The Bull, Bison, and Bear Offense: Coach Jack Gregory
The Bull, Bison, and Bear Offense: Coach Jack Gregory
The Bull, Bison, and Bear Offense: Coach Jack Gregory
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Disclaimer
This text is intended to provide youth coaches with the overview and
understanding on how to properly run this offense, conduct warm ups,
conduct speed and endurance training for young athletes.
Implementation of any training philosophy, program or idea contained
within this text is done so at the individual’s own risk. Jack Gregory
assumes no liability in the event of injury, accident or death.
After running the Double Wing for nine seasons, I started to dabble in
other formations and sets that would improve my version of the Double
Wing. In doing so I discovered a set of formations that I really enjoyed
and have had a lot of success with as I utilize them more and more. The
truth of the matter is that it was by complete accident and circumstance
that I came about using these sets. This book is a sort of history and a how
to guide on the offense that I have come to call Bull, Bison, & Bear.
I would like to thank JJ Lawson for taking the time to edit and proof read
this very long-winded playbook and manual. He is a fine coach and a
good friend that gives some great feedback and awesome advice.
In 2003 we had a very talented ten to twelve year old team of football
players loaded with Double Wing veterans. We also had some very
talented backs that were in their first year of the system and the first year
of actually being coached technique. One of the sets we added was the
direct snap balanced Beast formation (a variation of the Calande
unbalanced Beast). We had a lot of success with this formation with just a
few simple plays. As the season went on our center’s snap became very
inconsistent (actually it was never consistent to begin with but got worse).
The big problem was we just didn’t spend enough time teaching the
direct snap and it really showed. So we modified the formation into the
Bull and Bear indirect snap formation and thus the Bull, Bison, and Bear
Offense was born. That season we scored over 16 touchdowns off that
single set of formations running the basic Super Power series. I fell in love
with the formation for two reasons. One, it put my main run threat in the
Double Wing (my Motion Back) into an I formation look seven yards deep
and allowed him to attack the hole down field at full speed. Two, due to
the depth of seven yards it gave the backside linemen more time (about
one third of a second) to get to the hole and that is a big impact. Third, it
really allowed us the ability to have the back bounce the play outside by
logging the defensive perimeter as they scraped down into the off tackle
hole. That was a huge impact on our offense. Lastly, the perceived over
load on the strong side (really just an unbalanced back field) allowed us
to force defenses to shift and gave us the ability to counter to the
backside. Our counters out of Bull and Bear were simply a thing of beauty
and wreaked havoc on defenses. With all that being said what I really
liked about the Bull and Bear was it gave me the same potential threat of
misdirection and power on either side but with a non-symmetrical
backfield. It is very deceptive when you look at the ability to attack with
“power” on either side of the formation.
In 2004 I took the fall football season off. Instead of coaching, I consulted
a lot of teams during the season (including my old team). They used the
BEAR BULL
The Bull and Bear formations I use now (above) give me the ability to
power to one side and misdirect to the other but don’t be fooled we can
still power to the backside very easily while misdirecting the defense.
Line Splits – Zero inches is prefered but often we go out to six inches. We
use a narrow balanced three point stance.
Line Depth – Shoulder is aligned to the hip of the center. This is about half
the legal depth. You can have the head just break the plane of the
center’s hip and it is legal. We do this because we often pull our linemen
and the added depth ensures we can get them down the LOS. I have
also found that using the severe angles that we often end up
trapping interior linemen by having our linemen slightly off the LOS instead
of up tight.
BB (Blocking Back) – between the PSG’s inside shoulder and PST’s outside
shoulder no deeper then 1 yard (can adjust depth). This flexibility allows
him to adjust for great blocking angles, faking, and carrying the ball. He is
in a three point stance unless this will hinder his speed and then we place
him in a two point stance.
In the OVER and UNDER call I move the OT to the outside tackle position or
inside of the TE. When I do go OVER and UNDER the BSG is the only
lineman pulling as our BST is already at the point of attack when we go to
the overloaded side. I can also move the TE on a DOUBLE call (double
TE’s on called side) but I have found if I move the OT that I don’t have
reteach backside blocking as the BSTE already knows what to do no
matter the case as his rule does not change. Going OVER/UNDER gives
you one more blocker in the SAB track on playside and is a great way to
add additional power to your play even if you have a Tackle that can not
pull effectivily.
Our snap count carries over from my double wing system as I feel this is
the best snap count to have if I ever use motion in a set. I also feel it sets
up the defense to fail from the start of the play. This snap count is
designed to make defenses react and to signal our offense what is
coming. All three words are action words that can create reaction from
the defense.
The center is always in charge of our team at the LOS. He sets and when
he sees everyone get to the LOS he calls DOWN to set the offense. At that
point the QB is now in charge of the team and the entire team sets.
Play Calling
C
E T G G T E
Q
W
B
Numbers tend to confuse some kids and having them try to sort out even
and odd numbers for right and left just adds to the confusion. So we use
words and phrases that paint a clear picture of what we want them to
execute. I firmly believe we have to use a system that our lowest common
denominator can understand at all times. What I mean is at some point
you are going to come across a kid that cannot understand a numbering
system or struggles with his left and right. At the younger levels where left
and right can often be a challenge to kids, adding an odd/even
numbering system often leaves them with a blank stare. So I figure why
make my life impossible when I can just stick to K.I.S.S and be successful
with it. I do this by using a word system that paints a picture or an
impression for each player so that they can understand their role within a
play. I have found that numbers just get in the way of allowing a youth
player to fully grasp (or translate) what you are trying to achieve, as he
has to decipher what you are saying through a system of numbers and
how they work in the system and then recall what he has to do within that
system. Instead I want to draw a mental picture with the play call so there
is absolutely no confusion for these young minds. Each word has a
specific meaning and the words grouped together tell the players what
they have to do so that the team can execute the play. It simply creates
a picture for them through words.
Our primary running back is the tail back or as I explain it to the kids that
HE IS THE TAIL OF THE BULL, BISON, and BEAR. He is our primary ball carrier
and the best running back on our team. If we do not tag a specific back
it is assumed that the TB is getting the ball, as he is the base of our attack.
Otherwise we tag another back to indicate that he is the ball carrier.
When I say tag what I mean is if I just call Bull Power Right then the tail
back is getting the ball but if I call Bull BB Part Right then the blocking
back is getting the ball. So no tag means the tail back is getting the ball
and a tag means that someone else is getting the ball.
When a play is called the first thing that is told to the offense is the
formation. We give each formation a specific name that the kids will
remember and associate with the formation. I try to use a name that
defines what the formation will look like; again a word picture. In the case
Tells offense it is BEAR FORMATION (RIGHT SIDE). SEAL blocking right and
the play is going to the tailback to the right side.
Tells offense it is BEAR FORMATION (RIGHT SIDE). PART blocking left and the
play is going to the blocking back to the left side.
This allows us to keep things very simple but is flexible enough to allow us
to change and adapt plays for our kids.
ADJUSTMENT TAGS
KEEP – Tells the QB he is keeping the ball but still executing the exact same
action that the play requires.
CP: You must stress to your QB how important it is to keep carrying out
bootlegs and fakes exactly the same and well so that when a KEEP is
called it looks “normal” at first to the defense. This is what is going to make
your KEEP plays huge plays.
CP: I tell our QB’s to look right into the eyes of a perimeter defender and
run at his outside edge. Eye contact forces the defender to “look at him”
BOUNCE – Tells BB on a kick out track to LOG block vice kick out the first
defender to cross his face. Aim for the outside shoulder and seal the
defender inside. This also tells the pulling linemen and/or other blockers to
flow under the BB instead of cutting inside. It also tells the WB to chip off a
head up or outside aligned defender as he goes to his target vice
clearing. If a SUPER call is included the QB kicks out the run force if he is
wide or seals him if inside.
CP: You will need to rep the log block and flow under several times to get
the timing down or it will disrupt the flow of the play if not properly
practiced enough.
CP: Rep that chip block with the WB. Tell him to simply smack the near
shoulder and force the defender to look at him. Often the man he is
chipping is going to be the BB’s target and if that man’s eyes go off the BB
then the log block is much more successful and it gives the BB more time
to get to that outside shoulder and seal him in.
SUPER – Tells the QB to toss the ball and lead into the hole and block
outside inside the first defender to cross his face.
Tells the QB to spin toss the ball and double kick out with the BB vice
leading into hole and taking next defender outside inside.
SWEEP – Tells the WB to reach the 1st defender on/outside of him and the
kick out to go under and kick out corner back while all pullers pull into
lane. If corner is in tight and crashing the kick out should LOG the corner
and pullers go under him as well.
CP: You have to rep the Reach block with the WB and you can do it at
the same time you teach the BB’s log block, as they are essentially the
same thing.
WB PASS - This is a simple adjustment call to any running play that has the
WB going into a banana route and the QB bootlegging. This tag tells the
QB to keep the ball bootleg and throw the ball to the WB. This allows us to
have a single passing threat off of a vast majority of our running plays.
WB REVERESE – This is a simple call that tells the WB to run outside of the QB
and take an outside handoff and run a reverse. WB drop steps.
LEAD – This tells the BB to jab step to the opposite side and then lead into
the hole.
BLAST – Tells the BB and WB to lead into the hole. BB jab steps and hits
hole. WB makes a quick drop step and leads into hole.
DOUBLE – Tells the QB to double team with the kick out blocker. Good
when facing a tough defender that is the kick out target. An adjustment
for the SUPER.
WHAM – Tells the WB to lead into the hole as the BB does in LEAD. He
makes a quick drop step and hits hole fast.
That sums up my core belief of offensive football. It all starts with the ability
to block well and do it aggressively no matter what you face. You look at
any successful offense that performs game in and game out throughout
an entire season it is because they could block any defense they faced
and they did it with Intensity, technique, and execution. You have to instill
a belief in your team that blocking is all-important and it the base of a
good offense. Without it you are not going to beat more talented teams.
I believe that our blocking schemes must be able to do the below things
and do them well if we are going to succeed. This is especially so against
bigger and more talented teams:
Wedge Blocking
At the younger age levels (age 5 to 8) this can be the single most
effective and devastating scheme against a defense. At the older levels
the defenses can start defending it if it is a stand-alone scheme but as a
complimentary scheme with SAB it forms a very sound and effective
blocking scheme combination.
•The Wedge is a very simple blocking scheme that can be built into a
highly successful series of plays.
•It builds offensive line unity.
•It sets up other plays in the series. When the defense sells out on the
wedge it opens up other plays.
•Lineman become interchangeable.
•It can be a power or deception play. It is surprisingly deceptive.
•It can be used with smaller or weaker players.
•It is demoralizing to the other team.
•It is always an offensive line favorite.
•Weaker backs can run in the wedge. The backs become
interchangeable, as the key component is the line.
CP: The main reason for keeping the Center the main point of attack is if
you have the Center and both guards become the apex of the wedge
then you are essentially teaching three types of wedges and the center
and guards must be able to identify an ODD/EVEN front and then identify
who will be the apex of the wedge. Also if you do this you have to be
aware that the backside now must travel more distance. To me it is
simpler to teach a CENTER APEX WEDGE and rep it till the line is very good
at it.
CP: Submarining – a defender that tries to attack a blocker’s legs and trip
or collapse him and there by collapses the wedge.
PENETRATION
• You have to stress that the guards mesh with the center correctly
and drive the center forward. “Slide inside and drive!” The initial
center-guard mesh is all-important to the success of the wedge.
• The Tackle to Guard mesh can cause problems if the tackles get
lazy, are slow, or not executing the footwork correctly. They have a
longer step then the guards do so you have to really stress taking
that slide step inside.
• The Tight End to Tackle mesh is were the majority of your
penetration problems are going to occur. This is because the slide
that the tight end must take is long and he must be quick and
• You must stress the little things for the wedge to be effective.
• Every blocker except the point (Center) must work to not engage
any defender but instead engage the next man inside and seal the
wedge while going up field.
• They must lock their inside shoulder to the outside ribcage to stop
penetration as they form and move up field. They must stay
connected.
• If the wedge stops it is dead. It must move forward and when it
slows or breaks up it must explode up field in a burst.
• The runner must stay small in the wedge and explode up field if
daylight shows.
• The Center is key to the success of your wedge play. If your wedge
is breaking down fast look at your center because more than likely
he is not charging forward and engaging the NT but standing up
and he has to fire out and get going forward to allow the wedge to
form as it moves forward otherwise it will just turn into a log jam.
