2010 offensive line manual

8/2/2019 2010 Offensive Line Manual

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Offensive Line Manual 2010


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INTROProper Stance Blocking Basics Proper Blocking Technique

3 Point Stance

Balanced

Feet shoulder width,

staggeredBack flat

Head up

Run Blocking

More Aggressive blocking

Attack the defender

Seal the defender away from the ball carrier point your butt to the ball carrier

Keep your head up and your feet moving

Approach

Set position for delivering a block

Squatted with butt low

Knees inside of ankles

Head up

Work off of instep

Six inch playside jab step

Pull arms back

Gather step splits the defenders legs

2 Point Stance

Balanced

Feet shoulder width,staggered

Chest out

Head up

Pass Blocking

Let the defender come to you

Set up with outside foot back

HOT technique Hands On Torso

Keep feet moving and deliver a blow to thenumbers with the palms of your hands

Do not let defender beat you inside

Fit

Set underneath defender

Drive arms through the defender

Hands jammed into chest plate

Thumbs up

Lift up & drive hips through

Keep feet moving

GET YOUR HANDS ON THE DEFENDER SO HECANT USE HIS ON YOU

Finish

Chase the defender back accelerate

Maintain a solid base

Drive through to the whistle


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Know where POA is, ID man to block, determine blocktype and aiming point.

ApproachProper Block Steps (Always PS foot)

Drive Block (Base) Down Blocks Gap Seal/Reach (Used in Inside and Outside Zone) Pull and Trap (Used in Trapping and Folding)

A. Drive Step

-6 inch directional step toward Aiming Point. Usually used for Baseblock and in combo blocks for slip man.

B. Lead Step

-6 inch directional step toward Aiming Point. Used for Base, ZoneBlocking schemes, or Down blocks.

C. Slide Step

-6 inch directional step toward Aiming Point. Used for GapSeal/Reach and in Zone Blocking schemes.

D. Drop Step

-6 inch directional step toward Aiming Point. Used for OutsideZone Blocking when covered and facing an OUTSIDE SHADEdefender, on combo blocks, or when folding.

E. Bucket Step

-6 inch directional step toward Aiming Point but puts hips moreperpendicular to LOS. Used for Outside Zone Blocking whenuncovered, inside trap and pulling.

ContactDeliver punch. Extension of knees and hips and the contact of

the hands/arms. Keep knees over and in front of toes.Head locked into Aim Pt.Fit UpMoving feet and staying engaged, establish position betweendefender and POA

Follow-ThroughMaintain Position achieve lockoutFinish the block. Wide base, proper head position locks man inplace, maintain head and hand position at all times, keep feetmoving.

BLOCKING BASICS

Note to Coaches: See Block Progression Chart for proper

punch sequence and aim points.

B

C

A A

B

C

D

E E

D

L


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O-Line Play 1

The success of our football team will be directly proportionate to our ability to dominate the line of scrimmage in regards to both the run and pas. Proper development

and utilization of technique will allow you to dominate the defenders in all situations. Remember, there is no substitute for technique combined with effort.

I. EXECUTION OF ASSIGNMENTS - BASIC PROGRESSIONWithin the framework of an assignment's, the following sequence must be understood:

Theory of Play/Situation Alignment

Stance Approach Contact Follow Through

Know the Offense - Learn by, ''Concepts''. Have a thorough knowledge of every play in the offensive scheme and understand what the desired end result is. Know the total play scheme and adjustment ... not just your individual assignment. Understand the reaction of the defense in regards to the action if the play as it unfolds- Football is not a static game ... be able to adjust to defensive reaction. Be aware of particular plays that are set up to take advantage of an individual, a defense, or a game situation. Most importantly, know your assignment in regards to the play thoroughly ... the what, why, and how of your job.

Know the basics of your opponent's defense. Understand basic defenses used by our opponents and responsibilities of each position in a particular defensive look. Contain or pressure defense? Multiple or basic look? Who is in what Gap? Down and distance/field position tendencies? Stunt/Blitz situations. Particular strengths and weaknesses of the defense How will the defense adjust to play our particular offense?

Know your opponent through careful evaluation What are his strengths and weaknesses. Does he play on or off the LOS?

Does he ''read'', reacting to your moves just or does he ''charge'' using pressure tactics? Does he change his pace, mixing up his play? Does his alignment predetermine his type of play? Does the particular situation pre-determine his style of play? Is he susceptible to certain offensive techniques? Does he read well and is thus easily influenced?

II. ASSIMILATION OF TECHNIQUES Explanation - introduction of technique and its important variables. Demonstration - observation of mechanics and their proper sequence of application. Visualization - mental assimilation of technique and its execution.

Practice - physically performing the technique and mastering, through repetition. Game Execution - utilization of technique in competition. Animation - review and study of technique.


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O-Line Play 2

III. ALIGNMEMNT Your pre-snap placement on the line of scrimmage is very important. Correct alignment will allow you to carry out your assignment; incorrect alignment will hinder

the completion of your assignment. 2'' splits as starting point. Hand aligned on Center's heel. Alignment will vary in regards to particular plays. Splits are both vertical and horizontal.

Tackles must be up on LOS on both run and pass.

IV. STANCE-RUN BLOCKING One of the most important variables of a good offensive lineman is a fundamentally sound stance that will enable you to move in all directions easily and effectively

without tipping off your intentions. The stance must provide the essentials of explosion, plus the mechanics of lift and power; at the same time, must allow body

control and quick change of direction. Feet - shoulder width apart with toe to heel stagger. Toes straight ahead with weight on balls of feet. Knees - the up foot is placed in a position where you have power producing angles at the ankles and knee joints The heel of the back foot will be an inch off the

ground. This will form power producing angles in the knees, ankles and hip flexors. Hands - down hand should be on all 5 fingertips and placed under your eye and in front of mar shoulder with approximately 20% of your weight balanced on hand.

Non-grounded hand should be in ''Ready'' position on top of thigh. Head - shoulder - back - shoulders are parallel to ground with back flat. Head in natural position with no strain. Eyes up. Consistency - keep stance constant. Center's Stance - mechanics of stance remain consistent. Center may stagger either foot as needed. Your stance will vary based upon body type.

V FUNDAMENTALS OF CENTER SNAP Nothing is more important than the Quarterback receiving the football cleanly from the snap. You must be able to snap the football and step/set simultaneously. The ball must be lifted by pulling the elbow upwards and keeping the wrist firm. This will produce a high, consistent snap. Communicate with the Quarterback about any problem

The bottom line is that you must be able to execute all techniques that are required, of the Guards and Tackles, after you snap the ball.

