Coaching Defensive Football Successfully - Vol. 2down Linemen PDF

Coaching
Defensive
Football Successfully:
Vol. 2—Down Linemen
Denny M. Burdine
©2011 Coaches Choice. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States.
No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or

transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of Coaches Choice.
Throughout this book, the masculine shall be deemed to include the feminine
and vice versa.
ISBN: 978-1-60679-123-3
Library of Congress Control Number: 2010932209
Cover design: Brenden Murphy
Book layout: Studio J Art & Design
Front cover photo: ©Southcreek Global/ZUMApress.com
Coaches Choice
P.O. Box 1828
Monterey, CA 93942
www.coacheschoice.com
Dedication
To my wife, Judy; thanks for being the perfect football coach’s wife. To my
mother for giving me the thirst for knowledge and my dad for teaching me that a
man’s work ethic makes all the difference. Thanks to Don Hubbard, my high
school football coach, for introducing me to the great game of football.
Acknowledgments
Only a retired coach could have the passion to write such an in depth book about
defensive football. When I decided to spend the time to write down my
knowledge of defensive football in book format, I tried to account for every
detail. The seven volumes of Coaching Defensive Football Successfully, are the
result of thousands of hours of creating images, animation, and written
information.
As I began to write, I quickly realized that what I know is a result of the hard
work of others. I have spent my entire coaching career feeding off of the
knowledge of other coaches. I applied what I saw others doing and modified it to
suit my own situation. There are some great innovators in the game of football
and their creations never remain a secret. Of course, from trial and error, I also
developed my own defensive philosophy; however, I have invented nothing as it
applies to defensive football. During my coaching career everyone that I came in
contact with left an impression. As a coach moves through his coaching career it
becomes very difficult to remember from whom his coaching knowledge was
gained. I have taken no shortcuts in my efforts to honor those coaches who have
had a profound influence on me.
As for me, I can quickly account for my knowledge of defensive football. It

comes from three coaches.
My journey in football began with my high school coach, Don Hubbard.

From him I learned in practice what the phrase, “Run it again!” meant. He was a
die-hard for simplicity and fundamentals. We would run the same play over and
over again until he was satisfied that it could be successful in a game situation.
According to him, there was no need in have multiple plays if you could not run
the basic plays correctly. He also showed me how important winning state
championships was to the school and community, and most importantly, how it
had an everlasting impact on the players. Much of my confidence in life was
because of his influence on me and a belief that failure is not an option.
From John Thompson, former defensive coordinator at the University of

Arkansas, I learned just about everything that I know about defensive football.
Much of the defensive scheme found in this book came from Coach Thompson’s
ideas. The stack scheme with two-deep coverage was the foundation of my
football knowledge. Coach Thompson’s numbered blitz scheme, along with
prowling and movement, taught me that modern day defensive football can be
very unconventional, but very successful. I firmly believe that Coach Thompson
is one of the best defensive minds that ever coached the game.
Special thanks to Richard Martin, who was my pipeline for defensive

football information. He passed away at an early age, but he lived a full life for a
football coach. Coach Martin had a great deal of passion for defense. He would
be so intense about discussing new defensive ideas that you too would become
enthusiastic.
Finally, to the players that I coached, thanks for the knowledge that I gained
from your efforts. It was through your blood, sweat, and pain that I was able to
experiment with various defensive schemes. I can only hope that I gave back all
that I received.
Preface
Coaching Defensive Football Successfully consists of seven volumes that will

help all coaches become better defensive coaches. It is for the young coach who
is searching for a defensive package. It is also for the experienced coach who
may be looking for new defensive ideas.
The following seven volumes are found in Coaching Defensive Football

Successfully:
• Vol. 1—Philosophy and Fronts

• Vol. 2—Down Linemen
• Vol. 3—Linebackers
• Vol. 4—Secondary and Coverages
• Vol. 5—Blitz Package
• Vol. 6—Defending Offensive Schemes
• Vol. 7—Blocking and Returning Punts
The diagrammed plays found in most all books written about football use
X’s and O’s to represent players. Coaching Defensive Football Successfully
replaces the traditional X’s and O’s with drawn images of players to give the
reader a more realistic view of diagrammed plays. Each book also includes a
companion CD-ROM. The
CD-ROM presents an animated PowerPoint® version of the play diagrams
found in each book. By simply clicking a mouse, the reader can use a slide show
presentation to see the diagrammed plays come to life as players move to
defensive positioning. By using this sequence, the reader will acquire an in-
depth understanding of each book.
A football coach must have a desire to acquire as much football knowledge

as possible. Throughout his coaching career, he will always search for football
information. He will buy books and videos and visit high school and college
coaches, but the truth is, though, that no matter what he is searching for, he will
get only bits and pieces of information. The worst feeling in the world is to see
new defensive ideas, but have no way of learning the fine points. Coaching
Defensive Football Successfully was written to give complete, detailed
information from a coach’s viewpoint.
Sometimes coaches work so hard using the same ideas that they become
stale, much like a man with a dull saw. He is working hard, but is making very
little progress. There comes a time when football coaches need to stop and
sharpen their saws. A sharpened saw makes the job easier and more efficient.
This defensive package will help to sharpen your defensive tools and make you a
better football coach.
Each year, high school coaches see offenses that range from the Dead-T to
the Spread, so coaches must have a package that is able to adapt to everything.
Coaching Defensive Football Successfully provides a defensive package that
allows you to make adjustments for all offensive schemes. It incorporates the
Miami package, the 4-3 front, and all its adjustments. The Oklahoma package is
the under 5-2 and all its adjustments. The Arizona package is made up of the 3-
2, 3-3, 5-1, and the two-man fronts and all the adjustments from each. Secondary
coverages are man-to-man, zone, and combination man and zone. Stemming,
prowling, and movement are used extensively. Line stunts range from the simple
one-man stunts to the complex four-man stunts. Finally, the blitz system involves
using numbered blitzes and zone blitzes that are limited only by your
imagination.
The defensive package described in this series is a proven defensive

package. This package has won championships and produced major college
players and NFL players.
If you are a new coach looking for defensive information, you will find it in
this series. If you are a coach who already has a defensive scheme, you will gain
information to build on what you already know.
Introduction
Congratulations for having chosen one of the most honorable professions known
to man. The title “Coach” should be worn proudly, on and off the field. Your
career choice of coaching also brings with it the title of teacher. To be given the
ability and opportunity to teach others is a very honorable calling. As a football
coach, you do much more than just coach and teach. You lead, you inspire, and
you help to mold the lives of all those with whom you come in contact. The role
of coach gives you the opportunity to teach character, discipline, leadership, and
work ethics to your players. Knowing the impact you have on the lives of others
is very sobering. Even on the bad days, be proud to tell people that you are a
coach and a teacher. However, if you plan to continue to influence the lives of
others, you must be able to win in the coaching profession. Unemployed coaches
have very little impact on the lives of others. Being successful is a top priority.
Football is the greatest game that God ever allowed man to play. It is almost
as if God said, “Let there be football so that all the young boys who play it can
grow to become men, and all the men who coach it can always be boys.”
Football coaches can be divided into three categories. The first type of coach
is the “fundamentalist.” He is very conservative in his thinking. He does not
wear Tommy Hilfiger® shirts or Calvin Klein® pants. He does not brag about
how much football he knows; he simply believes that in order to win, you must
be fundamentally sound. He believes that blocking and tackling win football
games. After all, Vince Lombardi said it, so it must be true. The fundamentalist
works hard each day teaching basics. His team blocks and tackles and blocks and
tackles. He has no interest in the spread offense or the zone blitz defense; he
keeps everything simple.
When he walks off the field after each game, he cannot understand how he
lost the game; after all, he worked fundamentals each day. A coach that is solely
a fundamentalist is a dinosaur, and he is destined for extinction.
The second type of coach is the “theorist.” He is very liberal in his thinking
and wears the Tommy Hilfiger shirts and the Calvin Klein pants. He has a
swagger in his walk, and he cannot end a conversation without letting one know
how smart he is about the game of football. He spends all his time scheming how
he can beat his opponents by outsmarting them. He believes that he wins the
game on the chalkboard. His offensive scheme is very complex with formations,
plays, and horizontal and vertical stretches. His defensive scheme is very
complex with multiple fronts and coverages. He spends more time in practice
working on alignments than he does working on fundamentals. Because he
coaches a passive brand of football, his teams have a tendency to be soft when it
comes to blocking and tackling.
When he walks off the field after each game, he cannot understand how he
lost the game; after all, he is smarter than his opponents. This type of coach is
not a dinosaur, but he also is destined for failure.
The third type of coach is the coach who understands that you win with
fundamentals and modern-day offensive and defensive schemes. He is called the
“theo-fundamentalist.” He teaches fundamentals, but he also looks to gain the
advantage by match-ups and alignments. His team works fundamentals each day
from a scheme that gives them the best advantage to block and tackle. He
understands that offensively a team must be multiple and stretch the defense
both horizontally and vertically. He believes that a team must also be very
multiple on defense and must use movement, blitzes, and multiple coverages to
confuse and attack the offense. This type of coach has a great chance to be
successful.
Each coach must develop a sound football philosophy. A defensive coach

should have the philosophy that you play defense first, have a sound kicking
game, and employ an offense that is exciting and moves the ball. The great
coach Paul “Bear” Bryant once said, “Offense sells tickets, and defense wins
championships.” Nothing of greater truth has ever been said about the game of
football. Defense comes first!
A good defensive package is one that allows the defenders to play in their
natural state. The natural state for a defensive player is running to the ball and
making tackles. All defensive schemes must allow the players to play in this
manner. A coach must develop a defensive package that best allows this type of
defense to occur. The natural state for a defender is to read and react while on
the run, which means being aggressive when coming off the ball, attacking
blockers, and pursuing the ballcarrier. To use this type of play against modern
offenses, you must be multiple in your fronts and coverages. You must stunt,
blitz, prowl, stem, and move both the fronts and coverages, thereby confusing
the offense through disguises and illusions.
Most coaches will tell you that offense is assignment football, and defensive
is reaction football. This saying may be true to a certain extent, but a defense
must be a dictating type of defense, not just a reacting defense. Strike first and
strike hard! Place pressure on the offense and let them react to what you are
doing on defense. Be simple enough to keep your players from being confused
but complex enough to attack and confuse all offensive schemes.
When you think of defensive personnel, you must have a certain type of
player in mind. You must look for players with great heart and aggressive
personalities, who swarm to the ball. You do not want the “milk drinkers and
cookie eaters” on your side of the ball. Instead, find the tough guys who will run
to the ball and arrive in a very bad mood!
Football at any level from high school to the professional ranks is simply a
good old-fashioned dogfight. Because it is a dogfight, you must bite the other
dog harder and more often than he bites you. Show good sportsmanship but be
aggressive. As the Mexicans proclaimed at the Battle of the Alamo, “De
Quello,” which basically means, “Have no mercy and take no prisoners.”
Placing your personnel in the proper positions is very important. Coaches

must spend many hours in personnel meetings in order to get the best
combination. The following ideas should be used when placing personnel into
the proper positions:
• Corners are a must! Corners must be able to play man-to-man on an island.

