Offensive Line Shoulder Block Progression Drills

Purpose

Teaching the shoulder block

Description

First Progression – Fit drill

Do three reps each shoulder

  • do 3 reps then next group
  • one shoulder at a time

Step 1: Get in position

  • 6 point stance
  • facemask centered on bag (6 inches away)

Step 2: Prepare to deliver a blow

  • arm cocked back on “Ready” (ready to deliver a blow)
  • arm slightly tensed

Step 3: Deliver the blow

  • deliver a blow on “Set/Go”
  • do not hit with fist
    • fist inside on chest
    • elbow up (forearm parallel to ground)
    • big blocking surface
    • use flat surface of the forearm
  • all of chest on bag
  • earhole on the bag
    • pinch neck and shoulder
  • roll the hips
  • belt buckle on the ground
  • eyes to the sky
  • hold in extended position

Second Progression – 2 Point Drill

Do three reps each shoulder

  • do 3 reps then next group
  • one shoulder at a time

Step 1: Get in position

  • 2 point stance
  • facemask 6 inches from bag
  • good football position
    • butt down
    • back straight

Step 2: Deliver the blow

  • on call step with opposite foot of shoulder
  • deliver blow with forearm and shoulder
  • roll the hips
  • eyes up
  • belt buckle on the ground

Third Progression – 3 Point Drill

Do three reps each shoulder

  • do 3 reps then next group
  • one shoulder at a time

Step 1: Get in position

  • 3 point stance
  • 1 yard away from bag or sled

Step 2: Deliver the blow

  • 6″ step with opposite foot
  • get ready to deliver blow
  • deliver blow on 3rd step

Step 3: Drive the bag or sled

  • keep butt down
  • back straight
  • eyes up
  • drive the feet – “pound the ground”

Coaching Points

Shoulder and forearm should hit simultaniously. Make sure back is straight, so that the strength of the legs will add to the blow.

Equipment

  • Heavy stand up bags
  • Five or seven men sled