Our Offensive Running Game
The number one objective of offensive football is to score. If we cannot
score, then the only alternative is to kick. We never want to surrender
the ball to our opposition outside of the 4-down zone other than by
kicking it to them. We cannot possibly win the tough football games if we
lose the football by fumbles, interceptions, blocked kicks, or anything
else other than by kicking the ball to our opponents.
BASIC PRINCIPLES AND REQUIREMENTS OF OFFENSIVE FOOTBALL
Offense is based on two primary principles, running with and/or passing
the football. They go hand in hand and complement each other in all
respects. A team must pass sufficiently in order to keep the opposition
from putting all of its strength on or relatively close to the line of
scrimmage. A team also must be able to advance the football with its
ground game so the opposition does not have to defend against only one
phase of the game, the passing attack.
The main requirements for playing offensive football are: (1) explosive
speed, and (2) a real desire to carry out the specific assignment,
whether it be to block, run or fake. Offense is a game of skill and
perfection, and many hours must be spent working on it.
_A Sound Offense_
A sound offense is one in which each play is designed to gain ground,
and if executed perfectly there is a good possibility for a long gain
and/or scoring a touchdown. If the offense is going to operate at maximum
efficiency, the bad play must be eliminated completely. The _bad_ play is
one that does not gain yardage. If the offense is based on the 4-yard per
play or short thrust offense, such as Oklahoma has used so successfully
in the past under Bud Wilkinson, it is clear to see how a bad play can
stymie the offensive attack.
The sound attack also utilizes the best personnel available, such as the
best ball carriers carrying the ball, the best blockers for blocking, and
so on. If you will analyze your offensive attack, you are likely to learn
this does not always occur. The best blocker might be carrying the ball
more often than your best ball carrier, who in turn might not be a strong
blocker.
We had a fine team at Texas A & M in 1956, but when I look back over the
season I now realize I did not utilize my backs to maximum efficiency.
Our quarterback, Roddie Osborne, was a very fine football player, and
like the great ones he enjoyed running with the football. Roddie did
a terrific job of running with the ball, but we had other outstanding
backs, such as All-American John Crow, All-American Jack Pardee, and
Lloyd Taylor, a great competitor. When the season was over and we
tabulated our final statistics, we found Roddie had carried the ball
nearly as many times as the combined carries of Crow, Pardee, and Taylor.
In order to maintain maximum results with the offense, it must be
presented to the squad so they all have a complete understanding of what
you are trying to accomplish and how it is going to be done. Unless the
players have a thorough picture and understand the reasoning behind your
offensive attack, maximum efficiency is impossible.
I firmly believe that the simpler the offense, the better. The fewer
things a boy has to do and remember, the better he will execute the
fundamentals you have taught him. If executed well, the player will have
more confidence in what he is doing and his own ability. Consequently
the greater the chance the offensive attack has of being successful.
OUR OFFENSIVE TERMINOLOGY
To be sure that we are all talking the same “language” and can understand
each other readily, we have adopted the following offensive terminology:
_Flow_—Direction in which most of the backs start.
_On-Side_—Lineman on side of point of attack.
_Off-Side_—Lineman on side away from point of attack.
_Near Back_—Halfback on side of flow.
_Far Back_—Halfback away from side of flow.
_On-Back_—Of the two remaining backs in the backfield, the back
toward call.
_Off-Back_—Of the two remaining backs in the backfield, the
back away from call.
_Point of Attack_—Spot where ball crosses the line of scrimmage.
_Over_—Defensive man over any part of the offensive man.
_Cut Off_—Shoot the head and shoulder past the defensive man,
destroying his correct pursuit angle to the football.
_Set_—Fake pass protection block.
_Slam_—Entertain defensive man with shoulder and forearm.
_N/T_—No one there.
_Position Lateral_—Getting self in position to receive lateral
from the man with the football.
_Covered_—Designates offensive man with a defensive man over
him on L.O.S.
_L.B._—Linebacker.
_M.L.B._—Middle linebacker.
_L.O.S._—Line of scrimmage.
_Man on L.O.S._—Defensive man down in 3- or 4-point stance on
the line of scrimmage.
“_6_”—Right end.
“_7_”—Left end.
_Club_—A vicious running head and shoulder block attacking the
defensive man’s upper extremities from the blind side. This
block is used in the area approaching the point of attack.
_Color_—First man approached with different color jersey.
_Motion_—Back leaving before snap of the ball.
_Ice_—Receiver going to outside or inside and becoming a
possible receiver after making his block or when no one shows.
Yell “Ice” when open.
_Trail Junction Blocker_—Ball carrier straddling the outside
leg of junction blocker. Stay close to him.
_Pursuer_—Defensive man pursuing the ball carrier.
_Gap_—Space between two offensive men.
_Flare_—Call to tell a back to run a flare route.
_Drive Man_—Man who does the driving on a two-on-one block.
_Post Man_—Man who stops the progress of the defensive man on a
two-on-one block.
_Odd Defense_—Offensive guards not covered.
_Even Defense_—Offensive guards are covered.
_Box Defense_—Only two deep men in the secondary.
_3-Deep Defense_—Three deep men in the defensive secondary.
_9-Man Front_—Box defense.
_8-Man Front_—Three deep defense.
_Position Ball_—Bring ball immediately into belly, elbows in,
ball in fingers.
_Drive Block_—A vicious head and shoulders block and turn
opponent.
_Climb Block_—A brutal drive block.
_Chop Block_—Open field block on men in the secondary by
throwing your body (extended) at his throat.
_Crack Back_—A vicious low reverse body block.
_Groin Block_—A low drive block with upward action aimed at
defensive man’s groin.
