Building Blocks Drill

Setup:

All you’ll need for this drill is two players and a blocking pad.

Purpose:

To teach the fundamentals of any block on the numbers your offensive line will need to do.

Execution:

There is a three part breakdown to this drill that I use to make it simple for the players. They are ‘fit’, ‘hit’, and ‘drive’. To start, the players should be about a yard and a half apart with the offensive player in a relaxed standing position and the defender holding the blocking pad, ready for impact.

When you call out fit, the offensive player will get into a low, strong, athletic position, with their hands up close to their chest, ready to pop.

Next, when you call out hit, they will make contact, delivering the blow and establishing the hands inside. After the hit, the player should freeze, to allow you to evaluate them.

The last part of the drill is drive. Here the player will drive his opponent back, taking three small steps.

Coaching Tips:

To get the whole team involved, just have the players lineup parallel to each other and after each command take the time to walk up and down the line to check balance, arm position, and anything else you might need to correct.

For Younger Athletes:

• Start with the basics of a good stance, emphasizing the importance of a balanced, athletic position before engaging in the block.
• Encourage controlled movements during the ‘hit’ and ‘drive’ phases, teaching younger players to combine power with control.
• Use positive reinforcement to acknowledge good technique and effort, building confidence and reinforcing correct form.

For Older Athletes:

• Challenge older players to demonstrate explosive power during the ‘hit’ phase, with a quick pop from their stance into the block.
• Teach the importance of driving their feet during the ‘drive’ phase, focusing on quick, powerful steps to move the defender back.
• Introduce advanced techniques such as hand fighting and adjusting the block based on the defender’s movements to prepare them for varied game situations.