How to Perform a Chop Block in Football

The chop block is one of the most dangerous plays in all of football. There are actually two different types of chop blocks, both of them illegal. In one instance, an offensive player will use his shoulder or helmet to block an opponent below the knee either from the side or from behind. A chop block can also be called when this same hit is made while a defender is being blocked by another offensive player and thus can't see the hit coming.

Instructions

1. Wait for the right time to perform the chop block. The best time to use this move is when a defender is already being blocked by a teammate. This makes the block much easier to execute.

2. Move towards the side of the defender. Which side you pick will be determined by the nature of the play and which way you are directed by other blockers.

3. Begin descending towards the knee of your opponent as you make your way to his side. Remember that you want to make contact on the side of his leg either at or below the knee.

4. Lead with your shoulder as you go down. This will ensure that the blocker crumples to the ground as you make contact. It will also decrease the chance that you will get called for the illegal chop block.

5. Make full contact with the leg of your opponent. If you simply brush up against his leg, the block will be ineffective. Your shoulder should run over his leg so that he falls to the ground. Try to aim right around the knee. The higher the block, the lesser the chances are the a flag will be thrown.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your arms near your side when performing a chop block. Otherwise, it will appear as though you're tackling the defender and a flag will definitely be thrown.

• The chop block is incredibly dangerous. Besides the fact that it is a 15-yard penalty, players who have been chop-blocked have suffered broken legs.