Orchestrate the Chaos: Three on One Read Drills for Savvy Defensive Linemen
Three on One Read Drills are a dynamic tool for developing elite defensive linemen who can decipher complex blocking schemes and react decisively. These drills introduce a realistic scenario where a single defensive lineman faces a triple threat from the offensive line. By simulating various combination blocks and gap assignments, linemen learn to read the offensive linemen’s movements, diagnose the play, and execute the proper counter moves. This drill requires no equipment, making it a convenient and versatile addition to any defensive line training program.
Purpose
Mastering Combination Blocks: The core objective of the drill is to train defensive linemen to identify and react to complex combination blocks employed by the offensive line. Combination blocks involve multiple offensive linemen working together to create running lanes or neutralize pass rushers. Examples include double teams, reach-and-scoop blocks, and down-and-loop blocks.
Enhanced Field Awareness: Three-on-One Read Drills go beyond individual block recognition. They emphasize the importance of understanding what’s happening around the defensive lineman. By observing the movements of all three offensive linemen, the lineman can anticipate the overall blocking scheme and adjust their reaction accordingly.
Decision-Making Under Pressure: The drill replicates the pressure and chaos of a live game situation. With multiple offensive linemen moving quickly, the defensive lineman must make quick decisions and react decisively to disrupt the play. This builds confidence and game-like instincts.
Description
Drill Setup
Offensive Line Alignment: Three offensive linemen line up in a designated formation, typically across from a designated gap on the defensive line.
Defensive Line Stance: The defensive lineman assumes their proper stance based on their pre-snap alignment and gap responsibility.
Coach Communication: The coach verbally communicates the intended blocking scheme to the offensive line. This could be a simple double team, a reach-and-scoop block for a running play, or a combination block involving a down block and a kick-out block for a pass play.
Drill Execution
Simulated Snap: On the coach’s cue (“Snap!” or whistle blow), the offensive linemen initiate their blocking scheme.
Read and React: The defensive lineman focuses on reading the movements of all three offensive linemen. This includes identifying initial contact points, helmet direction, and overall blocking angles.
Counter the Block: Based on the identified blocking scheme, the defensive lineman executes the appropriate counter move. For example, if they identify a double team, they might use a swim move or rip technique to fight through the block. If they read a reach-and-scoop block, they might use a club or cross-chop technique to defeat the block.
Maintain Leverage and Pursue: Throughout the drill, emphasize the importance of the defensive lineman maintaining leverage against the offensive linemen. They should also focus on pursuing the play after successfully defeating the block, simulating a live game situation.
Coaching Points
Focus on Keys: Coach the defensive lineman to identify key indicators of the blocking scheme based on the offensive linemen’s initial movements (footwork, hand placement, body positioning).
Head Movement: Stress the importance of keeping their head mobile and scanning the entire offensive line during the drill. This allows them to see the bigger picture and react accordingly.
Communication (Advanced): For more advanced players, incorporate communication between the defensive linemen during the drill. This allows them to call out identified blocks (e.g., “Double! Double!”) and work together to disrupt the play as a unit.
Decision-Making: During post-drill discussions, encourage the defensive lineman to explain their thought process and decision-making during each rep. This helps solidify their understanding of combination blocks and proper counter moves.
Equipment
None Required (cones or markers can be used to designate the line of scrimmage)
Three on One Read Drills are an invaluable tool for developing well-rounded and adaptable defensive linemen. By training them to read complex blocking schemes, react decisively under pressure, and understand the overall offensive strategy, these drills contribute to a more dominant defensive unit.
3 on 1 – Base Block
3 on 1 – Double Team Block
3 on 1 – Scoop Block
3 on 1 – Reach Block
3 on 1 – Trap Block
3 on 1 – Pass Pro
3 on 1 – Screen
3 on 1 – Draw Block
Originally contributed in 2007 by Coach Leon Criner (✝️ Nov. 14, 2014), at the time Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator and Jimmy Sims, at the time Assistant Professor of Health & Physical Education / Head Football Coach at Los Angeles Valley College – The Los Angeles Valley College Monarchs played then in the Western States Conference, now in the SCFA, Southern California Football Association.
