, he rips backside
arm through front side of lineman and leans body on
bag as he adjusts body to parallel to line of scrimmage.
– As an alternate, lineman will lean body into bag and
roll into the bag simulating a cut block
Sled – Drive Block
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to get off the ball as one unit, hip
explosion on contact and develop leg strength and
conditioning
•Technique:
– Line up 5 lineman across the Sled. On cadence lineman
take steps and explode hands into sled and drive hips
through, locking out elbows.
– All lineman must hit the bag at the same time and must
lock out elbows and not rest head on bags.
– After linemen have driven the sled about 10 yards.
start the next group.
Sled – Rapid Get-Off
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to get off ball as one unit, hip explosion
on get off, and conditioning lineman
•Technique:
– Line up 5 lineman on sled. On cadence all lineman take
steps and explode with hands and hips into sled. As
soon as lineman lock out arms, begin cadence again
and have lineman repeat 4-5 times for each group of
lineman.
– Make sure lineman all hit sled at the same time each
time and stress the importance of this.
– As they get tired they will tend to go on their own
timing but we must train them to all go as one group.
Sled – Hip Extension
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman hip explosion
•Technique:
– Line up lineman on the sled on both knees with hands
at hip pockets. On cadence lineman explode hands
through bag with elbows tight to body.
– Lineman also throw hips through on contact and end
up with their hips on the ground and elbows locked
out. Lineman should all hit the sled at the same time.
1-Step 2-Step Drill
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman footwork of reach, drop and trap pull
steps
•Technique:
– Reach Step
• 1 STEP: From 3 point stance lineman picks up foot and
steps 6 inches right or left and points foot at 45 degree
angle.
• Drive both hands back tight to hip pockets, drive other
knee to the ground and keep flat back.
• 2nd STEP: Step with opposite foot 6 inches on 45 Degree
angle keeping a good wide base and throw arms tightly
through sides of body with thumbs pointed up.
– Drop Step
• 1 STEP: From 3 point stance lineman picks up foot and
steps backwards 6 inches right or left and points foot at
45 degree angle.
• Drive both hands back tight to hip pockets, drive other
knee to the ground and keep flat back.
• 2nd STEP: Step with opposite foot 6 inches on 45 Degree
angle keeping a good wide base and throw arms tightly
through sides of body with thumbs pointed up.
Front Side Reach
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman technique of reach blocks
•Technique:
– Have 1 lineman hold bean bag, Offensive lineman will
line up 1/2 man to one side of bag and 1/2 yard away
from bag.
– On cadence lineman takes reach step footwork (45
degree angle on first two steps) aiming head for play
side shoulder of bag holder and striking hands on bag
on second step.
– On third and fourth step lineman then works feet to
straight up field while keeping shoulders and butt
parallel to line of scrimmage and finally on 5th step
lineman will slam the bag one side or the other and
land on it
Chutes – Chop Feet
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to take small choppy steps and keep
base on run blocking
•Technique:
– From 3 point stance line up lineman just outside chute.
On cadence lineman take short quick choppy steps
– Lineman try to take as many steps as possible before
getting through the chute while pumping their arms
and keeping their back flat
Chutes – Drive Block
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to come off the ball with flat back and
low pad level
•Technique:
– Put 2-3 flat bags on the ground under the chutes.
These teach lineman to keep base during drive block.
– Have 3 lineman line up on one side of the chute with
another person opposite each lineman holding a bag.
– On cadence, lineman come off the ball with low pad
level and explode into the bags keeping a good base
and locking out elbows on contact.
– Progress to using no bags.
One-on-One Drive Block vs. Linebackers
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman how to drive block on linebackers
•Technique:
– Line up 1 offensive lineman in 3 point stance and a
linebacker opposite him 3-5 yards away and shaded
1/2 man to a side.
– On Cadence lineman will attack the play side armpit of
the linebacker with his helmet and hands and keeping
shoulders parallel to line of scrimmage drive the
linebacker backwards.
– Use two groups at a time and get as many reps as
possible.
Slam Drill
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman how to double team a down lineman
while blocking a linebacker also.
•Technique:
– This is similar to Slip and Scoop but we don’t want
defensive lineman’s shoulders turned.
– Guard:
• Take reach step work for 1st 2 steps except point toes
vertical instead of at 45 degree angle.
• Punch defensive lineman on closest number and get
movement on him while having your eyes on the
linebacker, If linebacker blitzes, pick him up. If linebacker
flows over top stay on defensive lineman and drive him
backwards.
– Tackle:
• Take drop step but aim head and punch for near side
number of down lineman while keeping eyes on
linebacker.
• If linebacker blitzes then tackle gets down lineman, if not
stay on down lineman and get movement until you see
linebacker flow over top of lineman.
Counter Pull
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman footwork of pulling and to explode on
contact of defender
•Technique:
– Line up 1 bag holder holding the bean bag, simulating a
front side defensive lineman. Have guards line up
about 5 yards away from bag. On cadence, Guard takes
pull step, throwing play side elbow horizontally and
keeping back flat.
– The lineman then runs keeping a good base and flat
back towards up field position of bean bag.
– On contact with bean bag, lineman throws arms
through and launches body on top of bean bag.
•Variation:
– Line two lineman up about 5 yards from two man sled
and on cadence have lineman take pull steps and drive
sled. Focus on hips through on contact.