They must have good speed and jumping ability. The old cowboys out West
used to say, “No hoof, no horse”; well in defensive football you can say, “No
corners, no defense.” When your corners can play on an island, your
defensive scheme can become more complex and very dangerous to the
offense. You must find your corners first.
• Safeties must be able to cover like corners and tackle like linebackers. They
must be able to play in the box and also cover on an island. Safeties are your
next priority after you have found the corners.
• Linebackers are the heart of the defense. They must be able to attack
blockers, run to the ball, and tackle in the open field. They must be able to
play both the pass and the run. Linebackers are a priority after you find
corners and safeties.
• Linemen must be able to control the line of scrimmage. They are the
“grunts,” fighting it out in the trenches. They must defeat blockers and run to
the ball. Most importantly, they must be able to rush the quarterback.
Defensive ends must be a priority after you have found the secondary and
linebackers. Defensive noses and tackles are the last, but not least, to be
found.
Down Linemen Basics
The strength of any defensive football team is found in the ability of the
defensive line to control the line of scrimmage. The down linemen must be
“grunts”—willing to fight it out in the trenches. They must be smart, aggressive,
strong, and quick. They must be able to read blocks and pursue the ball against
both the run and pass.
Techniques for Specific Down Linemen

This defensive scheme employs four down linemen: nose, tackle, Blood, and
end. The tackle and Blood align to the declared side. The nose and end align
away from the declared side. The down lineman must be able to play from
specific alignment techniques, as noted in the following lists.
Nose Tackle Blood End

• O • OH • 3 • 3
• OH • 1 • 4 • 4
• 1 • 2 • 5 • 5
• 2 • 3 • 7 • 7
• 3 • I • 9 • 9
• I
Down Linemen Stance, Alignment,

and Initial Movement
Defensive linemen must be able to come off the ball, attack blockers, separate,
release, and pursue the ball. Everything starts with a good stance and alignment.
Stance
• The down linemen align in a three-point stance.

• The feet are armpits-width apart.
• The body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet.
• The gapside foot is up with a toe-to-heel stagger between the up foot and the
back foot, which is the inside foot, except when a defender aligns in a 1 or 7
technique, and then the outside foot is back.
• The heels are slightly off the ground with most of the weight on the balls of
the feet.
• The back is straight with the hips slightly higher than the head.
• The neck is bowed with the eyes on the read key.
• The up hand is at shoulder level ready to attack (palm up with the thumb
inside and the fingers spread). This hand is on the side of the up foot. The
down hand is on the side of the back foot.
Alignment
• Alignment is taking all-the-ball, unless a flex off the line of scrimmage is

schemed.
Initial Movement
• Initial movement is made when the ball moves.

• On ball movement, the defender must “roll off” or explode out of his stance.
• Movement must be forward, not up.
• The first step is quick and short.
• The defender explodes from the ankles, knees, and hips.
• The defender leads with the upper body and hands.
• The defender must keep his pads under the offensive blocker’s pads, which is
a cardinal rule when playing defense.
Attack Techniques
Hand Shiver
• The hand shiver is used to attack and neutralize offensive blockers.

• The defender drives his upper body and hands into the sternum (numbers) of
the offensive blocker.
• The defender’s thumbs are inside with his fingers up, which is a pushing
position.
• When contact is made, the defender’s elbows are locked and his arms are
extended. He then bench-presses the blocker and grabs cloth as he looks for
the ball.
• The defender must keep his feet moving in rapid fire and drive the blocker
back into his stance.
• Separation must exist from the blocker, and the defender’s legs must be kept
behind him to ensure he can escape the block.
Forearm Shiver
• The forearm shiver is used to attack trappers and lead blockers.
• The defender drives the proper forearm into the mid-section of the blocker.
• If the defender is using a spill technique, he attacks the inside hip of the
blocker with a forearm rip.
• The forearm is at a 90-degree angle with the fist clinched.
• The defender steps into the blocker and explodes his forearm into the
blocker’s lower number or hip area, which is a lifting motion and also a
violent forward action.
• The offhand drives into the blocker’s shoulder and is used to control the
blocker.
• To release off the block, the defender can rip or swim to get into the proper
pursuit angle.
Release From the Blocker

• Once the defender has neutralized the blocker by bench-pressing him, he must
decide the type of release technique that he will use.
• Swim technique is a very common type of release. As the defender separates
and finds the ball, he releases to the proper angle of pursuit. The defender
pushes hard with his pursuit side hand into the shoulder of the blocker. The
defender then swims his backside arm over the blocker’s head, as he pushes
off the blocker. He must stay as small as possible when swimming over the
blocker.
• Rip technique has become more and more popular in recent years. The
defender bench-presses and separates until he finds the best angle of pursuit.
He pushes hard with the pursuit-side hand into the shoulder of the blocker. He
then rips the off-side hand and arm across and up into the armpit of the
blocker, and then separates from the blocker. He needs to stay as small as
possible as he crosses the blocker.
Pursuit to the Ball

Pursuit to the ball takes place as the release occurs, using the best angle of
pursuit. The defender must know where his teammates are and if he is getting a
“clear or cloudy” path. The defender must move flat down the line of
scrimmage, unless he has trail or contain responsibility.
Because the defender sometimes steps with his inside foot, at times the
offensive blocker will be able to reach the defender, cutting him off from his gap
of responsibility. If the defender is cut off from his gap of responsibility, he must
quickly move to regain outside leverage or spill the ball to the outside. In order
to gain outside leverage, the defender pushes hard with his outside hand, turning
the blocker’s shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage. The defender
then dips his inside shoulder and rips across the blocker in order to regain
outside leverage. If the defender is unable to regain outside leverage, he spills
the ball to the outside by pushing hard with his inside hand, turning the blocker’s
shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage. The defender then works to
gain ground upfield as he forces the ball to the outside.
The down linemen must be trained to use the following two types of
positioning on blockers:
• “Frame” tells the defender that he must keep one foot inside the blocker’s
frame until the path of the ball is totally determined. This positioning is good
against zones, draws, and screens.
• “Race” tells the defender to widen his alignment and jet upfield, using speed
to attack. This technique is used when no fear of draws, traps, screens, etc.
exists.
Pass-Rush Techniques
The ability of the defensive linemen to come off the ball and rush the
quarterback has become very important in recent years. As high school offenses
pass more, the need for pressure on the quarterback has grown. The following
pass-rush concepts and techniques are used in this defensive scheme:
Reading Pass Blocks

The term “high-hat” has become popular in recent years. “High-hat” occurs
when the blocker’s helmet moves up as he sets to pass protect. Influence trap can
also look this way; defenders should be careful to not be fooled by the influence.
When deciding what type of pass rush to use, the defender needs to decide
several things: • Where and how is the blocker setting up? Is he giving ground,
or is he setting up short?
• Is the quarterback dropping short or deep or rolling out? If the quarterback

sets short, he is passing the ball quickly, and the defender must get to him as
quickly as possible. If he is setting deeper, he plans to hold the ball longer,
and the defender will have more time to get to the passer. If he is rolling or
bootlegging out, the defender must get into the proper pass-rush lane. The
defender must always know if he has a contained rush or free rush.
• Which pass blocking technique is the blocker using? What the blocker does
should dictate which type of rush to use. At the high school level, it is very
difficult to have the time to teach and learn several different pass-rush
techniques. Therefore, players should be limited to a couple.
Pass-Rush Techniques
Bull Rush or Power Rush
This type of rush is used by most teams. The bull rush is good against a short
setup by the blocker, which usually means a short drop by the quarterback.
• Because the drop is short, the defender has little time for fancy moves.
• He must attack the blocker by closing ground quickly.
• At contact, he drives the heels of his hands into the blocker’s chest, just
below the top of the numbers.
• The defender bench-presses the blocker by driving the blocker’s shoulders
upward.
• The defender uses a pushing technique to drive the blocker into the passer.
• The defender rips or swims to release off the blocker and get to the
quarterback.
Drive and Pull Rush Techniques
These techniques are the same as the bull rush, except, once the defender bench-
presses the blocker and feels the blocker trying to dig in, he pulls the blocker
forward and uses a rip or swim release to the quarterback.
Speed Rush Technique

• The speed rush is used when the blocker is setting up quickly.
• The defender rushes hard to the blocker, dips his inside shoulder, and sprints
by the blocker.
• The defender grabs the blocker’s outside pad and arm and pulls them across
his body.
• The defender rips his inside arm across and upper-cuts the blocker as he
gains an outside position. He must stay as small as possible when ripping by
the blocker. The smaller the blocking surface, the smaller the target the
blocker can attack.
The coach should evaluate each lineman to decide the best technique to use.
However, he must keep an open mind. Some players may be able to use spins
and turns and be very effective.
Alignment Techniques
0 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns head-up on the center, as shown in Figure 3-1.
Stance: A three-point stance with either hand down. The feet are at armpits-
width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet. Either foot
is staggered back, toe-to-heel. The heels are slightly off the ground, with most of
the weight on the balls of the feet. The back is straight with the hips slightly
higher than the head. The neck is bowed, with the eyes on the read key. The up
hand should be at shoulder level, ready to attack (palm up, thumb inside, with
the fingers spread).
Key: The ball to the head of the center.
Responsibility: Both A gaps to the ball, always keeping the center off the
linebackers.
Figure 3-1. 0 technique
OH Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his inside eye on the outside eye of the center, as
shown in Figure 3-2.
Stance: A three-point stance with the inside hand down. The feet are at armpits-
width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet. The inside
foot is staggered back, toe-to-heel. The heels are slightly off the ground, with
most of the weight on the balls of the feet. The back is straight with the hips
slightly higher than the head. The neck is bowed, with the eyes on the read key.
The up hand should be at shoulder level, ready to attack (palm up, thumb inside,
with the fingers spread).
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the center.
Responsibility: A gap to the side that the defender is shaded, keeping the center
off of the linebackers.
Figure 3-2. OH technique
I Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his outside eye on the outside eye of the center
in a tilt position, as shown in Figure 3-3.
Stance: A three-point stance in a tilted position, with the inside hand down. The
feet are at armpits-width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on
the feet. The inside foot is staggered back, toe-to-heel. The heels are slightly off
the ground, with most of the weight on the balls of the feet. The back is straight
with the hips slightly higher than the head. The neck is bowed with the eyes on
the read key. The up hand should be at shoulder level, ready to attack (palm up,
thumb inside, with the fingers spread).
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the offside guard.
Responsibility: A gap to the ball, keeping the center off of the linebackers.
Figure 3-3. I technique
1 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his outside eye on the inside eye of the guard, as
Stance: A three-point stance with the outside hand down. The feet are at armpits-
width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet. The outside
most of the weight on the balls of the feet. The back is straight, with the hips
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the guard.
Responsibility: A gap to the ball, keeping the guard off of the linebackers.
2 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns head-up the guard, as shown in Figure 3-5.
Key: The ball to the head of the guard.
Responsibility: A gap to the ball, keeping the guard off of the linebackers.
3 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his inside eye on the outside eye of the guard, as
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the guard.
Responsibility: B gap to the ball, keeping the guard off of the linebackers.
4 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns head-up the tackle, as shown in Figure 3-7.
Key: The ball to the head of the tackle.
Responsibility: C gap to the ball, keeping the tackle off of the linebackers.
5 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his inside eye on the outside eye of the tackle, as
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the tackle.
Responsibility: C gap to the ball, keeping the tackle off of the linebackers.
7 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his outside eye on the inside eye of the tight end,
as shown in Figure 3-9.
Stance: A three-point stance with the outside hand down. The feet are at armpits-
width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet. The outside
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the offensive tight end or tackle. If no tight end,
he keys through the tackle to the quarterback to the near back.
Responsibility: C gap to the ball, keeping the tight end off of the linebackers.
9 Technique
Alignment: The defender aligns his outside eye on the outside eye of the tight
end, as shown in Figure 3-10.
Stance: A three-point tilted stance, with the inside hand down. The feet are at
armpits-width apart. Body weight is light on the hand and heavy on the feet. The
inside foot is staggered back, toe-to-heel. The heels are slightly off the ground,
with most of the weight on the balls of the feet. The back is straight with the hips
Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the tight end.
Responsibility: Edge to flow, keeping the tight end off of the linebackers.
O and OH Technique With
A Gap Responsibility
An O technique can align with either foot back. He is responsible for both A
gaps. An OH technique aligns with his inside foot back. He is responsible for the
A gap to the side that he is shaded.
Base Block
Description: This block is used when the center drives his head directly at the
defender’s numbers, as shown Figure 4-1.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot and attacks the center. The
defender drives his hands through the numbers of the center as he sinks his hips
and drives his feet. As he gains control of the center, he bench-presses him and
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secure, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
Description:
This block is
used when the
Figure 4-1. Base block
center tries to
reach the
defender, cutting
him off from his
gap of
assignment, as Figure 4-2. Reach block
shown in Figure
4-2.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot, and, if the center is reach
blocking, the defender steps with the outside foot out and up at a
45-degree angle. The defender attacks the center by driving his hands through
the numbers of the center. As he gains control of the center, he bench-presses
him and protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secure, he escapes and pursues the
ball.
Zone Block
Description: This block is used when two
offensive lineman attempt to block a defensive
lineman and a linebacker, as shown in Figure 4-
3.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot.

