Offensive Line Manual-1.0.compressed

SUMMARY

This manual is an organized
collection of my thought on
offensive line play.
Acknowledgements for the
material in this manual is to long
to list. So I acknowledge the great
brotherhood of offensive line
coaches.

Don Krolak

OFFENSIVE LINE
MANUAL

GET UP GET DOWN GET OFF

Table of Contents

1 FUNDAMENTALS............................................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 STANCE ................................................................................................................................................................. 3
1.2 SPLITS AND LEVELS .......................................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 FOOTWORK .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.3 DUCK DEMEANOR.............................................................................................................................................. 7
1.4 FOREARM FLIPPER............................................................................................................................................. 8

................................................................................................................................................................................................ 9
2 INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS ................................................................................................................................................... 10

2.1 DRIVE BLOCK.......................................................................................................................................................... 10
2.1.1 DRIVE BLOCK PROGRESSION.................................................................................................................................... 11
2.1.2 DRIVE BLOCK DRILLS ................................................................................................................................................ 13
2.2 DOWN BLOCK.......................................................................................................................................................... 16
2.4 BACKSIDE CUT OFF ............................................................................................................................................... 18
2.5 CUT OFF AND ALLEY BREAK (S BLOCK).......................................................................................................... 18
2.6 TRAP/KICK OUT BLOCK........................................................................................................................................ 21
2.7 LOG BLOCK.............................................................................................................................................................. 22
2.9 WEDGE BLOCK........................................................................................................................................................ 23
2.10 CUT “KNIFE” BLOCK............................................................................................................................................ 24
3 COMBO BLOCKS ............................................................................................................................................................ 25
3.1 DOUBLE TEAM (POST LEAD BLOCK)................................................................................................................. 25
3.2 CROSSBLOCK .......................................................................................................................................................... 27
3.3 FOLD BLOCK............................................................................................................................................................ 30
3.4 SWEEP DRILL........................................................................................................................................................... 32
3.4 BOOTLEG DRILL ..................................................................................................................................................... 35
3.5 INSIDE TRAP DRILL................................................................................................................................................ 37
3.5 SCISSORS & OT DRILL ........................................................................................................................................... 39
4 INDIVIDUAL PASS PROTECTION ............................................................................................................................... 43
4.1 BASICS OF PASS PROTECTION ............................................................................................................................ 43
4.2 THE BASICS OF THE PASS SET ............................................................................................................................ 44
4.3 PASS DEAMEANOR “SITTING ON A BAR STOOL”........................................................................................... 45
4.4 PASS PRO FOOTWORK “POWER STEP” & KICK SLIDE “ ................................................................................ 46
4.5 MIRROR DRILL PROGRESSIONS.......................................................................................................................... 48
4.6 TYPES OF PASS PROTECTION SETS.................................................................................................................... 50
4.7 COACHING THE 3 SET............................................................................................................................................ 51
4.8 COACHING THE 2 SET............................................................................................................................................ 53
4.9 COACHING THE 1 SET............................................................................................................................................ 53
4.10 COACHING THE LOOSE 3 SET (WIDE RUSHER) ............................................................................................. 55

1

4.11 COACHING THE “GAP” SET ................................................................................................................................ 57
4.12 COACHING THE “JUMP” SET .............................................................................................................................. 57
4.13 PASS SETS DRILLS................................................................................................................................................ 58
4.13 CONTACT................................................................................................................................................................ 61
4.14 PUNCH....................................................................................................................................................................... 63
4.14.1 PUNCH PROGRESSION ........................................................................................................................................... 64
4.15 AFTER CONTACT .................................................................................................................................................. 68
4.16 PASS RUSH MOVES AND COUNTERS......................................................................................................................... 70
4.17 BLOCKING TWISTS..................................................................................................................................................... 72
5 LINE SKILLS CHECKLIST ............................................................................................................................................. 74

2

1 FUNDAMENTALS

1.1 STANCE

FUNCTION

• MUST ALLOW EQUALLY EFFECTIVE EXECUTION REGARDLESS OF THE ASSIGNDED TASK

BALANCE

• STANCE REMAINS CONSISTENT AND DOES NOT TIP OFF AN OBSERVANT DEFENSIVE PLAYER

COMFORT

• COMFORT OVERIDES EVERYTHING AS LONG AS THE LINEMAN CAN CONTINUE TO EXECUTE
PROPERLY

POWER ANGLES

• THE POSITION AND FLEXING OF THE HIPS, KNEES AND ANKLES WILL ENSURE THE IS IN A N
EFFICIENT AND POWERFUL POSITION. THINK Z'S IN THE KNEES & KNEES INSIDE OF ANKLES.

• Feet shoulder width. Toes pointed forward.
• No more than a toe to instep stagger

1 • Arch back and spread the chest

• Squat down until there is 90 degree bend in the knees
• Knees sink slightly inward shifting your weight to the instep of your feet.

2 • Knees are inside of ankles (knocked knee)
• Heels are on the ground or just off. Rest elbows on knee.

• With back arched and chest spread, roll forward and place the outside hand on the ground.
• Little finger of down hand inside the big toe.

3 • Form bridge on the pads of the finger tips. Should be able to pick up hand.
• Keep the head looking slightly up. Upper screws of the helmet facing forward.

•Off elbow is tight to body.
•Off hand should be held open and placed on the side of the knee with the thumb pointed forward.

4. •Shoulders Square to the LOS

3

1. Stance Drill
a. Arrange lineman in 4 or 5 columns or on the Matrix
b. 1st Set of lineman walk up 5 yards and stand 1 yd behind the designated LOS
c. The coach issues the following commands

"UP" • Step up to LOS getting their feet set properly
• Feet shoulder width. Toes pointed forward.
• No more than a toe to instep stagger
• Arch back and spread chest

"DOWN" • Squat down until there is 90 degree bend in the knees .
• Knees sink slightly inward shifting weight to the insteps of your feet.
• Knees are inside of ankles (aka knocked-knee),
• Heels are on the ground or slightly off. Elbows are resting on knees
• Head is up

• Roll forward extend arm out and above the ground.