• Also if the center is not slide stepping and allowing the rest of the
line to push him on an even front then he will cause the wedge to
break apart before it forms. I always try to place a kid at center
that can do both well and has some smarts and will fire vice a big
kid. The better your center the better your wedge will be.
• The Wedge Fit is very important to the success of the wedge as well.
It allows the unit of blockers to move as one and allow no
penetration. The fit is achieved by having the exterior lineman
(those outside of the center or pivot man) slide inside (not forward)
and fit their inside shoulder into the inside man’s ribcage as they get
their inside arm up and their hand pressing on the lower back. This
locks the players in as they work up field they must work to get their
outside hand onto the inside blocker’s shoulder pad (on the near
back).The wedge is a very effective play but you have to stress the
little things for it to work. The blockers must slide inside and behind
the center and lock shoulders quickly as they drive forward. They
must get that inside hand on the lower back and press (Mesh). The
fewer defenders they engage as they move inside and forward the
better off the wedge is of working.
BALL CARRIER
Base
• Line Forms Wedge on LOS facing a NT. Shows them how the wedge
looks and moves. Work for 5 then 10 yards.
• Formed Wedge Eyes Wide Shut on LOS facing NT. Center’s eyes are
opened. Teaches them to stay together by feel. Work for 10 yards.
• From LOS in seven man balanced line and then later from
OVER/UNDER – Get into the wedge and freeze. Work on first step,
second step, and then getting into a tight mesh.
• From LOS – Full speed on NT. Work for 10 yards and then as far as it
will go.
• From LOS – Full speed on NT Eye Wide Shut. Work for 5 yards. If they
can go live from a formation and do this drill then you have an
awesome wedge unit.
5 to 10 yards
• From LOS (5/7) – Full speed on NT. Again work for 5 to 10 yards and
as the BB feels the wedge slow or he sees a seam/crack of daylight
he yells “EXPLODE”. Set up by setting up the line and 15 yards out
there are three to five defenders with shields. On “GO” the wedge
forms and moves down field. The BB stays in the wedge until it
slows are shows a crack.
• The runner must explode up field into daylight (straight up field).
The concept here is to drive the wedge into the defense and past
the line backer level and as it does have the line explode and
engage any defender down field as the runner explodes up field to
the end zone.
• This makes the Wedge a home run play!
EXPLODE DRILL
15 Yards
5 to 10 Yards
Cut Wedge
• If your mesh between your OG-OT and TE-OT are being penetrated
due to a hard rush and you don’t have the ability to trap you can
use the Cut Wedge.
• Simply have the TE’s and OT’s shoeshine to cutoff the defenders as
the G-C-G forms the wedge and back gets in behind the center.
• You can easily wedge with only the five interior lineman and send
the TE’s on passing routes, fake-blocking routes, or to block
secondary players.
OVER/UNDER
It was a simple system of having the play side collapse down into the
gaps. It essentially created a wall of blockers at an angle.
“With patient encouragement and steady work, the blockers will develop
a tight bonding as they create their own version of a legal flying wedge.
Properly executed, this technique will handle virtually every alignment,
stunt, or blitz. Assignment simplicity and camaraderie of teamwork make
the SLAM a lineman’s dream.”
(Coach Earle Bruce, Head Coach Ohio State and assistant coach under
Woody Hayes.)
TRACK blocking
Track blocking became popular in the mid Nineties with College and
Professional teams that needed a complimentary scheme that they could
use with their zone schemes. The zone is a passive aggressive blocking
scheme that allows blockers to engage defenders and then take them to
where they want to go with reaches, combo, double team, and chip
block combinations and the use of landmarks that allow for inside or
outside pressure. Because zones are based on defender’s movement
more often then not defense would play a read or two gap technique
and squat on the line of scrimmage. So track blocking become popular
as it was a more aggressive scheme that countered this defensive
adjustment and moved the defenders out of the way.
Don’s comment on the SLAM – “Slam satisfies all the criteria for a base
play. The unique feature is the highly physical collapse blocking scheme in
which blockers in unison and shoulder-to-shoulder down block the gaps to
their inside.”
CP: To find out more about TRACK blocking you can go to AFCA’s
website and look up articles on blocking. VMI and Wisconsin University
both mention Track Blocking in articles their staff’s have written.
Barry Alvarez (Head Coach of WU) stated “The objective behind this
method of blocking are to attack the defense with gap-blocked play,
sometimes with misdirection. We force the defense to defeat gap blocks
as opposed to zone blocks, thus creating more defined running lanes for
the running back…These plays blocked on tracks are toughness plays,
which create basic looks at a run for the tailback.”
HOW IT WORKS
ADVANTAGES OF SAB
• Easy to understand
• Simple to teach
• Simple to implement
• Simple to execute
• Simple to adjust
• Allows your blockers to be aggressive
• Gives your lineman a force advantage
• Builds unity in the offensive line
45
0 30 3 9
CP: Have your lineman point at 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock and that is a
good representation of your 30-degree angles.
HOW IT WORKS
Blocking Basics:
1) Good stance
2) Get off the ball
3) Maintain a wide base
4) Maintain a solid blocking surface
5) Keep your feet moving at all times with short powerful steps
6) Stay lower then the defender your blocking
Simple Rules:
FUNDAMENTALS OF S.A.B
STANCE
B.E.E.F FOOTWORK
B - We call the first step the BLAST OFF STEP as they have to get that foot
up and down fast (literally stomp the ground) into their track with a fast
short step while staying low (head up, chest on knee). The back should
not rise up at all on this step. The step should be no longer then 6 inches.
It should be the foot near the track. You must load your arms on this step
quickly.
Aiming Points:
Attacker (Penetrater) - Facemask aims for the soft part of the far shoulder.
First step aims for the far toe.
Reader – Facemask aims for the soft part of the near shoulder. First step
aims for the far heel.
If there is no one on the LOS as you blast off into the track you simply
apply this simple rule. If you are off the LOS anything else is a
reader/pursuer.
Footwork:
The foot should land flat, meaning all seven cleats hit the ground while
taking these steps. Literally stomping the ground as the blocker moves
down the track.
E - The next step we call the EXPLODE STEP, as that is the back foot taking
a short power step down the track. Staying low, the back should not rise,
and unload the arms (hands) into the body of the defender (chest plate
KEY POINT: The arms should unload hard into the body so that the
defender is literally being punched in the chest and ribs with the outer
portion of the heels of the hands.
KEY POINT: The facemask does not make contact with the body. The
facemask is a reference so that the eyes have a landmark so that the
body will follow.
E - The next step is the ELEVATE STEP and the near foot again takes a short
power step into the track that is fast and short (get it down quick).
Maintaining a wide base is key as you step and elevate. As you step you
immediately elevate from the ground up unloading from the feet, ankles,
knees, hips, shoulders, arms, and hands. You should stay under the
defender as you elevate him. Literally elevating through him driving your
hands inward and upward as you drive him down the track.
F - The final step(s) is the FINISH OFF STEP and it begins with the back foot
taking a short, fast, and power step. It should land where the defender
was on the ENGAGEMENT STEP. Each step after this step is a finish off step
and continues until the echo of the whistle to stop the play.
CP: If the defender is driven back and off his base then the blocker should
immediately speed up (get on the balls of his feet) and pancake the
defender. The steps should be fast (and short) and as you go to the balls
of the feet (vice flat) the stride length will increase so keep a wide base.
AIMING POINTS
•ATTACKER/PENETRATER
Face Mask aims into the soft part of the shoulder on the far side.
Blast Off Foot (near) aims for the far toes.
• READER
Face Mask aims into the soft part of the near shoulder.
CP: A Reader is any defender that is not attempting to cross the LOS or is
scrapping down the LOS. Linebackers in pursuit and reading defensive
tackles are good examples of this. A DE that squats or squeezes down the
LOS and reads is another good example.
Lineman need to have visual targets that they can look at as they move
towards a target this make it much easier for them make contact and
effectively engage a defender.
BLOCKING SURFACE
•The big key is blocking surface and we want to maximize the area
provided to us by the angle block. We want our blocker’s shoulder, body,
and hands on the defender and driving him down the track.
•Never lean into a defender (always attempt to drive your hips into the
defender to make sure your Center of Gravity is under the defender’s);
keep your center of gravity low and stay under the defender as you drive
him upward. Drive your hips into him so that your body stays under his.
The feet are constantly moving towards the defender. This leads me to the
next part of the equation.
The lineman load (cock) their arms past the hips with slightly bent elbows
and thumbs up (it doesn’t need to be perfect). As they elevate and the
face mask moves towards the soft part of the shoulder they strike into the
chest plate and/or ribcage with the palms and drives upward and
forward maintaining contact and force throughout the block. The
facemask should not actually make contact. It is a reference but
incidental contact does occur.
You don’t re-cock and strike again instead you keep driving into the
defender with the palms as you lock into the defender and keep taking
short power steps. The reason for this is two fold; one you want to get the
defender on his toes and moving down the track fast and secondly you
want to have a large platform or blocking surface (palm of hands, head,
Never ever let your hands, shoulders, or body disengage the defender.
Always work to maintain your initial placement as you drive upward into
the defender and drive him down the track. If he starts to go back speed
up get on the balls of your feet and sprint through him and pancake him!!!
Last but not least the linemen must learn to EXPLODE off the LOS and into
their track and engage and clear out the first defender they cross. They
must realize that they have to be the first to move and the last to stop
moving on every play.
As they engage the defender they must learn to take short power steps
and speed up as the defender loses ground so that the advantage they
have is fully utilized and the defender is driven down the track and out of
the play or better pan caked.
• Increasing and decreasing the line splits alters the angles of attack
on the defense. We use 0 to 6 inch splits but we can adjust out to 1
foot if needed. Coach John Carbon uses SAB with the Wing-T using
2-2-3 splits.
• Moving your play side blockers up to the LOS or back off the LOS
also adjusts the angle of attack.
• I prefer not to use either method above and our starting splits are
normally six inches vice the traditional zero of most DW teams as the
additional width helps SAB. But it is another tool in the toolbox if I
need it.
Normal Path
Normal path allows PSG to get an incidental double team with Center.
Allows play side to get into second level better especially the PSG. Good
if you have a PSILB scrapping hard to play.
By increasing the splits to a foot this allows the play side blockers that
reach the second level to seal off backside pursuit.
SHOULDER HIM
• Shoulder Block
If a defender is presenting a problem either due to poor explosion by the
lineman or the defender simply has a solid escape technique, or more
upper body strength, then we will attempt to simply shoulder block him at
the hip. This simplifies the EXPLODE STEP and ELEVATE STEP. When we
communicate this to our line we simply say, “Shoulder him”.
B.E.E.F STEPS
KEY POINT: Do not use the arms! Keep the arms loaded.
• Elevate Step – On the next step the near foot again takes a short
power step into the track that is fast and short (get it down quick).
Maintaining a wide base is key as you step and elevate. As you
step you immediately elevate from the ground up unloading from
the feet, ankles, knees, hips into the shoulder driving into the near
hip. You should stay under the defender as you elevate him. Literally
elevating through him driving your far shoulder inward and upward
as you drive him down the track.
• Finish Off Step – Same rules apply for SAB B.E.E.F. Apply from
Aiming Points:
•Attacker (Penetrater) - Facemask aims for far hip pad. First step aims for
the far toe.
•Reader – Facemask aims for the far hip pad. First step aims for the far
heel.
CUT HIM
Cut Block –
–KEY POINT: Do not use the arms! Keep the arms loaded.
–KEY PONT: This only works on a Penetrater at the line.
•Elevate Step – On the next step the near foot again takes a short power
step into the track that is fast and short (get it down quick). The blocker
must elevate his body down the LOS (not upward) as if to lay out on the
LOS. This creates a wall that they defender must go over, around, or stop.
Normally as the defender attempts to penetrate he hits the blockers body
at the sheen level and flops over him.
•Finish Off Step – At this point the blocker will be on all fours as he
elevated down the LOS. He must keep on all fours and keep moving up
field and inward driving the defender away from the LOS. This is similar to
a crab block.
Aiming Points:
Tough 2
tech
POST MAN
•Blast Off Step – He has to get that foot up and down fast (literally stomp
the ground) into their track with a fast short step (foot near track) while
staying low (head up, chest on knee). The back should not raise up at all
on this step. The step should be no longer then 6 inches. Foot near the
track. You must load your arms on this step quickly. Instead of going at an
angle the step is towards the head up defender.
