Mastering the Crossover Step: A Footwork Drill for Advanced Offensive Linemen
The Crossover Footwork Drill is an advanced addition to our series focusing on specific footwork mechanics for various offensive line (OL) blocking techniques. This drill hones the specialized crossover step used in certain blocking schemes, such as kickout blocks and trap blocks.
It’s important to note that the crossover step should only be taught to experienced linemen who understand the proper timing and situations for its safe and effective application.
By incorporating key coaching points, variations, and a clear progression, this drill equips linemen with the precise footwork and body positioning necessary to execute the crossover step with explosiveness and control, ultimately achieving a quicker path to their downfield blocking assignment.
Purpose
- Develop Crossover Step Technique: This drill isolates and refines the crossover step, a specialized footwork sequence used by guards and tackles in specific blocking schemes. The drill allows linemen to practice the pivot, crossover, and subsequent steps with proper timing and body positioning to efficiently reach their target defender for the block.
- Enhanced Downfield Blocking: The crossover step is crucial for guards and tackles who need to quickly reach defenders located outside their initial blocking assignment. By mastering this technique, linemen can get downfield faster and more effectively execute kickout blocks and trap blocks, creating running lanes for outside zone runs and other offensive plays.
- Explosive Movements: The drill emphasizes the importance of generating power through the legs and core to propel linemen out of their stance with an explosive first step. This ensures they can execute the crossover step with speed and precision, ultimately reaching their target defender quickly.
Description
Drill Setup
- Ready Position: Instruct linemen to assume a relaxed “ready position” several yards behind the line of scrimmage, as outlined in the Offensive Line Stance Drill.
- Crossover Step Scenario: Explain the specific blocking scenario where the crossover step would be used (e.g., Left Guard performing a kickout block behind the Left Tackle). This helps linemen visualize the intended outcome and target area for their block.
Drill Execution
- Snap into Stance: On the coach’s whistle or verbal command (e.g., “Set!” or “Hut!”), linemen must explosively snap into their three-point stance.
- Footwork Focus: Following the snap into stance, linemen focus on their crossover step footwork. On the coach’s cadence (e.g., “Hut-Hut”), they explode out of their stance and freeze after their first step. This allows them to isolate and perfect the initial pivot movement crucial for initiating the crossover step.
Progression
- Gradual Refinement: Once linemen demonstrate consistent success with the first-step freeze, the coach can progress the drill. The next step involves working on both the first step (pivot) and the second step (crossover), focusing on proper foot placement and body positioning during the crossover motion.
- Full Sequence Simulation (Optional): For advanced linemen, coaches can introduce a full sequence simulation. This variation involves incorporating a designated “defender” (with a hand shield) or target area, allowing linemen to practice the complete crossover step sequence, including the final step to reach their blocking position.
Coaching Points
- Pivot on Lead Foot: Emphasize a powerful pivot on the lead foot (usually the opposite foot of the blocking assignment). This pivot creates momentum and establishes the base for the crossover step.
- Controlled Crossover: The trailing foot should execute a controlled crossover step across the lead foot, ensuring proper foot placement and maintaining balance throughout the movement.
- Directional Steps: Remind linemen of the directional steps based on their position:
- Tackles typically take a step upfield after the crossover to reach their target defender.
- Guards typically take a flat step laterally after the crossover to reach their target defender.
- Centers typically release to the second level after the crossover to block linebackers.
- No Drop Step: Stress the importance of avoiding a drop step with either foot during the crossover sequence. This can lead to loss of balance and hinder the explosiveness of the movement.
- Backside Arm and Leg Action: Emphasize a forceful “slash” with the backside arm and leg through the crossover step. This generates additional power and helps linemen gain leverage against the defender.
- Wide Base Re-establishment: On the second step following the crossover, remind linemen to regain a wide base with their feet. This ensures stability and proper positioning for engaging the defender in the block.
Equipment
- None Required (Initially)
- (Optional) Hand Shield (for optional defender)
The Crossover Footwork Drill is a valuable tool for developing advanced offensive linemen who excel in specific blocking schemes. By incorporating this drill into their practice routine, linemen can refine the specialized crossover step technique, master the footwork mechanics for reaching downfield defenders quickly, and develop the explosive movements necessary to dominate their assignments in kickout blocks and trap blocks. As linemen progress through the series of footwork drills,
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