How to Play Offensive Guard in Football
Although offensive guards are generally not the most famous or well-known football players on the field, they play a crucial role in every play of the game. Without the protection of his offensive guards a quarterback can become more of a punching bag for defensive linemen than a skilled and efficient passer. Offensive guards also play a big role in the success of running plays. There are two types of offensive guards, a left guard and a right guard. Both positions are played the same, just from opposite sides of the offensive line.
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Instructions
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Protect and shield the quarterback from attacking defensive lineman and linebackers during passing plays. An offensive guard's job during a passing play is to make sure the quarterback has time to stand back in the pocket and pass the ball to his chosen receiver. This means an offensive guard must be ready to absorb anything the defense can throw at him, and must stand his ground as solidly as a wall. This is called pass blocking.
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Create holes for running backs to run through when a running play is called. Offensive guards are tasked with doing almost anything they can to open up a hole for a running back, which can be anything from bull rushing the defense to speed blocking, which involves sprinting out in front of a running back and blocking for him. This is called run blocking.
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Work out and keep your fitness level high. Depending on if the offensive guard is primarily a pass blocker or a run blocker, it may be more advantageous to be extremely large and built or slightly quicker and more agile. In either case, offensive guards must be some of the most aggressive, intimidating players on the field. Otherwise they don't stand much of a chance against a determined defense.
Most offensive guards in the NFL today weigh over 300 pounds.
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Do not try to catch a pass. Offensive guards are considered ineligible receivers, and therefore cannot catch a forward pass. The exceptions to this rule are to recover a fumble or catch a ball first touched by an eligible receiver or defender.
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Tips & Warnings
When playing any contact sport, especially one where tackling is involved like football, it's important to make sure you are wearing the correct protective gear. Failure to wear all the recommended padding can result in injury.
If you get hit in the head make sure to sit out and recover until you are certain you have not experienced any type of concussion. If a team medic or doctor is around, talk to him about any concussion symptoms you might be feeling.
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- Photo Credit Football image by Richard McGuirk from Fotolia.com