If the center and guard attempts to zone block,
he immediately makes contact with the center
and defeats him with vertical thrust. He should Figure 4-3. Zone block
grab the center and not allow the blocker to zone
off on the linebacker. The defender must keep his legs free by being aware of the
guard trying to cut block him. He needs to keep his shoulders square and
separate from the blocker while working down the line of scrimmage.
Double-Team Block
Description: This block is used when the center
blocks base and the guard down blocks, as
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot

and attacks the center, the same as he would with
a base block. Once he sees or feels the guard
doubling, he attacks the guard with the
defender’s near shoulder. The defender breaks Figure 4-4. Double-team block
the seam by exploding low and hard through the
near thigh pad of the guard. The defender must keep his feet behind him until the
seam is broken. He must not get knocked off the ball. If he feels that he is being
driven back, he must try to go down and cause a pile. It is important to
remember that going to the ground allows the guard to combo off on the
linebacker.
Down-Down Block—Trap
Description: This block is used when the center blocks down or backside, and
the guard blocks down on the defender, as shown in Figure 4-5.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot and reads the center, which will
be a miss read for the defender. He gets this blocking scheme from the counter
trey or any trap with a 3 technique. The defender attacks the center the same as a
zone block. When he sees the pulling guard cross
his face, he immediately penetrates upfield to
avoid contact from the playside guard, and then
pursues the ball by using the best angle possible.
If this block is counter trey or counter “F,” he
attacks the second blocker, knocking him off his
trapping path.
Figure 4-5. Down-down block—trap
Fold Block
steps back and folds outside, and the guard
blocks down on the defender, as shown in Figure
4-6.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot

as he reads the center stepping back and to the
outside. The defender steps with the center, just
as he would a reach block. When he sees the Figure 4-6. Fold block
guard blocking down on him, he steps into the
guard as if it were a base block. He must keep inside leverage and pursue across
the face of the guard or off the butt of the guard, depending on the guard’s
blocking angle and the path of the ball.
Big-on-Big Pass Block

Description: This block is used when the center shows high-hat and sets for pass
protection, as shown in Figure 4-7.
Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot. When the defender reads pass,
he immediately closes the distance between himself and the center and rushes
the quarterback, checking for draws and screens
as he goes. The defender anticipates the double-
team. He must quickly decide the best pass-rush
technique to use. He must use second and third
efforts to get to the passer.
Figure 4-7. Big-on-big pass block
Turnback Pass Block—Toward

steps laterally, and then turns back for pass
protection. This block is high-hat and usually
means a sprint or play-action pass, as shown in
Figure 4-8.

Once he reads turnback blocking, he must close
the distance between himself and the next Figure 4-8. Turnback pass block—
blocker in the direction the quarterback is going toward
—he must always move a gap wider than his gap
of responsibility.
Turnback Pass Block—Away

Description: This block is used when the center steps laterally, and then turns
back for pass protection. This block is high-hat
and usually means a sprint or play action pass, as

Once he reads turnback blocking, he must close
the distance between himself and the next
blocker in the direction the quarterback is going
—he must always move a gap wider than his gap
Figure 4-9. Turnback pass block—
of responsibility.
away
I Technique
The tilt I is used in a limited format, so the read rules are much less complex
than the other technique reads. The I technique key reads the offside guard and
feels the center’s block.
Base Block
Description: This block is used when the offside
guard drives directly at the numbers of the 3
technique, as shown in Figure 5-1.
Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

and attacks the center. The defender drives his
hands through the numbers of the center as he
sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he gains
control of the center, he bench-presses him and Figure 5-1. Base block
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secured, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Cutoff Block
guard tries to cut the 3 technique off from pursuit

control of the center, he bench-presses him and Figure 5-2. Cutoff block
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secured, he
escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
guard reaches the 3 technique and tries to cut
him off from his gap of assignment, as shown in
Figure 5-3.
Reaction: The defender steps with the inside foot

sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he gains Figure 5-3. Reach block
control of the center, he swipes across the face of
the center and pursues through the offside A gap.
Zone Block—Toward
guard key tries to zone inside and block the
linebacker, as shown in Figure 5-4.

control of the center, he bench presses him and Figure 5-4. Zone block—toward
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secure, he
Zone Block—Away
guard key zones through the 3 technique and
attempts to block the linebacker, as shown in
Figure 5-5.

and attacks the center. As he gains control of the
center, he swipes across the face of the center
and pursues through the offside A gap. Figure 5-5. Zone block—away
Pull Inside
guard pulls inside behind the line of scrimmage,

to attack the center. When he reads the offside
guard pulling to the inside and the center
blocking away, the defender must expect the
playside guard to block down on him. The Figure 5-6. Pull inside
defender must dip his outside shoulder and drive
directly upfield. If possible, the defender will attack the pulling guard, knocking
him off his trapping path. If the defender is unable to attack the pulling guard, he
must attack the playside guard and pursue the ball by either crossing the guard’s
face or chasing the pulling guard behind the line of scrimmage.
Pull Outside
guard pulls outside to block, as shown in Figure
5-7.

control of the center, he swipes across the face of Figure 5-7. Pull outside
the center and pursues through the offside A gap.
guard shows high-hat and sets to pass block, as
shown in
Figure 5-8.

sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he gains Figure 5-8. Big-on-big pass block
control of the center, he bench-presses him and
protects the A gap. When he reads pass, he rushes the A gap.

guard steps away then hinges back to pass block,

and attacks the center. He swipes across the face
of the center and rushes through the offside A
gap.
Figure 5-9.Turnback pass block—
toward
guard steps inside and turns back to pass block,
as shown in
Figure 5-10.

to attack the center. When he reads turnback, he
rushes the B gap.
away
1 and 2 Technique With
A Gap Responsibility
When a 2 technique has A gap responsibility, he will have the same stance and
reads as a 1 technique.
Base Block
Description: This block is used when the guard
drives directly at the numbers of the defender, as
Reaction: The defender steps with his outside

foot and attacks the guard. The defender drives
his hands through the numbers of the guard as he
control of the guard, he bench-presses him and Figure 6-1. Base block
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secured, he
Cutoff Block
attempts to cut the defender off from pursuit, as

foot and attacks the guard by driving his hands
through the blocker’s numbers. As he gains
control of the guard, he bench-presses him and
protects the A gap. Once the A gap is secured, he Figure 6-2. Cutoff block
escapes to pursue the ball.
Reach Block
Description: This block is used when the guard attempts to reach the defender
and cut him off from his gap of assignment, as shown in Figure 6-3.

foot and drives his hands through the numbers of
the guard. He must never be cut off from the
inside. As he gains control of the guard, he
bench-presses him and protects the A gap. Once
the A gap is secured, he escapes to pursue the
ball.
Figure 6-3. Reach block
Zone Block
offensive blockers attempt to block the defender
and a linebacker, as shown in Figure 6-4.

foot. If the guard and center attempt to zone, the
defender must contact the guard immediately
and defeat him with vertical thrust. He must grab
the guard and not let him work off on the Figure 6-4. Zone block
linebacker. The defender keeps his legs free by
being aware of the center trying to cut block. The defender keeps his shoulders
square and separates, while working down the line of scrimmage.
Fold Block
Description: This block is used when the guard steps back and inside and the
center blocks out on the defender, as shown in Figure 6-5.

foot. When he reads the guard stepping back and
inside, the defender steps with the guard, just as
he would with a reach block. When he sees the
center blocking out on him, he steps into the
center as if it were a base block. He must keep
outside leverage and pursue cross the face of the
center or off the butt of the center, depending on
his blocking angle.
Figure 6-5. Fold block
Double-Team Block
base blocks the defender and the center out
blocks, as shown in Figure 6-6.

foot, and if the guard and center double-team
him, he uses the same technique as he would
with a base block. Once he sees or feels the
center double, he attacks him with his near Figure 6-6. Double-team block
shoulder and breaks the seam by exploding low
and hard through the near thigh pad of the center. He must keep his feet behind
him until the seam is broken. He must not get knocked off the ball. If he feels he
is being driven back, he must try to go down and cause a pile. It is important to
remember that this action will allow the center to combo off on the linebacker.
Pull Inside
Description: This block is used when the guard pulls inside behind the line of
scrimmage, as shown in Figure 6-7.
foot. When he sees the guard pulling inside, he
steps with his inside foot and attacks the center.
The defender must decide if he should chase the
guard by getting in his hip pocket or pursue
across the center’s face.
Figure 6-7. Pull inside
Pull Outside—Down Block

pulls outside behind the line of scrimmage and
the tackle blocks down on the defender, as
shown in
Figure 6-8.

foot and looks inside for trap as he feels for the
down block by the tackle. If the down block Figure 6-8. Pull outside—down
occurs, he must attack the tackle and keep inside block
leverage. He pursues across the tackle’s face or
behind the line of scrimmage, which depends on the tackle’s angle of block and
the path of the ball. If the down block does not occur, he pursues the near hip of
the pulling guard. The defender must always look inside for the trap.
Pull Outside—Influence Trap Block

Description: This block is used when the guard pulls outside behind the line of
scrimmage, and the offside guard pulls and traps
the defender, as shown in Figure 6-9.

