Building a Successful Line

Brandon SmithMarch 2014

Offensive Line

• No secret to success here– Footwork…footwork…footwork (oh and hands)– Understanding their role– Identifying the target– Tenacity– Repetition…repetition…repetition

Footwork…

• Starts with proper stance– Feet first – solid and staggered– Hand placement– Head up

• Drills– Make it fun – “don’t get poop on your shoes”– Flat back – ball on their back– See the signal – point and move

…footwork…

• What’s next is first – first step– Direction – aiming point– Distance – small step

• Drills– Flat foot one step – half step – make noise (fun)– Cone steps – squish the cone– Towel drill – jab step

…footwork…hands

• 2nd step forward with hand placement– Board and bag drills – wide base– One on one over bags – feet moving– Ladders, jump rope, calves– Strong arms inside, unbuckle shoulder pads– Lock arms out, establish dummy control– Finish every drill with a push at whistle

Combo drills

• Bag drills – Fit with pressure• Lockout drills - on knees lock out sheild• Fit Drive Drill – align players in fit position,

some resistance• Fit Drive Separate – defense moves angles,

keep square

Understand their role

• Importance of blocking– Put it on their level – explain the need for blockers– 4 second sprint (6, 8 whatever)– Every body…Every play

• Drills– Pad drill – with and without blockers

Identify the Target

Who, Why, Where – Vinnie Babarino approach• Who - How do they identify who to block

– Counting system– Zone scheme– Man to man

• Why – Help them understand why they are blocking that person– Are they dangerous to the play– Kids need a reason

• Where are they blocking them– Butt to the back

2nd Level Blocking

Blocking in space• Chip blocks– DT to fit 2nd level

• Open field blocks– Target the connection (leading the throw)

• Fill blocks/Blitz pickup– Drop set, slide step, find a way

Tenacity

• Hard to teach – gotta find the button• Goal driven– Kids want to win the drill if they get something

• Drills– Circle drive competition – block out of circle– Go get it – ball drill – 5 seconds

Progression of Drills

• All drills need a progression• Start with basic footwork and fit• Progress to bags/pads• Man up resistance• Man off, game it• Live competition

It is youth sports…it is for fun

Make it FUN…make it football related