• Keep heels on ground or slightly off

• Off elbow is tight to body and hand should be held open and placed on the

"HAND OUT" outside of the knee with the thumb pointed forward
• Head is up with the screws of the helmet facing forward

"STRETCH" • Continue to roll forward placing hand on the ground.

• Form a bridge with the pads of the fingers on the ground . Little
finger of down hand inside the big toe. Should be able to pick
up hand

• Keep head up, back is flat, heels on ground or slightly up

d. Coach examines group then dismisses them. As soon as they are dismissed the next group jogs
up and stands 1 yd behind the designated LOS

4

1.2 SPLITS AND LEVELS
A. Get Up! Get Down! Get Off! = at the break of the huddle, SPRINT to your pre-snap alignment (Get
Up!). Get set in your stance immediately (Get Down!). On the snap move as fast as possible (Get
Off!).
B. Line splits are used to gain an advantage over our opponent and may vary based on the technique
of the defender and offensive play called. Splits combined with levels are very effective and
essential in every blocking scheme. Base line splits are two feet, two feet, 3 feet.
C. Levels are the vertical depths off the football that can give offensive lineman advantages in
executing different blocks.
1. Level 1-Tight - Line should crowd the ball/ line of scrimmage as much as possible. Use in goal
line and short yard situations. Toes on Toes of Center
LEVE

2. Level 2- Alignment is such that the head of the offensive lineman is intersecting the numbers of
the center. Toes on the Heel of the Center
LEV

3. Level 3- Alignment is such that the head of the offensive lineman is intersecting the belt of the
center. Offensive lineman should be a deep as possible. Hand aligned with Center’s toes
LEV

5

1.2 FOOTWORK

BIRD DOG DRILL

 DRIVE BLOCK: R/L  DOWN BLOCK R/L on line)
1. (straddle grid intersection 1. (straddle grid intersection w/toes
w/toes on line) 2. 1st Step: drop stepping with
2. Straight ahead step.
3. Heal replaces toe the inside foot.
4. Chest on thigh 3. 2nd Step: Lead step-a short
5. Hand to pistols
quickstep, towards the
aiming point.
4. Ground gaining step
5. Chest on thigh/Hand to pistols

 REACH BLOCK R/L 1. TRAP PULL R/L 1
1. Flat first step
1. (offset grid intersection 2. Back foot must pivot
w/toes on line) 3. Rip the pull side foot elbow
through near hip
2. 1st step is a 12”-14” 4. Shoulder perpendicular to LOS
Lateral Step 5. Chest on thigh

3. 2nd step to crouch of 1. BACKSIDE SWEEP 1 PULL &
defender
WALL OFF the LOS
4. Shoulder stays square depth
5. Chest on thigh/Hand to pistols 1. Pull step flat down

2. FRONTSIDE SWEEP PULL for two steps then get
& KICKOUT R/L “FLAT-FLAT 45”
1. First two steps off the line
45, 45, and 90.
2. On third step head
“downhill” to kick out first
defender that shows.

2. SQUARE PULL  CUT OFF
1. 1st Step: Bucket step with 1. 1st Step Drop
2. 2nd Crossover
backside foot
2. 2nd Step: Lateral 3. Rip with backside arm

3. Chest on thigh 1 1

4. Shoulder parallel to LOS

6

1.3 DUCK DEMEANOR
1) Purpose:

a) The purpose of the Duck Walk Demeanor drill is to teach linemen to maintain a wide base and proper
“fit” position as they move pumping their arms. Teaches balance and body control. ALWAYS BE IN A
POSITION TO DO DAMAGE

2) Points of Emphasis
a) Knees are in. They sink their hips and keep their weight distributed through the insteps of their feet by
maintain a slightly knocked kneed stance.
b) They push off the insteps of their feet and take short power steps (toe to instep) Tight feet at all times,
c) Keeping elbows close to body pump arms

d) Coaching Cue, “STAY ON THE DUCK” “Step and Pound” “Z’s in Knees, “Tight feet”

3) Procedure
a) Duck walk 5 yards
b) Knees are in, work a wave drill. “How tight are my feet," which helps to change directions easily.
c) Duck Demeanor walk around and between agility bags or cones. See below.

7

1.4 FOREARM FLIPPER.

8

9

2 INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS

2.1 DRIVE BLOCK

INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: DRIVE BLOCK

OBJECTIVE  Drive defender off the LOS

AIMING  Playside Number
POINT
FOOTWORK  “Step and Pound”
 1st Step: Set to drive. Eyes to Target.
CONTACT  2nd Step: Lead step-a short quick step, towards the aiming point. Ground

FINISH gaining step. Stay on the Duck
 Pads under Pads: One Inch of Leverage = 20 pounds…Get Low!!
 Keeping elbows tight deliver a “Double Under Punch.”
 Strong playside hand grab

 Bring hips by trying to step on defenders feet.
 Climb & Shove or Torque

 Once the guy you are blocking starts to move, shove him, twist him, torque him or

throw him. Use their momentum to get them out of the play. It is extremely important

to know where the ball is going

Drill Drive Block vs. various defensive
alignments and DL’s secondary reaction

Set to Drive based on POA and defenders alignment

T TT

DL has DL DL has
Inside Leverage No Leverage
Outside Leverage
Keep weight

on inside of
1st step

Play Direction As the defender’s leverage

increase so does the width
and depth of the 1st step

10

2.1.1 DRIVE BLOCK PROGRESSION

1. STANCE AND 1 STEP
i. Coaching Cues
1. Take six-inch power step with opposite foot. “Pick it up and Put it down” Get the
whole foot on the ground. Stay off the balls of the feet. Keep chest on knee:
“Nipple on Knee”
2. Keep elbows tight and cock arms back. “Get your pistols”
3. Run drill using GET UP -GET DOWN-GET OFF MENTALITY
ii. Drill:
1. Arrange lineman in 4 or 5 columns or on the Matrix
2. 1st Set of lineman jogs 5 yards and stands 1 yd behind the designated LOS