VI. RUN BLOCKING TECHNIQUES Techniques are the methods employed by a Blocker to successfully execute his Assignment. These methods fall into two broad classification: remove and contain. A "veer" technique is one that is employed to vertically and/or horizontally displace a Defender from an area and is usually used at the point of attack. A zone

technique is one that is employed to prevent a Defender from getting to his area of assignment and/or limit his pursuit. In both cases, the fundamentals of approach,

contact, and follow through remain consistent with an emphasis on the proper sequence of mechanics.

Approach - proper steps and anticipation of Defender's movement; aiming points.

Contact - proper contact points and body position provide leverage for movement.

Leverage is a function of your relation to the Defender and your own body alignments.

Follow Through - proper leg, drive and pressure points to sustain movement and adjust to Defender's second reaction.


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O-Line Play 3

VII. PASS PROTECTION IN THEORY

In regards to the passing game, the most fundamental aspect is the protection. The most sophisticated pass cannot be executed unless the Quarterback is free from

harassment. Individual technique combined with a thorough knowledge of the scheme provides the basis for sound pass protection. Within an offense, pass protection

falls into two primary categories, drop back and play action, each of equal importance Every pass protection technique, regardless of which type of pass series is being

protected, is a function of four elements: set, footwork, contact/punch, and follow through. These elements do not exist in isolation, rather they all operate as an integrated

whole through a proper sequence of mechanics. And in the final analysis, all four of these elements, which are employed through the appropriate sequential order, strive

to maximize your leverage vs. the Defender. Leverage is the key concept.

VIII. DROPBACK TECHNIQUEStance (2 Pt)

Feet- toes out; weight on inside of feet from toe to heel.Knees forward and pressed in; knees should be inside of feet.Shoulders/head back; upper body should be almost perpendicular to groundHands/arms eye level with slight 6" bend in arms, relaxed but ready to strike, hands open.

Set (Tackles only)Depth of set is a function of Defenders alignment; you must set to the intersection point between the Quarterback and Defender (A, B, C, and D). Vs. a Wide

Defender set deep on vertical line (A and B). Vs. Head Up Defenderset hard on LOS (C). Vs. Inside Defender- power set inside (D).

ENTIRE OLINE (FOOTWORK)Set back. Over aggressiveness on set will get you in trouble; set firm.Stay square between Quarterback and Defenders. Your shoulders should always be square to the Quarterback.Set with your outside foot and hand splitting the Defenders crotch. Always take the inside mesh away.When setting out of 3 Pt stance to 2 Pt stance, get your head back and eyes and hands up quickly. Tail should be low and knees bent.It is very important to give 1-2 feet depth on an Inside" set vs. an inside aligned Defender so as to take him on square with contact.The set gets you into a good pass pro stance, square to the Defender and inside out.While sliding your feet, keep them close to the ground and maintain wide base.As you slide your feet, keep them square to Defender. Vs an inside veer rush, the initial set step will be a "power step" inside to provide strength to your set and

stop penetration.

Your footwork should always keep you in an insideout relationship with the Defender.Contact/Punch - An effective pass pro punch incorporates three factors: timing, technique, strength.Timing - strike opponent when he is within arms reach of you; if you strike too early, you will over extend and loose balance. If you strike too late, you will get

collapsed and loose leverage Being patient and timing your punch is very important; be "locked-out" on contact.Technique - always strike a "rising blow" you hands should be above your eyes.

Your aiming point is hands inside the Rushers and in his numbers; this gives you leverage keep your elbows inside the frame of your body as you

punch, your head and weight must come back. your goal of the punch is to stop the Rushers charge and lockout on him.you must have both feet on the ground on your punch set your feet out of your slide before you punch yourself "off" the Defender.


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O-Line Play 4

Strength - you must have the ability to stop a "bull rush". Your strength to stop the Rusher is a combination of your technique (including filming) and your

lower body strength; the strength to stop a charge comes from the legs, hips, and torso. The arms are merely an extension of the torso and legs.A good base is necessary to provide an effective punch; feet slightly wider than shoulder width, toes out; weight on inside of feet; knees bent and

inside of toes; head back and torso perpendicular to ground as you strike with your arms and hands, strain" your body as you tense your lower body. *

you should feel like you are "punching yourself off the defender", rather than punching him off of you. Use your "skeletal strength".After Initial punch and lockout maintain upward leverage; if you are over powered, recoil both feet as you "hip yourself off" the Defender, get your

head back and sink your tall. Regroup and ready yourself for another punchFollow Through

Stay square between Defender and Quarterback; inside out!Keep your leverage by keeping locked-out with your hands at eye level and your hands in the Defenders numbers and your eyes below his eyes.Keep your weight back, which prevents over-extension and loss of balanceAs you slide, keep inside - out relationship with the Defender, give as much depth as necessary, but keep the width and depth of the pocket.

As you mirror Defender, think with your hip!

IX. PLAY ACTION INDIVIDUAL TECHNIQUE BASICSet

Aggressive Base Block.

Drive eyes to inside number of Defender.Drive hands through numbers.Strike a rising blow.Should took like run block. HATS DOWN

FootworkStep with your foot NEAR-4est to Defenders inside number to prevent penetration.Drive Defender off the LOSKeep feet square to LOSMirror Defenders second reaction with regular drop back progression.

Contact

Lock out and leverage Defender as in regular pro.

Pass Protection TipsGet set up quickly into good fundamental position with knees bent, body under control. If your opponent contacts you while you are still leaning back to set up

he has the advantageKnow where the Launch point is on each pass play. Know which side to favor, as well as how deep you can be without interfering with the Passer.Make contact with your opponent on or NEAR-4 the LOS as you set back.


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Pipe Drill

1

2

Base / Zone

3

2

1

Down

1

2

Bucket

1

2

3

1 STEP: 2 STEP DRILLPurpose: Teach lineman footwork of base, reach, drop and trap pull

steps.Technique: Lead Step

1STEP: 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 hippockets, drive other knee to the ground and keep flat back.

2nd STEP: Square Up Step. With opposite foot 12 inches on a straight lineupfield keeping a good wide base and throw arms tightly through sides of bodywith thumbs pointed up. In a Down Block, the 2nd step is parallel to the lead stepand keeps blocker on a path to the inside shoulder of target. Do not square up to

man as we are trying to drive down LOS.Used For: (Base, Zone and Down)

Technique: Slide/Reach Step1 STEP: From 3 point stance lineman picks up foot and steps out 12 inches

right or left and points foot straight upfield. Drive both hands back tight to hippockets and keep flat back. A Reach will call for a slightly upfield step.2nd STEP: Step with take big drive step upfield 45 Degree angle keeping a

good wide base and throw arms tightly through sides of body with thumbspointed up.