_Fill_—Protect the area to your inside.
_Shoot Out_—Springing from your original stance, hitting on
your hands and feet running (used to get downfield).
_Against the Grain_—Direction in the secondary opposite the
flow.
_On Linebacker_—Denotes (on-side L.B. N/T M.L.B.).
_Position_—Getting to a spot between the man you are to block
and the ball carrier.
_Roll Back_—Position and block defensive man from blind side.
_Eagle_—Call to tackle and guard to switch assignments.
_Head On_—Man nose on nose.
We want all of our players and coaches to understand and use our
offensive terminology. One or two words either explains the descriptive
action we want or identifies some segment of the offense or the
opposition’s defense. The terms are simple, meaningful and descriptive.
OUR OFFENSIVE STANCE
The offensive stance is very important. It is difficult enough trying to
attain maximum results when they are lined up in their proper stance,
but it puts your players at a distinct disadvantage and handicaps them
greatly if you permit them to assume a stance that is improper and
incorrect. Therefore, we put first things first, and try to coach our
players always to take the proper stance.
_Offensive Stance for Linemen_
The stance for the linemen, with the exception of the center, is
basically the same, with allowances being made for various physical
characteristics, which vary from individual to individual. The inside
foot is forward, the feet staggered in an arch to toe relationship. The
tackles and ends exaggerate the stagger from heel to toe since they are
further removed from the center and quarterback.
The feet should not be spread wider than the individual’s shoulders,
with the weight of the body concentrated on the balls of the feet. The
heels should be slightly in, with the cleats on the heel of the forward
foot almost touching the ground. The ankles should be bent slightly. The
knees should be bent slightly more than 90 degrees, and turned slightly
in. The tail is even or a little higher than the shoulders, and splitting
the forward and rear heels. The back is straight, shoulders square, neck
relaxed, and eyes open keeping the defensive linebacker in line of sight.
The hands are placed down slightly outside of the feet, elbows relaxed,
and thumbs in and slightly forward of the shoulders.
_Offensive Stance for Center_
The center lines up in a left-handed stance with the feet even and
slightly wider than the shoulders. The weight is on the balls of the
feet, heels turned slightly in, with the cleats on the heels of the shoes
almost touching the ground. The knees are slightly in and bent a little
more than 90 degrees. The tail is slightly higher than the shoulders and
about two inches in front of the heels. The center places his left hand
inside his legs down from between his eye and ear almost directly under
the forehead, with the fingers spread and the thumb turned slightly in.
The shoulders are square, the back is straight, the neck is relaxed,
and the eyes looking upward. His right hand grasps the football like
a passer. He should reach out as far as possible without changing his
stance. The center is coached to place the ball on his tail as quickly
as possible with a natural turn of the arm. He should drive out over the
ball with his head coming up and tail down, keeping his shoulders square
as he makes his hand-back to the quarterback.
_Quarterback’s Stance_
The quarterback is coached to get into a football position with the feet
slightly wider than the shoulders, weight on the balls of the feet, heels
and knees turned slightly in, knees bent slightly, and a natural bend at
the waist in order to be in a good position to receive the ball from the
center as he snaps the ball on the hand-back. The elbows must be bent and
in close to the body.
The quarterback’s right hand goes up in the center’s crotch. He turns it
slightly to the right. At this spot he applies pressure with the hand
to his center’s tail. The left hand must be in a comfortable position,
making slight contact with the right hand, and it is used to trap the
ball and to assist the right hand in taking the football from the center.
_Halfback’s Stance_
The feet of the halfback should not be wider than the shoulders, and
staggered in a heel to toe relationship with each other. The weight
should be on the balls of the feet, but will vary slightly depending
upon the direction the halfback must move in carrying out his particular
assignment. With the snap of the ball he should throw himself in the
direction he is going, and he should not use a cross-over step.
His knees should be bent a little beyond 90 degrees, with the knees
and heels turned slightly in, and the tail a little higher than the
shoulders. The halfback’s shoulders should be square, with his head and
eyes in a position to see the defensive linebacker on the opposite side
from him. The inside hand should be down, slightly forward and inside of
the knee with the thumb turned a little to the inside. The body weight
should be forward slightly.
_Fullback’s Stance_
The fullback lines up with the feet even and a little wider than his
shoulders. The cleats on the heels of his shoes should touch the ground.
The heels and knees are turned slightly in with the weight on the balls
of the feet. The head and eyes are in a relaxed position, but where
they can see the second man standing outside of the offensive end. The
hands are directly in front of each foot with the thumbs turned in. The
shoulders are square, the back is straight, the tail is directly above
the heels, with the weight slightly forward, but not to such an extent he
cannot start quickly in a lateral direction to either side.
OFFENSIVE LINE SPLITS
The use of intelligent line splits by the offensive guards, tackles and
ends must be mastered in order to realize the full potential of our
basic offensive attack. Without proper line splits, it is impossible for
the offense to function at 100% efficiency. Therefore, we must present
line split theory and coach our linemen in such a way they will have a
clear understanding of why and when we want to move in, out or remain
stationary. Mastering the intelligent use of line splits is one of the
most important single duties of the offensive linemen. (The other is a
quick offensive charge together on the starting count.)
_The Pre-Shift Position_
When the linemen leave the huddle and come up to the line of scrimmage in
a pre-shift position (hands on knees in a semi-upright stance), the basic
split rule for the guards is to split one full man. The tackles and ends
will split slightly more than one full man. As the linemen go down into
their offensive stance, each man (except the center) will move in, out or
remain stationary, depending upon the particular defensive alignment and
the individual’s split rules.
