Building Blocks of the Run Game: The “A” Drill
The “A” Drill is a fundamental exercise designed to refine blocking techniques and decision-making for all offensive players involved in the running game. This drill isolates individual matchups at each blocking level, allowing players to work on their assignments and develop the timing and communication crucial for a successful ground attack.
Purpose
- Comprehensive Blocking Technique Refinement: Provides a controlled environment for offensive linemen, tight ends, running backs, and wide receivers to hone their individual blocking techniques against their defensive counterparts.
- Enhanced Running Back Vision: Allows running backs to develop their vision and reading skills by reacting to the blocks unfolding in front of them and choosing the most advantageous running lane.
- Communication and Timing: Emphasizes communication between offensive linemen and running backs to ensure proper blocking assignments and timing.
- Team Motivation and Energy: The competitive nature of the drill fosters team spirit and a sense of urgency, boosting overall practice energy.
Description
Drill Setup
- A-Frame Creation: Using cones, create a tall, 15-yard A-shaped triangle. The top of the “A” should have cones roughly 2 yards apart, while the base expands to approximately 10 yards wide.
- Offensive and Defensive Positioning:
- Offensive Line: Position an offensive lineman (OL) at the apex of the “A” facing inwards. This lineman will be blocking the defensive lineman (DL) positioned directly opposite them.
- Tight End/Running Back: Approximately 5 yards deeper within the “A,” place the tight end (TE) or running back (RB) facing the same direction as the running back. They will be responsible for blocking the linebacker (LB) positioned in front of them.
- Wide Receiver: At the bottom tip of the “A,” position a wide receiver (WR) with their back to the linebacker. Their blocking assignment is the defensive back (DB) lined up across from them.
- Running Back: Finally, place the running back with the football behind the offensive lineman at their customary depth for receiving the handoff.
Drill Execution
- On Coach’s Command: Upon the coach’s signal, all offensive players initiate their assigned blocks at full speed.
- Running Back Decision-Making: The running back reads the developing blocks in front of them and chooses the most advantageous running lane to reach the bottom of the “A” (considered the “end zone” for this drill).
- Drill Termination: The drill stops immediately if:
- The ball carrier is tackled to the ground.
- The ball carrier steps out of bounds (the sides of the “A” represent the sidelines).
- The ball carrier successfully reaches the bottom of the “A” (scores a touchdown).
- Rotation and Repetition: Repeat the drill with fresh sets of players until everyone has received sufficient repetitions.
Variations
- Center-Quarterback Integration: If the offensive lineman is the center (C), incorporate a quarterback (QB) into the drill. The center snaps the ball, the QB performs a handoff to the running back, and then exits the drill without interfering with the remaining blocks.
- Adapting for Different Linemen: For drills involving other offensive linemen besides the center, simply position the center, quarterback and running back accordingly next to the blocking lineman.
Coaching Points
- Full Speed and Full Contact: This drill is designed to be a full-speed, full-contact exercise. Emphasize proper technique execution for all offensive positions while maintaining a high level of commitment and effort.
- Competitive Spirit: To add an element of competition and elevate practice energy, consider awarding points to the offense based on yards gained or the running back reaching the “end zone.” The “losing” team could then perform additional sprints, push-ups, or other conditioning drills.
- Safety First: As this is a full-contact drill, ensure all players are properly equipped with protective gear and prioritize player safety.
- Team Atmosphere: Encourage players not currently participating in the drill to stay engaged by cheering on their teammates and fostering a positive team environment.
Equipment
The “A” Drill offers numerous advantages for developing a cohesive and effective running game:
- Improved Blocking Technique: Provides each offensive player with dedicated repetitions to refine their blocking technique against their specific defensive counterpart.
- Enhanced Running Back Vision and Decision-Making: Allows running backs to develop their vision skills by reading blocks and choosing the optimal running lane based on the developing situation.
- Stronger Offensive Line Communication and Timing: Emphasizes communication between offensive linemen and the running back. Linemen can call out blitz pickups or defensive adjustments, while the running back relays their blocking reads and running lane preferences. This communication fosters a more cohesive blocking unit and improves overall timing for successful handoffs and running plays.
- Boosted Team Morale and Competitive Drive: The competitive nature of the drill, with points awarded for offensive success, injects a fun and engaging element into practice. This can boost team morale, cultivate a competitive spirit, and motivate players to push each other to improve their blocking and running skills.
Overall, the “A” Drill is a valuable tool for any offensive coaching staff looking to build a dominant running game. By focusing on individual technique refinement, communication, and decision-making, this drill equips all offensive players with the necessary skills to create running lanes and pave the way for success on the ground.
