How To Control The Line Of Scrimmage
While everyone wants to run or pass the football, it's the five members of the offensive line who make that happen. They block for the running back and protect a quarterback. If you have linemen who can dominate the line of scrimmage, then you can win a game of football.
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While the quarterback or running back may get the glory, the members of the offensive line are the key to a powerful offense. These giants of the gridiron are the ones who create holes for a running back and hold off the assault from the defense; giving the quarterback enough time to throw a pass.
There are five members of the offensive line, or linemen: a center who snaps the ball, two guards who play beside him, and two tackles who bookend the offensive line. Life in the trenches is tough. Blocking is a thankless job and the only time you'll get noticed is when you screw it up. To make sure that doesn't happen, you'll need proper form and technique.
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Step 1:
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The Stance
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A lineman uses one of two stances, depending on the play. For a pure passing play, it's a two-point stance. On a play where the team could run or pass, a lineman uses a three-point stance.
To assume a proper three-point stance: Feet should be a little more than shoulder-width apart, with one hand on the ground, and the other resting on the thigh. The lineman's body should be low to the ground to maintain balance.
In a two-point stance, the lineman removes his hand from the ground, but keeps his balanced position. This position gives him the opportunity to cover both his inside and outside shoulder, and gain some leverage against the defender.
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Step 2:
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The Run Block
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Blocking schemes are customized to each specific play, but the fundamentals never change. On a blocking play, a lineman wants to burst from the line of scrimmage, arms out in front, attack the defender from a low position, and push his body up to upset his stance and balance. This makes the opponent easier to control. A lineman needs to move his feet with the defender and not quit until the whistle.
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Step 3:
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The Pass Block
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When the team passes, a lineman's fundamentals change. Instead of pushing the defender off the line of scrimmage, he steps back and tries to stop the defense from getting to the quarterback. During a pass rush, a linemen needs a quick first step. He has to stay low, and to keep his hands and arms extended. Just don't grab a jersey to avoid a holding call from the referee.
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Step 4:
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The Technique
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A lineman needs balance. If he's caught with one foot off the ground or he's out of position, he can lose leverage and be pushed out of the way. To maintain control, take short, choppy steps. Pump your legs furiously like the pistons of an engine to stop the defender's momentum. But brute force won't win alone; a lineman needs to stay low, and maintain a position between the defensive player and the ball carrier.
If you get it right, don't expect a pat on the back. Just get back to the huddle and wait for the next play.