•Explode Step - The back foot takes a short power step towards the
defender. Staying low, the back should not rise, and unload the arms
(hands) into the body of the defender (chest plate and ribs). It is
important to get this second step down as fast as possible as this is the
step that first contact is made. The arms should unload has the foot
makes contact. (Creates a additional force production via Ground Force
Reaction – SYNERGY). At this point the track blocker should have made
contact as well.
•Elevate Step – This is the key step in the POST TRACK block as this when
you must stand up this defender so that the track blocker can get the
defender moving down the track. This step is the near foot taking a short
Combination Blocking
If a defender presents a problem that Post & Track can not solve then the
lineman can call “COMBO” (or any word with the letter C) to ask for a
combo block. The call to lineman will check to see if he has an
immediate threat and if not he will call out “GOTCHA”. If not no call will
come and the lineman making the call knows he has it on his own.
The combo blocks the post man must drive the defender up and back as
the lineman making the angle blocks joins hips and forms a solid surface
between the two blockers and drives that defender down the line and
away from the whole. The block will actually push the defender up field
and at slight angle vice the hard angle.
“TANK” ADJUSTMENT
•Tank is used on any scheme when the BSG and BST pull. It tells the BSG to
mirror the play blocks while the BST takes the BSG’s job and the BSTE takes
the BST’s job. This is a good way of handling backside leakage or a tough
interior defender and still get the full power of our backside pulling line.
•Example: Bear Super Seal Right Tank
FINAL THOUGHTS ON LINEMAN ADJUSTMENTS
• The Shoulder and Cut are adjustment blocks that I like to teach my
individual lineman to use with SAB. These have been very effective
for us in dealing with one on one-match ups over a course of a
game.
Our most basic blocking scheme is the SEAL scheme (called the power
scheme in my old playbooks).
SEAL Scheme
With the addition of SUPER you can have the QB lead into the hole and
block outside inside as well.
Adjustments to SEAL
SHORT SEAL
SHORT = one less gap; first man near the hole release up field and seals
vice SAB block.
CP: If you plan on using the PSTE as a inside seal block then you need to
make sure you stress to the back making the kick out block that he must
take a step right at the PSG’s inside heel and then travel down the LOS
and block the first defender to cross his face. This ensures that he takes the
first inside threat and not bypass the most dangerous man. This can occur
on a short call with the PSTE releases off the LOS and does not block a
defender inside him on his usual SAB path. SHORT also tells everyone the
GAP is one less or shorter so they need to be ready to get up field to
daylight faster. Handles a tough PSLB or ILB can have the PSTE and PSWB
double a tough LB.
CP: This handles a tough PSLB or ISLB. We can either double a tough PSLB
or seal a PSLB with the WB and seal a ISLB with the PSTE (if he is scrapping
over the SAB).
This adjustment adds one more blocker on the SAB Tracks by adding the
WINGBACK on the LOS (Shifts on the DOWN call by the CENTER). You can
also get the same thing from an OVER/UNDER call and still get the WB’s
seal block as well.
This adds additional power on the LOS allowing us the pry a hole open
better. Normally used against defenses that stack the LOS (10-1 or GAM
type defenses).
CP: Just as SHORT tells the unit that the play is one gap short LONG tells
the unit that the play is one gap more. Handles a tough 6 or 9 tech.
Should snap the ball after the shift; don’t wait and allow the defense to
adjust.
This blocking scheme is often used in our misdirection plays and counter
plays as we fake action to one side (using the BB or WB and TB) and goes
the other way.
LONG KICK
This adjustment adds one more blocker on the SAB Tracks by adding the
WINGBACK on the LOS (Shifts on the DOWN call by the CENTER). You can
also get the same thing from an OVER/UNDER call and use the WB as a
misdirection decoy.
TRAP SCHEME
This is really nothing more then a SHORT KICK and if you teach it that way it
will be much easier for the lineman to grasp and learn. This scheme allows
us to trap a 4 tech our wider were a KICK we trap a 6 tech or wider.
This scheme compliments the SEAL and KICK and it allows you along with
the SHORT TRAP to trap anybody on the LOS; which gives you great
flexibility in attacking an overly aggressive defender.
One this play the PSTE releases off the LOS and seals the first linebacker he
comes to on the inside. The PST to the Center block SAB IN and the BSG
kicks out the first defender to cross his face on the play side. The BST pull
and seals for additional power.
Adding SHORT to the call has the PST and the PSTE both release and seal
the first linebacker they come to on the inside. This allows you to double
up on an inside linebacker and at the same time trap a 2 technique
defender.
On Trap the WB can either seal the safety inside, double seal the first the
linebacker inside with the PSTE, or triple team a tough LB with the PSOT,
PSTE, and WB, run some type of misdirection, or run a pass route to pull a
G Scheme
This is a PSG kick out scheme with the BSG and BST pulling into the hole
playside. It offers a quicker kick out on the playside by a different blocker
vice the BB or BSG in our scheme. Although in this offensive scheme the BB
is actually closer to the KICK OUT path this offers a different blocker on the
kick out target. So if the defender is starting to attack the kick out blocker
you can change up your scheme and have the PSG kick him out as he
extends to meet the common kick out blocker. Normally he gets blind
sided by the change up.
I would caution you and say that when you pull a PSG you do leave a
gap open to be penetrated by the defense initially as the PST and PSTE
block SAB IN. You have to be aware of this and really stay on your PST
and PSTE to get off their blocks and explode into their tracks to seal off
that gap.
Center blocks MAN ON MAN AWAY (MOMA) to account for NOSE TACKLE
while the PST and PSTE block SAB IN. Both our BSG and BST pull and seal
inside outside.
SIDE SCHEME
This has turned into a very good blocking scheme for us that compliment
the SEAL and KICK scheme very well. It uses SAB OUT blocks on the play
side to drive defenders away from the LOS.
The BSG to the PSTE block SAB OUT. The BST and BSTE can block the
backside a few different ways; they can hinge block it and force the
defenders to the outside, reach block the backside side, or shoe
CP: We have the BB lead into the hole by jab stepping to the backside
getting hip to hip with the BST as he pulls (letting the BSG cross his face
and then lead into the hole. We often just drop the LEAD tag because we
use this with our side scheme so often.
PART SCHEME
This is another complimentary scheme for the SEAL and KICK. It is a great
scheme against a tough 6 tech expecting the SEAL or KICK scheme. It
creates a natural part as the perimeter defensive lineman fights to
establish position against the SEAL or KICK scheme. We have the BSG pull
and kick out to create a natural trap against any defender slipping
through. We have the BST pull and seal.
This is a great power play scheme when used in conjunction with LEAD,
WHAM, or BLAST tags.
This is a complimentary scheme to the SEAL and KICK schemes. I use this
scheme within its own series of plays. On the backside it has the BSTE to
the Center block SAB IN; which gives it the look of a SEAL or KICK on the
backside of the play and forces the defense to either react to the SAB IN
blocks backside or hold.
On the play side the PSTE blocks SAB IN while the PST pulls and either kicks
out the first man to cross his face or log the first man to cross his face
depending on the specific play called in that series. The PSG pulls and
seals the first linebacker he comes to inside.
•Cadence Clap Drill – (Coach Wyatt’s drill) Circle Formation or all in a line
– Coach has all players place hands up in front of face palms facing
each other. Go through each leg of the cadence having them clap in
unison on the call. For us our cadence is GO READYYYYY_HIT. We also go
on second HIT as well. We will work on GO and HIT firsts and then add
READY and second HIT. This is a very effective way of teaching cadence
and having everyone realize the importance of timing. You should have
one immediate clap if it is right.
B.E.E.F
•Teach the Blast Off step.
•Then Blast off Step and Explode step (first two steps that stay low).
•Then add Elevate (most import step in progression)
•Then add Finish Off
•Add live contact (1/2 speed work to full speed)
Have the lineman get on a LOS (all of them) and on Coach’s commands
they execute their footwork.
TRACK PROGRESSION
•Team Line Drill – Can use either Painted LOS with seven 30-degree lines
going the left and the right in different colors that are five yards long or
you can simply use the clock method and start by having the show you
the path vie 2 o’clock and 10 o’clock. You do this with all your lineman or
small groups of 3 to 7 for more control and correction (good way to begin
this drill at first). If using the painted lines they line u up with the angle lines
in the center of the body. The coach calls DOWN and all of the player set
in a two-point stance. (With the clock method start with “Lines” and the
show you the right or left track). On Cadence they explode into the SAB
sprint down the line until the whistle blows. Watch for good B.E.E.F
technique and stress explosive footwork (stomp the ground).
•If it is not correct stop everyone explain why it is wrong (and who) and
start over. Coach should be behind the line watching that every blocker
stays on his path and is using correct footwork and upper body tech. This
is easy to see because everyone is parallel to each other. Work for 5
yards at first then 10 yards and then extend it out to the boundaries as
they master it and do it to the left and the right. As they get good at it
have them close their eyes and do it a few times.
•The key is stressing that they stay in their tracks and create an angler wall
of bodies.
•Team Contact and Boundary Drill – same as above but using the painted
line or clock method – have the same number of defenders place
themselves on the left lines of the blockers facing the blockers at 30-
degrees with the defender holding shield facing blocker. On “GO” the
defender steps fast towards the GAP while the blocker explodes out of
their stance and executes his B.E.E.F progression at slow speed (bird dog).
•This allows you to check for good technique. Repeat until the footwork
and contact is done correctly and then do at full speed after correcting
any technique maintaining contact and driving the defender to the
boundary while making sure the blocker is staying on his track and not
adjusting it. Stress correct B.E.E.F technique at all times and finishing off to
the echo of the whistle. Stress being nasty and aggressive at all times.
• Moving the Play side (width and depth) using the track
progression. If you plan on using this it only requires a brief
explanation and review.
• “Shoulder Him”, “Cut Him” and “Post-Track” using the B.E.E.F
progression and blocking bags. Rep them so that they
understand how and when to utilize them in a game like
situation.
• You can break the drill down even further by simply having two
linemen work with a defender (or a defender holding a bag in
the case of the “Cut Him” call) and have the defender move
around to different ON positions on the blockers. Rep each call
and explain how it works. Then add the entire line and work with
multiple linemen while having the blockers make each call the
coach assigns to the blocking unit.
• As they run scrimmage drills create opportunities or take
advantage of opportunities within the scrimmage and remind
the line to use the adjustments.
This is an additional tool in instructing our lineman how to better deliver the
necessary punches during the explode phase of our B.E.E.F progression.
Once your lineman master the other elements or if you have linemen that
need the additional training to improve their blocking performance you
can add this drill in.
•This is an invaluable way to teach fine motor skills and hand punching
techniques that are necessary for our linemen to be successful. This is
especially necessary when coaching pre-adolescences as their fine motor
skills are just developing and it is imperative to teach them proper punch
technique and this helps in developing upper body quickness as well.
Often with youth lineman this is a quality that needs to be developed.
•You need two blockers one with a shield to act as a defender and one
as a blocker.
•They face each other with the blocker in a fit position. On “Down” he
loads his arms and the shield man readies to allow the blocker to punch
into the shield.
•The coach will call out the hitting pattern. The blocker must immediately
respond and reload as fast a possible.
CP: Stress loading and unloading with force. Teach the to step into the
punch with one of the feet. Explain that that foot is the near foot of the
track in a game like situation. Remind them that this is the EXPLODE phase
of B.E.E.F.
PULLING
2. Pull and Contact Drill – again one line of blockers as above except a
player offset so that he can hold a blocking bag on the path. The blocker
is told on GO to explode down the path and using our contact technique
drive through the bag while he stays on his feet and runs through.
After you do singles work on doubles so that you have two linemen pulling
to simulate the BSG and BST. Use two defenders and move them around.
Move the defender around and get the blockers used to reading INSIDE –
OUT. Use multiple defenders as well to teach them that they must read
INSIDE to OUT.
Since this is not a base scheme for us I don’t want to spend a lot of time
installing the scheme so I have tried to simplify the process as much as
possible and at the same time make it as effective as possible. Bear in
mind we count on teams trying to stop our base schemes thus making it
easier to reach them.
B – Remember we call the first step the BLAST OFF STEP except when
reaching that step is a bucket step (goes back wards for depth (parallel
to the LOS) as they have to get that foot up and down fast (literally stomp
the ground) to the back with a fast short step while staying low (head up,
chest on knee). The back should not raise up at all on this step. The step
should be no longer then 6 inches. Foot to the outside is the first step; you
must load your arms on this step quickly. The step should be back not
forward of the LOS as that will create a opportunity for the blocker to try
and lean into the defender (called a bucket step).
