Pass Protection Drill: Building Elite QB Protection for Running Backs
Equipping your running backs with exceptional pass protection skills is crucial for a well-rounded and dynamic offense. The Pass Protection Drill is a fundamental tool for honing their blocking technique against simulated pass rushes in both five and seven-step dropback situations.
Purpose
- Sharpen Pass Blocking Fundamentals: This drill focuses on teaching and refining proper blocking mechanics for running backs. Players learn proper footwork, hand placement, and body positioning to effectively block edge rushers and create a clean pocket for the quarterback.
- Develop Situational Awareness: The drill incorporates two separate rushes, simulating the potential for both quick throws (five-step drop) and longer developing plays (seven-step drop). This helps running backs adjust their blocking approach based on the play call.
- Enhance Pass Protection Technique: By engaging multiple defenders throughout the drill, running backs gain experience in various blocking scenarios. This allows them to refine their hand-eye coordination, maintain proper leverage, and develop the instincts needed to consistently win their blocking assignments.
Description
Drill Setup
- Align the running back in a two-point stance, mimicking a split-back formation. Utilize cones to mark their designated spot on the field.
- Position a defender (linebacker or edge rusher) in an outside rush position directly across from the running back.
- The defender should also be aligned with cones marking their starting point.
- Place a second defender (linebacker or edge rusher) at the other edge.
Drill Execution
- Communicate the kind of drop the QB would take. Either by just announcing the number of steps (5 step drop or 7 step drop) or call an actual play with either drop.
- On your signal, the first defender initiates a simulated pass rush by attempting to get past the running back and pressure the quarterback (imaginary or designated target).
- The running back steps laterally to meet the defender’s rush path as close to the LOS as possible, utilizing proper footwork and hand placement to block and maintain the defender outside the pocket.
- Once the running back successfully engages and neutralizes the first defender, blow the whistle to signal the end of the first rush.
- The first defender resets to their original position, and the running back lines up to take on the second rusher.
- As soon as he is set, give the command for the second defender to initiate his own pass rush.
- The running back must quickly adjust their positioning and blocking technique to effectively block the second defender, again prioritizing maintaining a clean pocket for the quarterback.
- Repeat the drill sequence, allowing the running back to block multiple defenders throughout the drill.
Progressions
- Increase Speed: Gradually increase the speed the rusher is attacking, start off with jogging or even walking speed when introducing The Pass Protection Drill to your runningbacks. Giving them the chance to understand the task and what to expect. Once they grasp the idea and understand the technique to apply, speed it up.
- Increase Intensity: Gradually increase the intensity of the drill by having the defenders utilize various pass rushing moves (speed rush, spin move, etc.) as the running backs demonstrate proficiency in blocking basic techniques.
- Introduce Live Drills: Once comfortable with the controlled setting, consider incorporating “live” drills where a scout team quarterback throws a pass while the running back blocks against a defender who attempts to pressure the passer. This simulates a more game-like scenario and allows players to experience the pressure of a real pass play.
Coaching Points
- Footwork and Leverage: Emphasize proper footwork for the running back. They should shuffle laterally with quick, controlled steps to mirror the defender’s rush and maintain good leverage throughout the block.
- Hand Placement: Focus on proper hand placement. The running back should initiate the block with a strong punch to the defender’s chest plate, disrupting their momentum and keeping them at bay.
- Balanced Stance: Reinforce the importance of maintaining a balanced and athletic stance throughout the block. This allows the running back to react quickly to any changes in the defender’s rush and adjust their blocking accordingly.
- Head Up, Eyes Open: While maintaining focus on their blocking assignment, remind running backs to keep their head up with some level of peripheral vision. This allows them to stay aware of the overall play situation and potential stunts or blitzes from other defenders.
Equipment
- Cones (to mark alignment points)
- Linemen-split marker (or cones) to designate the line of scrimmage (LOS)
|
|
|