Scoop-Slip Drill
•Purpose:
–
Teach lineman footwork and technique of slip and scoop blocks
•Technique:
–
–
Line up two offensive lineman and two bag holders opposite, one on
the LOS between the two lineman and one behind him as a linebacker.
Play side lineman:
•
•
•
•
•
–
Step with reach step (6 inch) to play side.
Second step is again at 45 degree angle and punch the bag holder with
backside arm through play side number.
Third step works to vertical (perpendicular with the line of scrimmage) and
lock out punch arm, turning the shoulder of the defensive lineman but
keeping shoulders square to LOS.
Fourth step again is vertical and lineman should be knocked off the block by
2nd offensive lineman and progress to the linebacker.
Play side lineman should at all time keep eyes on linebacker and be ready to
adjust to him.
Backside lineman:
•
•
•
•
•
Step with Drop step (6 inch) to play side.
Second step is again at 45 degree angle aiming head and hands for play side
armpit of defensive lineman.
Third step is again at 45 degree angle look to knock play side offensive
lineman off and take control of defender from the play side.
Fourth step continues 45 degrees, head should be on play side.
Fifth step is either vertical (if play side is sealed) or stays on 45 degree angle
if play side is not sealed.
•Progression:
–
Start at half speed and focus on footwork and hand placement and
technique. Progress from 1.) linebacker sitting, to 2.) both defenders
moving, to 3.) Linebacker run through (backer call). Progress with 3
situations to 3/4 speed tempo and finally full speed. We will start with
bag holders, but progress to no bags and do this drill at full speed
against defensive personal.
Bird Dog
•Purpose:
– This drill is used to get each player used to stepping with the
correct foot. Since each offensive lineman is going to have to
step either left or right on any particular play we practice the
first step.
•Technique:
– Each lineman will get into a stance toes even and shoulder
width apart. Hands in fist and elbows resting on knees.
– On the coaches cadence of down each player will place his
down hand on the ground slightly in front of the same foot.
– There should be little to no pressure on this hand at all.
– Note all the players on the left of the center will have their left
hand down all the players on the right will have their right
hand down.
– Now each player will step on the word GO to the right/left pre
determined by the coach and fire that same hand up to the
numbers, there is no defense in front of them so they will
have to imagine a defender. ONLY ONE STEP AT A TIME.
– The line will not be able to take two steps until the entire
group has achieved the first step correctly.
– Now the second step is made but not to pass the length of the
first step and never at any time should the shoulders ever
turn.
– Later in the drill place short peaces of rope with tape on the
shoulder pads of the offensive lineman and have them do the
drill taking three steps at a time.
– A good reward is if the lineman can do it 5 times in a row they
will be excused from that days conditioning.
Inside Reach
•Purpose:
–
Teach lineman technique of reach blocks
•Technique:
–
–
–
Now by doing the same thing in the bird dog have two lines. Have each
offensive lineman step with their inside foot and shoot their inside
hand up and into what they would imagine would be the numbers.
Both lineman should be at the same spot with their hands only inches
apart.
Once each lineman can do this now place a blocking dummy and have
tandem push the blocking dummy down field 5 yards. NEVER SHOULD
THE FREE HAND MAKE CONTACT WITH THE DUMMY.
Once this is done by all lineman add another defender and place a
hand shield as they are pushing the blocking dummy down the field
have the hand shield step to one side on the other.
•***Key***
–
Once the 2nd defender gets nose bar to nose bar, straight in front of
the one offensive lineman he will release and attack the linebacker. He
must communicate that he is leaving by giving a GONE call, once the
other offensive lineman hears GONE he must communicate back by
saying LEAVE. Communication is the importance of this offense line
blocking scheme. There is no room for Minnie Mousses.
–
This drill should be practiced over and over and over. Do the same drill
with pass blocking and have the defenders with shields run any were
they want once them have been struck they must back up and take
another approach. Start with 1 defender then as the drill keeps going
rush 2, 3, 4, up to 7 defenders at anyone time. The offensive line will
be able to keep many more than that out in this drill since the defense
cant maintain contact but they don’t know that and will get a sense of
accomplishment by blocking more people than they have to block.
O-Line Agility Drills
•LINE DRILL
– Have lineman all line up on one line facing the same sideline
and standing on one side of the line.
– On coaches command linemen will jump with both feet
together on either side of the line for 30 seconds.
– Repeat after a short rest and then do same drill but facing end
Reach and jumping forward and backwards
•REACTION DRILL (BEAR CRAWL)
– Have lineman line up in groups of 5 and face coach on all
fours.
– On cadence linemen will chop feet in place. Coach then points
a direction and linemen shuffle from all fours that direction.
– Coach switches direction and then signals them to crawl
through 5 yards
•REACTION DRILL (PASS PRO)
– Have lineman line up in groups of 5 and face coach in 3 point
stance.
– On cadence linemen will pop up in pass protection stance and
chop feet.
– Coach then points a direction and linemen shuffle that
direction.
– Coach switches direction and then signals them to sprint
through 5 yards
• BAG DRILLS (OVER STEPS)
– From two point stance facing bags linemen steps over first
bag, then steps with other foot before progressing to the next
bag.
O-Line Agility Drills
•BAG DRILLS (SHUFFLE DRILL)
– From 3 point stance, lineman shuffles parallel to first bag then
shuffles forward and then parallel to second bag and so on.
•BAG DRILL (SPRINT/BACKPEDAL)
– From 3 point stance lineman sprints down one bag then back
pedals back down the other bag and so on.