3. The coach issues the following commands

a. On “Set” get into proper stance
b. On “Go” take 6in Power Step with right foot and cock arms back. Hold

this position
c. On “Set get back into proper stance
d. On “Go” take 6 in Power Step with left foot and cock arms back. Hold this

position until coach says “Release
4. Work drill from both right and left handed stances.
2. 4 POINT DOUBLE UNDER PUNCH DRILL VS BAGS/SHIELD OR SLED.
a. Emphasize: Roll of hips and punch occur together for maximum power. Teaches full extension
of hips and power of the punch. On both knees: Assume position with both knees on ground
and sit back toward heels. The arms should be slightly cocked back “reaching for your pistols”
b. On command, explode by rolling hips. Punch with hands. Heels of hands should be facing each
other and thumbs are up or out. Hit UP, not OUT! Should land on stomach.
3. POWER POSITION: FIT DRILL SERIES
a. Coaching Cues
i. Back slightly arched and Head Up. Wide base with weight on inside of feet
ii. Thumbs together (at the bottom of the defender’s numbers), Utilize the double under
hand placement. Elbows tight.
b. Drill
i. Setup: For each of the power position drills, players form lines in front of the blocking
boards. This arrangement consists of: The player closest to the board is the defender.
The next player is the blocker. Players rotate from blocker to defender to the last player
in line. Can also do in chute with boards or vs a sled.
ii. Power Position Drill: Each player simple assumes the Power Position and holds it until
the coach makes sure that everyone is in perfect position. Once each player’s form is
correct, the next round of players in line assume the position.
iii. Power-and-Walk Drill: this drill is intended to teach players to remain in Power Position
while moving forward. It is designed as a walk so lineman get the feel for how the body
moves while taking short steps with a wide base and maintaining body position. The
sequence is:
1. Players assume power position.
2. On “go” players walk down board. Whole foot on ground.

11

3. Player continues until whistle and finishes block with a Climb and Shove or
Torque

iv. Power-and-Drive Drill: this drill is basically a return to the Power-and-Walk drill with
increased tempo

v. Power position -1 Step Double Under Punch
1. Player in power position take 1 step back with left foot and cock arms back
“reaching for your pistols”. Players are known in a position as if they have aready
taken their 6 in power step
2. Take attack step with left foot and simultaneously deliver a double under punch.
Switch feet and repeat

4. 2 STEP AND PUNCH
a. Coaching Cue
1. Same as Stance and 1 step. Get 2nd step into the ground as quick as possible.
Time double arm punch with 2nd step “STEP and POUND”
b. Drill
i. Setup: same as power position drills. Can be down on boards, in chute, vs sled.
1. On “go” players walk down board. Whole foot on ground.
2. Player continues until whistle.
ii. Players gets into a 3 pt stance arm’s length from the shield
iii. On “1” player’s execute 6 in power step and cock arm back.
iv. On “2” player executes 6 in catch-up/attack step while simultaneously delivering a
double arm punch ending up in the power position.
v. On “Go” blocker executes the Power and Drive drill described earlier.
vi. Work both right and left first steps and drill from both right and left handed stances.

5. 2 STEP PUNCH & 2 STEP PUNCH AND DRIVE
a. Coaching Cue
i. Same as 2 step and punch.
b. Drill
i. Setup same as above.
ii. On “Go” players executes 2 step punch, then returns to starting position
iii. On 2nd “Go” player executes a 2 step punch and drive; driving the defender down the
board finishing with a climb and shove/ torque.

6. STRAIN DRILL
a. Coaching Cue
i. Same as 2 step and punch
b. Drill
i. Setup same as above.
ii. On 2nd “Go” player executes a 2 step punch and drive; driving the defender down the
board finishing with a climb and shove/ torque. However, 2 defenders are holding the
shield or bag. Should feel like he pushing a car up a hill.

7. ADDITIONAL DRILLS
a. Leverage
i. Push the car/ Push the car zig zag
ii. Inside Hand Leverage Drill on a board or King of the Board Drill from 3 point.
iii. Gunfighter
b. 2 step punch and drive zig zag.

12

2.1.2 DRIVE BLOCK DRILLS

13

14

15

2.2 DOWN BLOCK

INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: DOWN BLOCK

 Deny DL who is either aligned on an inside shade, inside gap, or head up on

OBJECTIVE an adjacent lineman from penetrating the LOS

 Pin defender inside

AIMING  Far # of down defender
POINT
 1st Step: Set of Drive by drop stepping with the inside foot. Width and depth
FOOTWORK determine by defenders alignment

 2nd Step: Lead step-a short quickstep, towards the aiming point. Ground

CONTACT gaining step
 Can tighten split towards down defender.
 Pads under Pads
 Facemask into neck of defender. Smell the armpit
 Drive outside arm and pad through the near armpit or scapula on back of

shoulder of the DL. Drive inside hand to chest of DL
 “Walk around outside arm or basketball box-out if DL spins or cross faces to

FINISH the outside

 Bring hips by trying to step on defenders feet.
 Keep your base, back arched and eyes up
 Stay on the Duck

Drill Down Block vs. various DL’s

secondary reaScteitotonsD,riiv.ee.SdteepfebnasdeedrosnlaPnOtAs and defenders
and Lber alignmentaslignment

TT T

DL Head Up DL Outside Shade DL in gap

Keep weight
on inside of

1st step

Play Direction As the defender’s leverage

increase so does the width
and depth of the 1st step

Drill down block vs. various defensive alignments and DL’s secondary reaction

16

2.3 REACH BLOCK

OBJECTIVE INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: REACH
AIMING
POINT  Capture playside half of defender. Move him vertically or horizontally

FOOTWORK  Playside Armpit

CONTACT  1st Step: Set to Reach. Drop step with width and depth based on defender’s
alignment Get Eyes to Target
FINISH
 2nd Step: Ground gaining Lead Step to the crotch of the defender. . Get 2nd
step on the ground a fast as possible.