Used For: (Gap Seal, Reach)Technique: Drop Step

1 STEP: From 3 point stance lineman picks up foot and steps backwards 6inches right or left and points foot at 45 degree angle toward aiming point. Driveboth 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 agood wide base and throw arms tightly through sides of body with thumbs

pointed up.Used For: (Inside Trap, Scoop Slip, Fold)

Technique: Bucket Step1 STEP: From 3 Point stance Lineman picks up foot drops it back at 90

degree angle. Lineman needs to throw elbow on first step while keeping back flat.2nd STEP: Pivot off of this step with power step down LOS keeping good

base and pump arms when running and keep a flat black.Used For: (Trap/Pull, Fold)

Drop

2

1

Slide/Reach

3

3


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Chute Drill

Purpose: Teach lineman to take small choppy steps and keep base on run blocking

Technique: From 3 point stance line up lineman just out side chute. On cadence lineman takeshort 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. Fire out low with head up, (remember proper steps), eyes on target

Wide base, chop feet, keep moving.

Idea is to take several small choppy steps through chute

On contact with bag, continue to drive out of chute, STAY ON BLOCK


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Block Progression Chart

1

2

3

2

1

2

1

3

1

2

31. 1st Step Drop or Bucket Step PS Foot

2. 2nd step gains ground down LOS

3. Deliver punch with inside hand as guide

4. Drive down LOS

Trap/Pull or

Combo Blocks

1. 1st Step Slide, Drop or Lead step toward Aiming Point

2. 2nd Step - Rollover and drive off of lead step

3. Outside Hand Punch to PS number

4. Inside Hand Punch to numbers, GET LOCKOUT

5. Drive away from POA

Gap Seal /

Reach Block

1. 1st Step Lead step toward Aiming Point

2. 2nd Step Inside Numbers of defender (head in front)

3. Outside Hand Punch to PS shoulder

4. Inside Hand Punch to numbers

5. Drive down LOS

Down Block

1. 1st Step Lead step toward Aiming Point

2. 2nd Step Power Step, Split defender

3. Inside Hand Punch to numbers

4. Outside Hand Punch to PS number

5. Drive away from POA

Drive Block

(Base)


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Mirror - Stay on Block Drill

Purpose: Teaches fit position, punch, and proper block progression, Teaches good lateral movement, Teaches OL to stay on blocksand DL to neutralize blocks while following the play and not take a shortcut away from play.

Technique:

The 1st version involves both men are side shuffling, getting low, fitting up and delivering blow, Go to FAR-4 cone and back.

The 2nd version involves one man as defender while the other is a blocker. Offensive man can either fire out of a stance at the lineor a few yards back to simulate blocking a LB. Defender can line up head up or shaded toward the PS gap. On call, offensive mantakes a strong playside step to establish position, defender takes a hard charge into PS gap. Blocker will fit up and maintainposition on defender all the way to FAR-4 cone, while defender will attempt to beat blocker around edge into PS gap. Thedefender wants to stay ahead of the blocker, neutralizing his block while offensive man must maintain position on him at all times,driving him off LOS. End at FAR-4 cone, reset and come back.


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Sled Blocking

Purpose: Combines several of the blocking drills into one unit that allows for more group participation andconditioning. Line starts on left side pad and goes right then on next rep starts right and blocks left.

Setup in stance across from sled. On callout OL will execute the block assigned block to last cone thensprinting back to start line. Repeat

This drill will promote explosion off the ball and will ensure that they strike low and drive.

Base Down/Reach Cutoff LB Reach

Fold Slam (on 6 Man) Slip/Scoop


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The Circuit

Purpose: Combines several of the drills into one unit that allows for more group participation and conditioning

Start with firing through the chute After clearing the chute, reset into stance, fire out and deliver block into sled, side step to next pad and deliver a

fit up blow with hands and chest.

Turn opposite way and side shuffle to cone.

Power hop to end. Repeat.


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Agility Drills

LINE DRILL

Technique: 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 zone and jumping forward and backwards

REACTION DRILL(PASS PRO)

Technique: 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

T-TEST

Technique: 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. Repeat2-4 times

BAG DRILLS(OVER STEPS)

Technique: From two point stance facing bags linemen steps over first bag, then steps with other foot before progressing to the next bag.

BAG DRILLS(OVER SIDE STEPS)

Technique: 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.

BAG DRILLS(SHUFFLE DRILL)

Technique: 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)

Technique: 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.


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Pass Blocking Drills

SHUFFLE TOUCH DRILL

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 DRILLPurpose: 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 defensive linemans chest, offensive lineman should be

in the middle of the defensive linemans chest. Defensive lineman then redirects to other shoulder and offensive lineman adjusts stagger and shuffles keeping

shoulders square. This drill is just faster than walking speed.

PASS PROTECTION REDIRECT DRILL

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.

TWIST STUNT EXCHANGE DRILL

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 offensive 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.

1 ON 1 PASS RUSH DRILL

Purpose: Teach lineman full speed man pass protectionTechnique: 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 Dlineman 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.

5 ON 4 PASS RUSH DRILL

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.


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D-Line Drills

Read Drill

Goal: Teach the DL to react quickly to the movement of the Offensive Lineman (OL) Description: Set up 3 cones

in a triangle about 10 yards apart. Two linemen face each other in the middle between two cones with a designated

ball carrier at the third cone. The player facing the ball carrier is the defender, the other player the OL. The coach

stands behind the DL signaling the direction and the snap count. On the command, the ball carrier runs in a straight

line to the designated cone, while the OL blocks accordingly. The DL reacts to the movement of the OL, controls and

escapes the OL making the tackle before the ball carrier reaches the cone. The defender's shoulders and hips stay

square to the Line of Scrimmage (LOS), the feet stay moving and the hands/arms control and escape the OL. After the

DL gets comfortable with the Drill, bring in 'real' OL and Running backs to increase intensity and speed

Equipment: 3 cones, 1 ball when run with offensive personnel.

Pursuit Drill

Goal: Teach Defensive Line (DL) pursuit angles... Description: A ball carrier makes lateral movement from the

backfield to the sidelines, then cuts up the field. The DL moves laterally with the ball carrier until the ball carrier

make the cut up field. At the cut, the DL comes in to make the tackle. In wide pursuit situations, the DL closest to the

ball makes the tackle while the other DL makes their pursuit angle towards the numbers on the field. For each

offensive player the DL pass, the DL pursuit angle becomes 5 yards deeper... Equipment: Ball

Vs. Double Team

Goal: Teach DL to split double team and avoid trying to go around it. We always want our DLs to fight against

pressure and not try to run around the blockers. Position 2 OLs and have the DL line up in between both. On snap

OLs will execute a slam or slip/scoop on DL. Dl must react to playside pressure and either split the double or fight

through seal off block and control his gap then flow toward POA.


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BLOCKING RULES

POSITION ASSIGNMENT RULE

PS OFFENSIVE LINEMAN IF COVERED, THEN BLOCK MAN IN THATZONE AWAY FROM POA. IF UNCOVERED,THEN LOOK TO COMBO W/ PS TEAMATE ANDALWAYS BLOCK THROUGH UC ZONE. CANSLAM OR STRETCH DBL, MAKE A FOLDBLOCK CALL, OR STEP/TOE IT TO NEXT GAPOVER.

