How to Pass Block Like a Pro

As an offensive lineman, you have many responsibilities. When it's 3rd down and 14, your quarterback is going to need time to throw the ball downfield. In order to give him that time, you need to learn how to properly pass block.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• cleats
• practice defenders
• open area

1. After breaking the huddle, come to the line of scrimmage and get into position, either a 2-point or 3-point stance. Make sure spacing is appropriate.
2. Survey the defensive scheme. If you have a lineman in front of you, he's your responsibility.
3. Wait for the proper snap count, then take a jab step into the defensive lineman. You have the benefit of knowing which "hike" to fire out on, so you can catch him flat-footed.
4. During the jab step, extend your arms (hands up, palms facing outward) and explosively punch the defender's shoulderpads. This should stop his momentum, and give you time to recoil back into position.
5. Once you come back into position, center your feet about shoulder width apart, knees bent. Bring your elbows tight against you, and have your hands out in front. Use your hands to fire out against your defender, trying to drive through him. You can fire them both at once, or individually, depending on which side the defender is rushing.
6. If you have an aggressive defender, who is trying to go around you on either side, drive your hands into him and force him in that direction. Use his momentum against him.
7. Once the ball leaves the quarterback's hand, release the defender and go downfield. You may be able to provide a block that opens up your wide receiver for more yardage.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your head on a swivel. If you don't have someone in front of you, you may have a blitzing linebacker or defensive end to apply this technique.
• Protect the quarterback at all costs. Do whatever you can to stay between him and your defender.
• Don't be afraid to hold your defender. If it saves a hit on your quarterback, then the 10-yard penalty is worth (use only as last resort).
• Watch out for stunting linemen. If the down lineman stunts and a linebacker blitzes to your opposite side, then take the one closest to the quarterback. Jab the one moving away from you, hopefully giving the lineman next to you time to pick up the blitz.