Running Back Run Blocking Drills

Running Back Run Blocking Drills

Usually running backs are measured by yards per carry, yards per game and – maybe – their receiving skills. But blocking skills – run blocking and pass blocking – are still very important for a complete running back. While when running the ball the running back has to avoid contact with the defenders, it is totally the opposite when he is blocking for another player, be it the quarterback or another running back, running the ball. Then he has to seek the contact with the defender, hit him and drive him in the desired direction. The key factor to a successful run block is – besides correct technique – aggressiveness. The blocker has to seek the collision with the defender, hit him hard and with as much force as possible, without losing control. Unlike an offensive lineman the running back can’t get to  the defender he has to blog with two or three steps. He has to run towards the spot he expects the defender to be when he gets there. Therefore the running back has to accellerate out of his stance and reach the expected blocking point as quick as possible, but he still has to run under control to adjust to the actual movement of the defender. Be it that the defender is reacting quicker or slower than expected, or the defender is doing something totally different due to a called stunt or blitz.

Run Blocking Drills

Shoulder Block Drills (Progression)
The Running Back Shoulder Block Drills teach your running backs the shoulder block in simple progression steps.
Specific Blocks
This is a more General Advice on How to Teach Specific Run Blocks you might need in your Offensive Scheme.