LEAD BACK LOOKING TO BLOCK ILB ON OUTSIDE ZONE

AND OLB ON INSIDE ZONE. CAN EITHER SPYOR HEAD TO POA, AND SHADOW BLOCKASSIGNED LB. IMPORTANT THAT HIS FOCUSSTAYS ON THIS MAN.

ROVER BACK (2 BACK)

IN WING AND POWER

1ST OUTSIDE LB OR EMOL. SAME TECHNIQUEAS ABOVE.

BS OFFENSIVE LINEMAN ZONE BLOCKING TO PS GAP

THE FIRST STEP FOR EACH OL IS TO IDENTIFY IF THEY ARE COVERED OR UNCOVERED BASED ON THE PRE-SNAP ALIGNMENT OF THE DLS.

THE COVERED ZONE STARTS FROM HEAD UP TO YOUR INSIDE GAP. IF YOU ARE COVERED, THEN YOU WILL BLOCK THAT MAN AWAY FROM

THE POA. DEPENDING ON THE ALIGNMENT OF THE OTHER DLS, YOU MAY OR MAY NOT GET HELP FROM PS TEAMATE. YOUR FIRST READ IS

IN YOUR COVERED ZONE. ANY DL LINED UP IN THAT AREA IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. IF THE ZONE IS EMPTY AT THE 1ST LEVEL WITH A LB AT

THE 2ND , THEN LOOK TO YOUR UNCOVERED ZONE AND DETERMINE HOW YOU AND YOUR COVERED TEAMATE WILL BLOCK THE DL IN YOUR

UC ZONE AND THE LB IN YOUR COVERED ZONE.

POS BLOCK HELP

G COV BASE COV DL SLAM FROM C

G UC COMBO W/ T OR BLOCK THROUGHUC ZONE TO COV LB

NONE

C MUST GET INTO INSIDE OF PS AGAP. POSSIBLE SLAM W/ G

USUALLY FROM BSG

T COV BASE COV DL POSSIBLE SLAM,STRCH, FOLD, OR STEP

IT BY G

T UC COMBO W/ E OR BLOCK THROUGHUC ZONE TO COV LB

NONE

E COV BASE COV DL POSSIBLE SLAM,STRCH, FOLD, OR TOE

IT BY T

E UC BLOCK THROUGH COV ZONE TONEAR LB

NONE

BS SEAL ZONE COV ZONE U

C

Z

O

NEC


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RUNNING ZONES

SLOT

SPLIT

4

3

2

7 5 MIDDLE 6 8


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OFFENSIVE LINE BLOCKS AND TECHNIQUES

REACH BLOCKA. Step with playside foot taking 6" to 8" directional step or lateral step to aiming pointB. Aiming point is defender's outside armpit.C. Shoot the hands, get to a lock-out as soon as possible bringing the hipsD. Do not cross over, keep shoulders square with LOS

BASE, TIGHT REACHA. If man on is inside, step with inside foot taking a 6" to 8" step. If man outside, directional or lateralstep with outside foot to aiming point.B. Aiming point is the outside number of defender.C. Strike with hands to outside number.D. Maintain base, bring the hips while getting to lock-out, no crossover.

PIN (DOWN) BLOCKA. Step with inside foot 6" to 8" at approximately a 45 degree angle or lateral towards aiming pointB. Aiming point is below outside number of defender.C. Drive through aiming point with strike bringing hips, working outside hand to kidney area and off footupfield.

TURN OUT (May be covered or uncovered)

A. Block out to defender to outside on LOS

B. Bucket step and attack. Aim at upfield side of defender's hip

C. Drive through hip of defender widening the hole, keeping base

D. Do not get beat across face

FOLD BLOCKTurnout BlockerA. Execute pin (down) block

Fold BlockerA. Take good drop step gaining depth and distance with inside footB. Clear turnout block by adjacent linemanC. Work upfield squaring through inside numberD. Maintain base.

BB


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OFFENSIVE LINE BLOCKS AND TECHNIQUES

TRAP BLOCK

A. Take pull step gaining depth and distance

B. Take 2nd step back up into LOS

C. Aiming point is upfield side of defender's hip

D. Trap inside out, bring hips to dig man out of hole, and get feet out of hole

X-BLOCKA. TE executes reach block on DEB.Wing cuts inside of TE block and reaches to 2nd level to block LB

FAN BLOCK

Pass block techniqueA. Take good PS step (Zone Step) with inside foot without gaining depth and distanceB. Begin to hinge step with outside foot, turn outside shoulder away from LOS, staying low, armsextended, and watching for inside rushC. Shuffle for depth and protect the backside gap

CUTOFF BLOCKA. This is a position block. Idea is to get to the next gap over in anticipation of the DLs read of the playflowB. Step with inside foot 6" to 8" at approximately a 45 degree angle or towards next gap over at the LOS

B. Plant and hinge step toward defenderC. Do not look to chase 2nd level defenders unless they are blitzing or moving hard across the LOS

INSIDE ZONE SCHEMEA. Overall look of an inside zone blocking scheme for two OLB. Idea is to determine whether you are covered or not and execute a scheme that will allow for the

blocking of a DL and a 2nd level defender in your zoneC. In this example we have a 3 tech DL covering both G and T. To correctly block this zone, the G andT must either Fold or, in this case, execute a Power Scoop (described later) to block this zone

B


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SIFT BLOCK

A. Step with inside foot taking a 6' to 8" directional step to aiming point.

B. Aiming point is through inside gap.

C. Rip hard through inside gap. Do not get beat across face.

D. Try to work to next level. Responsible for LB run through to second level.

CUT LOG

A. Pull, gaining depth and distance with drop step

B. Hug LOS, throw head, shoulders, and hip across FAR-4 hip.

C. Drive through hip, do not cut too low. Aiming point is between hip and upper thigh area trying to getbackside hip across defender's outside hip

OFFENSIVE LINE BLOCKS AND TECHNIQUES cont.

BB

B


22/54

COMBO BLOCKSSLAM (Inside Zone) Used when outside blocker is covered and the inside blocker has a man in hisuncovered zone and a LB in his covered zone. Each blocker is responsible for of DL. The idea is that bothOL will double team DL, with emphasis on sealing him off from POA. Each blocker will stay on block untilthey see how the DL and LB are reacting. The individual mechanics are no different from a down or a base

block. Both will take a lead PS step aiming for the near number of the DL, engage and drive away from POA.Important thing is for the uncovered OL to watch the LB in his covered blocking zone. Observe the rotationof the SLAM block that will seal off the POA. Notice the importance of the inside OL blocking through hisuncovered zone. In the 2nd dia. The 4 tech DT stunts into the gap. By advancing to the 2nd level through his UCzone, the inside blocker creates an incidental SLAM and helps the outside blocker neutralize the stunt.