– Lineman should pump their arms and keep base.
•BAG DRILLS (OVER SIDE STEPS)
– From pass protection position lineman shuffles over first bag
shuffles both feet in between bag and then progresses over
the next bag.
– Do both sides and make sure linemen do not cross over feet.
•T-TEST (PRO AGILITY)
– Pair up lineman and have them face each other but facing the
sidelines on the five yard line.
– On cadence lineman sprints to the ten yard line and touches
hand then sprints to the goal line and touches hand and then
finally finishes through the five yard line.
– Repeat 2-4 times
The pass protector's objective is to keep his
body between the rusher and the passing
point for a maximum period of time while
giving up the minimum amount of yardage.
The quarterback must have a minimum of 45 seconds to get the ball off.
PASS PROTECTION
Drop-Back Pass Protection
•
Notes:
–
–
Basics of pass protection are the same for all OL positions, but each
position has slight differences based on where the QB will setup
Best pass protectors remain calm and think
•
Start from good stance
•
Keep the head back which will help keep balance
•
Shoulders back and back arched
•
Knees bent, about 30 degrees from horizontal
•
Feet just wider than shoulder width
–
•
Use short choppy steps
Arms fully extended, keeping the defender as far away as possible
–
–
If the defender gets to the OL body then the advantage goes to the
defender
Thumbs turned up
•
This forces the arms to be straight and the shoulders to stay back
•
Weight balanced on foot between the heel and the toe, not too far
forward nor too far back
•
Can punch the defender but cannot overextend and get off balance
–
Hands are 12” from the body, and the punch is about 6” through the
chest of the defender
Drop-Back Pass Protection
The Doane College football program has an historically successful tradition. Over
the past 20 years Doane College has competed in the national playoffs during the
1980’s and 1990’s (last appearance in 1999), and has proven the test of time with
consistency by accumulating a .603 winning percentage. We run the “West Coast
Offense” at Doane College. Our offensive philosophy is a balanced attack that
utilizes the short passing game, zone-based run blocking schemes, and a multiple
screen package. Our 560 combination route series was responsible for 64% of our
pass attempts in 2003.
The development of the passing game last year was based upon the ability of our
offensive line to protect our three-step drop timing combination routes. Our goal
in pass protection is to help our offensive linemen develop their motor skills,
specifically the reflexes and balance. We believe we become more efficient in our
protection through our sound three-step scheme. This enables us to drill
consistently on technique. This article will first detail the coaching points we use
to teach our three-step pass protection fundamentals. I will then discuss and
illustrate specific drills and techniques we use on a daily basis in our drill and
individual periods in practice.
Stance: Our linemen use a two-point stance for our three-step pass protection.
We do not cut our opponents. We teach our linemen to fit / jam / and control the
defender. The reason we use this technique is because at our level of
competition, the defenders we face are athletic enough to recoil after getting cut
to the ground and still affect the pass attempt.
The first biomechanical phase of pass protection is the stance. A proper stance
allows the offensive lineman the ability to move and react with agility, strength,
and quick reaction time. There is no allowance for a poor stance.
American Football Monthly
Setting Up for Pass Blocking
•
The first technique offensive linemen need to learn is how to quickly get out
of the stance and set up as smoothly as possible. In this drill we will not use
any men on defense. Our only concern is to get the offensive player out of
his three-point stance and into a body position to pass protect. In the
beginning, it is important for the coach to have only one player set up at a
time. As the offensive linemen become more and more skilled in setting up,
the coach can have the entire line set at one time.
•
In addition to telling the offensive lineman the snap count prior to each play,
the coach also should tell the blocker where the defender is lined up, in a
one, two, or three position.
•
The offensive lineman should line up in a balanced stance. The more weight
he has on his down hand and the farther out in front of the shoulder pads
the hand is, the harder it will be for him to set up. There should be just
enough weight on the down hand that the offensive blocker can push off the
ground with the fingers of the down hand, thus allowing him to get into a
two-point stance for pass protection. There should not be a big stagger in
the feet; a heel-toe or heel-instep relationship between the two feet is the
best.
•
Starting with the imaginary defensive player in a one position, the offensive
player must push up and back with the down hand on the snap count. As his
shoulders come up, he should take a slight step toward the center with his
inside foot. This power step to the inside is necessary so he can be in
position to stop the defensive player's inside charge.
•
The set-up technique is the same for a defender in the two position, except
that now the first step of the offensive blocker - the power step - is taken
with the outside rather than the inside foot.
NFHS
Setting Up for Pass Blocking
•
At the same time he takes his power step, the blocker must lower his hips by
flexing his knees (not by bending at the waist). He must keep his back
straight and his head up, with his eyes focused straight ahead. The elbows of
both arms should be in close to his body and bent so that the hands are four
to five inches in front of his jersey. Both hands should be close together,
thumbs almost touching, fingers up, palms facing toward the defense and
even with the center of the offensive lineman's chest.
•
In the initial set-up with the defensive man aligned in a one or two location,
it is very important that the offensive blocker always stay square to the line
of scrimmage and not turn his body to the right or left.
•
When first teaching pass protection to the center, the coach must tell the
center if he will set to his right or left with a defender in the one location.
•
The footwork for an offensive lineman in pass protection must change if he
sees that the defender has lined up in a three location. With the defender in
this wide alignment, the blocker must kick his outside foot back with a 45degree angle step and slide his inside foot to the outside so that his body
remains in a squared, balanced position in the path of the pass rusher
toward the quarterback.