foot. If the guard pulls outside, the defender
must look inside for trap as he feels outside for a
down block by the tackle. The defender must
think trap. If the offside guard is trapping him,
he must close flat and hard to the inside. He must Figure 6-9. Pull outside—influence
move into the line of scrimmage, and not trap block
upfield. He attacks the inside hip of the trapper
and forces the ball to go outside. If the trap does not occur, he pursues the
pulling guard, running on his hip pocket.

shows high-hat and sets for pass protection, as

foot. Once he reads pass, he must immediately
close the distance between himself and the guard
as he rushes the quarterback. He must check for
draws and screens. The defender should Figure 6-10. Big-on-big pass block
anticipate the double-team. He must quickly
decide the best pass-rush technique to use. He must use second and third efforts
to get to the passer.
protection. This block is high hats and usually
means a sprint or rollout pass, as shown in
Figure 6-11.

foot, and once he reads turnback blocking, he
closes the distance between himself and the next Figure 6-11. Turnback pass block—
blocker nearest the direction the quarterback is toward
going. He always moves a gap wider than his
gap of responsibility. He rushes through the B gap.

steps inside and turns back to pass block, as

foot to attack the guard. When he reads turnback
blocking, he rushes the offside A gap.

away
B Gap Responsibility
When a 2 technique has B gap responsibility, he will have the same stance and
reads as a 3 technique.
Base Block
drives his head directly at the defender’s
numbers, as shown in
Figure 7-1.

and attacks the blocker. The defender drives his
hands through the numbers of the blocker as he
sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he gains Figure 7-1. Base block
control of the blocker, he bench-presses him and
protects the B gap. Once the B gap is secured, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
tries to reach the defender and cut him off from
his gap of assignment, as shown in Figure 7-2.
Reaction: The defender steps with his inside

foot. If the blocker is reach blocking, the
defender steps with his outside foot, out and up
at a
45-degree angle. The defender attacks the Figure 7-2. Reach block
blocker by driving his hands through the
numbers of the blocker. As he gains control of the blocker, he bench-presses him
and protects the B gap. Once the B gap is secured, he escapes and pursues the
ball.
Zone Block
offensive linemen attempt to block a defensive
lineman and a linebacker, as shown in Figure 7-
3.

foot. If the guard and the center attempt to zone,
he makes contact with the guard immediately
and defeats him with vertical thrust. He grabs the Figure 7-3. Zone block
guard, not letting him work off onto the
linebacker. The defender must keep his legs free by being aware of the center
trying to cut block him. The defender needs to keep his shoulders square and
find the ball, while working down the line of scrimmage.
Double-Team Block
base blocks and the tackle down blocks, as

and attacks the guard the same as he would with
a base block. Once the defender sees or feels the
tackle doubling, he attacks the tackle with his
near shoulder. The defender must break the seam Figure 7-4. Double-team block
by exploding low and hard through the near
thigh pad of the tackle. The defender must keep his feet behind him until the
seam is broken. He must not get knocked off the ball. If he feels that he is being
driven back, he must try to go down and cause a pile. It is important to
remember that this action allows the tackle to combo off on to the linebackers.
Fold Block
Description: This block is used when the guard steps back and outside, and the
tackle blocks down on the defender, as shown in Figure 7-5.
Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot as he reads the guard stepping
outside. The defender steps with the key, just as he would with a reach block.
When he sees the tackle blocking down on him,
he steps into the tackle, as if it were a base block.
He must keep inside leverage and pursue across
the face of the tackle or off the butt of the tackle,
depending on the tackle’s angle of block.
Figure 7-5. Fold block
blocks down or backside and the tackle blocks
down on the defender, as shown in Figure 7-6.

as he reads the guard, which is a misread for the
defender. He will get this blocking scheme from
the counter trap or any trap when a 3 technique
exists. The defender attacks the guard the same Figure 7-6. Down-down block—trap
as with a zone block. When he sees the pulling
guard cross his face, he immediately penetrates upfield to avoid contact from the
playside tackle. He must pursue the ball by using the best angle possible. If this
block is counter trey or counter “F,” he attacks the second blocker and knocks
him off his trapping path.
Pull Inside
Description: This block is used when the guard pulls inside behind the line of
scrimmage, as shown in Figure 7-7.
Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot. When he sees the guard
pulling inside, he steps to attack the center. The
defender must decide if he should chase the
guard by getting in his hip pocket or pursue
across the center’s face.
Figure 7-7. Pull inside

the tackle blocks down on the defender, as
shown in
Figure 7-8.

as he looks inside for trap and he feels outside
for a down block by the tackle. If the down block Figure 7-8. Pull outside—down
occurs, he attacks the tackle and keeps inside block
leverage. He pursues across the tackle’s face or
behind the line of scrimmage, depending on the tackle’s angle of block and the
path of the ball. If the down block does not occur, he pursues the hip pocket of
the pulling guard.
Pull Outside—Influence Trap

Description: This block is used when the guard pulls outside behind the line of
scrimmage. The offside guard or tackle then pulls and traps the defender, as
foot. If the guard pulls outside, he must look
inside for trap as he feels outside for a down
block by the tackle. The defender must think
trap. If the offside guard is trapping him, he
closes hard and flat to the inside, not upfield. He
attacks the inside hip of the trapper, forcing the
ball to go outside. If the trap does not occur, he
Figure 7-9. Pull outside—influence
pursues the hip pocket of the pulling guard. trap
Inside Release—Midline Veer

steps inside and climbs to the linebacker. The
quarterback reads the defender as a handoff key,

foot. He closes hard and flat to the inside. He
attacks the inside hip of the fullback, making the
quarterback take the ball outside. Figure 7-10. Inside release—midline
veer

Description: This block is used when the guard shows high-hat and sets for pass
protection, as shown in
Figure 7-11.

foot, and once he reads pass, he closes the
distance between himself and the guard, and
immediately rushes the quarterback. He checks
for draws and screens as he goes. The defender
anticipates the double-team. The defender must Figure 7-11. Big-on-big pass block
quickly decide the best pass rush technique to
use. He must use second and third efforts to get to the passer.

Figure 7-12.

going. He moves a gap wider than his gap of
responsibility. He rushes through the A gap.

Figure 7-13.

blocker nearest the direction the quarterback is away
going. He always moves a gap wider than his
gap of responsibility. The defender rushes through the B gap.
C Gap Responsibility
When a 4 technique has C gap responsibility, he will have the same stance and
reads as a 5 technique
Base Block
Description: This block is used when the tackle
drives his head directly at the defender’s
numbers, as shown in
Figure 8-1.

and attacks the tackle. The defender drives his
hands through the numbers of the tackle as he
sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he gains Figure 8-1. Base block
control of the blocker, he bench-presses him and
protects the C gap. Once the C gap is secured, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
tries to reach the defender and cut him off from
his gap of assignment, as shown in Figure 8-2.

foot, and, if the tackle is reach blocking, he steps
with his outside foot, out and up at a 45-degree
angle. The defender attacks the tackle by driving
his hands through the numbers of the blocker. As Figure 8-2. Reach block
he gains control of the tackle, he bench-presses
him and protects the C gap. Once the C gap is secured, he escapes and pursues
the ball.
Zone Block
Description: This block is used when two offensive linemen attempt to block a
defensive lineman and a linebacker, as shown in Figure 8-3.
Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot, and if the tackle and the guard
attempt to zone, he makes contact with the tackle
immediately and defeats him with vertical thrust.
He grabs the tackle, not letting him work off on
the linebacker. The defender keeps his legs free
by being aware of the guard trying to cut block
him. He keeps his shoulders square and finds the
ball, while working down the line of scrimmage.
Figure 8-3. Zone block
Double-Team Block
base blocks and the tight end down blocks, as

foot, and attacks the tackle, the same as he would
with a base block. Once he sees or feels the tight
end doubling, he attacks the tight end with his
near shoulder. The defender breaks the seam by Figure 8-4. Double-team block
exploding low and hard through the near thigh
pad of the tight end. The defender keeps his feet behind him until the seam is
broken. He must not get knocked off the ball. If he feels that he is being driven
back, he must go down and cause a pile. It is important to remember that this
action allows the tight end to combo off on the linebackers.
Description: This block is used when the tackle blocks down to the inside and
the tight end blocks down on the defender, as

as he reads the tackle, which is a misread for the
defender. The defender attacks the tackle the
same as with a zone block. When he sees the
pulling guard cross his face, he immediately
penetrates upfield to avoid contact from the tight Figure 8-5. Down-down block—trap
end. He pursues the ball by using the best angle
possible. If this block is counter trey or counter “F,” he attacks the second
blocker, knocking him off his trapping path.
Down Block—Inside Veer

blocks down or backside, and the fullback dives.
The quarterback reads the defender as a handoff
key, as shown in Figure 8-6.

as he reads the tackle. If the tackle blocks down
with the fullback diving, the defender closes flat
to the inside. He attacks the inside hip of the Figure 8-6. Down block—inside veer
fullback. He must force the quarterback to pull
the ball and go outside.
Down Block—Trap
blocks down, and the offside guard pulls and
traps the defender, as shown in Figure 8-7.

as he reads the tackle. He must ride the tackle
down inside, keeping him off the linebacker.
When he sees the pulling guard, he immediately
closes hard to the inside and attacks the inside Figure 8-7. Down block—trap
hip of the trapper, forcing the ball to go outside.
Down Block—Kick-Out
blocks down, and the fullback kicks the defender
outside, as shown in Figure 8-8.

as he reads the tackle. When he sees the fullback
leading on him, he attacks the inside hip of the
fullback and forces the ball to go outside.
Figure 8-8. Down block—kick-out
Fold Block
steps back and inside and the guard blocks out
on the defender, as shown in Figure 8-9.

as he reads the tackle stepping back and inside.
The defender steps with the tackle, just as he
would with a cutoff block. When he sees the
guard blocking out on him, he steps into the Figure 8-9. Fold block
guard, as if it were a base block. He must keep
outside leverage, pursuing across the face of the guard, or off the butt of the
guard, depending on the blocker’s angle and the path of the ball.
Pull Inside
pulls inside behind the line of scrimmage, as

foot. When he sees the tackle pulling inside, he
steps to attack the guard. The defender must
decide if he should chase the tackle by getting in
his hip pocket or pursue across the guard’s face, Figure 8-10. Pull inside
which could also be counter trey with the
fullback sealing on the defender. If this situation occurs, he attacks the outside
hip of the fullback.
the tight end blocks down on the defender, as

foot, while looking inside for trap as he feels
outside for a down block by the tight end. If the
down block occurs, the defender attacks the tight Figure 8-11. Pull outside—down
end and keeps inside leverage. He pursues block
behind the line of scrimmage. If the down block
does not occur, he pursues the pulling tackle by chasing the blocker’s hip pocket.
Pull Outside—Influence Trap

an offside lineman pulls and traps the defender,

foot, and if the tackle pulls outside, the defender
looks inside for trap as he feels outside for a
down block by the tight end. The defender must Figure 8-12. Pull outside—influence
think trap. If the offside guard is trapping, the trap
defender closes hard and flat to the inside. He
must not move upfield. The defender attacks the inside hip of the trapper, forcing
the ball to go to the outside. If the trap does not occur, the defender pursues the
pulling tackle’s hip pocket.
shows high-hat and sets for pass protection, as
shown in
Figure 8-13.

foot. Once he reads pass, he closes the distance
between himself and the tackle. He immediately
rushes the quarterback, checking for draws and Figure 8-13. Big-on-big pass block
screens as he goes. The defender anticipates the
double-team. He quickly decides the best pass rush technique to use. He must
keep outside leverage in order to contain the quarterback.

