How to Block a Draw Play

You're playing a very aggressive defense, with linemen and linebackers doing a lot of overpursuit. A good way to catch them offguard is to set up a draw play, and this is how an offensive lineman blocks it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• cleats
• practice defenders
• open area

1. After breaking the huddle, approach the line of scrimmage and get into your stance - probably a 3-point stance.

2. Survey the defensive scheme. You know the draw play is going through the middle of the line, near the center position. Look for any potential play problems. Identify the man you are going to block.

3. As soon as the ball is snapped, come out of your stance and give the defender an outside route around you. You do this by turning your shoulders slightly toward the end of the line of scrimmage, and away from the area of the play. You're trying to convince the defender to take you on the outside shoulder.

4. As soon as the defender commits to your outside shoulder, drive block him completely out of the play. The runningback and quarterback have waited a split second for you to set up this block, and when they see you begin drive-blocking, the ball will be handed off.

5. As soon as you feel the runningback pass you and your defender, release your block and head downfield. You may be able to spring your runningback for more yardage with a good block on a cornerback or safety.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to make an effective sale to the defender to go outside of you. If you do not and he goes inside, the play will collapse.
• Do not show your cards too early. If you open up your stance or "show draw" early, then the defenders will all crash the middle of the line.
• Hold your block until your defender is out of the play, or the play is over. You do not want your man to make the tackle.