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part I
•
Once the offensive line has mastered the technique for setting up on pass
protection, it is time to introduce a defensive pass rusher to the drill. As with
the run blocking drills, use offensive linemen to play on both offense and
defense. Initially the men on defense should try only to run by the offensive
blocker to the target area, which can be a dummy, a towel, or a chalk mark
seven yards directly behind the offensive center. As the offensive linemen
feel more comfortable in their footwork, the pass rushers can be given the
flexibility of rushing to one side and then coming back to the other side of
the offensive blocker.
•
The coach only will have one blocker and one defensive man work on each
snap. In the beginning, when trying to build the blockers' confidence and
footwork, the coach should instruct the defenders to rush only to the
outside from a one location.
•
On the snap, the blocker must power-step with his inside foot and assume a
pass-protection position, keeping his shoulders parallel with the line of
scrimmage. As the defensive man starts his pass rush, the blocker must
gather himself, lower his hips, straighten his back, position his hands and
arms, raise his head, focus on the numbers of the defensive man, and
prepare to strike the defensive player.
•
The force for stopping the momentum of the defender must start at the
ground, come up through the big muscle groups of the blocker's legs and be
transferred out through the palms of the offensive lineman's hands.
•
It is important that the offensive blocker not bend at the waist and lunge
forward toward the defensive pass rusher. In this extended position he
quickly will lose his balance and find that he will be unable to stay between
the pass rusher and the target area.
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part I
•
The offensive lineman should deliver as hard a blow as possible with his
hands. Once the palms have made contact with the defensive man, the
blocker must press out with his arms and maintain separation from the pass
rusher.
•
When the defensive man's momentum has been stopped, the blocker must
reset his hands and arms and shuffle his feet so that he keeps his body
between the pass rusher and the target area. By shuffling his feet, taking
short, quick steps and keeping his feet close to the ground, the blocker can
maintain a good, wide base. He cannot take long steps or cross his feet while
he is pass-protecting. He always must stay in relative position, maintaining
his stance between the pass rusher and the target area and not going out to
meet the defensive man, should the defender rush wide to the outside of
the target area.
•
When the blocker sees that the defensive man once again starts his charge
toward the target, he should gather himself and prepare to strike again,
stopping the defensive man's momentum and causing him to restart his
drive to the target area.
•
The blocker should continue this action until the whistle blows or the coach
calls a stop to the drill. Without a quarterback in the drill, the coach can
allow the men to make contact three or four times before stopping the drill
and going to the next two players.
•
Remember, in this drill, there should be a quick setup on the snap, a good
hard blow by the blocker, balanced body position, quick shuffling foot
movement, and a well maintained relative position by the offensive blocker
on the defensive man
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part II
•
After the offensive linemen have demonstrated the ability to pass protect
against an outside rusher who is starting in a one location, the coach should
align the defensive man on the shoulder of the offensive blocker in a two
position. At the start, the defensive man should rush in the same manner as
in the previous drill. The big difference in blocking technique for the
offensive lineman is that, with the defender rushing from this position, the
blocker may be able to make contact only with his outside hand as he
delivers the blow.
•
All offensive linemen will have a tendency to attack the defender and turn to
the outside to face the pass rusher. The coach must emphasize to the
blocker that he must continue to shuffle back off the line, stay in relative
position, and make certain that the defender must come through him to
reach the target area.
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part 3
•
Next, the defensive man should take an inside charge from a one location.
Because the defensive man is charging toward the inside, it is best to have
the other players back and away from the drill area. This alignment will
decrease the possibility of injury. When the defensive player rushes to the
inside, the blocker must stop his momentum to the target at all cost. He
must strike the pass rusher at the line of scrimmage. Because the pass
rusher is now moving directly at the target area and not wide to the outside,
it is important for the blocker to maintain constant contact and not try to
disengage from the defensive man as he did when the defender rushed
wide, away from the target area.
•
The blocker must now drive the, pass rusher down the line of scrimmage and
keep him from penetrating the target area.
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part IV
•
The following covers the technique needed to block a pass rusher
who attacks the target area from a wide, or three, location.
Remember that in this type of defensive location the blocker sets
up by kicking back with his outside foot at a 45-degree angle. This
should be reviewed prior to starting the drill.
•
As with the other drills, there are two men work at a time. The key
to pass protecting against a wide rush is that the offensive man
must, on the snap of the ball, turn slightly toward the defensive
pass rusher.
•
As the blocker moves off the line of scrimmage, he must drop in a
straight line, staying perpendicular to his original alignment and
fighting the tendency to move to the outside, away from the ball
and into the defender.
•
Another tendency is to give ground too quickly. When the blocker
retreats off the line of scrimmage, he gives the defensive man an
opportunity to rush straight to the target area by coming to the
inside. The blocker must constantly maintain a position directly
between the pass rusher and the target area.
•
As he moves off the line of scrimmage, the lineman must slide his
feet, never crossing over, and shuffle back in quick, short steps. It is
important that the feet stay low to the ground so the blocker is
always in position to gather himself and strike the pass rusher as
he attacks the target area.
NFHS
Pass Protection Drills: Pass Blocking, Part IV
•
When the defender moves toward the target area, the
blocker must gather himself and prepare to strike with his
outside arm. If the defender continues to rush upfield, the
blocker should maintain contact, riding him up the field and
past the target area.