Bucket Step.
Footwork:
The foot should land flat, meaning all seven cleats hit the ground while
taking these steps. Literally stomping the ground as the blocker moves
down the LOS.
E - The next step we call the EXPLODE STEP as that is the back foot taking a
short power step down at the defender’s outside heel (literally stepping
towards it). Staying low, the back should not rise, and unload the arms
(hands) into the body of the defender (inside hand to center of chest
plate and outside hand into the funnel (the funnel starts in between the
far hip and elbow into the arm pit). It is important to get this second step
down as fast as possible as this is the step that first contact is made. The
arms should unload powerfully into the defender has the foot makes
contact. (creates an additional force production via Ground Force
Reaction – SYNERGY). It is important that the outside hand rips into that
funnel and turns the outside shoulder up field.
KEY POINT: The arms should unload hard into the body so that the
defender is literally being punched in the center of the chest and far
shoulder with the outer portion of the heels of the hands ( arm pit is the
best spot).
CP: If you can’t get to the far shoulder and chest it is simply better to
punch into the near rib and chest and drive the defender UP FIELD (NOT
LATERALLY ALONG THE LOS!!!)
KEY POINT: The facemask does not make contact with the body. The
facemask is a reference so that the eyes have a landmark so that the
body will follow.
E - The next step is the ELEVATE STEP and the near foot again takes a short
power step up field step to the outside of the defender’s hip. Maintaining
a wide base is key as you step and elevate. As you step you immediately
elevate from the ground up unloading from the feet, ankles, knees, hips,
shoulders, arms, and hands. You should stay under the defender as you
elevate him and turn his outside shoulder inward. Literally elevating
through him driving your hands inward and upward as you drive his
outside shoulder and body inside and up field.
F - The final step(s) is the FINISH OFF STEP and it begins with the back foot
taking a short, fast, power step inward and up field. It should land where
the defender was on the ELEVATE STEP. Each step after this step is a finish
off step and continues until the echo of the whistle to stop the play.
CP: If the defender starts to be driven back the blocker should get on the
balls of his feet and speed up and drive him up field and inside and try to
pancake the defender.
CP: At any time the defender causes a stalemate the blocker should
lockout and keep moving his feet but shorten the steps and keep all
seven cleats on the ground. Get him up field not to the boundary.
He calls “DOWN” and all blockers get in a proper stance. Defenders (can
use a shield) get in a balanced two-point stance. ON “GO” the blocker
goes through the REACH B.E.E.F progression one step at a time adding a
step as they begin the master each step both directions.
BLAST OFF
BLAST OFF – EXPLODE
BLAST OFF – EXPLODE – ELEVATE
BLAST OFF – EXPLODE – ELEVATE – FINISH OFF
3 2 1
On the playside the offense (to include the Wingback) count from the
boundary to the inside. The first defender reaches the first offensive player
CP: teach the PSG and Center to reach on their defender ride him and
then release up field and seal off backside pursuit or a safety up field.
Normally anything inside of the playside B gap doesn’t need to be
blocked but I always stress the PSG and CENTER get on their blocks initially
and then ride off them as they work up field.
TEACHING REACH
Simply line up the offensive unit then rep their count with cones in various
defensive alignments. Bird-dog it a few times (this having them execute
the first step of the play only). Then on air and then finally add live
defenders (with shields and dummies at first) and rep the scheme until
they understand who they have and how to block them.
Protect the passer so that he can effectively get the ball to the receiver.
That means he needs time, space, and good passing lanes in order to be
effective as a passer.
I keep things very simple and in the passing game I mimic my running
schemes as much as possible so that the defense does not know it is pass
until the last moment.
I use two basic schemes when teaching pass protection and three
additional schemes as my player’s age, football ability, and technique
mature. I always have to remind myself that I am coaching kids and that
when I teach something it has to be simplified so that every player has the
WEDGE PASS – this is simply wedge blocking with the adjustment that the
center only moves three steps down field and then stops. Once he stops
everyone works to seal up the inside and force the defense to flow
around the wedge. The passer takes a drop (normally a quick drop (one
step) or a three-step drop. The key is the blockers keep their hips together
and not allow any separation on the inside. We will have two additional
blockers in the backfield that will seal of the perimeters on each side as
well. Their rule is to allow nothing to get inside of them.
Force everything to
flow around the
wedge wall.
RED/BLUE – This is really a modified version of SIDE that pushes the play side
defenders wide as the QB rolls. The backside hinge blocks from the BSG to
the BSE (if not going out in a pass route) sealing off backside penetration.
It is the simplest way to teach young lineman to pass pro on a roll out. The
only difference between RED/BLUE and SIDE is that on the play side they
only track for four hard steps and then attempt to seal off the defense
and take their defenders flat to the boundary and the backside hinge
blocks.
CP: Bear in mind that since we are using a 30 degree angle we actually
have to travel five yards down field (not 3 yards) so that gives us five to
seven steps which is why we use four as a nice buffer.
BLACK/BROWN – This is really the classic buck sweep blocking action using
SAB blocking. The playside end (if not in a route) and tackle and center
block SAB IN while the playside and backside guard pull getting two steps
of depth and then turn up field and attack the LOS attempting to log and
push their defender up field as they seal him inside. If they cannot do that
they simply kick them out and attempt to drive them up field. The
backside tackle and end (if not in a route) hinge block.
CP: Instead of the pulling guards pulling through the LOS as taught in SAB
Pulling we have them take that first step for depth and then the next step
aims away from the LOS getting more depth and then as they clear the
EMLOS they attack the LOS squaring their hips and shoulders.
CP: If playing against an ODD front have the Center block MOMA (MAN
ON MAN AWAY) since you have both guards pulling someone has to pick
up the NT as he is more of a threat then the backside defensive tackle
who can be picked up by the backside tackle hinge blocking.
CP: Make sure you instill in them that PASS means no more then four steps
up field.
These are really the heart of what I teach when it comes to pass
protection. If I am coaching older kids and I know that they are going into
a high school that uses a lot of base pass protection I will teach a basic
drop back pass protection. I simply call it BASE PASS and the rules are
INSIDE/OVER/OUTSIDE.
At the snap of the ball they drive out for one step punching into their
defender as they take short choppy steps staying low. They keep the LOS
and the QB separated. They always seal off the inside first.
If it is wedge pass I simply teach wedge pass along with wedge blocking.
I go over the differences and explain how it works and then we rep
wedge pass along with wedge. I do add defenders into the drill so that
they can learn how to move up and then seal off.
BASE pass protection is a different thing all together so when I teach them
this I simply line up all seven blockers and work on driving out, dropping,
staying low, and punching into the defender. I first do it on air, then on
head up defenders, then with five or six defender that position themselves
as the defense that we are going to face.
CP: PASS TAG – any pass tag added to a running play tells the line these
things:
1) Tells all SAB to take three steps down their track and turn their
butts to the passer and seal off.
2) Pulling linemen stay the same but anyone sealing seals off no
more then 3 steps past the LOS and away from the passer
(inside).
3) BSTE if staying in hinge blocks vice shoe shine (cut).
Age Level: Recommend this as the base series for age five to seven.
Used as a primary series early in the season for seven to nine year olds in
conjunction with the power series. Used as a complimentary or
secondary series for ten year old and above teams.
Base Plays: Buck BB Wedge, Buck Wedge Sweep, Buck Drag Pass
(Waggle).
It threatens all three areas of the field and forces the defense to defend
the inside and both perimeters on every play. By keying those areas and
then watching for lapses in the defense you can take advantage of what
the defense is not doing. The additional use of the KEEP tag allows you to
utilize an athletic quarterback as well.
This series focuses on threatening the three areas of the field (INSIDE, LEFT
PERIMETER, RIGHT PERIMETER) with run and setting up the basic WAGGLE
PASS we call DRAG.
CP: You can teach several alternative pass protections for the DRAG pass if you have an
older team.
The BB and TB are the main running focus while the WB is mainly a
receiving threat. The QB is both a run and pass threat. The BB is obviously
going to get the majority of carries in this series as he sets up the entire
series. He must be capable of being patient; staying in the wedge and
driving straight up the field. He also must know to be explosive when the
wedge breaks apart and take advantage of the open field.
CP
Faking by the
QB and TB are
key to this
play sitting up
the entire
series.
Line Backs
PSE - Wedge QB – pivot hand off to BB and then continue with pivot
PST - Wedge by reversing out and bootlegging for depth. Put your
PSG - Wedge eyes on the DE and force him to look at you as you
Center - Apex boot out. Keep your arms in as if the ball is in your
BSG - Wedge chest.
BST - Wedge
BSE - Wedge GOOD FAKING!
TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the CB’s near
hip fake toss and attack the corners inside hip. Make
eye contact and force him to look at you.
GOOD FAKING!
BB – Lead step into center’s back taking handoff. Get
small into the Wedge and stay in it until you see
daylight.
WB – Reach the 1st defender outside. If the defender is
wide then kick him out vice reaching.
Adjustments
In Bison the CB
moves to the left
side. Since it is not
feasible for the CB
to get to the first
defender outside
we have him cross
over step aiming at
the PSE’s near hip
attacking the 1st
defender outside of
the PSE and
reaching him as the
defender tries to
scrape down the
LOS.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The PSG
becomes the APEX
of the Wedge to
keep the wedge
balanced.
CP
Faking by the
QB and BB
and running a
solid wedge
opens the
wedge sweep
up. You are
looking for the
perimeter
defenders at
the side to
crash in and
attempt to
stop the
wedge.
Line Backs
PSE - Wedge QB – pivot and soft pitch, the pitch should be aimed
PST - Wedge at the near hip of the BB, to the TB and then continue
PSG - Wedge with pivot by reversing out and bootlegging for depth.
Center - Apex Put your eyes on the DE and force him to look at you
BSG - Wedge as you boot out. Keep your arms in as if the ball is in
BST - Wedge your chest.
BSE - Wedge
GOOD FAKING!
CP: If the CB and DE are TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the CB’s near
hip get your eyes on the ball and secure toss and
presenting a problem then have
attack off the WB’s outside hip. corner’s inside hip.
the PSE fold under the WB and Work for the numbers up field and then to the
REACH/KICK the CB while the WB boundary.
reaches the DE. I simply call this
FOLDING. BB – Lead step into center’s back faking handoff. Run
it just as if it were real. The fake is key!
GOOD FAKING!
WB – Reach the 1st defender outside. If the defender is
wide then kick him out vice reaching. If he crashes in
hard then shove him in and work up to an inside
backer.
Adjustments
In Bison the CB
moves to the left
side. We
automatically have
the PSE to fold on
the corner and let
the WB take the DE
since that is his
normal target in the
Bison BB WEDGE.
Again we have the
CB cross over step
aiming at the PSE’s
near hip attacking
the 1st defender
outside of the PSE
and reaching him as
the defender comes
in.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The PSG
becomes the APEX
of the Wedge.
Other then those
adjustments
everthing else is the
same.
LO-HI
CP
READ Faking by the
BB and TB and
running a solid
wedge opens
the drag pass
up. You are
looking for the
perimeter
defenders at
the side to
crash in and
attempt to
stop the
wedge.
Line Backs
PSE – release and run the seam up field. QB – pivot and fake BB hand off and then continue
PST - Wedge with pivot by reversing out and bootlegging for depth.
Get your eyes up field and read the BB as soon as he
PSG - Wedge
clears and shows get him the ball. If he is not open
Center - Apex
then look high to the WB drag route. When you boot
BSG - Wedge
get depth and get out of the backfield fast while your
BST - Wedge
eyes are up field. Don’t stop moving.
BSE - Wedge
CP: The PSE needs to sell the SEAM and If you feel pressure then run!
pull/freeze the safety. TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the WB’s far
CP: The receivers must pop block a hip fake toss and attack the corner’s inside hip. Make
defender if a receiver below them eye contact and force him to look at you.
catches the ball or the QB decides to run GOOD FAKING!
it. This creates a wall that seals off the BB – Lead step up field let the QB clear then go inside
boundary. of QB and aim at the far hip of the BSE. Try to chip the
CP: PSTE SEAM add TAG SEAM. DE if possible. As soon as you clear the LOS get your
CP: TB FLY add TAG FLY. head around and look for the ball. If it doesn’t come
CP: BSTE run FADE add TAG THROWBACK. work to the sideline and up field. LOW READ.