Figure 8-14.

foot. Once he reads turnback pass blocking, he
closes the distance between himself and the Figure 8-14. Turnback pass block—
going. He rushes over the hip of the tackle and

attacks the lead back. He keeps outside leverage in order to contain the
quarterback.

Figure 8-15.

foot. Once he reads turnback pass blocking, he
closes the distance between himself and the Figure 8-15. Turnback pass block—
blocker nearest the direction the quarterback is away
going. He rushes over the hip of the tackle and
attacks the lead back. He keeps outside leverage in order to contain the
quarterback.
7 Technique
Base Block
Description: This block is used when the tight
end drives directly at the numbers of the
defender, as shown in Figure 9-1.

foot and attacks the tight end. The defender
drives his hands through the numbers of the tight
end as he sinks his hips and drives his feet. As he
gains control of the tight end, he bench-presses Figure 9-1. Base block
him and protects the C gap. Once the C gap is
secured, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
end attempts to reach the defender and cut him
off from his gap of assignment, as shown in
Figure 9-2.

foot and drives his hands through the numbers of
the tight end as he steps up with his inside foot.
He can never be cut off from the inside. As he Figure 9-2. Reach block
gains control of the tight end, he bench-presses
him and protects the C gap. Once the C gap is secured, he escapes, taking the
best angle of pursuit.
Cutoff Block
end attempts to cut the defender off from pursuit,
as shown in
Figure 9-3.

foot and attacks the tight end by driving his
hands through the blocker’s numbers. As he
gains control of the tight end, he bench-presses Figure 9-3. Cutoff block
him and protects the C gap. Once the C gap is
secured, he escapes, taking the best angle to pursue the ball. This pursuit angle is
behind the line of scrimmage.
Double-Team Block
end base blocks the defender, and the tackle
blocks out, as shown in Figure 9-4.

foot, and, if the tight end and tackle double-team
him, he uses the same technique as he would
with a base block. Once he sees or feels the
tackle doubling, he attacks him with his near Figure 9-4. Double-team block
shoulder, breaking the seam by exploding low
and hard through the near thigh pad of the tackle. He keeps his feet behind him
until the seam is broken. He must not get knocked off the ball. If he feels he is
being driven back, he must go down and cause a pile.
Zone Block
offensive blockers attempt to block the defender
and a linebacker, as shown in Figure 9-5.

foot. If the tight end and tackle attempt to zone
block, the defender immediately makes contact
with the tight end. He engages the tight end,
defeating him with vertical thrust. He grabs the Figure 9-5. Zone block
tight end, keeping him from working off on the
linebacker. He keeps his legs free by being aware of the tackle trying to cut
block. The defender keeps his shoulders square, while working down the line of
scrimmage.
Fold Block
end steps back and inside, while the tackle
blocks out on the defender, as shown in Figure 9-
6.

foot. As he reads the tight end stepping back and
inside, he steps with the tight end, just as he
would with a reach block. When he sees the Figure 9-6. Fold block
tackle blocking out on him, he steps into the
tackle, as if it were a base block. He keeps outside leverage and pursues across
the face of the tackle, or off the butt of the tackle, depending on the blocker’s
angle on him and the path of the ball.
Pull Inside
end pulls inside behind the line of scrimmage, as

foot. When he sees the tight end pulling inside,
he steps with the inside foot and attacks the
tackle. The defender must decide if he should
chase the tight end by getting in his hip pocket or Figure 9-7. Pull inside
pursue cross the tackle’s face.
Arc Outside—Trap
end releases outside and avoids blocking the
defender. The offside guard or tackle then traps
the defender, as shown in Figure 9-8.

foot. If the tight end arcs outside, the defender
looks inside for trap. If trap occurs, the defender
closes hard and flat to the inside. He attacks the Figure 9-8. Arc outside—trap
inside hip of the trapping guard, making the ball
go outside.
Arc Outside—Out Block

end arcs outside and avoids blocking the
defender and the tackle blocks out, as shown in
Figure 9-9.

foot. If the tight end arc releases outside, the
defender must look inside. If the tackle is
blocking out, the defender steps inside and Figure 9-9. Arc outside—out block
attacks the tackle, keeping outside leverage and
protecting the C gap. After the C gap is secured, he takes the best pursuit angle
to the ball.
Arc Outside—Veer Option

end arc releases, and the tackle blocks down with
the fullback diving. The quarterback is on the
line of scrimmage, as shown in Figure 9-10.

defender looks inside. If the tackle is blocking
down, and the fullback is diving, with the Figure 9-10. Arc outside—veer
quarterback on the line of scrimmage, the option
defender closes hard and flat to the inside. He
attacks the inside hip of the fullback, forcing the quarterback to pull the ball and
go outside.
Arc Outside—Kick-Out
Description: This block is used when the tight end arc releases, the tackle blocks
down, and the fullback leads on the defender, as shown in Figure 9-11.
Reaction: The defender steps with his outside foot. As he reads the arc release
by the tight end, his eyes look inside. If the
tackle is blocking down and the fullback is
leading on the defender, the defender closes hard
to the inside. If the quarterback is showing pass,
the defender keeps outside leverage on the
fullback. If the quarterback is not showing pass,
the defender attacks the inside hip of the
fullback, forcing the ball outside.
Figure 9-11. Arc outside—kick-out
Arc Outside—Big-on-Big Pass Block

end arc releases outside and avoids blocking the
defender. The tackle shows high-hat pass
blocking, as shown in Figure 9-12.

defender looks inside. If the tackle is showing
high-hat pass blocking, the defender steps inside Figure 9-12. Arc outside—big-on-
and attacks the tackle. He keeps outside leverage big pass block
and rushes the quarterback from the outside in.
Arc Outside—Turnback Pass Block—Toward

Description: This block is used when the tight end arc releases, and the tackle
shows high-hat turnback blocking, as shown in Figure 9-13.

defender looks inside. If he sees turnback pass
blocking, he rushes the quarterback, keeping
outside containment.
Figure 9-13. Arc outside—turnback

pass block—toward
Arc Outside—Turnback Pass Block—Away

end arc releases, and the tackle shows high-hat
turnback blocking, as shown in Figure 9-14.

defender looks inside. If he sees turnback pass
blocking, he rushes the quarterback. He must
expect the fullback lead. If the lead occurs, the Figure 9-14. Arc outside—turnback
defender attacks the fullback from the outside in. pass block—away
The defender keeps containment on the

quarterback.
9 Technique
Base Block
end drives his head directly at the defender’s
numbers, as shown in Figure 10-1.

and attacks the tight end. The defender drives his
hands through the numbers of the tight end as he
control of the tight end, he bench-presses him Figure 10-1. Base block
and protects the edge. Once the edge is secured,
he escapes and pursues the ball.
Reach Block
end tries to reach the defender and cut him off
from his gap of assignment, as shown in Figure
10-2.

foot. If the tight end is reaching blocking, he
steps with the outside foot at a 45-degree angle,
out and up. The defender attacks the tight end by Figure 10-2. Reach block
driving his hands through the numbers of the
blocker. As he gains control of the tight end, he bench-presses him and protects
the edge. Once the edge is secured, he escapes and pursues the ball.
Down Block—Trap
end blocks down, and the offside guard pulls and
traps the defender, as shown in Figure 10-3.

as he reads the tight end. He rides the tight end
down inside, keeping him off the linebacker.
When he sees the pulling guard, he immediately
closes hard to the inside and attacks the inside Figure 10-3. Down block—trap
hip of the trapper, forcing the ball to go outside.
Down Block—Kick-Out
end blocks down, and the fullback kicks the
defender outside, as shown in Figure 10-4.

as he reads the tight end. When the defender sees
the tight end blocking down, he closes with the
tight end, keeping him off the linebacker. He
attacks the inside hip of the fullback, spilling the Figure 10-4. Down block—kick-out
ball to the outside.
Arc Outside—Veer Option

end arc releases, and the tackle blocks down with
the fullback diving. The quarterback will be on
the line of scrimmage, as shown in Figure 10-5.

foot. If the tight end arc releases to the outside,
the defender looks inside. If the quarterback is
on the line of scrimmage coming toward the Figure 10-5. Arc outside—veer
option
defender, the defender closes inside and takes the
quarterback. The defender must never chase the
arc release over three steps.
Fold Block
end steps back and inside, and the tackle blocks
out on the defender, as shown in Figure 10-6.

as he reads the tight end. When he sees the tight
end off the line of scrimmage and the tackle
blocking out, the defender steps into the tackle,
as if it were an out block. The defender must Figure 10-6. Fold block
keep outside leverage and pursue across the face
of the tackle or off the butt of the tackle, depending on the blocker’s angle and
the path of the ball.
Pull Inside
end pulls inside behind the line of scrimmage, as

foot. When he reads the tight end pulling inside,
the defender steps to the inside to attack the
tackle. He pursues across the face of the tackle
or off the butt of the tackle, depending on the Figure 10-7. Pull inside
blocker’s angle and the path of the ball.
Arc Outside—Big-on-Big Pass Block
end arcs outside and avoids the defender. The
tackle then shows high-hat pass blocking, as
shown in
Figure 10-8.

foot. If the key arc releases outside, the defender
looks inside. If the tackle is showing high-hat, Figure 10-8. Arc outside—big-on-
the defender rushes the quarterback, keeping big pass block
outside contain.
Arc Outside—Turnback Pass Block—Toward

Description: This block is used when the key
Figure 10-9.

foot. Once he reads turnback blocking, he closes
the distance between himself and the next Figure 10-9. Arc outside—turnback
blocker nearest the direction the quarterback is pass block—toward
going. He must keep outside leverage and

contain the quarterback.
Arc Outside—Turnback Pass Block—Away
Description: This block is used when the key
Figure 10-10.

foot. Once he reads turnback blocking, he closes
the distance between himself and the next Figure 10-10. Arc outside—turnback
blocker nearest the direction the quarterback is pass block—away
going. He rushes outside and attacks the lead
back. He keeps outside leverage and contains the quarterback.
Down Linemen Stunts
Stunts are designed movement patterns used by defensive linemen. These

movements occur on the snap of the ball. Stunts allow the defense to gain
advantages for attacking running plays as well as pass plays. Stunts usually
involve defensive linemen penetrating or changing gaps of responsibility when
the ball is snapped. A stunt can be used to penetrate to the offensive side of the
line of scrimmage or to stunt the defender to his left or right. Because the
defender knows his landmark once the ball is snapped, stunting is an excellent
opportunity to use movement, prowling, and stemming by defensive linemen.
This defensive package uses one-, two-, three-, and four-man stunts.
Reasons for Stunting Down Linemen

• To penetrate the offensive line of scrimmage, especially in short yardage and
goal-line situations.
• To move from a base alignment in order to gain a defensive advantage. For
example, to stunt to the outside when the defense thinks that a sweep may be
run by the offense.
• To place pressure on the quarterback.
• To confuse offensive blocking schemes. Stunting sometimes allows a defender
to quickly move by an offensive blocker or to occupy the blocks of two
offensive linemen.
• To compensate for the size and strength advantages that offensive linemen
sometimes have over smaller defensive linemen.
Down Linemen Stunting Rules

When a defensive lineman is involved in a stunt, he needs to know much more
than just which gap to run through. The following coaching points must be
considered by the defense:
• From what landmark will the stunt start?