•
The blocker also must be prepared for the defender to rush
over him or to the inside. If the defender attacks straight
into the blocker, the pass protector should gather himself
and strike out, stopping the defensive man's momentum.
He must then extend his arms and, if possible, disengage
from the defensive player's body.
•
It is important for the blocker to realize that the defender
generates more force and momentum rushing from the
three position than he does from a one or a two location.
Because of this, the blocker must be sure he is in good
hitting position, physically striking out at the defender. He
must not get caught merely absorbing the rush of the
defensive player.
NFHS
Pass Protection – Common Errors
Error
Error Correction
Blocker grabs or reaches instead of punching
The lineman mush learn that he can’t stop
the defender by grabbing him. He must
develop a firm punch that he can use
repeatedly to stop the defender. He must be
sure that the hands don’t stay in contact
with the defender longer than for the brief
moment of contact; he then retracts the
hands and prepares to punch again.
Blocker gets beat to the inside
The lineman must stay square to the LOS,
being sure to set up inside the defender, not
too far from the outside.
Blocker gets pushed to one side or the other
To avoid losing his balance, the lineman
must keep his head back, keep his feet apart
in a wide base and continuously take short
lateral steps
Blocker gets run over or pushed backwards
The lineman is too passive. His weight is too
far back, he is too conscious for the set and
does not place enough emphasis on the
punch
Blocker lunges
The lineman must not overextend or
overemphasize the punch. He must be
patient, keeping the body weight back and
the head up throughout the block
Blocker gets beat off the ball
The offensive lineman knows the snap count
and must use it to his advantage. He must
have confidence in his pass set and beat the
defender to the spot where they will meet.
The pass rusher is not going to give up his chest and
make it easy to block him. He is going to use a number
of techniques to get the sack. This section describes
some offensive techniques to offset the defensive
moves.
DEFEATING PASS RUSH
TECHNIQUES
Defeating Rush Types
• Bull Rush
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The rusher tries to run over the OL
Work to retain inside position with the hands
Widen base, drop hips to lower center of gravity
Weight on toes so OL can move forward
Keep the head high! The defender wants the OL to lower the
head and fight him power on power
• If the head goes down/forward then the OL is off-balance and can
be pulled forward and out of the way
– Use hands inside to lift the base of the shoulder pads,
directing his energy/momentum up
• Slap or Club
– The rusher slaps/clubs the shoulder sideways, getting the OL
off-balance
– To do this the defender will have to drop his arm to gain force
– When the defender winds up, punch him in the chest or
armpit on the side that is winding up
• His chest area will be unprotected during the wind up
– DL counter may be a double-slap
• Good balance will prevent this. We are satisfied with a slap fight
as long as the QB is safe, we’ll stand and fight like this all day
Defeating Rush Types
• Swim Move
– The rusher uses his arm to go over the OL. The defender slaps
the shoulder with his outside arm and then brings his inside
arm over the top of the OL
• The problem with this move is that it exposes his chest area when
the arm is up
– The OL takes the his arm on the side of the swim move and
stabs it into the side/armpit of the defender
• Put hand on his hip and drive him to the sideline as he will be offbalance
– Keep the head back and maintain balance and this will be an
easy move to defeat
• Rip Move
– The rusher uses his arm to rip up from underneath the arms of
the OL. The defender slaps the shoulder with his outside arm
and brings his arm underneath/between his body and the OL
• The DL will continue to rip with his arm until he is under the arm
of the OL
– The OL must keep the head back and maintain balance, use
arms to keep the defender away from the body
– If the defender gets into the body and starts this move then
pin the arm underneath
• Clamp down with arm that he is trying to get under, pinning his
arm
• Swing hips around and use other arm on his hip to drive him to
the sideline
Defeating Rush Types
• Hand Slap
– The defender slaps the hands/arms of the OL down, hoping to
get the OL off-balance
• Defender is counting on the OL to be moving forward and offbalance so he can pull the OL forward and out of the way
– Keep the head back and maintain balance and this will be an
easy move to defeat
– If the OL can read it then pull hands back out of the way
– Then reset and extend arms
• Spin Move
– Used when the defender thinks the OL is overplaying or offbalance to one side. The defender will get the OL going in one
direction and then spin back the other way when the OL is
going the other direction
– To be effective the DL must be close to the OL
– As long as the OL can keep the DL away (arms extended, butt
low, etc.) then this should not be a problem
– Key is to not let the situation develop where the defender is in
position to execute this move
Drills and techniques specific to the offensive line.
Some good, some not so good. But a decent place to
start from.
PASS PROTECTION DRILLS
Stance and Starts
•
This drill is used as a pre-practice
warm-up. Work on Stance every
day. The coach stands five yards in
front of five offensive linemen.
Linemen will demonstrate the
proper stance. The coach will give
a verbal command (usually the
cadence) and the lineman will
snap into their Pop-Set, and then
Sit position.
American Football Monthly
Shuffle Drill
•
This drill is used to develop the
proper footwork and balance in
the shuffle. There will be two
stations set up. The first station is
the Center/Guard station. This
station works on closed contact
drills and lateral movement.
•
Set three cones 5 yards apart
down a straight line. The coach
stands on the LOS. He gives an
auditory command for the interior
lineman to Pop-Set out of his
stance and Slide in the Sit
position.