CP: WEDGE PASS center fires out three WB – Release up field as if to initially reach and then
hard steps and all blockers slide in and work at a slight angle to the opposite side. You should
mesh forcing everything outside. be eight to ten yards deep on the other side. Get
there fast once you release. You are the HIGH READ.
Adjustments
In Bison the BSTE runs
the Drag route. The
WB aims for the far
hip of the BSTE and
gets there. He kicks
out the first
defender to cross his
face. The mesh
between the QB,
WB, and BB must be
worked on and
timed up to be
effective. The cross
buck action can
really throw
defenses for a loop.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The PSG
becomes the APEX
of the Wedge.
Other then those
adjustments
everthing else is the
same.
Age Level: This series is really suited for ages 9 and up. The older and
more mature the team is the more you can do. You can run this with
younger kids just keep the list of plays to the base plays.
Notes: This is really our base series and the set of plays that will most often
be ran the most in any game unless it is a younger age level. The play we
must execute and execute well is the Super Seal. Once that play is
established it allows you to use other plays in the series to attack the
defense as the defense attempts to stop that base play. Because of the
unbalanced backfield we give the same perception of movement that
the motion does in the double wing by backfield alignment. That means
as we start running our base plays teams will tend to shift, stem, rotate, or
adjust to the strong side in an attempt to stop our base play and
perceived strength. This sets up a tremendous amount of misdirection
both on the ground and in the air (playaction pass) to the backside.
CP
The TB must
run inside the
kick out block.
He has to
attack the
field at full
speed once
he secures the
ball.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot soft toss ball to path of TB and then
PST – SAB IN flow straight down the LOS and hitting SEALING first
PSG – SAB IN defender outside that crosses your face. Try to stay
Center – SAB IN tight to the LOS so that you can get in the alley fast.
BSG – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) TB – Slide step to playside and then attack down field
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) as you get the toss and secure it. DON’T WAIT for the
BSE - Cut backside to pull. You hit right behind the BB and QB
and let the BS linemen get in the hole as you explode
CP: SHORT SEAL if the PSLB is going over the into it. ATTACK DAYLIGHT!
top of the SAB tracks. BB – cross over step and kick out the first defender to
CP: LONG SEAL if a 5,7,6, or 9 is a problem. cross your face. YOU MUST DRIVE HIM OUTSIDE TO THE
CP: DOUBLE (QB/BB) if the kick out target is
BOUNDERY!
giving the BB a problem. (double kick out).
CP: Call KEEP and have the TB take it wide to WB – Release off the LOS and get inside tight to the
the D gap and the QB keep it into the hole. LOS and seal the first linebacker that crosses your face
CP: POST & TRACK at the hole to get a double inside.
team if you need it. CP: If BB TARGET is giving him a problem chip him on
CP: You can call SEAL instead of Super Seal and the outside shoulder as you release and force him to
have the QB hand off the ball and then bootleg as look at you. This will give the BB a better kick out as he
well. I strongly recommend the toss though. takes his eyes off the backfield.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of sealing off.
Instead he slide
steps and then
follows the QB and
as soon as he sees
daylight he leads
into the hole and
seals IN the first
defender that
crosses his face.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The BSG is the
only puller. This
extends the line out
on the playside by
adding the BST as
another TRACK on
the playside; same
as a Long Seal but
you still have the WB
sealing.
Line Backs
PSE – Release and Seal In QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB IN hand off to the BB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – SAB IN getting depth and looking down field to the WB.
Center – SAB IN GOOD FAKING!
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Take the
CP: SHORT Trap if you want to trap a 3 tech or inside handoff from the QB and get up field to
smaller. daylight fast. Do not cut back into the defense.
CP: BB KICK instead of BB TRAP extends the
WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route at ten
gap out.
yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety over.
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of
CP: If FLAT is tagged that tells the TB to break off run
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
action /reach to a run action/Flat route. QB throws LO-HI
sitting up the bootleg for the QB.
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside. Read off of FLAT-CORNER.
CP: Call WB Pass to have QB throw to the
Corner route of the WB on the bootleg. (Flat
route in BISON).
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of running the
corner route.
Instead he aims at
the far hip of the
BSTE and gets there
and then works up
field in a flat route.
As soon as he clears
the LOS he gets his
head around.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The BSG is the
only puller. Since
there is no WST the
WSE must block SAB
IN and there is no
seal on the LB. We
are counting on the
defense to over play
the unbalanced
line.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot soft and open up making an inside
PST – SAB IN hand off to the WB quickly. The carry out a bootleg as
PSG – SAB IN you clear the perimeter attack up field since you
Center – SAB IN don’t have a receiver.
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Lead
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action block by blocking INSIDE OUT on the first defender to
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of cross your face.
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
WB – Drop step and take an inside handoff then
sitting up the bootleg for the QB.
attack the first daylight you come to. Get up field and
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside.
CP: Call WB Trap vice WB Kick to move the do not cut back into the defense. Get to the
play inside one more gap and to seal a backer off. boundary.
CP: FLAT Tag tells TB to run action/flat route.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The weak side
is going to be short
since the WST is on
the Strong side now.
That means the KICK
is actually more like
a trap and the WB
needs to know that
he has to get into a
short hole.
CP
The better the
fakes are by
the QB, TB,
and WB the
better this
play is.
Line Backs
PSE - Wedge QB – Reverse pivot and handoff to the BB going into
PST - Wedge the wedge. Then open up and let the WB go by you
PSG - Wedge as you fake the inside handoff to him and then
Center - Apex bootleg. As you pass the perimeter attack up field.
BSG - Wedge
BST - Wedge GOOD FAKING!
BSE - Wedge TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the PSTE’s far
hip fake toss and attack up field. Make eye contact
CP: FLAT tag tells TB to run action/flat route. with the defender.
GOOD FAKING!
BB – Lead step into center’s back taking handoff. Get
small into the Wedge and stay in it until you see
daylight.
WB – Drop step and fake inside hand off attacking up
field on the outside hip of the BSTE.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The PSG
becomes the APEX
of the Wedge to
keep the wedge
balanced.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB IN hand off to the BB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – Pull &Kick Out 1st to cross face. getting depth and looking down field to the WB.
Center – SAB IN GOOD FAKING!
BSG – Pull & Seal TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Take the
CP: Used when you need to kick out the EMLOS inside handoff from the QB and get up field to
fast and you want additional power on the daylight fast. Do not cut back into the defense.
playside.
WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route at ten
CP: The BB should time his move into the hole
yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety over.
so that he gets there on the shoulder of the BSG
so that they pull inside and seal just has he attacks
the gap.
CP: Keep tells QB to bootleg it.
CP: WB Pass tells QB to throw on the bootleg to
the WB running the Corner route.
CP: FLAT tag tells QB to throw LO-HI off of
TB FLAT / WB CORNER.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of running the
corner route.
Instead he aims at
the far hip of the
BSTE and gets there
and then works up
field in a flat route.
As soon as he clears
the LOS he gets his
head around.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB OUT QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB OUT hand off to the BB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – SAB IN getting depth and looking down field to the WB.
Center – SAB IN GOOD FAKING!
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal Inside of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Take the
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action inside handoff from the QB and get up field to
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of daylight fast. Do not cut back into the defense.
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route at ten
sitting up the bootleg for the QB.
yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety over.
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside.
CP: Call WB Pass to have QB throw to the
Corner route of the WB on the bootleg. (Flat
route in BISON).
CP: FLAT tag tells TB to go to run action/flat
route and that QB throws on LO-HI read from
Flat to Corner.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of running the
corner route.
Instead he aims at
the far hip of the
BSTE and gets there
and then works up
field in a flat route.
As soon as he clears
the LOS he gets his
head around.
Adjustments
The WST moves over
to the inside of the
SSE. Other wise the
play is exactly the
same as above.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB OUT QB – reveres pivot and open deep up making a hand
PST – SAB OUT off to the TB. Then carry out a bootleg getting depth
PSG – SAB Out and looking down field to the WB. GOOD FAKING!
Center – SAB Out TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BSG – SAB Out of the EMLOS. As soon as you get the handoff cut
BST – Reach (or Hinge) back inside and follow the BB into the hole. SELL THE
BSE – Reach (or Hinge) OUTSIDE TO PULL THE ILB OUT.
BB – Jab step let the BSG cross your face and then
CP: TB must sell the off tackle hole and lead into daylight and seal the first linebacker to cross
then cut back in and follow the lead your face.
block. WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route at ten
CP: QB must make the handoff clean yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety over.
and boot out to really pull the perimeter
defenders and ILB out so that the TB can
cut into open space.
CP: KEEP tag tells QB to bootleg.
CP: WB PASS tag tells QB to throw to
WB in Corner.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of running the
corner route.
Instead he aims at
the far hip of the
BSTE and gets there
and then works up
field in a flat route.
As soon as he clears
the LOS he gets his
head around.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. BSE is the only
blocker that is
reaching or hinging.
The unbalanced line
and the faking of
the TB on the
offtackle is often
more then enough
to open a nice lane
on the weakside for
the side.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB OUT QB – reveres pivot soft open with depth and handoff
PST – SAB OUT ball to TB. Bootleg with some depth and threaten
PSG – SAB IN perimeter.
Center – SAB IN TB – Slide step to playside and then attack down field
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. as you get the hand off explode into the hole.
BST – Pull & Seal BB – jab step and fake inside handoff to backside and
BSE - Cut then kick out first defender to cross your face all the
way to the boundary.
CP: LEAD tag that tells the BB to jab step and WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route.
lead block into the hole after the BSG cross his
face.
CP: WHAM tag tells WB to drop step and lead
into hole.
CP: BLAST tag tells BB and WB to lead into the
hole.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of running the
corner route.
Instead he cross
bucks and runs the
flat. The timing of
the QB, BB, and WB
must be developed.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The BSG is the
only puller. This
extends the line out
on the playside by
adding the BST as
another TRACK on
the playside.
CP
BEAR Right
Lead G is a
very good
alternative
that adds
additional
power to the
play vice
misdirection.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot for depth and handoff ball to the
PST – SAB IN TB. Then get more depth until you pass the EMLOS
PSG – Pull and Kick Out 1st to cross face and then attack the LOS going for daylight.
Center – SAB IN – if NT you base block him. TB – Slide step to play side and then attack down field.
BSG – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) Take the handoff and hit to the inside of the PSG’s
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) kick out. Stay to the outside hip of the BB so that he
BSE - Cut can misdirect the defense on his fake as you attack.
BB – jab step and fake inside hand off from QB and
CP: Call KEEP has the QB bootleg it. then kick out for the first defender to cross your face
CP: LEAD has the FB lead block instead of fake t backside.
the backside.
WB – Release off the LOS and get inside tight to the
LOS and seal the first linebacker that crosses your face
inside.
CP: If PSG TARGET is giving him a problem chip him on
the outside shoulder as you release and force him to
look at you. This will give the BB a better kick out as he
takes his eyes off the backfield.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB and in doing so is
no longer capable
of sealing off.
Instead he slide
steps and then
follows the QB and
as soon as he sees
daylight he leads
into the hole and
seals IN the first
defender that
crosses his face.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The BSG is the
only puller on the
backside. This
extends the line out
on the playside by
adding the BST as
another TRACK on
the playside; same
as a Long Seal but
you still have the WB
sealing.
Line Backs
PSE – Release and Seal In QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB IN hand off to the WB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – SAB IN getting depth until you clear the EMLOS and then
Center – SAB IN attack the LOS.
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Lead
CP: SHORT Trap if you want to trap a 3 tech or block sealing the first defender that crosses your face.
smaller. WB – Drop step and the follow BB into the hole. Take
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action
the inside handoff and hit the first daylight you see
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of
and get up field.
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
sitting up the bootleg for the QB.
CP: If FLAT is tagged that tells the TB to break off run
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside.
action /reach to a run action/Flat route. QB throws LO-HI
Read off of FLAT-CORNER.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side. He
takes a jab step and
lets the BSG, BST,
and BB cross his
face and then hits
the hole. He takes a
outside hand off
and sits until (getting
small) until the
blockers cross his
face.
Adjustments
The weakside is one
blocker shy so the
play hits one gap
tighter. This is a
good play against
teams that overshift
to the strong side.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB OUT QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB OUT hand off to the WB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – SAB IN getting depth until you pass the EMLOS then attack
Center – SAB IN the LOS.