STRETCH (Backside Technique, Outside Zone and Stretch Plays)

The idea is to get the inside (scoop) blocker to overtake the block while the OL nearest to the POA, releases tothe 2nd level. Unlike the SLAM, both OL try to hit the same aim point, the PS number. The scoop man must hitthe aim point in such a way that the DL cannot release inside and get across his face. So initially, the scoop

blocker must maintain an outside shade position and then work across to the PS number. The outside blocker is

there to halt penetration so the scoop man can overtake. His primary role is to get to the 2nd level.

Observe the different paths the scoop blocker can take. In the first dia. the scoop blocker will end up takingover the block as the outside blocker gets to 2nd level, while in the 2nd dia. the outside blocker is engaged

because the DL stunted outside while the scoop blocker can either hook around to B or cut straight upfield. Inthe 3rd and 4th we see an inside zone play and a backside team respectively utilizing this scheme. Again, if theDL were to anchor in the gap, it becomes an easy block for the scoop man to overtake.

BB

B B

B B


23/54

PASS PROTECTION NOTES

1. Unless it's an aggressive pass let the Rusher make the first commitment. Be patient.

2. In preparation to meet the opponents charge, keep the center of your body square, directly between the Rusher and Passer if the Rusher is

head up.

3. You must follow any commitment you make by immediately fighting to regain fundamental position.

4. Keep the opponent from getting into your body and forcing you into an upright position. Upright you lose the ability to control your man.

If unable to get away from Rusher, give ground grudgingly and you work your body down low again into good fundamental position.

5. It is better to give up ground (keeping position) than to over-commit and loose your man too quickly.

6. According to present rules you must keep your hands within the framework of the opponent's body, arms extended and palms up. Force

yourself to practice this way.

7. Keep your lames bent and head back - this prevents Ws you from overextending.

8. Always slide your feet quickly, use replacement steps to regain position. The more your feet at in contact with the ground, the faster youare able to push off the ground when reacting to your man.

9. If your opponent tries to pull or jerk you, maintain leverage with your hands hitting up through his breast pads before he grabs hold of

you, then sink and get your head back.

10. If no rusher comes and you are a "free, get depth to pick up a delayed Rusher or help pick up an escaping Rusher.

11. When picking up an escaping Rusher - stick him' Let him know he's been hit.

12. Play hard until you hear the whistle. Stay after your man. Always finish up.

13. Carry out your assignment alone. Never be dependent on a free man to pick up your man. Block your assignment.

14. When blocking a linebacker or deep back blitzing, remember they are usually smaller and more active than a big Lineman. They will

almost invariably by to juke or out-maneuver you rather than allow you to lake them on. Keep this fundamental difference in mind as you

block them.

15. Never lose your poise if you break down once. Analyze your technique and that of your opponent and correct your error. (Example: did I

keep my eyes open? Was my head up? Did I bend at the knees? What did he do to cause the breakdown?)


24/54

P

ASSPR

OTECT IO

NSCHEMES


25/54

2. DETERMINE WHETHER YOU ARE COVERED OR UNCOVERED: (covered means a defender is on the LOS on any part ofyour body! If there is a question, clarify with blocking call)_.

If you are UNCOVERED ZONE WITH YOUR TEAMMATE TO PLAYSIDE.If you are COVERED, look at your backside teammate

If backside teammate is UNCOVERED, zone with him (he will combo with you to LB)If backside teammate is COVERED, man block (no help from him)

In the example above, since Center is uncovered he ZONES with RG. Since RG is covered & inside teammate (Center) is

uncovered by a DLM - he knows he will zone with Center.

12 1 2

WT WG STSG YC

3

0

3

H

C responsibility # 0OGs responsibility # 1

OTs responsibility # 2

Y & H responsibility # 3

IMPORTANCE OF PRESNAP LOOK AND UNDERSTANDING TECHNIQUE OF DEFENDER:

A CRUCIAL phase of teaching zone blocking is for the uncovered man to know the TECHNIQUE of the DLM on his covered

playside teammate (covered man can use CALLS to indicate this).

EXAMPLE (I'm the RG & uncovered): If my P/S teammate has a man on his INSIDE SHOULDER - it is 90% certain that I will

END up on him. If there is a man HEAD UP on him - it is 50% (or better) that I will END up on him. If there is a man on his

OUTSIDE SHOULDER - odds are only about 10% that I might END up on him. (NOTE: "END UP" meaning that the other man

comes off on LB).

Back To Index

INSIDE ZONE: OFFENSIVE LINE BLOCKING RULES


26/54

UNCOVERED O-LINEMAN: (Responsibility is for inside half of down lineman over playside team mate). Take a lead step playside

(roughly 45 degree angle) and catch up with your covered teammate. As you work through your playside gap, READ THE NEAR

KNEE of the down lineman on himif the NEAR-4 knee comes towards you block his inside number & fit him up sliding in the direction he is going (keep eyes on

Lb'er in case he comes inside)if NEAR-4 knee doesnt come towards you work up onto LB'er. 3 situations can occur (see COVERED MAN).

COVERED MAN: (Responsibility is for outside half of down lineman IF inside team mate is uncovered). 1st step is a lead step with

your outside foot eyeballing outside number of down lineman on you 2nd step with inside foot thru crotch of opponent. You must think

man block and only go to LBer when wiped off by uncovered teammate. Three situations usually occur:1. Down lineman is in an outside shade & stretches outside you stay on him and uncovered teammate works through to LB'er.2. Down lineman is head up & anchors on you use double team technique driving him into Lber. Stay on him until wiped off

by uncovered teammate then work straight up onto the LBber.3. Down lineman head up or inside shade & slants inside force him to flatten his slant & stay on him until wiped off by

uncovered teammate then work straight up on Lber.

LINEMEN NOT ZONING USE DRIVE (MAN) BLOCKS. Dont worry as much about getting position on defender as you do

about blow delivery and finishing your block. When coming off the ball, guide with your eyes (aim with your face), which will take you

to the aiming point or landmark, the defender's playside #.1. Your first step is a short directional step and you throw your arms out of the socket (wind up MUCH farther than shooting

from the holster).

2. On the second step, your power foot must be on the ground and you arm thrust (100% blow delivery) with your fists into thedefender's short ribs (below the pads), tucking your tail and lifting him out of his socks. DON'T put your face or shoulder in,

because you will be overextended and your head will be down.

Back To Index

INSIDE ZONE: OFFENSIVE LINE TECHNIQUE COACHING POINTS


27/54

DT NGDE DT DE

WT WG STSG YC

LB LB LB

4

3

QB

H

Z

CB

FS

CB

Back To Index

RB Read 1RB Read 2

Formation Notes:

Motion Z strong for same presnap look as Inside-

Outside Zone Weak. Can also align 3 to strong

side and motion Z weak for the backside seal

block.