•
The second station is for Offensive
Tackles. Set a cone five yards
behind the LOS at a 45-degree
angle. The coach stands at the
LOS. When he gives an auditory
command the OT will Pop-Set and
Slide to the cone at the 45-degree
angle. The proper posture should
be coached with short slide steps
for balance. The outside foot is
dropped back in a toe to heel
relationship with the inside foot.
Weight should be distributed on
the insteps. Short “punch” steps
toward the cone will improve
balance and the reaction time for
resetting on the defender.
American Football Monthly
Reset Drill
•
Designed to work on reaction on
the defender's counter move.
•
Use the shuffle drill station. Have
a pass rusher imitate moves and
counter moves in front of the
offensive lineman. The offensive
lineman will mirror the defender.
•
The next phase is to have the OL
engage the defender and hand
fight the counter move, all the
while mirroring the actions of the
defender.
American Football Monthly
Two Man Twist Drill
•
This drill is designed to work on
the ability of “passing off” the
defenders in a zone protection
scheme.
•
The goal is for the offensive
linemen to keep their shoulders
square while using their vision and
verbal commands to communicate
the direction of the twist.
•
The technique we teach is “Attack
the Flash” in all loop stunts. This
technique teaches the eyes of the
offensive lineman to follow the
“loop” defender and protect that
vacated gap as well as wait for the
second slanting defender.
American Football Monthly
DL & LB Twist Drill
•
The same concept as the twist drill
except this drill is designed to
control the first and second level
defender stunt.
•
Same zone gap rules apply.
“Attack the Flash” technique is still
used. The vision elevates to the
second level.
American Football Monthly
Three Man Twist Drill
•
Drill used to pick up three men
down defender twist drill. Slant
two adjacent defenders and loop
the third around the other two.
Offensive Lineman need to keep
their shoulders square and keep
their vision wide for the loop
defender.
American Football Monthly
Scheme-560 Protection
•
Linking the techniques are
illustrated by using our three step
protection as an example. 560
Protection is a weak side slide by
the offensive line.
•
All techniques discussed are used
in this simple three-step
protection. This is a six-man
protection.
•
The slide starts at the uncovered
lineman on the weak side. The
running back will step up and
check for any blitz from strong
side A gap to strong side C gap.
The FB will be responsible for #3
defender strong.
American Football Monthly
Blind Push
•
Purpose
–
•
To teach offensive lineman the upright
demeanor used in pass protection and for
that lineman to have the ability to maintain
his balance and power while in that
position.
Description
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The O-lineman stands in the center of a
small circle (about 2-3 yard radius) in his
upright pass pro demeanor, with his eyes
closed.
Two other lineman, acting as defenders,
holding shields and slowly jog around the
offensive player.
On the coach’s command or point, one
defender will rush the offensive player,
from wherever he is at that second.
The defender will attempt to knock the olineman off balance using the shield.
This drill should continue for 5-10 contacts
or the o-lineman shows a good
understanding of the body position.
Coach
DL
OL
•
Coaching points
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•
The most important thing about this drill is
the safety of the player involved.
It must be made very clear that this is not
“bull in the ring” or any drill like it.
Even though there will be contact and
possibly players on the ground, this drill is
not intended to beat people up.
The coach should stand in front of the
offensive player, making sure his eyes are
closed the whole time.
Another important thing to remember is
that this drill may move slightly.
The offensive player will be forced to move
his feet in order to maintain balance, and
the drill should move along with him.
Equipment
–
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3 players
2 shields
DL
3 Man Kick and Punch
•
Purpose
–
•
Description
–
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•
The offensive lineman will begin in a
3 point stance, facing the line of
scrimmage.
There will be 3 defenders, holding
shields, shoulder to shoulder, with
their backs to the line of scrimmage.
On the coach’s command, the
defenders will begin walking quickly
or jogging (depending on the ability
of the o-lineman).
The o-lineman must get out of his
stance, get upright and kick to the
first defender, deliver a punch on his
landmark and continue kicking to the
second defender, where he will kick
and deliver a punch and so on to the
third defender.
OL
DL
DL
Coaching points
–
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–
•
To teach O-lineman (especially
Tackles) how to kick for depth and
width, while maintaining their
upright demeanor and deliver a
punch, all at the same time.
The offensive player must move his
feet quickly and efficiently or he will
not be able to reach all 3 defenders,
who are continuously walking.
The defenders all move on the same
sound and do not stop until they are
punched.
The o-lineman should not reach
across his body to deliver a punch;
he must reach his landmark by
moving his feet before he can punch
the defender.
Equipment
–
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4 players
3 shields
Coach
DL
Baseball Swing and Punch
•
Purpose
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•
Description
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•
The O-lineman will be in a 3 point stance
facing the line of scrimmage.
The defender will stand perpendicular to
the LOS, one step over the line (forcing the
OL to take a small kick).
The defender will be holding a shield upside
down and sideways, like a baseball bat.
On the coaches command, the defender
will swing the bag at the o-lineman’s head,
attempting to contact the facemask.
The o-lineman must get upright and punch
the bag away from his face.
Coaching points
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•
To teach the offensive lineman how to get
out of his stance quickly, efficiently and
ready to pass protect.
This drill emphasizes 3 main points in pass
pro,
the first is getting out of your stance and
upright as fast as possible,
the second is to get his hands up and
the third is to deliver a punch.
The o-lineman must move his feet in this
drill, its not stationary.
If your players lean on their punch a lot,
have the defender throw a fake swing every
once in a while to check if the offensive
player is leaning.