 Stay on the Duck
 Pads under Pads
 Inside Hand to Midline
 Outside hand free or in playside armpit
 Strong inside hand grab
 Keep inside hand strong, If defender run outside, accelerate feet and

continue to press with inside hand

Drill Reach Block vs. various defensive alignments and DL’s secondary reaction

Set to Reach 1st and 2nd steps are determined by the lineman’s
relationship to POA, and leverage alignment of defender

T TT

DL DL DL
Inside Leverage No Leverage Outside Leverage

**Keep weight
on the inside of
the foot when
drop stepping

Play · The closer the lineman to the POA
Direction the tighter the angle of the first two
steps

· The wider the defender’s alignment
the wider and deeper the first two
steps

17

2.4 BACKSIDE CUT OFF

INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: BACKSIDE CUT OFF

OBJECTIVE  Stop the penetration and pursuit of the defender.

AIMING  Far hip. Think “SHOOTING DUCKS” that is leading your target.
POINT
 1st Step: Set to Reach. Drop step with width and depth based on defender’s
FOOTWORK alignment Get Eyes to Target.

CONTACT  2nd Step: cross-over step;. “Your FAR FOOT to defender’s FAR FOOT“while
delivers either a flipper or rip with your outside arm. If executing a
FINISH scrambling cut off block throw your rip between the defenders legs.

 “DROP-CROSSOVER-RIP”
 If executing a standing cut off Deliver a flipper with your backside arm
 If executing a scrambling cut off contact is with far shoulder.
 If executing a standing backside cut off continue to apply pressure against

defender with your backside flipper and hip. If defender runs outside,
accelerate feet and continue to press against him. “STAY ON THE DUCK”
 If executing a scrambling backside cut off stay on fours and scramble up
field and get up and sprint to the alley

2.5 CUT
OFF
AND

18

ALLEY BREAK (S BLOCK)

INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: BACKSIDE CUT OFF AND ALLEY BREAK “S BLOCK

OBJECTIVE  To perfect the cutoff block and practice the horizontal break to alley

AIMING  Far hip. Think “SHOOTING DUCKS” that is leading your target.
POINT
 “DROP CROSSOVER RIP” Use either “OLAY” or RIP” evasive technique on to
FOOTWORK get by the Level 1 defender.

CONTACT  OLAY or RIP evasive techniques vs level 1 defender
 RIP technique vs level 2 defender
FINISH  Double Under Punch the alley defender-Level 3
DRILLS  Same as DRIVE BLOCK

 DIP AND RIP DRILL
 BACKSIDE CUTOFF AND ALLEY BREAK DRILL

19

20

2.6 TRAP/KICK OUT BLOCK

21

2.7 LOG BLOCK

22

2.9 WEDGE BLOCK

23

2.10 CUT “KNIFE” BLOCK

OBJECTIVE INDIVIDUAL BLOCKS: CUT “KNIFE’ BLOCK

 Take out the feet of the defender. Can use in 3 step pass pro, short

yardage, or backside cutoff

AIMING  Playside thigh board
POINT
 Same as drive block.
FOOTWORK  Throw when arms distance from the defender

CONTACT  Throw a flipper or forearm through the thigh pad of defender (bottom of
FINISH
blocking bag should pop up)
 Bear Crawl

CUT LEFT FLIPPER ON SOUND CUT RIGHT FLIPPER ON SOUND

Cut Block/Agility Bag Drill 24

Player starts laterally
positioned in front of the
first agile bag their
shoulders perpendicular to
the bad. From a 3 pt stance
player executes a cut block
on landing top of the agility
bag and bear crawling over
it. The get up shuffle to the
next bag and repeat the drill
in the opposite direction.
Upon sprawling on the last
bag player will sprint
through a cone that is

3 COMBO BLOCKS

3.1 DOUBLE TEAM (POST LEAD BLOCK)

COMBO BLOCKING “POST LEAD”

INSIDE BLOCK “POST BLOCKER” OUTSIDE BLOCK “LEAD BLOCKER”

ALIGNMENT & REACTION OF  HANDS ON DOWN GUY EYES ON LB  REMOVE ANY COLOR IN YOUR GAP. HANDS ON
DEFENDER  DON’T GET BEAT INSIDE DOWN GUY, EYES ON THE LB
 “MOVE-MOVE-MOVE” DOWN
 KEEP PLAYSIDE PAD FLAT. AVOID REACHING
DEFENDER , READ LB FLOW ACROSS YOUR BODY WITH YOUR PLAYSIDE
HAND
OUTSIDE SHADE & LBER FILL AIMING POINT: INSIDE # OF DOWN
DEFENDER  ELIMATE PENETRATION BY THE DOWN
(A) (B) DEFENDER.
FOOTWORK: 1ST STEP TAP (SETTLE) STEP
WW WITH THE INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP-LEAD AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF DOWN DEFENDER
TT STEP TO CROTCH OF THE DEFENDER
FOOTWORK: 1 STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP WITH
DOWN DEFENDER STAYS FINISH: FLIPPER WITH OUTSIDE ARM. INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP LEAD TOWARD AIMING
REMOVE DOWN DEFENDER READ FLOW POINT.
OF LBER.
(A) WILL FILLS-COME OFF DOUBLE AND FINISH: FIT ON PLAYSIDE SHOULDER OF INSIDE
BLOCK PLAYSIDE # OF WILL BLOCKER WITH TWO HANDS ON THE DOWN
(B) WILL SCRAPES-STAY ON THE PLAYSIDE DEFENDER. REMOVE ANY COLOR IN YOUR GAP.
# OF DOWN DEFENDER AND HELMET (A) TAKE OVER BLOCK INSIDE ARM ON MIDLINE,
ADJUST. OUTSIDE ARM UNDER ARMPIT
(B) WITH EYES IN YOUR GAP YOU SHOULD FEEL
THE INSIDE BLOCKER BUMP YOU TO THE SCRAPING
LBER. BLOCK PLAYSIDE # OF LBER.