Can align 3 as weak side TE to get a betterblocking angle on the backside seal block

INSIDE ZONE Strong


28/54

DT NGDE DT DE

WT WG STSG YC

LB LB LB

4

3

QB

H

Z

CB

FS

CB

Back To Index

Z

RB Read 1RB Read 2

Coaching Notes:

Can use WR motion from either side to overload

and get two playside double teams on LOS.

Can align 3 as weak side TE to give him a better

blocking angle on back side DE (allows less

penetration before engaging block), though this

block is probably less essential than on insidezone.

OUTSIDE ZONE Strong


29/54

INSIDE ZONE = not as good vs. a gapping & penetrating defense

OUTSIDE ZONE = not as good vs a quick team that reads & flows well.

THEREFORE - feature Outside Zone in situation A), & INSIDE ZONE in situation B)!

INSIDE ZONE TO "WIDE" SIDE VS "REDUCED" SIDE OF DEFENSEWIDE side of defense = B gap defended by a LBREDUCED side of defense = B gap defended by DLM (down lineman)

Through scouting reports, identify which will be the "wide" side of the defense and which will be the "reduced" side ( most teams are "wide"

on the split end side & "reduced" on the tight end side). Most coaches i believe in (joe bugel; alex gibbs; just to name a few) do not prefer to

run the inside zone to the "reduction side (B gap defended by DLM, for example a 3 technique) because you will likely end up cutting it

back inside the 3 technique to a tilted or shaded nose side WITH a LB filling between the shaded nose & the 3 (very tight quarters)! In the

Riggins years, Joe Bugle addressed this by TAG blocking (T & G FOLD) when he ran to the reduction side.

Assuming we are in 2 TE/2 WR personnel & they have "7 in the box" - Prefer to run it to the side where we have a numerical advantage (3

man side rather than 4 man side). If they have 4 men in the box to both sides of the ball (low S/S PROBABLY on reduction side) - it is betterto shade side than reduction side BECAUSE we should get three initial double teams, which results in a LOT of movement off the ball! This

is particularly true vs. the Va Tech style 4-4 defense. If you use a 2 te/2 wr/1 rb set (like the Indy Colts) quite often you can get in behind

three double team blocks (TE & OT from the 7 to Will; OG & C from the 2i to Mike; & off OG & OT from 3 to Sam) and the RB can really

cram the B gap for positive yardage rather than worrying about cutting it back.Remember -the best cut is no cut!!!!!

OUTSIDE ZONE TO "WIDE" SIDE VS "REDUCED" SIDE OF DEFENSE

On the outside zone, you can run it to the "red" (3 technique side) or "white" (b gap defended by lb). You may have to get into some pulling

schemes like folding the on t & on g on the "red" side or pulling both the on t & on g around on the "white" side (like the Indy Colts). If you

do this (pull; fold), the outside zone to the "red" side becomes a hell of an off tackle play & will cram the C gap; the outside zone to the

"white" side should "circle the defense"!!!.

COUNTER COMPLIMENTS INSIDE ZONE:

The BEAUTY of the Redskins' famous "Counter" was that it was originally a complimentary play to the Inside Zone. If the Inside Zone was

best AWAY from the shade of the Nose (4 man side) - the Counter was equally good to EITHER side. The Counter is taught to LOOK LIKE

THE INSIDE ZONE: QB's steps on Counter Left are IDENTICAL to Inside Zone Right. RB's first step on Counter Left is IDENTICAL to

Inside Zone Right. These were important C.P.'s in the Riggins years! One of the 1st things to package with the Inside Zone was the Counter

away. We would look to run the Inside Zone to the 1 tech and the Counter to the 3 tech. When we ran the inside zone at the 1, we would have

the backside combo on the 3 look like the Counter. If we had a hard time cutting off the 3 with the BST then we would know to use more

counter because the DT is chasing the play and will help create a huge hole when we run the counter to him.

INSIDE/OUTSIDE ZONE: MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: GAMEPLANNING


30/54

RUNNING INSIDE ZONE FROM 2 TE FORMATION: Remember this when running the Inside Zone with 2 TE personnel in the game.

The THEORY of the play was to run it away from the shade or control of the Nose, since it was almost impossible to control the offset nose

with the Center (4 of the front 7 defenders will be on the side of the shaded Nose - FORCING a cutback). Thus, it is best run as a

DIRECTIONAL - seeking to run to the side of the defense which has 3 men. If you are in 2 TE's & 2 WR's, and the defense is in a 2 safety

deep shell - SOMEONE may has 2 gap responsibility. Use that to your advantage.

PLAYSIDE 0/SHADE (1 TECHNIQUE): I would have the guard tighten down his splits to 6-12" and coach him to stop the 0/shade's

penetration with a quick, firm shot before he goes on to zone with PS OT (if DE is in a 5 tech OG will usually end up on LB anyway, so this

is just a slight hesitation). If OG uses shoulder or forearm, he MIGHT get tied up with him.

NOTE: RB can deepen because with a shaded Nose - he will CUTBACK!!!!! We like to "fold" (2 men) a lot on the zone. Against. the look

you mentioned (run to weak side, 5, 1, 3 & 7 techs) we like to fold the Center & On Guard. That threw the ON OT into MAN on the 5

technique (On OG block down on Nose; Center fold on LB; On OT man 5 tech).

PLAYSIDE 3 TECHNIQUE: If we absolutely have to run the inside zone to the 3 technique side, we TAG" (play side OT & OG fold)

quite a bit: (PS OT down block DT, OS OG fold around PS OT onto LB, TE base reach technique on DE, Center cut off Mike LB). Vs. a 3

tech & Center uncovered - Center can still zone towards the 3 technique, but will usually end up working up on "Mike". Same as RG & RT

vs "3-4" with DE in 5 technique (ON G & ON T still zone - but it usually ends up man with ON G on ILB & ON T on DE). The zone steps

widen the defense regardless if you get the double team or not.

DISADVANTAGES OF ZONE RUNNING GAME:

in answer to the question about "disadvantages of the system" - i would say that two men working together in zone blocking (or for that

matter in counter/power blocking) must get to know each other's every move very well, & it will take time.