A more advanced form of this drill is to
have the offensive player remove their
helmet.
This really makes them focus on getting
upright, getting their hands up and not
leaning into the punch.
Equipment
–
Shield(s)
Coach
DL
OL
Shuffle Touch
•Purpose:
– Develop knee bending and hip flexibility
•Technique:
– From two point stance, lineman will shuffle down line
touching the ground with hands during each shuffle.
– Make sure lineman touch the ground with their hands
each time and bend with their legs not their back.
– Lineman should keep a vertical back.
– This is a slow drill not intended for speed or quickness.
No Hand Slide
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to shuffle feet while keeping back
straight and knees bent. Teach lineman not to lean on
defender.
•Technique:
– Put offensive lineman in two point stance with arms
behind back holding wrists.
– Put defensive lineman opposite about 1 yard away.
Defensive lineman walks at angle towards shoulder.
– Lineman staggers stance while keeping shoulders
square to LOS and eyes on D Lineman’s chest, offensive
lineman should be in the middle of the defensive
lineman’s chest.
– D Lineman then redirects to other shoulder and
Offensive lineman adjusts stagger and shuffles keeping
shoulders square.
– This drill is just faster than walking speed.
Medicine Ball Roll
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to shuffle in bent knee position.
•Technique:
– Have 1 lineman line up on a line five yards away from
coach.
– Coach will have a medicine ball and roll the medicine
ball diagonally so lineman have to shuffle and retrieve
ball.
– Lineman then rolls the ball back and coach again rolls
the ball so lineman must shuffle to it.
– Make sure lineman have good knee bend and do not
let them cross over their feet.
– This drill should be at about 1/2 to 3/4 speed
Dodge Ball Bounce
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to shuffle in bent knee position and
react to ball.
•Technique:
– Have 1 lineman line up on a line five yards away from
coach.
– Coach will have a medicine ball and bounces the
medicine ball diagonally so lineman have to shuffle
and catch the ball.
– Lineman then throws the ball back and coach again
bounces the ball so lineman must shuffle to it.
– Make sure lineman have good knee bend and do not
let them cross over their feet.
– This drill should be at about 3/4 to full speed
Shuffle Set vs. Air
•Purpose:
– Teach pass protection set, and arm pump shuffle.
•Technique:
– From a 3 point stance, lineman throws play side hand
back into hip pocket as lineman takes a step and
throws shoulders back.
– Lineman then throws backside hand into hip pocket as
he steps with backside foot.
– Continue for about five yards giving a little bit of
ground and pumping arms with each step and shuffle.
Medicine Ball Punch
•Purpose:
– Develop Quickness out of stance and into pass
protection
•Technique:
– Put medicine bail between the legs of offensive
lineman just in front of them.
– Have lineman in two point ready position.
– On cadence lineman picks up ball, fires shoulders back
and throws the ball forward as quick as possible.
Blindfold Push Pull
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman balance in pass protection without
depending on vision
•Technique:
– Tie a blindfold around offensive lineman.
– Have offensive lineman lock up with defensive
lineman, defensive lineman will shuffle right, left, bull
rush and push pull.
– Offensive lineman must stay with and shuffle. Use in
summer time with no pads
Bag Punch Sets
•Purpose:
– Teach pass protection sets.
•Technique:
– Offensive lineman should be in a 3 point stance.
– Line two bag holders one on each shoulder of lineman.
– On cadence, lineman sets to right bag, getting to
center of bag in low knee bent position.
– Lineman then resets in stance and repeats setting to
left bag.
– Focus on quickness of sets and body position.
– Progress to no bags and have lineman grab armpits on
sets.
Twist Stunt Exchange
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to exchange assignments on twist
stunts
•Technique:
– Align two offensive lineman next to each other in three
point stance.
– Opposite them line two defensive lineman in 3 point
stance.
– On Cadence, have 1 of the defensive lineman slant
between the O lineman and the other defensive
lineman loop around.
– Have defensive lineman repeat with same player as the
slanter and the same player as the looper each time.
– Repeat 3 times for each pair of offensive lineman.
– Offensive lineman must shuffle to hip to hip and
exchange responsibilities each time.
– Coach lineman to stay square to the LOS and stay on
the same level and yell out switch.
– Looper lineman is responsible for calling switch and
bumping lineman off.
– Start at half speed and progress to finally full speed.
One-on-One Pass Rush
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman full speed man pass protection
•Technique:
– Line up 2 cones 5 yards apart and 5 yards away from
the LOS.
– 1 offensive lineman and 1 defensive lineman line up on
LOS.
– On cadence, offensive lineman must keep D lineman at
LOS and push him outside of the two cones.
– Focus on teaching lineman to keep body square to LOS
and shuffle with defensive lineman.
Five-on-Four Pass Rush
•Purpose:
– Teach full speed pass protection against defensive
lineman.
•Technique:
– Line up offensive line and 1 defensive lineman across
from each in their technique.
– On Cadence every lineman is full speed until contact.
– Prior to snap, one defensive lineman is chosen to be
live (full speed).
– The live defensive lineman tries to pass rush while the
offensive lineman pass protects.
•Half-line Technique:
– Same as above except half of the line is full speed.
Usually we will work on twist games during this drill.
Pass Protection Redirect
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman to widen defensive lineman and
redirect on counter moves
•Technique:
– Offensive lineman will be engaged with bag holder
with bag holder slightly to one side at the start.
– Bag holder will rush one way and then on coaches
signal redirect.