• Is movement, prowling, or stemming involved in the stunt?
• What is the landmark that the defender is aiming for when he stunts?
• The defender must see the ball move.
• He must know what footwork will be used when he stunts.
• He must read blocks and backfield flow as he stunts.
• The defender’s shoulders should be square as he attacks the line of
scrimmage.
• He must use “clear and cloudy” rules to know his best angle of pursuit.
• He must come to balance if he has not found the ball after crossing into the
backfield for one yard. Come to balance means that the defender will come
under control using fast, choppy feet as he finds the football.
• If he is on a contain stunt, he must keep outside leverage on the ball.
• If flow goes away, and he has a contain stunt, he must be sure that he is not
too flat. He must keep all counters, bootlegs, and reverses contained.
• He must always reroute himself to the best angle of pursuit.
• When stunting, in order to place pressure on the quarterback, the defender
must not leave his feet as he attacks the passer.
• If a teammate is in his line of movement, he must reroute himself to find a
clear path to the ball.
• When stunting, the defender must always go all out, but he must also be
under control at all times.
One-Man Stunts
One-man stunts are stunts that are run by one down lineman only. The I in the
name of the lineman that is called tells the defender to stunt into the gap in
which he is shaded. The defender penetrates the line of scrimmage and works
upfield. The O in the name of the lineman that is called tells the defender to stunt
across the face of the man on whom he is aligned. This stunt is a penetration into
the line of scrimmage, and the defender works upfield. One-man stunts can be
run from any defensive front.
Bill Stunt (Figure 11-1)
Description: Bill is a one-man stunt involving Blood only. The B in Bill equates
to the B in Blood. The I in Bill instructs Blood to stunt into the gap in which he
is shaded and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: Blood moves on ball movement by stepping first with his outside
foot and then driving directly upfield through the C gap.
Coaching Points: Blood must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he
dips and rips with his outside arm and drives directly upfield. He cannot
penetrate the C gap for more than one yard before coming under control. He
must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-1. Bill stunt from stack-OH
Bob Stunt (Figure 11-2)
Description: Bob is a one-man stunt involving Blood only. The B in Bob equates
to the B in Blood. The O in Bob instructs Blood to bend across the face of the
blocker he is aligned on and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: Blood moves on ball movement by stepping first with his outside
foot, which is a 45-degree step to the outside. He then crosses over with his
inside foot and moves directly upfield through the edge.
dips and rips his inside arm as he crosses the face of the blocker. He must push
off his outside foot, squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he begins
his upfield stunt. He cannot penetrate the edge for more than one yard before
coming under control. He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he
begins his stunt.
Figure 11-2. Bob stunt from stack-OH
Tim Stunt (Figure 11-3)
Description: Tim is a one-man stunt involving the tackle only. The T in Tim
equates to the T in tackle. The I in Tim instructs the tackle to stunt into the gap
in which he is shaded and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: The tackle moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
foot and then driving directly upfield through the B gap.
Coaching Points: The tackle must move on ball movement. He must stay low, as
he dips and rips his inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his
inside foot. He cannot penetrate the B gap for more than one yard before coming
under control. He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins
his stunt.
Figure 11-3. Tim stunt from stack-OH
Tom Stunt (Figure 11-4)
Description: Tom is a one-man stunt involving the tackle only. The T in Tom
equates to the T in tackle. The O in Tom instructs the tackle to bend across the
face of the blocker he is aligned on and work for upfield penetration through the
A gap.
Technique: The tackle moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
foot, which is a 45-degree step to the inside. He then crosses over with his
outside foot and moves directly upfield through the A gap.
Coaching Points: The tackle must move on ball movement. He must stay low as
he dips and rips his outside arm as he crosses the face of the blocker. He must
push off his inside foot, squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he
begins his upfield stunt. He cannot penetrate the A gap for more than one yard
before coming under control. He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow
as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-4. Tom stunt from stack-OH
Nick Stunt (Figure 11-5)
Description: Nick is a one-man stunt involving the nose only. The N in Nick
equates to the N in nose. The I in Nick instructs the nose to stunt into the gap in
which he is shaded and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: The nose moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
foot and then driving directly upfield through the A gap.
Coaching Points: The nose must move on ball movement. He must stay low as
inside foot. He cannot penetrate the A gap for more than one yard before coming
his stunt.
Figure 11-5. Nick stunt from stack-OH
Noble Stunt (Figure 11-6)
Description: Noble is a one-man stunt involving the nose only. The N in noble
equates to the N in nose. The O in noble instructs the nose to bend across the
face of the blocker he is aligned on and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: The nose moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
outside foot and moves directly upfield through the strongside A gap.
begins his upfield stunt. He cannot penetrate the strongside A gap for more than
one yard before coming under control. He must read blocking schemes and
backfield flow as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-6. Noble stunt from stack-OH
Eric Stunt (Figure 11-7)
Description: Eric is a one-man stunt involving the end only. The E in Eric
equates to the E in end. The I in Eric instructs the end to stunt into the gap in
which he is shaded and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: The end moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
foot and then driving directly upfield through the C gap.
Coaching Points: The end must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he
dips and rips his inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his inside
foot. He cannot penetrate the C gap for more than one yard before coming under
control. He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his
stunt.
Figure 11-7. Eric stunt from stack-OH
Elmo Stunt (Figure 11-8)
Description: Elmo is a one-man stunt involving the end only. The E in Elmo
equates to the E in end. The O in Elmo instructs the nose to bend across the face
of the blocker he is aligned on and work for upfield penetration.
Technique: The end moves on ball movement by stepping first with his inside
outside foot and moves directly upfield through the B gap.
Coaching Points: The end must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he
dips and rips his outside arm as he crosses the face of the blocker. He must push
off his inside foot, squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he begins
his upfield stunt. He cannot penetrate the B gap for more than one yard before
begins his stunt.
Figure 11-8. Elmo stunt from stack-OH
Two-Man Stunts
Two-man stunts are stunts run between two down linemen, usually for the
purpose of rushing the quarterback. The first letter and following letters (usually
the third letter) identify who will be involved in the two-man stunt. The first
letter called stunts first. The next letter that applies to the stunt moves second.
Two-man stunts can be run from all defensive fronts.
Bat Stunt (Figure 11-9)
Description: Bat is a two-man stunt involving Blood and the tackle. The B in bat
equates to the B in Blood. The T in bat equates to the T in tackle. Bat instructs
Blood and the tackle to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot and closes to the offensive
blocker. Blood then pivots and pushes off his outside foot as he drives to the
inside. His landmark is the outside V neck of the offensive guard. He reads the
offensive guard’s block as he stunts to the B gap. The tackle steps first with his
inside foot and closes to the offensive blocker. The tackle then pivots and pushes
off his inside foot as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the inside V neck
of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the tackle reads the offensive tackle as
he stunts to the C gap.
Coaching Points: Blood and the tackle must move on ball movement. They must
close to the line of scrimmage and attack the offensive blocker using a hand-
shiver technique. They then switch gaps of responsibility. If run occurs, Blood
has B gap responsibility and the tackle has C gap responsibility. If pass occurs,
Blood has an inside rush through the B gap and the tackle has an outside contain
rush.
Figure 11-9. Bat stunt from stack-OH
Tab Stunt (Figure 11-10)
Description: Tab is a two-man stunt involving the tackle and Blood. The T in tab
equates to the T in tackle. The B in tab equates to the B in Blood. Tab instructs
the tackle and Blood to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball.
The only difference between tab and bat is that when running tab, the tackle goes
first and Blood goes second.
Technique: The tackle steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. He then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside.
His landmark is the inside V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the
tackle reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap. Blood steps
first with his outside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. Blood then pivots
and pushes off his outside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is the
outside V neck of the guard. He reads the offensive guard’s block as he stunts to
the B gap.
Coaching Points: The tackle and Blood must move on ball movement. They
must close to the line of scrimmage and attack the offensive blocker, using a
hand-shiver technique. They then switch gaps of responsibility. If run occurs,
Blood has B gap responsibility and the tackle has C gap responsibility. If pass
occurs, Blood has an inside rush through the B gap and the tackle has an outside
contain rush.
Figure 11-10. Tab stunt from stack-OH
Eon Stunt (Figure 11-11)
Description: Eon is a two-man stunt involving the end and the nose. The E in
eon equates to the E in end. The N in eon equates to the N in nose. Eon instructs
the end and the nose to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball.
Technique: The end steps first with the inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. The end then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
inside. His landmark is the outside V neck of the offensive center. He reads the
offensive center’s block as he stunts to the A gap. The nose steps first with his
inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes
of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the tackle reads the offensive tackle’s
block as he stunts to the C gap.
Coaching Points: The end and the nose must move on ball movement. They
hand-shiver technique. They then switch gaps of responsibility. If run occurs, the
end has A gap responsibility and the nose has C gap responsibility. If pass
occurs, the end has an inside rush through the A gap and the nose has an outside
contain rush.
Figure 11-11. Eon stunt from stack-OH
Neo Stunt (Figure 11-12)
Description: Neo is a two-man stunt involving the nose and the end. The N in
neo equates to the N the nose. The E in neo equates to the E in end. Neo instructs
the nose and the end to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball.
The only difference between neo and eon is that when running neo, the nose
goes first and the end goes second.
Technique: The nose steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
outside. His landmark is the inside V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is
present, the tackle reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap.
The end steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The
end then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His
landmark is the outside V neck of the offensive center. He reads the offensive
center’s block as he stunts to the A gap.
Coaching Points: The nose and the end must move on ball movement. They
end has A gap responsibility and the nose has C gap responsibility. If pass
occurs, the end has an inside rush through the A gap and the nose has an outside
contain rush.
Figure 11-12. Neo stunt from stack-OH
Tan Stunt (Figure 11-13)
Description: Tan is a two-man stunt involving the tackle and the nose. The T in
tan equates to the T in tackle. The N in tan equates to the N in nose. Tan instructs
the tackle and the nose to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball.
blocker. The tackle then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
inside. His landmark is the offside V neck of the offensive center. He reads the
off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is the offside V neck
of the strongside guard. The nose reads the offensive guard’s block as he stunts
to the strongside B gap.
Coaching Points: The tackle and the nose must move on ball movement. They
tackle has weakside A gap responsibility and the nose has strongside B gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, the tackle has an inside rush through the weakside
A gap and the nose has an inside rush through the strongside B gap.
Figure 11-13. Tan stunt from stack-OH
Nat Stunt (Figure 11-14)
Description: Nat is a two-man stunt involving the nose and the tackle. The N in
nat equates to the N the nose. The T in nat equates to the T in tackle. Nat
instructs the nose and the tackle to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap
of the ball. The only difference between nat and tan is that when running nat, the
nose goes first and the end goes second.
Technique: The nose steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
strongside. His landmark is the offside V neck of the strongside guard. The nose
reads the offensive guard’s block as he stunts to the strongside B gap. The tackle
steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The tackle
then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark
is the offside V neck of the offensive center. He reads the offensive center’s
block as he stunts to the A gap.
Coaching Points: The nose and the tackle must move on ball movement. They
tackle has weakside A gap responsibility and the nose has strongside B gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, the tackle has an inside rush through the weakside
A gap and the nose has an inside rush through the strongside B gap.
Figure 11-14. Nat stunt from stack-OH
Two-Man Stunts from a Three-Man Front

