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Photo by Grant Halverson Getty Images |
The cut block is a variation of the drive block. It differs in that the blocker aims at the linebacker's feet and ankles instead of driving at the linebacker's numbers. If the defensive player has not focused his eyes on the blocker and is looking for the ball carrier, this can be an effective offensive tool. One minute the linebacker will be standing up; the next second he will find himself sprawled on the ground.
This drill is similar to the drive-blocking drill used on the blocking sled, except that a line of bags lying on the ground takes the place of the pads on the sled. Starting on the right side of the bags, each linebacker moves down the line, extending his arms, pushing the bags into the ground, and kicking his feet back in the same motion. As his feet hit, the linebacker must push up with his arms in order to regain his balance and shuffle down the line to the next bag. When using this technique, it is again important that the player keep his back straight and not merely bend at the waist. Most successful blocks against linebackers result not from the superb skills of offensive players, but from linebackers looking for the ball carrier instead of focusing their eyes on the men coming to block them. A good linebacker not only understands who can block him, but he also has a feel for the different types of blocks that each offensive man will use in any situation.
This is set up in exactly the same way as the one-on-one drive blocking drill. The only difference is that the offensive player tries to knock the linebacker off his feet with a cut block instead of driving him off the line. The linebacker's reaction to this type of block also must be different. He no longer can meet the blocker pad to pad. Now he must extend his arms, forcing the blocker into the turf. As his hands strike the blocker's pads and push down, he must kick both feet backwards, eliminating any chance of the blocker knocking him off his feet. There always is a chance for injury in this drill. Consequently, it is advisable to start the drill with the players going only half speed. As the players become better at defeating this type of block, the speed of the drill may be increased.
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Copyright © Thomas L. Bass 2006. All rights reserved.
Most successful blocks against linebackers result not from the superb skills of offensive players, but from linebackers looking for the ball carrier instead of focusing their eyes on the men coming to block them. A good linebacker not only understands who can block him, but he also has a feel for the different types of blocks that each offensive man will use in any situation.
Drill: Facing One-on-One Cut Blocking
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Drill: Escape From Cut Blocks (vs. Bags)
Defeating the Cut Block
"Play Football The NFL Way" is the first Instructional Manual for Football Players and Coaches ever published by the NFL. It is the ultimate position-by-position guide of techniques and drills for Offense, Defense and Special Teams. Author Tom Bass is a former NFL coach with more than 20 years of experience with the Cincinnati Bengals, San Diego Chargers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
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