_Our Basic Split Rules_
Our offensive basic split rules are as follows:
EVEN DEFENSE:
1. Guards—full man; don’t move.
2. Tackles—man over you, split one-half man. If no one is there, use a
common sense split which would be to cut the split down on a wide play
and take a maximum split on an inside play.
3. Ends—Line up a little over a full man split, and use the common
sense split rule which would depend upon the play. Never move more than
one-half man either way.
ODD DEFENSE:
1. Guards—Take a full man split, but never so wide that if a man should
jump into the gap between the guard and center, you could not cut him
off. After taking the proper split, then apply the common sense split
rule.
2. Tackles—If there is no inside linebacker:
(a) Wide play called—split in one-half man.
(b) Inside play called—fake split and don’t move. Inside
linebacker: Split out one-half man.
3. Ends—Take good wide splits and apply common sense rule, never split
more than one-half man either way.
In order to split intelligently it is important to determine first of all
if the defensive man will move with you when you move (Figure 99a), or
whether he is keeping his spacing on his own defensive man (Figure 99b).
You are attempting to determine as quickly as possible if your defensive
man is taking a variable or a static position. Figures 99a-b illustrate
variable and static spacing, respectively, by the defensive linemen.
[Illustration: FIGURE 99a]
[Illustration: FIGURE 99b]
Do not ever emphasize that you are splitting to get good blocking angles,
but you split in order to isolate a defender. If the defender splits when
the offensive man splits, you can isolate him. If his split is static, a
good blocking angle will be the result. Your linemen should _never_ split
merely to get the angle, however. It will also help the linemen if they
have a clear picture of where the ball crosses the line of scrimmage (the
critical point of attack), and from where the ball is being thrown on a
pass play. Then, too, there is no set rule that will cover all defensive
situations and the offensive men must be able to apply the common sense
split rule along with the basic split rule.
Figure 100 illustrates the pre-shift position of the right side of the
offensive line and the application of the guard’s, tackle’s, and end’s
split rules. From the pre-shift stance and position, the offensive men
are allowed to split one-half man either way, according to the defense.
The inside always must be protected. A defensive man must not be allowed
to penetrate or shoot the inside gap as he is likely to stop the
offensive play for a loss.
[Illustration: FIGURE 100]
If the defensive man will move with the offensive man, then the offense
should be able to isolate one man and the point of attack should be
directed toward him. Figures 101a-b illustrate the center’s man and
the offensive right tackle’s man being isolated respectively, and the
critical point of attack being directed at the isolated defenders.
[Illustration: FIGURE 101a]
[Illustration: FIGURE 101b]
It is very important for the offensive lineman to know his main objective
in proper line splitting is either (1) to spread the defense out, or
(2) to isolate a man. The main objective is _never_ to split in order
to get a good blocking angle. This latter misconception can destroy any
advantage we gain by splitting the line.
OUR SNAP COUNT
In order for a team to operate at maximum efficiency offensively all of
the players must get off with the ball at the same time. They must uncoil
as a unit and strike the opposition as quickly as possible. The only
advantage the offense has over the defense is the former knows where the
play is going and when the ball will be snapped. In order to maintain
this advantage the offense must strike quickly as a unit. Should the
defense penetrate the offense or the offense not get off on the ball
together, the offense loses its advantage over the defense.
The offense’s advantage hinges on its ability to get off on the ball
together. Whether or not the offense can do this well will depend upon
their first initial movement, which in turn depends upon the snap count.
At one time or another I believe we have used just about every imaginable
snap count. We have found that our line gets off better as a unit,
without leaning, and hits quicker when we employ a sound snap count. The
quarterback can say what he likes if we are going on the first sound.
While in the huddle, the quarterback will give the play and then cue the
action with the first sound, second sound or the third sound. We use the
same word for our sound snap count, but the emphasis is placed on the
first, second or third sound. For example, if the quarterback calls,
“24 on the second sound,” the team lines up in its offensive position,
and the quarterback says, “Go!” Since this is the first sound, the ball
is _not_ centered. Then the quarterback commands, “Go!” for the second
sound, the ball is centered and the team moves as a unit. The quarterback
can wait between his first and second commands since our snap count is
non-rhythmic. Such a measure not only keeps the defense off guard, but it
also keeps the offense constantly alert.
_Automatics_
It is not my purpose to discuss the automatic versus the non-automatic
systems of signal calling. In the former the quarterback can use the
automatic system or change the play at the line of scrimmage. In the
latter he runs the play that was called in the huddle and does not change
it at the line of scrimmage. There are advantages and disadvantages to
both systems. A strong argument that is advanced for the non-automatic
system is that it gives the linemen time to analyze their block and
mentally pick out the person they are supposed to block as they approach
the line of scrimmage. The people who favor the non-automatic system
maintain they have fewer broken signals, and fewer bad plays than the
teams using the automatic play change.
While I am not stressing the merits of one system over the other,
frankly, I would never send my players into a football game without
several plays which could be automaticked at the line of scrimmage. It is
just common sense to realize certain plays are not good against certain
defenses, and it is useless in most instances to run a play directly
toward the strength of a defense when you need to gain yardage in order
to sustain your offensive drive. Therefore, we always have a trap play,
an end sweep, and a look pass as our automatics. Since they are few in
number, our automatics are easy to learn and they allow the quarterback
to change his play at the line of scrimmage if he wishes to do so.
Our automatic system is very simple, and there is very little confusion
when we change our plays. As an example, while we are in the huddle,
the quarterback will call play, “18,” and the players will break from
the huddle and go to the line of scrimmage. After the quarterback gets
the players down into their offensive positions and he sees he wants
to change the play on automatic, he will repeat the original play,
“18.” This will alert the players, and they know the next number they
hear will be the new play that will be run instead of play 18. After
the quarterback has repeated the original play, and has called another
number, “24,” as an example, everyone on the offensive team knows the
new play will be 24, and the snap count always remains the same.