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal Inside of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Lead into
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action the hole and seal off the first defender to cross your
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of face.
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
WB – Drop step and take the inside hand off from the
sitting up the bootleg for the QB.
QB and hit the first daylight you come to.
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside.
CP: FLAT tag tells TB to go to run action/flat
route and that QB throws on LO-HI read from
Flat to Corner.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB. Instead he
takes a few jab
steps to the
backside and the
lets the BSG, BST,
and BB cross his
face and then hits
the hole. QB should
give him an outside
handoff. He might
have to jab step
after the handoff to
time this out.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The BSG is the
only puller. Since
there is no WST the
WSE must block SAB
IN and there is no
seal on the LB. We
are counting on the
defense to over play
the unbalanced
line.
LO-HI
READ
Line Backs
PSE – Track and chip release up field let the QB – reveres pivot and open deep up faking hand off
WB go by and then break outside on with ball in belly. Drag hand and eyes as you go by
ARROW route. Work for 3 to 5 yards up TB. Work for depth and get outside fast. Turn belly
field. button and hips down field and get the ball out.
PST – SAB OUT – 4 steps Read is LO-HI with WB to PSE.
PSG – SAB Out – 4 steps TB – Slide step to play side and then attack the far hip
Center – SAB Out 4 steps of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with the defender
BSG – Hinge and attack his outside shoulder. Make a hard fake as
BST - Hinge you go by the QB then attack the defender.
BSE – Hinge BB – Jab step then move inside and block backside
hip of center and seal off leakage.
CP – make sure the QB and TB sell the fake well! WB – Release off the LOS and run a corner route at ten
CP – THROW BACK tag tells BSTE to drop as if yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety over.
hinge for two steps and the release and run fade.
He is primary. CP: Any passing play can be converted into a TB Pass by
CP – BB SEAM tag tells BB to step inside and simply adding TB in front of the pass…..BEAR TB RED
find daylight and release up field into the seam. BENCH PASS RIGHT. QB tosses the ball on all TB Passes
He is primary. and then attacks the LOS kicking out the first defender to cross
his face.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB. The outside man
runs the corner
route and that is
now the PSTE. The
WB cannot run a
Arrow route so he
runs a flat route
instead. The BB
SEAM and the
THROWBACK tag
can still be used.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. Play is ran the
same as the normal
formations.
LO-HI
READ
Line Backs
PSE – Track and chip EMLOS then drive up QB – reveres pivot and open deep up faking hand off
field for 3 to 4 yards and then attack the with ball in belly. Drag hand and eyes as you go by
boundary aiming for 10 yards up field. TB. Work for depth and get outside fast. Turn belly
PST – SAB OUT – 4 steps button and hips down field and get the ball out.
PSG – SAB OUT – 4 steps Read is LO-HI; BB to PSTE.
Center – SAB OUT – 4 steps TB – Slide step to play side and then attack the far hip
BSG – Hinge of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with the defender
BST - Hinge and attack his outside shoulder. Make a hard fake as
BSE – Hinge you go by the QB then attack the defender.
BB – Attack the LOS as if Kicking out; chip the first
CP – make sure the QB and TB sell the fake well! defender to cross your face and get in the flat. Get
CP – WB must attack through the BSLB as he your head around fast for the ball. LO READ.
drags. Once he passes the Lbers he gets his head
WB – Release off the LOS and run a drag route to the
around.
backside. Should be 8 to 10 yards deep at end.
CP – Throwback tag will have the BSTE drop
two steps as if hinging and then run fade. This
CP: Any passing play can be converted into a TB Pass by
can be set as LO-HI read (WB-BSTE) or as a
simply adding TB in front of the pass…..BEAR TB RED
primary read.
BENCH PASS RIGHT. QB tosses the ball on all TB Passes
and then attacks the LOS kicking out the first defender to cross
his face.
Adjustments
BISON formation is
not used with
BUNCH pass. Need
two outside
receivers.
OVER
This is a good
formation to call
Throwback from as
well.
LO-HI
READ
Line Backs
PSE – Outside release, drive off the LOS and QB – reveres pivot and open deep up faking hand off
drag to backside. Stay below the BSE. with ball in belly. Drag hand and eyes as you go by
PST – SAB OUT – 4 steps TB. Work for depth and get outside fast. Turn belly
PSG – SAB OUT – 4 steps button and hips down field and get the ball out.
Center – SAB OUT – 4 steps Read is LO-HI with WB to PSE.
BSG – Hinge TB – Slide step to play side and then attack the far hip
BST - Hinge of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with the defender
BSE – outside release drag to play side to 8 and attack his outside shoulder. Make a hard fake as
to 10 yards deep. you go by the QB then attack the defender.
BB – Attack the LOS as if Kicking out; chip the first
CP – make sure the QB and TB sell the fake well! defender to cross your face and get in the flat. Get
CP – THROW BACK tag tells WB and PSTE your head around fast for the ball. :LO READ.
they are primary read – LO-HI; or simplified – WB – Release off the LOS and run a post route at ten
WB’s POST is primary. yards. Sell the pass route and pull the safety up.
CP: Any passing play can be converted into a TB Pass by
simply adding TB in front of the pass…..BEAR TB RED
BENCH PASS RIGHT. QB tosses the ball on all TB Passes
and then attacks the LOS kicking out the first defender to cross
his face.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB. WB releases to
the backside and
runs right up the
seam forcing the
safety to drop.
Otherwise the play is
the same.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. Play is ran the
same as the normal
formations.
This is a more advance pass as it sends four receivers into coverage and
requires a lot of timing.
LO-HI
READ
Line Backs
PSE – SAB OUT – 4 steps QB – reveres pivot and open deep up faking hand off
PST – SAB OUT – 4 steps with ball in belly. Drag hand and eyes as you go by
PSG – SAB OUT – 4 steps TB. Work for depth and get outside fast. Turn belly
Center – SAB OUT – 4 steps button and hips down field and get the ball out.
BSG – Hinge Read is LO-HI from BB to BSE.
BST - Hinge TB – Slide step to play side and then attack the far hip
BSE – outside release drag to play side to 8 of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with the defender
to 10 yards deep. HI READ. and attack his outside shoulder. Make a hard fake as
you go by the QB then attack the defender.
BB – Attack the LOS as if Kicking out; chip the first
CP – make sure the QB and TB sell the fake well! defender to cross your face and get in the flat. Get
CP – CORNER tag tells QB to make the WB your head around fast for the ball. LO READ.
primary route…throw to corner. WB – Release off the LOS and run a GO route
breaking.
CP: Any passing play can be converted into a TB Pass by
simply adding TB in front of the pass…..BEAR TB RED
BENCH PASS RIGHT. QB tosses the ball on all TB Passes
and then attacks the LOS kicking out the first defender to cross
his face.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB. WB releases to
the backside and
runs right up the
seam forcing the
safety to drop.
Otherwise the play is
the same.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. Play is ran the
same as the normal
formations.
This is a more advance pass as it sends four receivers into coverage and
requires a lot of timing.
LO-HI
READ
Line Backs
PSE – Track for one step and then release QB – reveres pivot and open deep up faking hand off
up field for 8 yards then break to the with ball in belly. Drag hand and eyes as you go by
boundary aiming for 12 yards. HI READ. TB. Work for depth and get outside fast. Turn belly
PST – SAB OUT – 4 steps button and hips down field and get the ball out.
PSG – SAB OUT – 4 steps Read is LO-HI with BB to PSE.
Center – SAB Out – 4 steps TB – Slide step to play side and then attack the far hip
BSG – Hinge of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with the defender
BST - Hinge and attack his outside shoulder. Make a hard fake as
BSE – Hinge you go by the QB then attack the defender.
BB – Attack the LOS as if Kicking out; chip the first
CP – make sure the QB and TB sell the fake well! defender to cross your face and get in the flat. Get
CP – THROW BACK tag tells BSTE to drop as if your head around fast for the ball. LO READ.
hinge for two steps and the release and run fade. WB – Release off the LOS and run a GO route to pull
He is primary. the safety.
CP – DEEP tag tells QB to throw to the WB
running the GO (Primary). CP: Any passing play can be converted into a TB Pass by
simply adding TB in front of the pass…..BEAR TB RED
BENCH PASS RIGHT. QB tosses the ball on all TB Passes
and then attacks the LOS kicking out the first defender to cross
his face.
Adjustments
In Bison the WB
moves to the
opposite side of the
BB. PSTE runs GO
route. BB runs 8 and
out route. WB runs
FLAT route.
The WB attacking
the flat often is wide
open since he is
coming from the
backside.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. Play is ran the
same as the normal
formations.
CP
The better the
fakes are by
the QB, TB,
and WB the
better this
play is.
Line Backs
PSE – SEAM route QB – 3-step drop read is OUTSIDE-IN. Reading the WB
PST – Wedge pass to the PSE (FADE to SEAM). 1st step get separation and
PSG – Wedge pass the faster you get back the more time you have. If
Center – Apex – 3 steps and seal the ball is not out in less than 2.5 seconds you will be
BSG – Wedge pass sacked.
BST – Wedge pass TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the PSTE’s far
BSE – Fade Route hip fake toss and attack up field. Make eye contact
with the defender.
CP: THROWBACK tag tells the QB to throw to
BSE in fade route. GOOD FAKING!
CP: TB Flat – tells the TB to chip the first BB – Lead step towards center’s back. Let the QB drop
defender to cross his face then attack the flat. He
the go backside and seal the first defender outside
is the primary route.
that crosses your face.
WB – outside release go wide for two to three steps
and then get up field.
Adjustments
The BST moves over
to the inside of the
PSE. The PSG
becomes the APEX
of the Wedge to
keep the wedge
balanced.
The T.A.G series stands for TACKLE AND GUARD pulling. The series is a
weakside series that has the TB running sweep to the weakside. It gives
me a series of plays that gets to the outside and has playside misdirection
as well as a backside perimeter threat and passing threat too. It uses a
unique blocking scheme called T.A.G that has the tackle and guard pull
as the end blocks SAB IN. The backside blocks SAB IN as well which can
really mess with linebackers and lineman reading blocks. It also allows
you to isolate backside perimeter defenders as well within one scheme
since the backside is blocking down.
CP: If you have a youth organization that runs the same offense from the
younger levels up you can install the backfield action using WEDGE
blocking schemes with 5 to 7 year olds. That means you have backfield
action and terminology installed and as they get older you simply install
the actual blocking scheme.
JET series is another backside attacking series that uses the WB in a fast flat
wing-t jet motion that he sweeps off of. This sets up misdirection all along
the line of scrimmage as well as passing. The fast motion allows you to
jump a defense that is over shifting on the backside. A speedy WB can
really punish the defense. You need to have the REACH blocking installed
in your offense in order to use this series.
CP: If you have a youth organization that runs the same offense from the
younger levels up you can install the backfield action using WEDGE
blocking schemes with 5 to 7 year olds. That means you have backfield
action and terminology installed and as they get older you simply install
the actual blocking scheme.
Age Level: These series are really suited for older ages (10 and up). The
older and more mature the team is the more you can do. With that said
note the coaching points above.
You need an athletic BB to really run the TAG effectively as his asked to
block (KICKOUT or LOG) the corner.
Support Plays: (T.A.G) WB Pass Tag, Keep Tag, Delay tag to have the BSE
run a delay short route. (JET) KEEP, BB PASS, TB PASS, BB Trap, LEAD G.
Notes: Again both of these series are complimentary and you should only
use these once you have mastered the base plays of the POWER and the
BUCK WEDGE unless you decide to use these as base series. Both series
allow you to attack the weakside of the formation. Neither one is very
effective in the BISON or OVER formation and I don’t use them in that
formation because it is a balanced look and no weakside is present. They
are effective with the UNDER look.
CP
The TB must
run off the
block of the
BB. If he logs
the corner
you take it
outside, if he
kicks out you
run inside him.
Attack the
LOS
aggressively.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – pivot soft toss ball to path of TB and then bootleg
PST – Pull and LOG first to show. gaining depth until you get past the EMLOS then
PSG – Pull inside and seal in first LB coming. attack the LOS. Open wide enough to let the BB clear
Center – SAB IN (as if inside handoff).
BSG – SAB IN TB – cross over step and attack the LOS aiming at the
BST – SAB IN corner’s inside hip. Secure the toss and read the BB’s
BSE – SAB IN block.