Two-man stunts from a three-man front use the same stunting techniques as from
a four-man front.
Ban Stunt (Figure 11-15)
Description: Ban is a two-man stunt involving Blood and the nose. The B in bat
equates to the B in Blood. The N in ban equates to the N in nose. Ban instructs
Blood and the nose to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball for
the purpose of confusing pass blocking.
Technique: Blood steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. Blood then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
inside. His landmark is to get head-up on the offensive center. He reads the
offensive center’s block as he stunts. The nose steps first with his back foot as he
closes to the offensive blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his back foot
as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the near V neck of the tight end. If no
tight end is present, he reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the
strongside C gap.
Coaching Points: Blood and the nose must move on ball movement. They must
close to the line of scrimmage and attack the offensive blocker, using a hand-
has both A gaps for responsibility and the nose has strongside C gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush over the offensive center
and the nose has a strongside contain rush.
Figure 11-15. Ban stunt from Cochise
Nab Stunt (Figure 11-16)
Description: Nab is a two-man stunt involving the nose and Blood. The N in nab
equates to the N in nose The B in nab equates to the B in Blood. Nat instructs the
nose and Blood to exchange gaps of responsibility on the snap of the ball for the
purpose of confusing pass blocking. The only difference between nab and ban is
that when running nab, the nose goes first and Blood goes second.
Technique: The nose steps first with his back foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his back foot as he drives to the
outside. His landmark is the near V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is
present, he reads the offensive tackles as he stunts to the strongside C gap. Blood
steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. Blood then
pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is to
get head-up on the offensive center. He reads the offensive center’s block as he
stunts.
has both A gaps for responsibility and the nose has strongside C gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush over the offensive center
and the nose has a strongside contain rush.
Figure 11-16. Nab stunt from Cochise
Four-Man Stunts
Four-man stunts involve all four down-linemen. To run stunts that involve all
down linemen, you simply add strongside stunts with weakside stunts.
Bat-Eon Stunt (Figure 11-17)
Description: Bat-eon instructs the strongside linemen to run bat and the
weakside linemen to run eon.
inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The tackle then pivots and
pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the inside
V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the tackle reads the offensive
tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap. The end steps first with his inside foot as
he closes to the offensive blocker. The end then pivots and pushes off his inside
foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is the near V neck of the offensive
center. He reads the offensive center’s block as he stunts to the A gap. The nose
steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The nose
then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside. His
landmark is the inside V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the
tackle reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap.
Coaching Points: All linemen must move on ball movement. They must close to
the line of scrimmage and attack the offensive blocker, using a hand-shiver
technique. They then switch gaps of responsibility. If run occurs, Blood has
strongside B gap responsibility and the tackle has strongside C gap
responsibility. The end has weakside A gap responsibility and the nose has
weakside C gap responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush through
the strongside B gap and the tackle has a strongside contain rush. The end has an
inside rush through the weakside A gap and the nose has a weakside contain
rush.
Figure 11-17. Bat-eon stunt from stack-OH
Bat-Neo Stunt (Figure 11-18)
Description: Bat-neo instructs the strongside linemen to run bat and the
weakside linemen to run neo.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot as he close to the offensive
pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the inside
V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the tackle reads the offensive
tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap. The nose steps first with his inside foot
as he closes to the offensive blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his
inside foot as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the inside V neck of the
tight end. If no tight end is present, the nose reads the offensive tackle’s block as
he stunts to the C gap. The end steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the
offensive blocker. The end then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives
to the inside. His landmark is the near V neck of the offensive center. He reads
the offensive center’s block as he stunts to the A gap.
the line of scrimmage and attack the blocker, using a hand-shiver technique. If
run occurs, Blood has strongside B gap responsibility and the tackle has
strongside C gap responsibility. The end has weakside A gap responsibility and
the nose has weakside C gap responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside
rush through the strongside B gap and the tackle has a strongside contain rush.
The end has an inside rush through the weakside A gap and the nose has a
weakside contain rush.
Figure 11-18. Bat-neo stunt from stack-OH

Tab-Neo Stunt (Figure 11-19)
Description: Tab-neo instructs the strongside linemen to run tab and the
weakside linemen to run neo.
Blood steps first with his outside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker.
Blood then pivots and pushes off his outside foot as he drives to the inside. His
landmark is the outside V neck of the offensive guard. He reads the offensive
guard’s block as he stunts to the B gap. The nose steps first with his inside foot.
The nose then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside.
His landmark is the inside V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the
tackle reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap. The end steps
first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The end then
pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is
the near V neck of the offensive center. He reads the offensive center’s block as
he stunts to the A gap.
technique. They then switch gaps of responsibility. If run occurs, Blood has
strongside B gap responsibility and the tackle has strongside C gap
responsibility. The end has weakside A gap responsibility and the nose has
weakside C gap responsibility If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush through
the strongside B gap and the tackle has a strongside contain rush. The end has an
inside rush through the weakside A gap and the nose has a weakside contain
rush.
Figure 11-19. Tab-neo stunt from stack-OH
Tab-Eon Stunt (Figure 11-20)
Description: Tab-eon instructs the strongside linemen to run tab and the
weakside linemen to run eon.
Blood steps first with his outside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker.
Blood then pivots and pushes off his outside foot as he drives to the inside. His
landmark is the outside V neck of the offensive guard. He reads the offensive
guard’s block as he stunts to the B gap. The end steps first with his inside foot as
he closes to the offensive blocker. The end then pivots and pushes off his inside
foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is the near V neck of the offensive
center. He reads the offensive center’s block as he stunts to the A gap. The nose
steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The nose
then pivots and pushes off he inside foot as he drives to the outside. His
landmark is the inside V neck of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the nose
reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap.
technique. If run occurs, Blood has strongside B gap responsibility and the tackle
has strongside C gap responsibility. The end has weakside A gap responsibility
and the nose has weakside C gap responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an
inside rush through the strongside B gap and the tackle has a strongside contain
rush. The end has an inside rush through the weakside A gap and the nose has a
weakside contain rush.
Figure 11-20. Tab-eon stunt from stack-OH
Bent Stunt (Figure 11-21)
Description: Bent instructs Blood to stunt the strongside A gap. The end stunts
to the weakside A gap. The nose stunts to the strongside C gap. The tackle stunts
to the weakside C gap. The A gaps must be stunted into first.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot as he closes to the offensive
inside. His landmark is the near V neck of the offensive center. He reads the
offensive center’s block as he stunts to the strongside A gap. The end steps first
with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive blocker. The end then pivots and
pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the inside. His landmark is the near V
neck of the offensive center. He reads the offensive center’s block as he stunts to
the weakside A gap. The nose steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the
offensive blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he
drives to the strongside. His landmark is the inside V neck of the strongside tight
end. If no tight end is present, the nose reads the offensive tackle’s block as he
stunts to the C gap. The tackle steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the
offensive blocker. The tackle then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he
drives to the weakside. He reads the near V neck of the weakside tight end as he
stunts to the weakside C gap. If no tight end is present, he reads the offensive
tackle’s block.
Coaching Points: All down linemen must move on ball movement. They must
shiver technique. If run occurs, Blood has strongside A gap responsibility. The
end has weakside A gap responsibility. The nose has strongside C gap
responsibility. The tackle has weakside C gap responsibility. If pass occurs,
Blood and the end have inside A gap rush responsibility. The nose and the tackle
have outside contain rush responsibility.
Figure 11-21. Bent stunt from under trey
Stunts for Entire Front Line

Some down linemen stunts are called by running the same stunt to both sides.
These stunts are one-word stunts.
Out Stunt (Figure 11-22)
Description: Out is a four-man stunt that instructs all down linemen to stunt to
the outside. Blood runs a Bob, the tackle runs a Tim, the nose runs a Nick, and
the end runs an Eric.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot, which is a 45-degree step to
the outside. He then crosses over with his inside foot and moves directly upfield
through the edge. The tackle steps first with his inside foot, and then drives
directly upfield through the B gap. The nose steps first with his inside foot and
then drives directly upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside
foot, and then drives directly upfield through the C gap.
off his outside foot, squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage, as he begins
begins his stunt. The tackle must move on ball movement. He must stay low as
his stunt. The nose must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he dips
and rips his inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his inside foot.
He cannot penetrate the A gap for more than one yard before coming under
stunt. The end must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he dips and
rips his inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his inside foot. He
cannot penetrate the C gap for more than one yard before coming under control.
He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-22. Out stunt from stack-OH
Pinch Stunt (Figure 11-23)
Description: Pinch is a four-man stunt that instructs all down linemen to stunt to
the inside. Blood runs a Bill, the tackle runs a Tom, the nose runs a Nick, and the
end runs an Elmo.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot and then drives directly upfield
through the C gap. The tackle steps first with his inside foot, which is a 45-
degree step to the inside. He then crosses over with his outside foot and moves
directly upfield through the A gap. The nose steps first with his inside foot and
then drives directly upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside
outside foot and moves directly upfield through the B gap.
must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt. The tackle
must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he dips and rips his outside
arm as he crosses the face of the blocker. He must push off his inside foot,
squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he begins his upfield stunt. He
cannot penetrate the A gap for more than one yard before coming under control.
He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt. The
nose must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he dips and rips his
inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his inside foot. He cannot
penetrate the A gap for more than one yard before coming under control. He
must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt. The end
squaring his shoulders to the line-of scrimmage as he begins his upfield stunt. He
cannot penetrate the B gap for more than one yard before coming under control.
He must read blocking schemes and back field flow as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-23. Pinch stunt from stack-OH
Split Stunt (Figure 11-24)
Description: Split is a four-man stunt that instructs all down linemen to stunt.
Blood runs a Bob, the tackle runs a Tom, the nose runs a Nick, and the end runs
an Eric.
through the edge. The tackle steps first with his inside foot, which is a 45-degree
step to the inside. He then crosses over with his outside foot and moves directly
upfield through the A gap. The nose step first with his inside foot and then drives
directly upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside foot and
then drives directly upfield through the C gap.
as he begins his stunt. The nose must move on ball movement. He must stay low
as he dips and rips his inside arm and drives directly upfield. He pushes off his
his stunt. The end must move on ball movement. He must stay low as he dips
He cannot penetrate the C gap for more than one yard before coming under
stunt.
Figure 11-24. Split stunt from stack-OH
Strongside and Weakside Stunts