_Faking the Automatic_
If the quarterback wishes to fake an automatic so the opponents cannot
catch on to what he is doing, this can be done very simply. As an
example, let’s say the quarterback called the play, “30,” in the huddle.
At the line of scrimmage he decided to fake or dummy the automatic. At
the line he will say any number other than the one he called in the
huddle. This notifies the boys it is a fake automatic and they will not
pay any attention to the next number he calls as they are going to run
the play which the quarterback called originally in the huddle.
By using this two number system we can always play the automatic or fake
it, and it is impossible for the opponents to catch on because they do
not know the play the quarterback called in the huddle originally. It
is impossible to use the automatic if the quarterback has elected to
run the play on the _first_ sound. The majority of the time when we are
going on the first sound we will be hitting fast and straight away, and
an automatic will not be necessary. If the quarterback thinks there is
any chance he might want to change the play for any particular reason, he
would _not_ run the play on the first sound.
THE OFFENSIVE HUDDLE
The entire offensive operation starts with the huddle; therefore, it is
very important to insist that proper huddle techniques are carried out
properly. It is not too important the way the men are spaced or lined
up in forming the huddle, as long as everyone can see, hear, and get to
their proper offensive positions with as little confusion as possible. It
is a must, however, for the quarterback to use the proper techniques in
calling his plays and in controlling the huddle.
_The Quarterback Controls the Team_
A quarterback should never allow any talking in the huddle, unless he
asks a question and wants specific information. Therefore, he should
stand out of the huddle until it is completely formed. This will give
any player an opportunity to come and give specific information to the
quarterback without talking in the huddle.
The quarterback should not just call a signal, but on certain occasions
he should make a few extra comments while in the huddle. He should be
forceful, and above all he must be confident. The team will run the play
the way the quarterback calls it. Occasionally he should single out the
man called on to make the key block and inform him the team is depending
upon him. After the quarterback has called the play, and someone wants to
check the signal, the quarterback should not merely repeat the signal but
the entire play over again.
The quarterback must know the tactical situation at all times. If a
substitute comes into the game, the quarterback should always ask if
there are any instructions from the coach. The quarterback must always
be conscious of the 25 seconds between plays, and he should use it to
his advantage, whether to speed up or slow down the game. Training the
quarterback will be discussed in greater detail in Chapter 9.
THE QUARTERBACK’S TECHNIQUES
I spoke previously of the quarterback’s stance. It is very important for
him to take the same stance every time. The center must know where to
place the ball every time. Centers and quarterbacks should work with each
other frequently giving them as much practice as possible. Each center or
quarterback has particular traits, and by the centers and quarterbacks
working with each other they get to know one another better, thus
eliminating bad exchanges between them.
The quarterback should have his head up and always look straight ahead,
while observing the defense at all times. He should be as comfortable and
as relaxed as possible, and he should never look down when receiving the
ball from his center.
_Taking the Snap-Back_
On the snap of the ball, the quarterback should dip his hips so his
hands will follow the tail of the center as he charges. This technique
will also help the quarterback push off. The quarterback will take the
ball with his right hand, using the left as a trapper, as was explained
previously. He should make certain he has the ball, and he should not
fight it, before withdrawing his hands from the center’s crotch. As soon
as the quarterback has possession of the ball, he should bring it into
his “third hand,” his stomach. Such a procedure will help prevent a
fumble. He then wants to push off and execute his techniques as quickly
as possible.
The quarterback must always be cognizant of the fact he cannot score
without the ball; consequently, he wants to make certain he has
possession of it before pulling out of there. If he gets in a big hurry,
he is likely to drop the ball to the ground. I have seen this occur many
times.
_After Receiving the Snap_
After receiving the snap, the quarterback will operate in one direction
or the other by using a pivot or a cross-over step. The theory and
techniques are basically the same.
First, the quarterback must know the defensive alignment as this will
determine how far he should pivot, or if he needs to take a position
step. After he has recognized the defense and he has taken the first
short jab step or pivot step, he should have the ball in close to his
body until he is ready to hand-off.
The head is the first part of the body around if using the pivot step,
and also the first to move in the direction the quarterback is taking
if the cross-over step is used. After the head is pointed in the right
direction, the steps can be adjusted to avoid running into the ball
carrier. The quarterback should not wave his arms or his body up and down
as he should maintain the same level throughout the entire operation. The
quarterback should never flash (show) the football; he always operates
under control.
_Making the Exchange_
It is important for the quarterback to know each man with whom he must
make an exchange, including his speed, strong and weak points. He should
look at the target, the far hip, of the man to whom he is going to hand
the football, and he should be very quick with the exchange. He should
try to make the hand-off with the same motion he would use if he were
dealing cards quickly.
_Quarterback Faking_
The faking of the quarterback is very important. He should always
remember to carry out his fakes realistically. Incidentally we sometimes
give the ball to the man who is supposed to be doing the faking. We have
found it helps our faking as the man is not certain whether or not the
quarterback is going to give the ball to him.
When attempting a fake, it is very important for the quarterback to
look at the man he is faking to, and not merely swing his arms in a
half-hearted fake. He should go through the same motions he uses when he
actually gives the ball to the faker. His fakes must be realistic for the
offense to be effective. The quarterback should remember he never stops
moving while on offense, except when faking to set up a drop back pass.