BB – cross over step and get on the PSG’s heels fast
CP: PST must pull and log the 1st and block the corner on the playside. If he squeezes
defender to show. down you log him. If he stays wide you kick him out.
CP: KEEP tag tells the QB to keep it on WB – free release and run a corner route on the
the bootleg. backside.
CP: WB PASS tag tells the QB to the
throw to the WB on the corner route on
the backside.
CP: for younger squads you can block
this WEDGE SWEEP w/FOLD.
CP
The TB must
attack the
corner and
make eye
contact with
him. Attack
the LOS
aggressively
and force the
corner to
come down.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – pivot tuck ball in belly (let the TB sell the fake).
PST – Pull and trap first to show. Inside handoff to the BB gain depth and bootleg for
PSG – Pull inside and seal in first to show. depth until you pass the EMLOS then attack the LOS.
Center – SAB IN TB – cross over step and attack the LOS aiming at the
BSG – SAB IN corner’s inside hip. MAKE EYE CONTACT!!! Attack the
BST – SAB IN LOS and force the corner to come up and force the
BSE – SAB IN run. THIS OPENS THE OUTSIDE BOUNDARY FOR THE BB.
BB – cross over step and get on the PSG’s heels takes
CP: PST must pull and trap the first the inside handoff and follows the PSG. GET UP FIELD
defender that crosses his face. TO THE BOUNDARY. Do not cut back inside.
CP: KEEP tag tells the QB to keep it on WB – free release and run a corner route on the
the bootleg. backside.
CP: WB PASS tag tells the QB to the
CP: OPTION – tells the BB to option the corner
throw to the WB on the corner route on
using the TB as the pitch man. IF he comes you
the backside.
pitch, IF he squats you GO.
CP: for younger squads you can block
(FOR OLDER SQUADS)
this WEDGE SWEEP w/FOLD.
CP
The better the
fakes are by
the QB, TB,
and WB the
better this
play is.
Line Backs
PSE - Wedge QB – pivot tuck ball in belly (let the TB sell the fake).
PST - Wedge Inside handoff to the BB gain depth and bootleg for
PSG - Wedge depth until you pass the EMLOS then attack the LOS.
Center - Apex TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the PSTE’s far
BSG - Wedge hip fake toss and attack up field. Make eye contact
BST - Wedge with the defender.
BSE - Wedge
GOOD FAKING!
CP: KEEP – QB keeps the ball gaining depth BB – Lead step into center’s back taking handoff. Get
until he passes the EMLOS and then attacks the small into the Wedge and stay in it until you see
LOS. daylight.
CP: WB PASS – QB bootlegs and passes ball to
WB – free release and run a corner route on the
WB running corner out.
backside.
CP
The WB must
take a flat fast
motion at a
spot one foot
behind the
QB’s near hip.
He has to
attack the
numbers up
field and get
to the outside.
Line Backs
PSE – REACH 1 QB – reverse pivot (tight to the LOS as if opening a
PST – REACH 2 door) and ball off to the WB then gain depth until you
PSG – REACH 3 get past the EMLOS and then attack the LOS.
Center – REACH 4 TB – slide step and then attack the LOS aiming at the
BSG – Release up field inside cut off inside hip of the EMLOS faking run then blocking 1st
BST – Release up field inside cut off defender that crosses your face.
BSE – Release up field inside cut off BB – cross over step to the backside and chip the first
defender to cross your face. Then attack the flat.
CP: CAN BLOCK THIS WEDGE WB – On “GO” lead step in to a fast sprint motion then
SWEEP but the PSE must REACH. take the handoff on the playside side attacking the
CP: KEEP tells QB to keep it on the PSE’s outside hip. Get up field to daylight!!!
bootleg. CP: QB must time up snap so that the WB get the
CP: BB Pass tells QB to throw to the BB handoff as he goes by and doesn’t slow down. This
on the backside flat route. takes time so it will take reps to get it down.
CP
The WB must
sell the JET
motion and
the sweep.
Make eye
contact with
the corner
back or DE
and attack his
outside
shoulder
forcing him to
respond.
Line Backs
PSE - Wedge QB – reverse pivot tuck ball in belly (let the TB sell the
PST - Wedge fake). Inside handoff to the BB gain depth and
PSG - Wedge bootleg for depth until you pass the EMLOS then
Center - Apex attack the LOS.
BSG - Wedge TB – AT the snap of the ball sprint right at the BSTE’s far
BST - Wedge hip faking TOSS and attack up field. Make eye
BSE - Wedge contact with the defender.
Line Backs
PSE – Release and Seal In QB – reveres pivot and open up making an inside
PST – SAB IN hand off to the BB quickly. Then carry out a bootleg
PSG – SAB IN getting depth and looking down field to the WB.
Center – SAB IN GOOD FAKING!
BSG – Pull & Kick Out 1st to cross face. TB – Slide step to playside and then attack the far hip
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) of the EMLOS. Make eye contact with him. GOOD
BSE - Cut FAKING!
BB – Jab step and follow the BST to the hole. Take the
CP: SHORT Trap if you want to trap a 3 tech or inside handoff from the QB and get up field to day
smaller. light fast. Do not cut back into the defense.
CP: BB KICK instead of BB TRAP extends the
WB – On “GO” lead step in to a fast sprint motion then
gap out.
fake the handoff on the playside side attacking the
CP: TB must attack far hip to set up play action
pass. Once the DE gets used to seeing the log of PSE’s outside hip. Get up field to daylight!!!
the TB on trap he will scrape down on the BB
sitting up the bootleg for the QB. CP: If TB Pass is tagged that tells the TB to break off run
CP: Call KEEP and have the QB bootleg outside. action /reach to a run action/Flat route.
CP
WE use LEAD
because the
WB is in JET
motion and
faking the
sweep we use
the BB leading
to account for
the WB not
blocking.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot for depth and handoff ball to the
PST – SAB IN TB. Then get more depth until you pass the EMLOS
PSG – Pull and Kick Out 1st to cross face and then attack the LOS going for daylight.
Center – SAB IN – if NT you base block him. TB – Slide step to play side and then attack down field.
BSG – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) Take the handoff and hit to the inside of the PSG’s
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) kick out. Stay to the outside hip of the BB so that he
BSE - Cut can misdirect the defense on his fake as you attack.
BB – jab step and lead into the hole sealing the first
CP: Call KEEP has the QB bootleg it. defender to cross his face.
WB – On “GO” lead step in to a fast sprint motion then
fake the handoff on the playside side attacking the
PSE’s outside hip. Get up field to daylight!!!
Once you figure this all out you need to put that in context with your
offensive philosophy so you have some guidelines as you progress.
This offense is a run oriented, ball control offense that uses power and
misdirection; both run oriented and pass oriented (play action) to move
the ball. It uses series based play calling that establishes a set of base
plays (or a single play) and then forces the defense to defend those base
plays and then adapt the play calling to the defense and their
adjustments.
You can actually adjust this basic philosophy with a few things as well that
get a little more specific.
What you’re doing when you put this on paper and implement it is you
are laying the groundwork for developing your system that season.
Everything revolves around that philosophy. It is basically your mission
statement for your offense.
“Our offense is a run oriented, ball control offense that uses power and
misdirection; both run oriented and pass oriented (play action) to move
the ball. It uses series based play calling that establishes a set of base
plays (or a single play) and then forces the defense to defend those base
plays and then adapt the play calling to the defense and their
adjustments. We will focus on power and use misdirection in the running
game and passing game to support our power running game. We will
make the tail back the focus of our running game and support him by
using the other three backs in the misdirection game.”
“Our offense is a run oriented, ball control offense that uses power and
misdirection; both run oriented and pass oriented (play action) to move
the ball. It uses series based play calling that establishes a set of base
plays (or a single play) and then forces the defense to defend those base
plays and then adapt the play calling to the defense and their
adjustments. We will focus on power and misdirection in the running
game and passing game utilizing all four backs in the offense. We will
throw the ball after setting up the run.
These are two examples of one team in two seasons of football. Notice
the differences and think about what might have affected the change
from one season to the next? More then likely the first season they had a
dominant tail back and very little else in the back field so the coach
tailored his system to take advantage of that. The next season he got a
pretty stacked backfield to include a quarterback that can throw the ball
so he decided to open up the offense a little more. Make sure you have
a plan and put it down on paper so that you stick to it.
Main Emphasis
Key Advantages
TB
1) It gives you a down hill runner that gets to the point of attack at full
speed. More often then not some of your best running backs are at
their best running down hill at the LOS.
2) It gives the backside a little more time to get to the hole because
the tailback is at depth and not chasing slower players. They have
a short distance to cover then the tailback does.
3) It greatly reduces the chance of a backside defender chasing your
primary runner down.
4) It forces the defense to KEY on the tailback.
QB
1) Since the tailback is at depth behind him the toss is much easier to
perform for the Super Seal play. It allows the tail back to attack the
hole and run into the toss at the same time so that his eyes do not
have to divert from the ball to the hole.
2) Footwork for the Super Seal is much easier to execute because the
quarter back can actually gain a little more depth allowing the
BB
1) Being offset allows him a better path on the kick out block, which is
essential on the SEAL schemes.
2) Puts him in a better position (execution wise for younger players) to
execute misdirection plays to the weak side. Since he is offset to
the strong side his footwork is simplified allowing for an easier teach
and increased execution.
3) Allows him to get into passing routes more easily on the strong side.
WB
Offensive line
My main goal is to control the ball and control the clock while scoring
more points then the opposition. I want to maintain field position and
allow my offense to play on a shortened field while forcing the defense to
play on a long field. I do not consider my offense successful if I score a
touchdown in one or two plays and then allow my opponent to score in a
few plays as well. I want to push the ball down the field while running the
clock out and wearing the defense out. That doesn’t mean I won’t score
from anywhere on the field if I see the opportunity to do so. It simply
means I want to maximize the amount of time my offense is on the field. I
like to see the offense get five to ten plays each series and wear out the
clock and my opponent.
I consider this offense a four down offense and in most situations we will
gear our strategy towards the use of all four downs in achieving a first
down and driving the ball down the field. This lends to my strategy of ball
and clock control as well as field position. I will not hesitate to quick kick
on 3rd down if I have my end zone at my back and take advantage of the
defense being caught off guard by the move. I don’t like to punt instead
my offensive system is geared to allow me to quick kick and make it
appear as if it is going to be a run play much like the play action passing
game. Anytime my offense gets past our twenty-yard line I consider my
team in four down territory; otherwise we are in 3rd down territory.
If you only use three downs in your offense that means you need 3.4 yards
a down to achieve a first down while in four downs you only need 2.5
yards a down to achieve a first down. This often puts the defenses in a
unique situation as most are only prepared to play three downs which
means you apply more pressure on the defense and increase the
likelihood of wearing down the opponent as it requires much more energy
to react then it does to attack; both physically and psychologically.
What is the age you’re coaching? This is really going to determine what
you run and how much you can run. If you are coaching a 5 to 6 year old
team it is going to differ greatly from a 12 to 13 year old. You have to
realize that the younger the team the less you should try to run. Keep it
simple but keep it simpler with younger kids. That doesn’t mean you can’t
run ten plays but you need to realize that they should meld together so
that every kid on the team understands their role and can effectively
execute it.
AGE-FORMATION TABLE
This is based on being able to have all eleven players get into and out of
the formations as soon as the formation name is give. It also means they
can be given the formation and a play and immediately execute it. The
important thing to remember is that the formations should be related in
way that when the name is called a mental picture is created so that they
can associate a “word” with a formation and then get into it. Just
remember you must not add any more then the entire team can handle.
That often means if one kid that plays a role on the offense cannot do
BULL, BISON (RT/LT), BEAR, OVER BULL, OVER BISON (RT/LT), OVER BEAR
UNDER BULL, UNDER BISON (RT/LT), UNDER BEAR, RHINO, LION,
AGE-PLAY TABLE
This is based on team mastery of the each play. Meaning that the
offensive unit fully understands how and why to run the play and can
execute all the needed techniques in any given situation. If they can’t do
that then you will have problems in a tough game or an extreme
condition. One play is both ways not one play to a side.
My numbers are based on age and ability to master skill sets. At the age
of eleven and twelve, just as they are reaching adolescences, they can
really start to take in much more information and master it.
The key is to add a few things and then have your team master those skills,
techniques, and plays first. Don’t add anything until they have at least
mastered the basic requirements. Then add only things that are relative
and go with the initial skill sets. As they become more and more proficient
you can add more. A good indicator is when your execution peaks and
the team become bored. At the point you can add one or two new
things to keep their interests peaked and at the same time maintain and
even increase execution of the initial plays.