HEAD UP & LBER FILLS AIMING POINT: INSIDE # OF DOWN AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF DOWN DEFENDER
DEFENDER
W FOOTWORK: 1 STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP WITH
T FOOTWORK: 1ST STEP TAP (SETTLE) STEP INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP LEAD TOWARD AIMING
WITH THE INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP-LEAD POINT.
DEFENDER HANGS STEP TO CROTCH OF THE DEFENDER
FINISH: FIT ON PLAYSIDE SHOULDER OF INSIDE
FINISH: MOVE-MOVE-MOVE THE BLOCKER WITH TWO HANDS ON THE DOWN
DEFEENDER. THINK “OVERTAKE” ON THE DEFENDER. REMOVE ANY COLOR IN YOUR GAP.
DOWN DEFENDER UNLESS HE JUMPS WITH EYES IN YOUR GAP YOU SHOULD FEEL THE
OUTSIDE OF A LB THREATESN YOUR GAP INSIDE BLOCKER BUMP YOU TO THE SCRAPING
LBER. BLOCK PLAYSIDE # OF LBER.

INSIDE SHADE & LBER FILL AIMING POINT: “V” OF NECK AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF DOWN DEFENDER

W FOOTWORK: 1ST STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP FOOTWORK: 1 STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP WITH
WITH INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP TO THE INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP LEAD TOWARD AIMING

OUTSIDE FOOT OF THE DEFENDER POINT.

T FINISH: EXECUTE DRIVE BLOCK THROUGH FINISH: FIT ON PLAYSIDE SHOULDER OF INSIDE
“V” OF THE DOWN DEFENDERS NECK. BLOCKER AND HAND CHECK DOWN DEFENDER.

KEEP PLAYSIDE ARM STROND UNDER THE BLOCKPLAYSIDE # OF LBER.

DOWN DEFENDERS ARMPIT. PLACE

BACKSIDE ARM ON DEFENDER’S MIDLINE.

DEFENDER STAYS INSIDE

25

OUTSIDE SHADE & LBER FILL AIMING POINT: INSIDE # OF DOWN AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF DOWN DEFENDER
DEFENDER.
W FOOTWORK: 1 STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP WITH
T FOOTWORK: 1ST STEP TAP (SETTLE) STEP INSIDE FOOT.
WITH THE INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP-LEAD
DEFENDER PINCHES STEP TO CROTCH OF THE DEFENDER FINISH: AS DOWN DEFENDER DISAPPEARS CHECK
FOR A LOOPER FIRST. NO LOOPER WORK UP TO
FINISH: TAKE PLAYSIDE HAND & PLACE THE 2ND LEVEL AND BLOCK THE PLAYSIDE # OF THE
UNDER PLAYSIDE ARMPIT OF THE DOWN LBER.
DEFENDER. USE DEFENDERS MOMEMTUM
AGAINST HIM BY RUNNING YOUR FEET &
PRESSING WITH YOUR PLAYSIDE HAND.
PIN HIM INSIDE.

OUTSIDE SHADE & LBER FILL AIMING POINT: INSIDE # OF DOWN AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF DOWN DEFENDER
DEFENDER.
W FOOTWORK: 1 STEP-LATERAL GAP STEP WITH
T FOOTWORK: 1ST STEP TAP (SETTLE) STEP INSIDE FOOT.
WITH THE INSIDE FOOT. 2ND STEP-LEAD
STEP TO CROTCH OF THE DEFENDER FINISH: REDIRECT TO AIMING POINT ON YOUR 2ND
STEP. ATTEMPT TO “PIN” THE DOWN DEFENDER
FINISH: HAND CHECK WITH OUTSIDE INSIDE. IF HE COMES SO FLAT ACROSS YOUR FACE
ARM. EYES TO YOUR GAP READ FLOW OF THEN RIDE HIM TO THE OUTSIDE .
LBER. BLOCK PLAYSIDE # OF WILL

DDEFENDER SLANT OUTSIDE

26

3.2 CROSSBLOCK

COMBO BLOCKING: CROSSBLOCK “COOKIE”

 INVOLVES TWO ADJACENT LINEMAN EITHER BACKSIDE OR PLAYSIDE

DESCRIPTION BLOCKING A TWO DOWN DEFENDER ALIGNED ON THE LOS
 TWO INDIVIDUAL SINGLE BLOCKS: A DOWN BLOCK & PULL/KICKOUT BLOCK

ALIGNMENT & REACTION OF DOWN BLOCKER PULL KICKOUT BLOCKER
DEFENDER
 EXECUTES A DOWN BLOCK  EXECUTES THE PULL/KICKOUT “TRAP”
 DENY A DL WHO IS EITHER ALIGNED  SAME FOOT SAME SHOULDER RULE

ON AN INSIDE SHADE, INSIDE GAP, OR o TRAP RIGHT: HIT W/RIGHT
HEAD UP ON AN ADJACENT LINEMAN
SHOULDER
o FROM PENETRATING THE o TRAP LEFT: HIT W/LEFT SHOULDER
LOS.  KEEPS NIPPLE TO KNEE AS HE TRAPS.
SCRAPE THE PAINT OFF THE TAIL PAD OF THE
o FROM “OVER THE TOP”
RECOVERY DOWN BLOCKER.
 PATH MUST ESTABLISH A GOOD INSIDE OUT
 GOES FIRST
ANGLE. HIS INITIAL PATH SHOULD BE INTO
AIMING POINT: FAR # OF DEFENDER THE LINE AT A 45-DEGREE ANGLE UNTIL HE IS

AT THE DEFENDERS DEPTH. HE THEN BENDS

HIS PATH TO THE DEFENDER. THIS PREVENTS
THE DEFENDER FROM BEIGN ABLE TO

WRONG ARM HIM AND MAKE THE PLAY.