INSIDE/OUTSIDE ZONE: MISCELLANEOUS NOTES:


31/54

PLAYBOOK

F ti S h


32/54

R - L BASE FORMATION, 2 BACKS 2 RECVRS

RAG - LACE BASE TWINS FORMATION (TWINS TO WEAK SIDE)

RIO LEO TRIPS FORMATION (2 FLANKERS ALIGNED TO STRONG SIDE (SAME TAGS AS OTHERS))

RAM LION 3 WR SET (2 SPLIT ENDS 1 FLANKER ALIGNED BETWEEN PRO AND WING)

ROPE LOT 4 WR SET (TRIPS TO STRENGTH, SE TO WEAK SIDE)

RIGHT-LEFT SPREAD FORMATION, 4 WR (2 SE, 1 TWINS ALIGN, 1 PRO ALIGN)

BUNCH 3 WR SET ALIGNED IN TRIANGLE TO WEAK WITH Y ALIGNED TO STRENGTH

BIG 2 TE FORMATION WITH FLANKER ALIGNED TO STRENGTH

WING 2 TE FORMATION WITH WING ALIGNED TO STRENGTH

All tags involve either moving the 4 back to the assigned spot, or substituting in a receiver for the 4. Calls with two Tags in the call, except if

one is FAR-4 or NEAR-4, will create a single back set with a re-align of the 3 or a substitution. Any of these formations can be run in GUNformation by shifting QB to 3 spot and align the backs in NEAR-4 and/or FAR-4 The formation call would be BASE FORMATION, GUN,ALIGN TAG

C G TTX G

QBZ

Y

2

3

Formation Scheme

TWINS SLOT WING PRO

NEAR-4FAR-4

Pl S i N b i


33/54

Play Series Numbering10 Series QB Runs and Draws 500 / 600 5 Step Passes

20 Series 2 Back Running Plays (TB) 700 / 800 Rollout / Dash Passes

30 Series 3 Back Running Plays (FB) 900 / 000 Boot Passes

40 Series 4 Back Running Plays (Near/Far)

100 / 200 Play Action Passes Receivers are numbered 1 through x starting fromthe sideline in. We have call side receivers and

backside receivers.300 / 400 3 Step Passes

R 26 Power

RAG `654 is the 5 step drop back pass with #1 running a hitch and #2 running an out

100 series through 000 are all passing plays. The 2nd number tells the #1 WR his route, the 3rd the route #2

R 224 CROSS PIVOT is play-action fake the 24 and #1 running a cross and #2 running a pivot

We can also combine certain routes into packages to make play calling easier


34/54

R

C G TTX G

QBZ

Y

2

3

TWINS SLOT WING PRO

NEAR-4FAR-4

CGT T XG

QB

Z

Y

2

3

TWINSSLOTWINGPRO

NEAR-4 FAR-4

L


35/54

RAG

C G TT

Z

G

QB

X Y

2

3

SLOT WING PRO

NEAR-4FAR-4

In RAG TWINS the Z

moves to the

SLOT alignment and the

A receiver lines up in the

Z position (the TWINS

alignment)

LACE

CGT T

Z

G

QB

XY

2

3

SLOTWINGPRO

NEAR-4 FAR-4


36/54

RIO

C G TT

Z

G

QB X

Y

2

A

SLOT WING

NEAR-4FAR-4

TWINS

LEO

CGT T

Z

G

QBX

Y

2

A

SLOTWING

NEAR-4 FAR-4

TWINS


37/54

RAM

CGT T

Y

G

QB

Z X

2

3

SLOT WING PRO

NEAR-4 FAR-4

TWINS

LION

C G TT

Y

G

QB

ZX

2

3

SLOTWINGPRO

NEAR-4FAR-4

TWINS


38/54

ROPE

C G TT

A

G

QB

Z

Y

2

X

WINGPRO

NEAR-4FAR-4

LOT

CGT T

A

G

QB

Z

Y

2

X

WING PRO

NEAR-4 FAR-4


39/54

RIGHT

C G TT

A

G

QB

X

Y

2

Z

SLOTWING

NEAR-4FAR-4

LEFT

CGT T

A

G

QB

X

Y

2

Z

SLOTWING

NEAR-4 FAR-4


40/54

BUNCH RIGHT

2

CGT TY G

QB XA

ZY

BUNCH LEFT

C G TT YG

QBX A

2

Z Y


41/54

BIG R

C G TT G

QB

Y

2

3

TWINS SLOT WING PRO

2

Y

BIGL

CGT TG

QB

Y

2

3

TWINSSLOTWINGPRO

2

Y


42/54

WING R

C G TT G

QB

Y

2

3

PRO X TWINS

NEAR-4FAR-4

Y

SLOT

WING L

CGT TG

QB

Y

2

3

PROXTWINS

NEAR-4 FAR-4

Y

SLOT

1. Defensive Fronts


43/54

1. Defensive Fronts

33 34 35

33 OVER 34 OVER 35 OVER

33 UNDER 34 UNDER 35 UNDER

43 44 45

43 OVER 44 OVER 45 OVER

43 UNDER 44 UNDER 45 UNDER

40's

30's

N EE B AA

W S

N EE B AA

W S

N EE B AA

W S

NE B AA

W

E B AA

W

N

E B AA

W

N

E

S

E

S

E

S

N EE B A

A W S

N EE B A

A W S

N E

A

B AE

W S

NE B AA

W S

NE B AA

W S

NE B AA

W S

E

E

E

N EE B AA

W S

EE B AA

W S

N

EE B AA

W S

N

NE

A W

NE

A W

N

A

E

W

B A

S

B A

S

B A

S

E

E

E


44/54

1. Blocking Schemes Combo


45/54

. oc g Sc e es Co bo2 or more adjacent offensive lineman working together on a defensive lineman, on level one to a linebacker inside of POA on level two.

Usually between an uncovered OL and a covered OL working to a LB within their blocking zone. The aiming point and the

direction to scoop will rotate depends on the POA.

C G TT G YY

Single Double TripleSlug Swap Scoop

Solid

Trip

Heavy

Trio

B

SLAM DOUBLE(INSIDE ZONE. RB has 1st OLB)

Heavy

B B

Solid

B B

Trip

B B

Trio

B B

STRETCH DOUBLE(OUTSIDE ZONE. RB has ILB)

B B B

STRETCH SCOOPBS SEAL or STRETCH PLAY

B

2 Blocking Schemes - Fold


46/54

2. Blocking Schemes Fold

C G TT G YY

Gas Rt. Tag EatEat Tag Gas Lt.

Tae Gat Sag Lt. Sag Rt. Gat Tae

The naming scheme indicates who the two OLs involved in the Fold and who is Pin Blocking and who is the Folder.

The first and last letters are the indicators. The first letter indicates who the Fold blocker is and the last indicates the

Pin blocker. In the case of gas and Sag, we tag the call with a left or a right to tell which guard the center will be

working with.