BALL CARRYING TECHNIQUES
Every team wins or loses a great percentage of its games due to the
manner in which the backs and ends carry the football. All players, not
only the backs, should be drilled in the proper mechanics and techniques
of carrying a football properly as it is possible on occasions an
interior lineman will have an opportunity to run with the ball.
The outstanding characteristics or strength of each ball carrier is
likely to be different as one might possess outstanding speed, another
is a nifty, shifty runner, and the third is solid on his feet, possesses
power, and is capable of running over the opposition. Every ball carrier
must utilize his natural talents, and should practice diligently to
become as versatile as possible. Regardless of the individual style of a
runner, the most important point is for him to hold on to the football
and not fumble it.
Good habits, careful handling, and the execution of proper techniques
will prevent fumbles on ball exchanges. When a player has the ball in
his possession and fumbles it, he has committed the unpardonable sin in
my estimation. The ball carrier should remember to have one point of the
football in the palm of his hand with the fingers around the end of the
ball, and gripping it tightly. The other end should be in the crook of
his arm, which should force the football up close to his body.
If the football is carried properly, and the ball carrier is determined
to hang on to it, the football should never be lost due to a fumble. The
ball is the most valuable object on the football field. Consequently if
the ball carrier fails to hang on to the ball, he is letting down his
entire team. Once a player has control of the ball and fumbles it, this
is no accident. It is either carelessness or lack of courage. I can’t
build a winner with this type of player. In a close game a fumbled ball
can be the deciding factor in winning or losing.
A ball carrier should remember his primary objective is to gain ground;
if possible, to score. Therefore, he should move directly toward the
opposition’s goal line as quickly as possible, unless there is a definite
reason for doing otherwise. There are always exceptions to the rules, and
a ball carrier may not be running toward the opposition’s goal because he
might be trying to make better use of a blocker, dodge an opponent, get
to the opening, time the play properly, or he might have some other valid
reason. There will be times when top speed and the correct direction will
not be sufficient to get the job done.
_Open Field Running Techniques_
When a ball carrier is in the open field, he should always keep the
tackler guessing. He should not tip-off whether he is going to try to
outrun him, run through him, or dodge him, until he is close enough to
the tackler to give him the fake and then get by him. The ball carrier
should never concede he is down, and he should always keep fighting to
gain ground until the whistle stops the play.
The ball carrier should always realize and know exactly where he is
on the field, and just what he must do in order for the play to be
successful. In a majority of cases, a ball carrier should be concerned
only with running for a touchdown.
_The Importance of Proper Mental Attitude_
The basic difference between ordinary and great athletes is mental
attitude. As far as football players are concerned, the ordinary ball
carrier will try to make a touchdown, but he will be satisfied with a
five or six yard gain. The champion athlete, the All-American back,
is dissatisfied when he fails to score. He is always going for the
opposition’s goal line. The ball carrier actually does not succeed in
his objective unless he runs for a touchdown on every play (except for
occasional tactical situations), and he should never be made to feel he
has accomplished his objective unless he scores.
A ball carrier must be made to realize when he does a poor job of
carrying the ball, the effort of the other 10 men has been wasted. The
ball carrier must always be aware of the yardage necessary for a first
down and for a touchdown. When the ball carrier has possession of the
football, he must realize he has the control of the game in his hands.
OUR BLOCKING TECHNIQUES
Blocking techniques are basically the same for all linemen. The blocks
the backs are called upon to execute are basically the same, too.
Therefore, we will not discuss the techniques of each position, but
merely discuss techniques and procedures as a whole.
_The Drive Block_
The drive block or the one-on-one block was developed primarily for a
fast hitting attack, and is one that we use on many occasions. All blocks
consist of the following steps: (1) the approach, (2) the contact, and
(3) the follow through.
APPROACH:
1. Approach with short, controlled step. First step should be with the
outside foot, and it should not go beyond the forward foot. The knees
should be bent at this time.
2. Split the opponent’s course with the first step, and aim the nose
guard at the middle of the opponent’s target.
3. Keep the eyes on the target at all times.
4. Uncoil off the forward foot. Do not duck the head during the uncoil.
CONTACT:
1. Strike a jarring blow with the forehead.
2. Bring the head up as contact is made. (The body will follow the head;
this will help arch the back.)
3. The drive should be forward, then upward. The object is to knock the
opponent off-balance, thus depriving him of his traction; this will make
him easy to move out of the play.
4. Bring the feet up fast with short, choppy, digging steps, but still
keeping the knees bent.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. Stay on feet with the knees still bent and keep driving.
2. Keep the feet well spread and under the body.
3. Charge through the opponent.
4. Keep the body between the opponent and the path of the ball carrier.
The most important single step in the drive block is keeping the feet
driving the instant contact is made.
_The Reverse Shoulder Block_
This block is used primarily when the blocker already has position on a
hard charging lineman.
APPROACH:
1. Aim the far shoulder for the opponent’s far hip. This will help allow
for the opponent’s charge.
2. Shoot the head and shoulders in front of the defensive man.
3. This movement must be sharp and on a straight line.
4. Take a short positive step with the inside foot.
CONTACT:
1. Uncoil off the near foot.
2. Strike a good blow on the opponent’s hip, squeezing with the neck and
head in the stomach.
3. Bring inside foot up to help cut off penetration.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. Bring the legs up fast and keep them driving.
2. The charge of the defensive man will put the blocker in a perfect
blocking position.
3. Keep the body weight into opponent.
4. If and when the opponent attempts to spin out, go into a crab position
around the outside thigh to prevent pursuit.
_Blocking Linebackers_
The percentage of time the offense can block the linebackers will
determine to a great extent how successful the offense will be. If the
linebackers are blocked, the defense will usually break down.