AIMING POINT: NEAR # OF DEFENDER

CROSSBLOCK RIGHT FOOTWORK: FOOTWORK:
CROSS BLOCK LEFT  SAME AS DOWN BLOCK  1 STEP-SLIGHT DROP STEP WITH THE (ALLOWS
 1ST STEP: DOWN STEP. WIDTH AND
HIM TO CLEAR THE DOWN BLOCK) WIDTH
DEPTH DETERMINED BY DEFENDERS AND DEPTH DETERMINDED BY ALIGNMENT
ALIGNMENT OF DEFENDER BEING BLOCKED
 2ND STEP: SHORT QUICK STEP  2ND SHORT QUICK STEP COMES TO BASE.
TOWARD THE AIM POINT. THIS IS A WORKING DOWNHILL INTO THE LOS
GROUND GAINING STEP.
CONTACT:
CONTACT:  PADS UNDER PADS
 PADS UNDER PADS  DIP SLIGHTLY BEFORE CONTACT TO GAIN
 FACEMASK INTO NECK OF DEFENDER.
LEVERAGE
SMELL THE ARMPIT  MAKE CONTACT WITH SHOULDER AND
 DRIVE OUTSIDE ARM AND PAD
FLIPPER.
THROUGH THE NEAR ARMPIT OR
SCAPULA ON BACK OF SHOULDER OF FINISH:
THE DL. DRIVE INSIDE HAND TO  BRING HIPS BY TRYING TO STEP ON
CHEST OF DL
 “WALK AROUND OUTSIDE ARM OR DEFENDERS FEET.
BASKETBALL BOX-OUT IF DL SPINS OR  TAIL IS IN THE “HOLE” FORCING THE
CROSS FACES TO THE OUTSIDE
FINISH: DEFENDER TO RUN OVER THE TOP AND NOT
 BRING HIPS BY TRYING TO STEP ON UNDERNEATH THE KICKOUT BLOCK
DEFENDERS FEET. .
 KEEP YOUR BASE, BACK ARCHED AND
EYES UP

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SCENARIO #1
OUTSIDE SHADE ON DOWN

LEFT RIGHT CROSS BLOCK LEFT CROSS BLOCK RIGHT
PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT
OUTSIDE SHADE ON PULLER
SCENARIO #2 OUTSIDE DEFENDER READS DOWN BLOCK AND STEPS UP & SQUEEZES

OUTSIDE SHADE ON DOWN
BLOCKER

LEFT RIGHT CROSS BLOCK LEFT CROSS BLOCK RIGHT
GAP DEFENDER PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT
SCENARIO #3
CROSS BLOCK LEFT CROSS BLOCK RIGHT
HEAD UP ON DOWN PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT
BLOCKER
AN OPTION IS TO MAKE AN “APPLE” CALL AND EACH BLOCKER WILL BLOCK OUT.
LEFT RIGHT
WIDE DEFENDER

APPLE CALL APPLE CALL
PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT

SCENARIO #4 DEFENDER IS TOO FAR IN FOR THE DOWN BLOCKER TO EXECUTE HIS BLOCK. MAKE A “BASE”
OUTSIDE SHADE ON DOWN CALL AND BOTH BLOCKERS DRIVE BLOCK THE DEFENDERS ON THEM.

BLOCKER

LEFT RIGHT BASE CALL BASE CALL
PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT
INSIDE SHADE ON PULLER
SCENARIO #5 BOTH DEFENDERS INSIDE SHADE. CROSSBLOCK IS OFF MAKE “GAP DOWN” CALL. EACH
BLOCKERS EXECUTES A DOWN BLOCK
BOTH DEFENDERS INSIDE
SHADE

LEFT RIGHT GAP DOWN CALL GAP DOWN CALL
PLAY DIRECTION LEFT PLAY DIRECTION RIGHT

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3.3 FOLD BLOCK

COMBO BLOCKING: FOLD “FOX”

 INVOLVES TWO ADJACENT LINEMAN EITHER BACKSIDE OR PLAYSIDE

DESCRIPTION BLOCKING A DOWN DEFENDER, AND A SECOND LEVEL DEFENDER
 TWO INDIVIDUAL SINGLE BLOCKS: A DOWN BLOCK & PULL & WALL OFF

BLOCK

ALIGNMENT & REACTION OF DOWN BLOCKER PULL & WALL OFF BLOCKER
DEFENDER  EXECUTES A DOWN BLOCK  EXECUTES THE FOLD BLOCK (PULL &
 DENY DL WHO IS EITHER
WALL OFF)
ALIGNED ON AN INSIDE SHADE,  PULL AND KEEP SHOULDERS SQUARE

INSIDE GAP, OR HEAD UP ON TO LOS
AN ADJACENT LINEMAN  KEEP NIPPLE TO KNEE SCRAPING THE

o FROM PENETRATING PAINT OFF THE TAIL PAD OF THE
THE LOS. DOWN BLOCKER (DRIVE BLOCK THE
BACKER WITH A WIDE BASE
o FROM “OVER THE TOP”
RECOVERY AIMING POINT: PLAYSIDE # OF 2ND LEVEL
DEFENDER
AIMING POINT: FAR # OF DOWN
DEFENDER

FOLD RIGHT FOOTWORK: FOOTWORK:
FOLD LEFT  SAME AS DOWN BLOCK  1 STEP-SLIGHT DROP STEP WITH THE
 1ST STEP: DOWN STEP. WIDTH
CALLSIDE FOOT (ALLOWS HIM TO
AND DEPTH DETERMINED BY CLEAR THE DOWN BLOCK) WIDTH AND
DEFENDERS ALIGNMENT DEPTH DETERMINDED BY ALIGNMENT
 2ND STEP: SHORT QUICK STEP OF 2ND LEVEL DEFEENDER.
TOWARD THE AIM POINT. THIS  2ND SLIGHT CROSSOVER REGAIN HIS
IS A GROUND GAINING STEP. BASE
 (CAN ALSO USE SQUARE PULL STEPS)
CONTACT:
 PADS UNDER PADS CONTACT:
 FACEMASK INTO NECK OF  SAME AS DRIVE BLOCK
 PADS UNDER PADS
DEFENDER. SMELL THE ARMPIT  DIP SLIGHTLY BEFORE CONTACT TO
 DRIVE OUTSIDE ARM AND PAD
GAIN LEVERAGE
THROUGH THE NEAR ARMPIT  DELIVER A DOUBLE ARM PUNCH WITH
OR SCAPULA ON BACK OF
SHOULDER OF THE DL. DRIVE TIGHT ELBOWS OR
INSIDE HAND TO CHEST OF DL SHOULDER/FLIPPER.
 “WALK AROUND OUTSIDE ARM
OR BASKETBALL BOX-OUT IF DL FINISH:
SPINS OR CROSS FACES TO THE  BRING HIPS BY TRYING TO STEP ON
OUTSIDE
FINISH: DEFENDERS FEET.
 BRING HIPS BY TRYING TO STEP  CLIMB & SHOVE OR TORQUE
ON DEFENDERS FEET. .
 KEEP YOUR BASE, BACK
ARCHED AND EYES UP