– Lineman must shuffle trying to cut off bag holder with
hip and keep low pad level and straight back.
– Start off slow and pick up tempo to 3/4 speed.
Mirror
•Purpose:
– Teach lineman timing of punch in Pass protection
•Technique:
–
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–
–
Set two cones about 5 yards apart on a line.
Offensive lineman will set from this line.
Put a defensive lineman 3 yards away in 2 point stance.
Have defensive lineman move forward at 3/4 speed,
Offensive lineman shuffles and punches defender while
still chopping feet.
– Defensive lineman then backs out 3 yards and comes
forward again.
– Lineman should get 3-4 punches before switching.
Thus spake the master Coach:
It is time for you to leave.
PARKING LOT
Summary of Blocking Techniques
Block
Summary
Drive
The running game starts with the basic drive block where the
lineman is in a one-on-one situation with a defender on the line
directly across from him.
Scramble
Scramble block is a variation of the drive block where the OL
drives low at the hip or thigh of the defender. A drive block with
hands on the ground
Cut
The OL will take out the legs of the DL and create a pile of bodies
at the LOS
Double Team
The OL will take out the legs of the DL and create a pile of bodies
at the LOS
Wedge
A mass of blockers charging down the field like a herd of elephants
Down
Used when an OL that is supposed to pull is covered and the OL in
that direction is not covered.
Reach
The blocker has to block a defender that is either in the gap or
lined up on the blocker next to him toward where the play is going
Cutoff
Usually described as a back-side block, meaning it is on the back
side of the play. This block is used to “cut off” a defender from
getting to the play.
Pull and Trap
Taking a player from over here and having him move to a block
over there
Combination
Blocking adjustments in which the linemen who would normally
block the man over them exchange assignments
Triple Option – Blocking Table
Position
Alignment
Assignment
Blocking Technique
Arc: Open field/stalk
Bob: Drive block on LB
Hammer: Drive block on EMLOS
Load: Drive block on LB
Seal: Drive block on LB
Y (PSTE)
3' from OT
Arc: DB
Bob: ILB
Hammer: EMLOS
Load: ILB
Seal: ILB
PST
3' from G
1st man inside
Inside gap, Linebacker
Double-team with PSG
Drive - LB
PSG
2.5' from C
1st man inside PST on LOS
#1
Double-team with PST
Drive - DL
C
Over ball
#0 and play-side A-gap
Drive – DL. LB
BSG
2.5' from C
Cutoff
Cutoff
BST
3' from G
Cutoff
Cutoff
Y (BSTE)
3' from OT
Cutoff
Cutoff
X
Y (WR)
Z (Slot)
OL Blocking Inventory:
•Drive block on DL
•Drive block on LB
•Double-team
•Cutoff
Coaching Points:
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #2
BS: Stalk S
Midline Option – Blocking Table
Position
Alignment
Assignment
Blocking Technique
Y (PSTE)
3' from OT
Outside defender
Drive - DL
PST
3' from G
Outside defender
Drive - DL
PSG
2.5' from C
A-gap defender
Drive – DL, LB
C
Over ball
#0 and back-side A-gap
Drive – DL, LB
BSG
2.5' from C
Cutoff
Cutoff
BST
3' from G
Cutoff
Cutoff
Y (BSTE)
3' from OT
Cutoff
Cutoff
13-15 yds from
EMLOS
13-15 yds from
EMLOS
Split between
EMLOS and X
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #2
BS: Stalk S
X
Y (WR)
Z (Slot)
OL Blocking Inventory:
•Drive block on DL
•Drive block on LB
•Cutoff
Coaching Points:
In this play we will look for a 2- or 3-tech defender. That player will be unblocked as that is the dive read key.
Lead – Blocking Table
Position
Alignment
Assignment
Blocking Technique
Y (PSTE)
3' from OT
#3
Drive - DL
PST
3' from G
#2
Drive - DL
PSG
2.5' from C
#1
Drive - DL
C
Over ball
#0 and back-side Gap
Drive – DL, LB
BSG
2.5' from C
Cutoff
Cutoff
BST
3' from G
Cutoff
Cutoff
Y (BSTE)
3' from OT
Cutoff
Cutoff
X
Y (WR)
Z (Slot)
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #2
BS: Stalk S
OL Blocking Inventory:
•Drive block on DL
•Cutoff
Coaching Points:
The play is targeted at the B-gap but it will be adjusted to the A-gap or C-gap depending on the alignment of
the DT. Changes to the POA does not affect the blocking rules.
Wedge – Blocking Table
Position
Alignment
Assignment
Blocking Technique
Y (PSTE)
3' from OT
Won’t be called to TE side
PST
3' from G
1st man inside
Inside gap, Linebacker
Double-team with PSG
Drive - LB
PSG
2.5' from C
1st man inside PST on LOS
#1
Double-team with PST
Drive - DL
C
Over ball
#0 and Playside Gap
Drive – DL. LB
BSG
2.5' from C
Cutoff
Cutoff
BST
3' from G
Cutoff
Cutoff
Y (BSTE)
3' from OT
Cutoff
Cutoff
X
Y (WR)
Z (Slot)
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #1
BS: Stalk S
PS: Stalk #2
BS: Stalk S
OL Blocking Inventory:
•Drive block on DL
•Drive block on LB
•Double-team
•Cutoff
Coaching Points:
The OL blocking for the Wedge is the same as for the Triple Option.