APPROACH:
1. Get off on snap of the ball.
2. Whenever possible release to the inside to block an inside linebacker;
to the outside when blocking an outside linebacker.
3. Stay low, don’t run in a circle, but take the shortest route to the
linebacker.
4. Get to the point of attack in position to block before the linebacker
can get there to defend it.
5. Keep your body between the linebacker and the ball carrier.
CONTACT:
1. Split the linebacker right down the middle with initial block.
2. Thrust the body forward and upward, hit the linebacker on the rise and
elevate the shoulders on contact.
3. Strike the blow with a low fundamental position, hit with forehead and
forearm.
4. Make contact off top of the feet. Keep the feet underneath the
blocker, thus making it impossible for the blocker to follow-through
properly if he lunges or leaves his feet before or while making contact.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. As soon as contact is made with the linebacker, continue the leg
drive. The initial blow should knock him off balance and the leg drive
should keep him this way.
2. Keep the weight into the linebacker.
3. Gain position follow through. The blocker should continue to strive
for position to eliminate any possibility of the linebacker being in on
the tackle downfield.
_Downfield Blocking_
The approach of the downfield block will vary with the play called and
position of the defensive secondary men. The approach we will discuss
will be centered around attacking the defensive halfback.
The downfield block is a definite characteristic of all good football
teams, and it is virtually impossible to have many long runs without good
downfield blocking.
APPROACH:
1. Release rapidly on the line of scrimmage.
2. Sprint shallowly just beyond the line of scrimmage.
3. When approaching the designated person to block, aim for a spot in
front of his original position; this eliminates running behind the
halfback when he comes up to make the tackle.
4. The blocker must have a clear concept of the point of attack and the
prescribed path of the ball carrier.
5. The blocker should make the defensive man commit himself before he
starts to make contact.
CONTACT:
1. Once the defensive man has committed himself in a specific direction,
the blocker then starts his contact.
2. The blocker will get as close as possible to the defensive man (about
two yards) and spring off his inside foot, thus swinging his outside
elbow and arm toward the head of the opponent. This will cause a lifting
motion and make it possible for the blocker to extend the entire length
of his body in a horizontal position.
3. The blocker must aim his body at the opponent’s throat, trying to make
contact with his hip.
4. The defensive man will not allow him to hit him in the throat, but by
aiming there he may hit him around the knees.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. The follow through will consist of keeping the body extended as long
as possible and jumping up and trying to make another block.
_The Post-Lead Block_
The post-lead block, or two-on-one block, is used to insure the blocking
of the most dangerous defensive man, and at the same time give the ball
carrier the feeling of confidence that he can concentrate his efforts
on whipping the one defensive man to the inside or outside of the man
being double-teamed. With this in mind, the blockers are more conscious
of turning the defensive man away from the play rather than drive him
straight down the field. By using this same method, it makes it possible
to cut off the pursuit.
APPROACH:
(Post Man)
1. Drive straight at the defensive man with a short controlled step.
First step is with the outside foot.
2. Aim the nose guard at the middle of the target.
3. Keep the eyes on the target at all times.
4. Uncoil off the forward foot.
(Drive Man)
1. Take a position step with the inside foot and then a good step with
the outside foot to get squared away.
2. From this new position aim the nose guard at the middle of the
opponent and use as an apex. From this position the middle of the
opponent would be below the armpit and just above the waist.
3. Keep eyes on target all the way.
CONTACT:
(Post Man)
1. Strike a good blow with the forehead.
2. Drive straight through the opponent to stop his charge.
3. Hit on the rise and keep the pressure applied, keeping the knees bent
at all times.
(Drive Man)
1. Strike a jarring blow with the forehead below the armpit of the
opponent.
2. After good contact, slide head past body and continue applied pressure
with the inside shoulder.
3. Keep the tail down, head up, and feet under the body.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
(Post Man)
1. After good contact and feet are well up under the body, turn the tail
toward the drive man.
2. Keep pressure applied, feet moving in short, choppy steps, and drive
man down the line.
(Drive Man)
1. Keep pressure with shoulder and neck, and do not let man spin out to
outside.
2. Keep the tail to inside and do not allow defensive man to split.
3. Keep feet moving in short, choppy steps and move man down the line.
4. Force defensive man into pursuit to help eliminate it.
_The Trap Block_
APPROACH:
1. It is important to take the same stance as if going straight ahead,
but just before the ball is snapped, the weight is shifted to the outside
foot.
2. Take a quick, short, 6-inch step with inside foot and point toe
directly toward spot to be trapped.
3. Never raise the body up. Stay down and in a semicoiled position.
4. Drive off the forward foot, still taking short steps.
5. Anticipate the person to be trapped, to be filling the inside or
floating in the hole.
CONTACT: (see below)
FOLLOW THROUGH:
The contact and follow through are exactly the same as on our drive
block, which I explained previously.
_The Pass Protection_ (_Drop back pass_)
This technique is used by the guards and tackles when protecting the
passer on a straight dropback pass. It is good to go from a pre-shift
position when using this type of block.
APPROACH:
1. Take a short step backwards with the inside foot, then a longer step
backwards with the other foot.
2. While doing this, turn the tail slightly to the inside and remember
the inside gap must be protected.
3. After the second step backwards, the blocker should be in a good
football position (tail down, head up, knees bent, back straight, and the
body in a cocked position ready to strike a blow).
CONTACT:
1. Look at the man to be blocked, make him come to the blocker. When
close enough, spring and butt him with the forehead, trying to make
contact with him at the numbers.
2. After contact is made and the charge of the offensive man has been
stopped, the blocker will take a step back, regain his football position
and make contact again.