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SCENARIO #1 LBER FLOWS
SHADE ON DOWN BLOCKER

LB STACKED ON PULL FOLD LEFT FOLD RIGHT
BLOCKER
LBER FLOWS DOWNHILL
SCENARIO #2

SHADE ON PULL BLOCKER

LB STACKED FOLD LEFT FOLD RIGHT
SCENARIO #3
GAP DEFENDER BACKER READS DOWN BLOCK AND STEP UP TOWARDS THE LOS

LBER HEAD UP ON DOWN FOLD LEFT FOLD RIGHT
BLOCKER

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3.4 SWEEP DRILL

SWEEP DRILL

INSIDE BLOCK “POSTMAN”

 SET UP
1. Identical on each side

2. Two bags for kickout and 2 shields to wall off

3. Hose or boards for proper spacing

4. First two linemen execute drill to the right, then next two step up and execute sweep drill left while

the other side is rotating bag holders in preparation for the next repetition.

5. Use all linemen as guards for this drill.

PROCEDURE

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3. Playside Guard- Pull, Kick out
a. First two steps off the line 45, 45, and 90. On third step head “downhill” to kick out first
defender that shows.
b. Come tight off the TE down block The kick out (to the right) is made with a double arm
punch drive block technique or a right shoulder (same-same) and flipper technique.
c. We pull with depth for two reasons: To get away from any penetration that may knock me
off my kick out path. To set up a better angle for my block. If I were to pull flat it would be
harder to kick out a blitzing outside LBer or see and react to block the first man outside the
TE’s block.

4. Backside Guard- Pull, Wall off
a. Pull step flat down the LOS for two steps “FLAT FLAT 45”
b. Immediately locate front side Lber
c. Gain some depth at the opposite B gap. Dip shoulder around cone scraping the paint off the
TE’s outside hip, walling off the Lber with the left shoulder and flipper or double punch
drive block technique.

SCENARIOS

#1
The backers flow in the direction of the guard
pull as the outside defender come up field to
contain

#2
The backers flow in the direction of the guard
pull with the outside kickout coming aggressively
off the edge.

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#3
1. Lbers react from a “Swim” look. Depending

on the alignment of the Sam Lber (stacked),
the front side guard will execute his kickout
on this defender. If the Lber is slow to react,
the kickout may take place on the next
defender outside.
2. If the Mike Lb may flow into a kickout
position (as shown). If the Mike stays tucked
inside with the FB fake the block will remain a
wall off

#4
1. “STAY” CALL - Playside Guard calls “STAY”

when a defensive lineman is in “A” gap or a 2i
making it difficult for either Center to block
him or the Tackle to down blocks him. The
playside guard down blocks A gap defender,
the center Base block the Mike and the
backside guard executes the kickout.

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3.4 BOOTLEG DRILL

BOOTLEG DRILL

INSIDE BLOCK SET UP
“POSTMAN”

1. Identical on each side

2. Two for Big on Big aggressive fire out and two shields for kickout/log

3. Hose or boards for proper spacing

4. First two linemen execute drill to the right; the next two linemen step up and execute bootleg drill left

while the other side is rotating bag holders in preparation for the next repetition.

5. Use all linemen as guards for this drill.

PROCEDURE
5. Playside Guard- Big on Big Aggressive Fire out. Protect the playside gap.

6. Backside Guard- Pull Block 1st man outside the
Quick Tackle
a. Pull crossover footwork, continue flat down
the line block 1st defender outside of the
Quick Tackle.
b. Three possibilities at the flank.
i. Log end man on the LOS
ii. Kick out force defender (Quick Tackle can make an Alert call)
iii. Continue to the flank with eyes inside waiting for the “go” call from the QB

SCENARIOS

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#1
Log Block the slow to play defender.

#2
Kick out the force defender who is coming
aggressively up field.

#3
Continue to the flank with eyes inside waiting for
the “go” call from the QB

#4
Center makes call bringing the playside guard

down because he is covering and has to fill
for the pulling guard.
#6

Call made by Center when he is covered and
defender on the pulling guard is too wide to
fill block such as a 3 technique The call brings
the strong tackle into a backside cutoff block.

#5
Center makes call when both A gaps are
threatened and both guards are covered.

#7
Center makes call when all four offensive line

man are covered

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3.5 INSIDE TRAP DRILL

3 ON 3 INSIDE GUARD TRAP DRILL

INSID
SET UP
1. Three offensive linemen in proper spacing.
2. Three defenders aligned in either an odd or even front.
3. Drill separated into scenarios with line movements and Lber reactions. The coach stands behind the
offense and directs the defensive line movements and Lber reactions
PROCEDURES (explained for PICK to the right)

1. Backside Guard: “PULL-TRAP-CALL”
a. The backside takes a slight drop step with his inside foot and a replacement step with his
outside foot. Pivots hips and works downhill for the designated trap man. The linemen’s pull
step shouldn’t gain or lose ground. It is a short drop step that should point their toes & open
their hips up in the direction they are going.
b. A Trap block must be inside out. Emphasize the importance of establishing a good inside/out
angle. His initial path should be into the line at a 45-degree angle until he is at the defenders
depth. Then he will bend his path to the defender. This will keep the defenders from being
able to wrong arm him and make the play.
c. Trap Right –Hit with right shoulder & Trap Left –Hit with left shoulder
i. If the defender opens to the trap- attack the up field number,
ii. If the defender keeps shoulder square/ parallel to the LOS attack the V- of neck using
the free hand on defenders hip for leverage.

2. Center: “COMBO-FILL-CALL “
a. Vs odd front “COMBO” with playside guard. You are the POST Man of a POST-LEAD Double
Team block
b. Vs even front FILL for trapping guard
c. Vs even front with defender in playside A gap make FOLD call
d. Vs both Center and pulling Guard covered make GRANDMA call bring the frontside guard
down

3. Playside Guard: “COMBO-WALL-CALL”
a. Vs odd front “Combo” with Center. You are the LEAD man of a POST-LEAD Double team.
b. Vs even inside release and Wall off 1st Lber inside of his release starting head up on the
center and working back.

