Deciphering the Blitz: Mastering Passblocking with the Blitz Pick Up Drill
Equipping your running backs with the ability to effectively pick up blitzes is paramount for a successful passing offense. The Blitz Pick Up Drill is a versatile tool for training running backs to identify blitzers, react quickly, and execute proper blocking technique in various pass protection scenarios.
Purpose
- Develop Blitz Recognition Skills: This drill emphasizes the crucial skill of reading the defensive alignment and identifying potential blitzers. Running backs learn to scan the defense pre-snap and anticipate potential blitz packages.
- Refine Reading Progression: The drill reinforces the concept of inside-out reading progression. Running backs prioritize identifying the inside linebackers or closest potential blitzers first, as they pose the most immediate threat to the quarterback.
- Sharpen Blocking Technique: By engaging defenders throughout the drill, running backs practice proper footwork, hand placement, and body positioning to effectively block blitzing defenders and create a clean pocket for the quarterback.
- Enhance Decision-Making: The variable nature of the drill, with fake blitzes and multiple blitzers, challenges running backs to make quick decisions and adjust their blocking assignments on the fly.
Description
Drill Setup
- Arrange 3 to 5 stand-up dummies in a standard offensive line formation (e.g., C-G-T, T-G-C-G-T).
- Position 2 to 3 defenders as potential blitzers across from the stand-up dummies. These defenders can align in various positions, mimicking different blitzes the running back might encounter in a game.
- Have the running back line up in their designated pre-snap position according to the play call.
- The coach positions himself directly behind the running back, acting as the play caller and blitz signaler.
Drill Execution
- On the coach’s signal, the running back takes two short, controlled steps forward as if anticipating a blitz from the innermost defender (closest to the center).
- During these initial steps, the running back must quickly scan the defenders and identify the actual blitzer based on their movement and pre-snap alignment.
- Once the running back identifies the blitzer, he immediately adjust his blocking assignment and takes a strong, balanced stance to effectively block the defender.
- The focus is on meeting the blitzer as close to the line of scrimmage (LOS) as possible, disrupting their rush, and creating a clean pocket for the quarterback.
- Repeat the drill with various blitz signals from the coach, challenging the running back to react and block different defenders.
Progressions
- Introduce Fake Blitzes: As the running backs demonstrate proficiency in identifying true blitzes, incorporate fake blitzes. Defenders can drop back into coverage after initially showing blitz tendencies. This challenges the running back’s decision-making and prevents them from overreacting.
- Multiple Blitzers: Gradually increase the number of blitzing defenders, simulating more complex blitz packages. This forces running backs to prioritize their blocking assignments and ensure the protection of the quarterback.
- No Blitz Scenario: Introduce situations where no defender blitzes. This trains the running back to recognize these situations and adjust accordingly, potentially releasing into a route or chipping another defender depending on the play call.
Variations
- QB Integration: For a more realistic scenario, incorporate a quarterback into the drill. This allows the running back to get a better feel for their positioning relative to the quarterback and practice protecting the passing lane.
- Multiple Running Backs: Consider incorporating two running backs at a time, simulating situations where both backs might be involved in pass protection or route running.
- Tight End Integration: If your offensive scheme utilizes a tight end for pass blocking in certain situations, add them to the drill and call complete plays. This challenges running backs to identify their role (blocking or running a route) based on the play call and the tight end’s alignment.
Coaching Points
- Reading Progression: Continuously emphasize the importance of inside-out reading progression. Running backs should prioritize identifying the closest potential blitzer first and adjust accordingly.
- Quick Steps and Awareness: Focus on the importance of taking two short, controlled steps initially to maintain balance while scanning the defense for the actual blitzer.
- Aggressive Blocking: Encourage running backs to meet the blitzer aggressively and close to the LOS. This minimizes the defender’s space and disrupts their rushing path more effectively.
- Maintain Control: While emphasizing aggressive blocking, remind running backs to stay under control and avoid lunging at the blitzer. This ensures they can effectively engage the defender and maintain proper leverage throughout the block.
- Head Up and Eyes Open: Stress the importance of keeping the head up with some level of peripheral vision while focusing on the blitzer. This allows running backs to stay aware of the overall play situation and potential stunts or secondary blitzes from other defenders.
- Communication (Optional): Depending on your offensive scheme, you can incorporate communication cues between the running back and the quarterback. For example, the quarterback might call out a protection adjustment if they identify a complex blitz package.
Equipment
- 3 to 5 Stand-up dummies (simulating offensive linemen)
- Football (optional, if incorporating a quarterback)
- Blocking shields (optional, for defenders)
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