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The
primary objective of the offense line in pass situations is to
protect the quarterback. Success is measured by the number of
passes that are thrown without pressure or obstruction.
Adjustments
must be made in body position and techniques when transitioning
from run blocking to pass blocking. Run blocking uses forward
drive and hip roll, while pass blocking requires the use of lateral
and backward movement.
Pre-snap
read
The linemen should know where the quarterback is setting up and
his assignment according to the alignment of the defense. When
blocking a down lineman, he should recognize his alignment and
what he does from that alignment. If a blitz is showing, he needs
to be aware of what his responsibilities are for picking up the
blitz.
Set Up
The manner of setting varies depending on th alignment and capabilities
of the opponent in regards to the quarterback drop. The goal of
the set is for the lineman to position himself between the rusher
and the passer as quickly as possible and as close to the line
of scrimmage as possible Set up and maintaining proper foot, body
and head position is the foundation for good pass protection.
Punch
Teach your linemen to punch with the butt of their hands inside
the framework of the defenders body, and aim for the base of the
numbers on their jersey. The lineman needs to work up through
the man and work for a lockout position. They need to fight pressure
with pressure and keep between the rusher and the quarterback.
Body Position
Linemen must be able to position their bodies with their weight
low and forward to maintain balance. The block must not allow
the defender to get into his body and force him into an upright
position. When the block is forced into an upright position, he
loses his ability to control the direction of the defender.
Finish
The majority of pass plays require protection for only 4 or 5
seconds. Linemen must accept the responsibility of providing whatever
time is necessary to get the pass off. They must never quit no
matter what kind of breakdowns occur, and should stay with the
defender until the whistle blows.
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