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SCENARIOS

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3.5 SCISSORS & OT DRILL

SCISSORS & OT DRILL

INSIDE BLOCK “POSTMAN”


SET UP

6. Identical on each side

7. Two bags/shields for kickout and 2 shields to wall off

8. Hose or boards for proper spacing

9. First two linemen execute drill to the right, then the next two step up and execute counter drill left

while the other side is rotating bag holders in preparation for the next repetition.

10. Use all linemen as guards and tackles for this drill.

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PROCEDURE
7. Backside Guard- PULL & KICK OUT you’re the “Trapper”

a. Takes a drop step with his inside foot and a replacement step with his outside foot. His hips
pivots and he work downhill to kick out the first d

b. efender outside the playside double team block. The kick out block is inside out.
c. Come tight off the playside down block the kick out. Use a double arm punch or shoulder

flipper.
i. Pull Right- Hit with right shoulder
ii. Pull Left-Hit with left shoulder

8. Backside Tackle - PULL, WALL OFF you’re the “Wrapper”
a. 1st Step: drop step with playside foot so hips pivot 45 degrees away from the LOS. 2nd step is
a crossover step leveling you out. Your path should be one yard deeper and on the outside
hip of the trapper. Do not run directly behind the trapper.
b. Immediately locate front side Lber
c. Turn up scraping the paint off the playside double team. Lead thru and do not slow down.
d. If the playside Lber runs thru, trap him.
e. Can you Square Pull Technique

SCENARIOS

#1
The backer flow in the direction of the guard pull
as the outside defender come up field to contain

#2
The backers flow in the direction of the guard
pull with the outside kickout coming aggressively
off the edge.

#2
The backers flow in the direction of the guard
pull with the outside kickout reacting to the
down block and squeezing, keeping his outside
shoulder and arm free. The backside guard will
now LOG him with the backside tackle adjusting
his path and going outside the LOG block.

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#4
The playside Lber runs thru and the outside
defender comes up field to contain.

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4 INDIVIDUAL PASS PROTECTION

4.1 BASICS OF PASS PROTECTION

1 The player should know the launch point.

• The offensive lineman always knows where the QB is setting up (launch point) This knowledge allows the
lineman to position himself in relationship to the QB and rusher. Lineman positions himself so he is straddling
this line. Tell the playsers you should be able to piss on the rush lane.

2 The player should get in the pass set quickly

• The player gets on the "bar stool" and does not allow the rusher to make contact while he is in the process of
getting into his set.

3 Use your hands

• Player must understand the importance of using his hands. The player who establishes inside hand position
first almost always wins.

4 The player should know his help

• If the lineman iis covered by a down defender , he should always know if he has help, and the direction of the
help

5 The player should keep his arches/instep in the ground

• Any weight shift will make the OL prone to beign pulled or push back.

6 The players should time the punch

• If the lineman punches early, he leaves himself exposed. If he punches too late, he'll lock his hands. Timing
the punch provide the power to stop the rusher or to knock out of his rush lane. As the punch lands the head
goes back and the butt sinks. Keep nose separation

8 The player should cover in direction of the pass

• After the ball is thrown the player should cover in the direction of the pass. If the pass is intercepted "save"
the TD.

9 The player should look for work

• When not covered by a rusher, the offensive lineman "looks for work". He finds a rusher and "gords" him

10 The player should keep an inside tract on the defender.

• The offensive lineman keeps his nose aligned with the inside number of the defender.

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4.2 THE BASICS OF THE PASS SET

1 Get on the barstool

• Head and upper body come up quickly along with first step (kick or power).These moves must happen as
quickly as possible.

2 Maintain correct position

• Butt sinks and the knees remain bent.

3 Stay on the arches

• Weight remains on arches with slightly more weight on his inside foot.

4 Maintain stagger

• The offensive lineman must be careful not to stagger so much that his weight goes to the heel of the inside
foot., creating an unstable base

5 Bring hands up

• On the snap the hands come up. The lineman carries his hands close to the body and keeps his fingertips
aligned under his chin.

6 Maintain the barstool position

• The lineman's ankles stapys outside the knees, and the knee remains outside the hip. If one of these angles
is lost , too much weight shifts to the leg.

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4.3 PASS DEAMEANOR “SITTING ON A BAR STOOL”

A good pass protection stance should resemble sitting on a bar stool
 Feet shoulder-width apart.
 Inside foot forward (foot closest to the QB).
 Outside foot back.
 Front knee bent to 90-degrees.
 Weight on the inside of the feet.
 Back nearly perpendicular to the ground.
 Back arched, chest extended.
 Hands in front at chest height ready to strike.
 Head up.
 Shoulders square to the LOS.
 Eyes on the inside numbers of defender (numbers closest to the QB).

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4.4 PASS PRO FOOTWORK “POWER STEP” & KICK
SLIDE “

For communication purposes, the outside foot will be
called the SET foot and the inside foot will be called
the POST foot.

POWER Power Step

• Power step stops the inside rush. It is a flat, aggressive step with the inside (POST) foot. The knee and hip of
the inside leg must remain strong and have contact with the down defender. The offensive lineman gets into
position as if he will trip the down defender with his inside knee. This avoid giving the defender a soft inside
shoulder. .

KICK Kick Step

• The kick step prevents the outside outside rush. The basic kick step lands at a 45 degree angle. The angle
varies with the width of the defender. The wider the defender the deeper the kick step. Outside step with
the SET foot. Keep weight concentrated on inside foot and leg. The ankle is wider than the knee and the
knee is wider than the hip. This helps to maintain the weight on the inside leg. If the weight transfers to the
outside leg, the ability to continue kick stepping is lost. The nose should stay aligned with the crotch.

SLIDE Slide Step

• Move by opposite foot after Kick or Power step.. It is a short, quick step on the same angle as a power or
kick step.

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47

4.5 MIRROR DRILL PROGRESSIONS

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