Some down linemen stunts involve the stunting of linemen on the strongside or
weakside only, which is not the switching of assignments as previous discussed,
but, rather, two individual stunts.
Strong Out Stunt (Figure 11-25)
Description: Strong out is a two-man stunt that instructs Blood and the tackle to
run out stunts. Blood runs a Bob and the tackle runs a Tim. The weakside play
their read techniques.
through the edge. The tackle steps first with his inside foot and then drives
directly upfield through the B gap.
his stunt.
Figure 11-25. Strong out stunt from stack-OH

Weak Out Stunt (Figure 11-26)
Description: Weak out is a two-man stunt that instructs the nose and the end to
run out stunts. The nose runs a Nick and the end runs an Eric. The strongside
play their read techniques.
Technique: The nose steps first with his inside foot and then drives directly
upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside foot and then drives
directly upfield through the C gap.
stunt.
Figure 11-26. Weak out stunt from stack-OH
Strong Pinch Stunt (Figure 11-27)

Description: Strong pinch is a two-man stunt that instructs Blood and the tackle
to run pinch stunts. Blood runs a Bill and the tackle runs a Tom.
Technique: Blood steps first with his outside foot and then drives directly upfield
through the C gap. The tackle steps first with his inside foot, which is a 45-
directly upfield through the A gap.
must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt. The tackle
squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he begins his upfield stunt. He
cannot penetrate the A gap for more than one yard before coming under control.
He must read blocking schemes and backfield flow as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-27. Strong pinch stunt from stack-OH
Weak Pinch Stunt (Figure 11-28)
Description: Weak pinch is a two-man stunt that instructs the nose and the end to
run pinch stunts. The nose runs a Nick and the end runs an Eric.
upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside foot, which is a 45-
directly upfield through the B gap.
and rips his outside arm as he crosses the face of the blocker. He must push off
his inside foot, squaring his shoulders to the line of scrimmage as he begins his
upfield stunt. He cannot penetrate the B gap for more than one yard before
begins his stunt.
Figure 11-28. Weak pinch stunt from stack-OH
Strong Split Stunt (Figure 11-29)
Description: Strong split is a two-man stunt that instructs Blood and the tackle to
run split stunts. Blood runs a Bob and the tackle runs a Tom. The weakside play
their read techniques.
through the edge. The tackle steps first with his inside foot, which is a 45-degree
step to the inside. He then crosses over with his outside foot and moves directly
upfield through the A gap.
as he begins his stunt.
Figure 11-29. Strong split stunt from stack-OH

Weak Split Stunt (Figure 11-30)
Description: Weak split is a two-man stunt that instructs the nose and the end to
run split stunts. The nose runs a Nick and the end runs an Eric. The strongside
play their read techniques.
upfield through the A gap. The end steps first with his inside foot and then drives
directly upfield through the C gap.
stunt.
Figure 11-30. Weak split stunt from stack-OH

Stunt and Blitz Combinations
Stunts can be incorporated with blitzes. Blitzes are covered in Vol. 5—Blitz
Package. Stunts can be called with the blitz or can be called by using a simple
word to stunt all linemen.
Storm Geronimo 7 (Figure 11-31)
Description: Storm Geronimo 7 is a strongside slant stunt by all down linemen

and a 7-hole blitz by Geronimo. Blood uses a flat down the line slant technique
and contains the strongside. The nose slants flat down the line and works to a
head-up position on the strongside guard. The end slants flat down the line and
works to a head-up position on the weakside guard. Geronimo executes a 7-hole
contain blitz.
Technique: Blood steps with his outside foot and works upfield through the edge.
The nose steps with his slantside foot and slants to a head-up position on the
strongside guard. He reads the offensive guard’s block as he slants. The end
steps with his inside foot slant to a head-up position on the weakside guard. The
end must read the offensive guard’s block as he slants. Geronimo prowls to the
line of scrimmage and executes a 7 hole contained blitz.
Coaching Points: Blood, the nose, and the end cannot penetrate the line of
scrimmage. This movement is flat, keeping the shoulders square to the line of
scrimmage. Geronimo must aim one yard outside the deepest back. He cannot let
anything get outside of him.
Figure 11-31. Storm Geronimo 7 from Cochise
Wave Sam 8 (Figure 11-32)
Description: Wave Sam 8 is a weakside slant stunt by all down linemen and an
8-hole blitz by Sam. Blood slants flat down the line and works to a head-up
position on the strongside guard. The nose slants flat down the line and works to
a head-up position on the weakside guard. The end uses a flat down the line slant
technique and contains the weakside. Sam executes an 8-hole contain blitz.
Technique: Blood steps first with his inside foot and slants to a head-up position
on the strongside guard. He reads the offensive guard’s block as he slants. The
nose steps first with his slantside foot and slants to a head-up position on the
weakside guard. He reads the offensive guard’s block as he slants. The end steps
first with his outside foot and works upfield through the edge. He reads the tight
end or near back’s block as he slants. Sam prowls to the line of scrimmage and
executes an 8-hole contained blitz.
Coaching Points: Blood, the nose, and the end cannot penetrate the line of
scrimmage. This movement is flat, keeping the shoulders square to the line of
scrimmage. Sam must aim one yard outside the deepest back. He cannot let
anything get outside of him.
Figure 11-32. Wave Sam 8 from Cochise
Under Trey Bat Massy 42 Cover 6 Snake (Figure 11-33)
Description: Under trey bat massy 42 cover 6 snake is a two-man blitz and a
two-man line stunt. Blood and the tackle run a bat stunt. Mike and the strong
safety run a massy 42 blitz.
offensive center’s block as he stunts to the A gap. The tackle steps first with his
pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the outside. His landmark is the near V
neck of the tight end. If the tight end is not present, he reads the offensive
tackle’s block as he stunts to the C gap. Mike executes a 4-hole blitz. The strong
safety executes a 2-hole blitz.
Coaching Points: Blood and the tackle must move on ball movement. They must
close to the line of scrimmage and attack offensive blockers, using a hand-shiver
technique. If run occurs, Blood has A gap responsibility and the tackle has C gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush through the A gap and the
tackle has an outside contain rush. Mike blitzes the 4 hole on the snap of the ball.
The strong safety prowls down to the low-hole area and blitzes through the 2
hole. He must time his blitz so that he comes off the butt of Mike.
Figure 11-33. Under trey bat massy 42 cover 6 snake
Cochise Eon Wham 42 Cover 3 Rhino (Figure 11-34)
Description: Cochise eon wham 42 cover 3 rhino is a two-man blitz and a two-
man stunt. The end and the nose run an eon stunt. Will and Mike execute a
wham 42 blitz.
Technique: The end steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the offensive
blocker. The end then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he drives to the
of the tight end. If no tight end is present, the tackle reads the offensive tackle’s
block as he stunts to the C gap. Will runs a 4-hole blitz. Mike executes a 2-hole
blitz.
Coaching Points: The end and nose must move on ball movement. They must
shiver technique. If run occurs, the end has the weakside A gap for responsibility
and the nose has C gap responsibility. If pass occurs, the end has an inside rush
through the weakside A gap and the nose has an outside contain rush. Will must
time his blitz so that he runs off the butt of Mike when he blitzes the 4 hole.
Mike runs a 2-hole blitz on the snap of the ball.
Figure 11-34. Cochise eon wham 42 cover 3 rhino
Navajo Ban Wag 75 Cover 3 (Figure 11-35)
Description: Navajo ban wag 75 cover 3 is a two-man blitz and a two-man stunt.
Blood and the nose run a ban stunt. Will and Geronimo run a 7-and 5-hole blitz.
inside. His landmark is the strongside A gap. He reads the offensive center’s
block as he stunts. The nose steps first with his inside foot as he closes to the
offensive blocker. The nose then pivots and pushes off his inside foot as he
drives to the outside. His landmark is the near V neck of the tight end. If no tight
end is present, he reads the offensive tackle’s block as he stunts to the strongside
C gap. Will executes a 7-hole contain blitz. Geronimo prowls down and executes
a 5-hole blitz.
has the strongside A gap for responsibility and the nose has strongside C gap
responsibility. If pass occurs, Blood has an inside rush through the strongside A
gap and the nose has a strongside contained rush. As Will blitzes, he must aim
one yard outside the deepest back and cannot let anything get outside of him.
Geronimo must use good timing and prowl down to a position that allows him to
blitz off the butt of Will into the 5 hole. He must spill all plays outside to the
Will.
Figure 11-35. Navajo ban wag 75 cover 3

About the Author
Denny M. Burdine has 30 years of football coaching experience at the high

school level. Before retiring, he spent the last 17 years of his coaching career at
Arkansas High School in Texarkana, Arkansas, where he served as a defensive
coordinator, head football coach, athletic director, and history teacher.
His love for defensive football helped to establish him as one of the best
defensive coaches in the state of Arkansas, with his defensive teams being
ranked as one of the best in the state year in and year out. Some of his players
have gone on to play at the Division I level, as well as in the NFL. During his
career, he coached three NFL football players: Rod Smith of the Denver
Broncos, Eric Warfield of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Mike Cherry of the New
York Giants.
Burdine is a graduate of Southern Arkansas University. A strong believer in

teaching character, leadership, and work ethics to players and students, he is
listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.
Burdine and his wife, Judy, have two children, Jennifer and Lori, and four
grandchildren.

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Coaching

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or

As for me, I can quickly account for my knowledge of defensive football. It

My journey in football began with my high school coach, Don Hubbard.

From John Thompson, former defensive coordinator at the University of

Special thanks to Richard Martin, who was my pipeline for defensive

Coaching Defensive Football Successfully consists of seven volumes that will

The following seven volumes are found in Coaching Defensive Football

• Vol. 1—Philosophy and Fronts

A football coach must have a desire to acquire as much football knowledge

The defensive package described in this series is a proven defensive

Each coach must develop a sound football philosophy. A defensive coach

Placing your personnel in the proper positions is very important. Coaches

• Corners are a must! Corners must be able to play man-to-man on an island.

Techniques for Specific Down Linemen

Nose Tackle Blood End

Down Linemen Stance, Alignment,

• The down linemen align in a three-point stance.

• Alignment is taking all-the-ball, unless a flex off the line of scrimmage is

• Initial movement is made when the ball moves.

• The hand shiver is used to attack and neutralize offensive blockers.

Release From the Blocker

Pursuit to the Ball

Reading Pass Blocks

• Is the quarterback dropping short or deep or rolling out? If the quarterback

Bull Rush or Power Rush

Drive and Pull Rush Techniques

Speed Rush Technique

Key: The ball to the head of the center.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the center.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the offside guard.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the guard.

Key: The ball to the head of the guard.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the guard.

Key: The ball to the head of the tackle.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the tackle.

Key: The ball to the “V” neck of the tight end.

Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot.

Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot

Figure 4-5. Down-down block—trap

Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot

Big-on-Big Pass Block

Figure 4-7. Big-on-big pass block

Turnback Pass Block—Toward

Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot.

Turnback Pass Block—Away

Reaction: The defender steps with his back foot.

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with the inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Turnback Pass Block—Toward

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his inside foot

Reaction: The defender steps with his outside

Reaction: The defender steps with his outside

Reaction: The defender steps with his outside

Figure 6-3. Reach block

Reaction: The defender steps with his outside