3. At all times the blocker will be forcing the defensive man to the
outside.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. When the blocker sees that he can no longer strike a blow with his
head, due to the position of the defensive man, he will fake a blow with
his head, then slide it and his body in front of the defensive man.
2. He will lock him with his leg and at the same time apply pressure with
his body.
3. At all times the blocker will be in a crab position and working his
feet around to force the defensive man to the outside, thus keeping him
away from the passer.
_The Crack Back Block_
This block is used primarily by the ends when they are blocking an inside
linebacker. It can also be used by anyone who might be blocking directly
in front of the ball carrier.
APPROACH:
1. Release from line of scrimmage as quickly as possible and run straight
at linebacker.
2. Aim slightly above the knees of the linebacker.
3. Get within a yard and a half before going into block.
CONTACT:
1. Throw outside arm with a quick, jerky motion in front of linebacker.
This quick motion will cause the head and shoulder to get in front of
defensive man.
2. Release off of inside foot to start block.
3. Make good solid contact with the outside hip just above the defensive
man’s knees.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. After contact is made, go into a four-point position with the arms
extended, and tail high into the air.
2. Work the feet around and force the defensive man to go in front of
blocker’s head.
3. Do not let defensive man get out behind the blocker’s feet because
this will allow him to pursue the ball from a proper angle.
4. Keep tail up and feet working.
_The Junction Block_
This block is used primarily by the fullback when he is blocking a true
end or a corner man on a wide play.
APPROACH:
1. Aim for a spot about a yard in front and outside of man to be blocked.
2. Run low and hard at spot.
CONTACT:
1. Extend the head and shoulders in front of and past the defensive man.
(The blocker’s head is pointing downfield.)
2. The blocker will use his inside leg and hip to catch the outside leg
and hip of the defensive man.
3. The blocker will then have his head and shoulders past the defensive
man and his inside leg firmly against the outside leg of the defensive
man, with his hands down and his tail up.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. Force defensive man to go inside by keeping feet moving and driving
downfield.
2. Do not extend body and fall flat on the ground.
3. Do not let man spin to blocker’s outside.
4. Keep pressure on defensive man as long as possible.
_The Roll Block_
This block is used when a small back, in particular, is trying to block a
true end or corner man on the ground.
APPROACH:
1. Aim for a spot about a yard in front and outside of the man to be
blocked.
2. Run low and hard at spot.
CONTACT:
1. With the head pointed at the outside hip of the defensive man, the
blocker will get about a yard and a half from him. As the blocker
springs, he will drop his inside shoulder and turn his head down and to
the outside.
2. The blocker will hit the outside leg of the defensive man with the
part of his shoulder pad that covers the scapula of his inside shoulder.
FOLLOW THROUGH:
1. After contact has been made with the back of shoulder, the blocker
will roll to his inside and give a corkscrew effect.
2. Stay as high as possible (around the knees) and make two or three
complete rolls in the corkscrew fashion, trying to knock the legs out
from under the defensive man.
3. At all times the blocker must keep his head pointing downfield or no
less than a 60 degree angle.
NUMBERING THE DEFENSIVE ALIGNMENTS
[Illustration: FIGURE 102a]
In making our blocking rules or assignments for all of the players
versus all different defensive alignments, there are several factors to
take into consideration. The rules must be simple, and secondly, they
must be brief. We have used several different kinds of rules, such as,
“Inside gap, over, linebacker,” and others. This was a good method, but
it amounted to quite a bit of memory work for the players because the
majority of the blocks were all different and the players were required
to learn a number of different sequences. Trying to adhere to the theory,
“the simpler, the better,” we started numbering the defensive men as
illustrated in Figure 102a versus the 5-4 defensive alignment; 102b
versus the wide tackle 6; 102c versus the gap 8 defense; and Figure 102d
versus the Eagle defense.
[Illustration: FIGURE 102b]
[Illustration: FIGURE 102c]
[Illustration: FIGURE 102d]
We start counting with the man over the center and number him zero, and
from there go both left and right numbering every man within two yards
of the line of scrimmage, as illustrated in Figures 102a-b-c-d. We also
number the men in the secondary. We do this by merely continuing with our
numbering beyond the end lineman in the direction the ball is going to
go, as illustrated in Figure 103a versus the Oklahoma 5-4 defense, and
Figure 103b versus the wide tackle 6-2 defensive alignment.
[Illustration: FIGURE 103a]
[Illustration: FIGURE 103b]
_Application of Our Blocking Rules_
By numbering the defensive men it is simple when making out the blocking
rules to assign each man a number, and the offensive man merely learns
which numbered man he will block. There will be certain plays in which a
particular position must have one or two options. As an example, a rule
might read, “#3 unless outside, then, #2.”
The following are examples of blocking rules by numbers:
_Regular Block_—straight ahead
On-E #3
On-T #2
On-G #1
C #0, off-side
Off-G #1
Off-T #5
Off-E #6
_Trap Block_—
On-E #3
On-T L.B.