1.S is the Center

2.G is the Guard

3.T is the tackle

4.E is the End

B

G T

Gat

B

TG

Tag

B

GC

Gas Rt (BSG and C)

B

T E

Tae

3. Blocking Schemes Additional


47/54

3. Blocking Schemes Additional

B

Trap 3 Call

B

Trap 5 Call

B

G Scheme

B

Step It

B

Toe It

BB

TAE w/ Step It (RB must block ILB)

B

4. Zone Blocking Notes


48/54


I. ZONE BLOCKING PRINCIPLES

Power Zone blocking is between two offensive linemen responsible for blocking two defenders in a certain area towards the

point of attack The purpose of using the Power Zone Blocking Scheme is to stop penetration, create movement on the first

level and also seal off the onside LBer. All power zone blocks initially start out as an inside-out double team. As movement

begins, either the Outside blocker or Inside blocker will gain control over the defender on the 1st level, allowing the otherblocker to come off the block to handle the linebacker. In this type of blocking scheme, it is critical to create movement on the

1st level before coming off for the linebacker. Both Stretch Double and Slam techniques can be used.

A. INSIDE BLOCKER: (Offensive linemen covered by a linebacker or uncovered.) Take a short lateral step with playside

foot aiming for a point between his sternum and playside number. We refer to this as a half bucket step. As the inside blocker

takes his half bucket step it is important to read the movement of the defensive man on outside blocker. lf the defenders

NEAR hip is coming toward you, explode up under the defenders chin making sure to stop penetration. Upon making

contact, whip your hands and move your feet like pistons working to get movement up the field. lf the defender has locked on

or is widening with the outside blocker, punch and push off the defender and explode to the 2nd level to block the playsidebreast of the LBer. NOTE: As you take the HALF BUCKET STEP to read the hip aligned on the outside blocker, use a split

eye on the linebacker over you as he may be playing under your block. If this is the situation, immediately explode back on

the LBer blocking him in the numbers.

B. OUTSIDE BLOCKER: (Offensive lineman covered by a down lineman.)

The outside blocker must read the alignment of the defender aligned on him so he can hit the proper landmark and initially

create the movement on the 1st level. lf the defender is aligned on the outside eye or shoulder, half bucket step with playside

foot aiming for point between his sternum and playside number. lf the defender is aligned head-up step with playside foot-

this is a short 6 inch lateral step aiming for a point between the sternum and playside number. If he is aligned inside eye, he

will replacement step with playside foot aiming the nose of the headgear to block the playside number of the defender. If the

defender loops out or locks on, we want the outside blocker to maintain contact once you feel contact from the inside

blocker now you can look for the scrapping linebacker on level 2. lf the defender aligned on you slants inside punch

and push off the defender and explode to 2nd level to block the onside LBer. Block the LB'er by exploding up through his

numbers using. a good drive block technique. Do not allow linebacker to cross your face.



49/54

5. Zone Blocking NotesThe following terms are used for POWER ZONE BLOCKING at the Point of Attack.

1. COMBO TRIPLE BLOCK Power Zone block between the TE and playside tackle. Used when playside tackle is uncovered. The TE is the outside blocker

and the tackle is the inside blocker.

2. COMBO DOUBLE BLOCK Power Zone block between the playside tackle and playside guard. Used when playside tackle is covered. The tackle is the

outside blocker and the guard is the inside blocker.

3. COMBO ACETOBLOCK Power Zone block between the onside guard and center. Power Ace is used when the playside tackle is covered. The playside

guard is the outside blocker and the center is the inside blocker. This block is used to get to the onside to middle LBer.

4. COMBO SINGLE BLOCK Power single block between the playside guard and center. Power single is used when the playside tackle is uncovered. Center

must be uncovered to have a single situation. The playside guard is the outside blocker and the center is the inside blocker. Used to block middle to backside

LBer.

II. BACKSIDE ZONE BLOCKING PRINCIPLES

A. POWER SCOOP TECHNIQUE

This is used by the center and backside guard. When the guard is uncovered, and the nose guard is head up or shaded backside. lf the

NG is head up lateral step with the playside foot aiming the nose of your head gear for his playside number. If NG locks on or widensmaintain contact. If the NG stays backside explode to the 2nd level for the backside LBer. If the NG is shaded backside replacement

step with playside foot aiming the nose of your head gear for the playside number of the defender. This is to bide time for the

backside guard to not allow leakage. LB'er second step is knee to the crotch with backside foot. The third step is an explosion step to

the second level looking for the backside LBer.

B. HIGH WALL TECHNIQUE

Used when the backside offensive lineman has no help from his backside buddy. The angle of the toe is directly proportioned to how

far inside he is aligned. The aiming point is the inside number. When executing a High Wall Technique it is extremely important to

keep your feet and run the defender past the hole with movement up the field.

C. POWER SWAP TECHNIQUE

Zone blocking between the backside guard and backside tackle. This technique will be used when the guard is covered by a down

lineman who is head up to outside eye or shoulder and the LB'er is stacked over the tackle. The guard will take a replacement step

with his playside foot and will release tight through the playside number of the 3 technique. On his second step, shoot knee to crotch

and must rip his backside arm and shoulder up into the defender. The third step is an explosion to the 2nd level looking for the

backside LBer.

NOTE: lf the backside LBer moves to a stack over the guard to a shade inside, you may have to resort to a Full Swap Technique.

Block Scheme Examples vs. 5-3


50/54

IN PLAYS (7 ZONE) 3 TECH SLAM DBL

B B B BBB

IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 3 TECH SLAM DBL

OUT PLAYS (8 ZONE) 3 TECH STRCH DBL

B B B BBB

OUT PLAYS (7 ZONE) 3 TECH STRCH DBL

OUT PLAYS (8 ZONE) 3 TECH [GAT CALL]

B B B

OUT PLAYS (7 ZONE) 3 TECH [GAT CALL]

BBB

Block Scheme Examples vs. 5-3 to OVER SIDE


51/54

IN PLAYS (6 ZONE) 3 TECH SLAM SINGLE w/ STEP IT by BSG

IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 3 TECH SLAM SINGLE w/ STEP IT by BSG

B BB

B B

Block Scheme Examples vs. 5-3 to UNDER SIDE


52/54

IN PLAYS (6 ZONE) 3 TECH STRETCH SLUG, STRETCH SCOOP w/ SLAM

DBL

BB B

IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 3 TECH STRETCH SLUG, STRETCH SCOOP w/

SLAM DBL

BBB

Block Scheme Examples vs. INSIDE 5-3


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IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 3 and 5 TECH SLAM SWAP

B B B

IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 3 and 5 TECH SLAM SINGLE

BBB

Block Scheme Examples vs. 4-3


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IN PLAYS (5 ZONE) 43 STRCH DBLIN PLAYS (6 ZONE) 43 SLAM DBL

B B B BBB

B BB

IN PLAYS to Weak Side (6 ZONE) 43 - SLAM SCOOP & TAG CALL

BS A gap is possible cutback lane

BB B

IN PLAYS to Weak Side (5 ZONE) 43 SLAM SINGLE & TAG CALL

BS A gap is possible cutback lane

2010 offensive line manual

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