On-G Slam man #1 or #2, N/T #0
C Off-side
Off-G Trap
Off-T 1st outside guard
Off-E #6
_Counter Block_—
On-E #6
On-T #2
On-G #1
C #1, N/T #0, N/T off-side
Off-G #1
Off-T #2
Off-E #3
By using this particular method it is also very easy to incorporate the
backs into the blocking scheme. When using the back to the side the ball
is going, in order to have a backfield man block a particular defensive
player, we merely add two zeroes to the number which has been assigned
to the defender, and the back gets this man. As an illustration, if we
want our halfback to block the #3 defensive man, the halfback’s block
is 300; and the #4 man, the block would be called 400. Several complete
illustrations would be as follows:
_300 Block_—
Off-E #6
Off-T #5
Off-G #1
C #0, N/T off-side
On-G #1
On-T #2
On-E slam #3, then #5
H.B. #3
_400 Block_—
Off-E #6
Off-T #5
Off-G #1
C #0, N/T off-side
On-G #1
On-T #2
On-E #3
H.B. #4
_Under Block_—
Off-E #6
Off-T #5
Off-G #1
C #0, N/T off-side
On-G #1
On-T #2
On-E #3
H.B. #4
_Over Block_—
Off-E #6
Off-T #5
Off-G #1
C #0, N/T off-side
On-G 1st man on line of scrimmage
On-T 2nd man on line of scrimmage
On-E 3rd man on line of scrimmage
H.B. 1st inside linebacker
ATTACKING THE DEFENSIVE ALIGNMENT
Probably like many other football teams, we have too much offense.
However, in order to do an intelligent job of planning our attack versus
the numerous defensive alignments, one must have sufficient offense since
not all plays are good against all defenses.
Regardless of one’s offense, the first approach is to establish a good
sound middle attack that is based on the trap, fullback hand-off, and
a pass off of the same action. Unless a team can force the defense to
respect the inside power and force the defensive linebackers and guards
to stay “at home,” it is almost an impossibility to perfect the outside
attack. After we establish the inside attack, then we want to run far
enough inside the defensive end to cut down his quick containment. The
next step then is to perfect the wide attack and the corner passes, in
order to have a well-rounded offense. Bootleg passes, reverses, and
an occasional trick play are also needed in order to keep the defense
“honest,” and to make the above-mentioned plays more effective.
GOING WIDE
It is an offensive _must_ for a team to be able to go wide and to get the
long gainer. Occasionally all of us get a good gainer from the inside
attack, but most long gainers are from passes or some form of wide attack.
Previously we operated on the assumption if we could gain four yards on
each play we would score with a sustained drive. Statistics will prove a
team will generally stop itself by some error, or the defense will stop
the offense, before the attack can make four consecutive first downs or
gain 50 yards, a majority of the time. Consequently a team must perfect
its wide game.
There are several ways of going wide, but regardless of the manner
attempted, the defensive end or corner man must be eliminated either by
blocking him, optioning him, or throwing the football over his area.
_The Run-Pass Option_
When trying to get wide against a corner man, the run or pass option is
one of the best methods to employ. Figure 104 illustrates the on-guard
blocking #1, on-tackle #2, and the fullback blocking the #3 man. The
near halfback and the on-end will run their pass routes. The #4 man is
not blocked, and the passer is going to option from him. As soon as the
passer has possession of the ball, he watches the #4 man. If he comes up
to tackle the passer, the latter throws to the open receiver. If the #4
man drops back to play pass defense, the passer is instructed to turn
upfield and run with the football. If our passer feels he can gain at
least four yards on the play, we want him to run with it most of the
time. The play is much better against a team that uses a 9-man front than
against an 8-man front alignment.
[Illustration: FIGURE 104]
_The Quarterback Option_
There are several kinds of option plays, but the one designed to get wide
is the two-way option, in which the quarterback either keeps or pitches
to the far halfback, depending upon the reaction of the defensive man
from whom he is optioning.
The blocking rules on the quarterback option play are very simple, as
illustrated in Figure 105. The offensive guard and tackle to the on-side
block their numbers, respectively. The on-end will block to his inside,
N/T (No One There) halfback, and the fullback will block the #4 man with
a junction block. The quarterback must watch his man all the time in
order for the play to turn the corner successfully. He _must_ option the
#3 man and _not_ permit the latter to option the quarterback.
[Illustration: FIGURE 105]
_The Three-Way Option_
[Illustration: FIGURE 106]
The other option play, illustrated in Figure 106, is the three-way option
with the quarterback playing the #4 defender. This option is in the same
series with the outside belly play. The quarterback has the option of (1)
giving the ball to the fullback, who will hit off-tackle, (2) keeping
the ball himself, after faking the fullback off-tackle, or (3) faking
the off-tackle play and optioning off of the #4 man by pitching back to
the far back running wide, after the defender plays the quarterback. The
on-guard blocks #1, on-tackle #2, on-end #5. The fullback is responsible
for making #3 tackle him, and the quarterback must watch #4 man.
_Changing Offensive Blocking Assignments at the Line_
Since there are numerous defensive alignments and we cannot always
anticipate where our opponents will line up, and due to the inherent
limitations of the number rule blocking system, we use a _change-off_ for
our blockers. As an example, Figure 107 illustrates a defensive alignment
where the offensive tackle could not block his man (#2) on a play going
wide. Therefore, the offensive tackle merely calls, “Tiger,” or any other
code name, and this alerts the end that he and the tackle are exchanging
blocking assignments (Figure 107).
[Illustration: FIGURE 107]
[Illustration: FIGURE 108]
Figure 108 illustrates an exchange of blocking assignments between the
tackle and guard, as the code, “Eagle,” has been called by the tackle.
Ordinarily the guard’s block is #1 and the tackle’s block is #2, but
as Figure 108 illustrates, it would be difficult for the guard to
sustain his block on a play going wide. Therefore, “Eagle,” or any other
appropriate code word, changes the blocking assignments between the
guard and tackle. On certain occasions the center and guard can exchange
assignments, too, by using a code call.
CONCLUSION
My objective has been to present each phase of our offensive running
game, which can be utilized against the various defensive alignments. Our
offensive passing game will be discussed in Chapter 8. My philosophy is
to keep the offense simple, be sound in our coaching, and never settle
for anything less than perfection in its execution!