Teaching
Live by those four sayings and good things will always happen on the
field. Every time you teach something always discuss it first, then explain it
A good rule to follow is SHOW IT, HAVE THEM SHOW IT, SHOW IT AGAIN,
HAVE THEM SHOW IT AGAIN, SHOW IT AGAIN.
Take the time as you explain a drill and how to perform a specific
technique, scheme, or action to explain why you do it that way. Always
follow up a how and why with a how we do it question and a why we do
it question as well. This gets the kids involved at and the younger age
levels for more involved they are the more of their attention you have.
This allows them to correlate a skill with a task and gives them the ability to
mentally create a picture of them accomplishing that task using that skill.
Remember the more ways you give them to learn a skill the faster they are
going to master it.
Bobble Heads
Not to be taken literally but if you watch ants every one of them has a
specific task to fulfill in the nest and they are highly specialized in that role.
If you are short handed with coaches then find parents that show up at
every practice and get them involved. Some criteria I have for using
parents; they need to be positive and they need to understand their role.
Don’t bother using parents that focus solely on their kids and often I will
put them with a group that does not involve their kid so that they can
focus on the drill and not their kid. Use parents that don’t know anything
about football since your working with a blank slate that means what you
put on it is going to be taught. Have them run that one drill and only that
one drill. Show them exactly how you want it run and why. You can
always find three to five parents that are always at the practice that
would love to be involved in some way. Get them involved and explain to
them that they are not coaches but simply drill managers. If you get three
parents that can each run one drill (say tackling drills or defensive position
techniques of some sort) you can run stations to allow your kids to
increase their proficiency and at the same time free up a coach or if short
Once you have established what kind of talent you have you need to set
down and figure out what exactly you can do as far as series and plays
with the talent you have on hand. Often your talent level and abilities are
going to determine what plays you can run and be effective with.
These are going to really determine what type of offense you are going
run. More power or more misdirection or a balance of the two; it will also
determine if your going to be a one back focused, two backs, three
backs, or a four back offense.
Know what you have at each position and then build your power series
based on that. You might have a team that runs a lot of BB plays and
uses him to fake as well. On the other hand you might use him as a lead
blocker more often for the TB and WB. Take a good accounting of your
talent and build on that.
Inside power play to BB with perimeter threats on both sides of the field
and the ability to throw down the field. Forces the defense to defend
both sides of the field and defend against the wedge blocking scheme.
This places a lot of pressure on the perimeter defenders as they are often
forced to take the wedge runner down from behind. Any over
commitment on their part can lead to big plays on the perimeter by this
offense.
AGE Notes
5-6 Best series to use. All WEDGE
schemes.
7-8 Best series to use. RED/BLUE pass
pro.
9-10 Compliment series to Power. MPP
series.
11-12 Compliment series to Power. Would
use REACH scheme for sweeping.
MPP series
13-14 Compliment series to Power. Use
REACH scheme for sweeping.
High School Would have the BB TRAP vice
WEDGE as base and use REACH
scheme for sweeping.
I strongly recommend this series as the base series and the BB Wedge as
the base play for really young teams (5-6 and 7-8). At this age level having
the Buck Wedge series and using the wedge scheme for the majority of
your plays can give you a pretty capable offense that is tough to beat. It
is three easy plays that all use the wedge scheme but you can easily
implement other pass protection schemes into the drag pass and you can
implement the reach scheme into the BUCK WEDGE SWEEP.
Large roster teams that have to play every player can use the Buck
Wedge series with a WEDGE TEAM. A wedge team is basically your
starting center and guards and then everyone else is a back up player. I
normally try to keep my starting TB and BB in so that we have at least two
main threats but you can rotate backs in as well. The key is having a
strong middle (guard-center-guard). We focus as a unit on running the BB
WEDGE and WEDGE SWEEP and the KEEP. Our goal is a first down in four
plays. I never put them out on the field with the end zone behind them. I
want them to be successful working as a unit. I have found that giving a
set of Minimum Play Players (MPP) a goal and have them work in a unit
makes them stronger and it gives them ownership in the team. The first
time that squad scores for you a lot of good things will happen. Now that
doesn’t mean I pigeon hole these kids into only the wedge team. They
are still getting reps and practicing skills and increasing their technique
but during a game their goal is to perform on the wedge unit.
POWER SERIES
This is the base series for any team above the age of 8 in my opinion. It
attack the strong side with an off tackle play that develops a lot of
misdirection and play action pass. It uses SAB blocking and pulling to
maximize man power at the point of attack. It also uses wedge blocking
as well but not as a base scheme. Once the defense starts to over
commit to the strong side/off tackle play you can start attacking them
with a variety of support plays.
AGE Notes
5-6 Use Super Seal and one
misdirection play (LEAD WB KICK or
BB TRAP) as a complimentary series
with this age group. Can obviously
use XX BB Wedge as it is pretty
much installed except for the
backfield action so that really gives
you three plays.
7-8 Use three to four plays in a
complimentary series. Suggest the
base plays in the series.
9-10 Base series. Base plays + 1 to 3
The Super Seal is the base play in this series and everything is derived off
this one play. You have to coach this play up and you should get no less
then five yards a carry from this one play. If not you need to troubleshoot
it and find out why it is not getting five yards a carry. If it is the defense
then you simply adjust the play or use a support play. The series allows
you to modify it some what so that you can either use BB misdirection
plays or add the BB blocking into the plays to give them more power by
adding LEAD. This holds true for the WB as well he can become either a
big part of the running game, more of a blocker by using WHAM, and/or a
threat in the passing game. The QB can be utilized in a variety of ways as
well by using him as a blocker, runner, and even a receiver. I consider
the BB Trap, XX BB WEDGE, and Lead WB KICK are the base plays in this
offense. They along with the KEEP tag and WB PASS tag make this a
potent and effective series.
PASSING – WB PASS tag, FLAT tag, TB PASS tag, THROWBACK tag, SEAM
tag, BENCH, BUNCH, CROSS, DRAG, FLOOD, WEDGE FADE.
This is a complimentary series used to attack the outside on the weak side
of the formation. It also sets up a nice gap on the inside for the BB to
exploit as well when the defense moves to force the outside and holds on
the backside. The WB PASS and KEEP tags allow you exploit the backside
if they over pursue or over adjust. You can also utilize various other plays
as well that are not listed in the playbook but will be posted on my
website.
AGE Notes
5-6 Use only with the wedge scheme
and the PSTE reaching. Only as an
end of season series.
7-8 Use only with the wedge scheme
and the PSTE reaching. Only as an
end of season series.
9-10 Complimentary series.
11-12 Complimentary series.
13-14 Complimentary series.
High School Complimentary series. Could use
speed option or even a triple option
as well (further discussed on website
in upcoming releases).
Base – TAG
The JET series is the only motion series we have in this play book. It utilizes
the fast flat motion right at the quarterback’s hip and then attacks the
outside. This is a wing-t motion based series that allows you to attack the
weak side perimeter of the formation using the reach scheme. Because
you use angle blocking and wedge blocking as our base it sets up the
perimeter defenders to be reached as they attempt to slide or scrap
down to defend our to base schemes. The series uses the BB Trap and the
LEAD G as complimentary plays along with the KEEP tag to keep the
defense honest. I have not included other plays in this series but will add
more to my website as I add additional resources.
AGE Notes
5-6 Use only with the wedge scheme
and the PSTE reaching. Only as an
end of season series.
7-8 Use only with the wedge scheme
and the PSTE reaching. Only as an
end of season series.
9-10 Complimentary series.
11-12 Complimentary series.
13-14 Complimentary series.
High School Complimentary series. Could use
speed option or even a triple option
as well (further discussed on website
in upcoming releases).
Base – WB REACH
(Dominant TB)
Buck Wedge Series (especially for younger age groups)*
BB WEDGE
WEDGE SWEEP (older go REACH SCHEME once taught)
KEEP tag
Power Series
SUPER SEAL (implement SHORT/LONG as needed) (BOUNCE)*
BB TRAP (SHORT)*
LEAD WB KICK (TRAP/SHORT/BOUNCE)*
XX BB WEDGE
BENCH PASS (TB PASS)
(LEAD) G
SIDE
WEDGE PASS
(LEAD) PART
PASSING PLAY
Power Series
SUPER SEAL (implement SHORT/LONG as needed) (BOUNCE)
BB TRAP (SHORT/KICK)
LEAD WB KICK (TRAP/SHORT/BOUNCE)
XX BB WEDGE
BENCH PASS (TB PASS)
BB PART
(LEAD) G
BB G
WEDGE PASS
SIDE
(LEAD) PART
PASSING PLAY
* = Bobble head installation. Note that WB PASS Tag gives you one simple
playaction pass.
Practice Planning
Dynamic Flexibility Warm Ups: These are movement patterns that both
stretch, strengthen, and warm up major muscle groups, stability muscles,
synergy muscles. They develop correct movement patterns as well and
by doing so are the foundation of my practices and are one way I
develop or improve my number of athletes on my team. Dynamic
stretching is far better then static stretching but that is for another chapter.
Offense Series REPS: This is the time that the entire offense reps plays
within a series. It is our team to review, bird dog, run at ½ speed, full
speed, and under near live conditions to develop timing and execution.
Offense Perfection Drill: This is a test really that is used to see how many
plays an offense can execute to perfection. You start at the end of a
football ball and work to the other end. Every play ran correctly (zero
mistakes) gets 5 yards. That means if you run 20 plays to perfection you
Special Periods: Cadence clap drills and things that need to be covered
specifically.
Make sure you include water breaks and preach water intake every day
all day. Every player should be drinking at least eight glasses of water a
day. Have them lay off the sodas and candy. Preach fruits, veggies,
protein.
Make sure your practices run smoothly. Have plan and stick to it. Make
sure you can adjust things and move things around because things will
happen and you have to be able to adjust.
Coaches should be early so they can meet and discuss the practice plan.
Email the plan to them before hand so they can review it and make
comments on adjustments and what not.
20min
Dynamic Warm Ups (DFWs) ((See end of playbook for how to do a football DFW))
5 min
Cadence Clap Drill (clap only)
15 min
Tackling Drills (fundamentals – tackling dummies/ form)
30 min ASSESSMENT STATIONS (split into three groups and rotate once complete)
Flying 40 Assessment (40/20/10) times (BREAK AWAY SPEED/SPEED/QUICKNESS)
Pro Agility times (LATERAL SPEED)
Bear Crawl Weave (20 yards) times (BODY STRENGTH & COORDINATION)
5 min Water break (Coaches meet and split team into RB/OL from initial assessment)
5 min
Cadence Clap Drill (stance to clap)
15 min
Tackling Drills (various short distance/stay up drills)
30 min ASSESSMENT STATIONS (split into three groups and rotate once complete)
1 minute – MAX PUSH UPS (UPPER BODY STRENGTH)/ 1 minute MAX JUMP SQUATS (LOWER BODY EXPLOSIVE STR.)
2 CONE WEAVE – (FOOTWORK/AGILITY)
ENDURO CIRCLE – (MENTAL TOUGHNESS/HEART)
5 min Water Break (Coaches meet – make changes in OL/RB if needed – RANK OL/RB)
5 min Water Break (Coaches meet and reevaluate and rerank if needed) Look for Guards, Center/Backs)
5 min – Water Break – Coaches meet and discuss and eval defensive positions – swap around personal if
needed.
OL – stance, SAB BEEF Footwork, SEAL SCHEME, KICK SCHEME. TRAP SCHEME
RB – stance, SUPER SEAL, BB TRAP, LEAD WB KICK walk through.
5 min – Water Break – Coaches review personal and make any adjustments.
15 min – Tackling
5 min – Water Break – Coaches review and finalize positions for next week.
15 min DFW
5 min Water Break – Coaches MEET (Team will break with CADENCE CLAP DRILL ON ALL WATER BREAKS)
15 min – TEAM – BUCK WEDGE SERIES (BB WEDGE, WEDGE SWEEP, KEEP tag)
15 min – TEAM – SUPER SEAL
15 min DFW
15 min DFW
2nd Week 4th Day (SCRIMMAGE DAY) (SCRIMMAGE ANOTHER TEAM – plan in advance)
15 min – DFW
15 min – OFFENSE INDY
12 min – OFFENSE
(work for 15 plays)
12 min – DEFENSE
15 min – DFW
15 min – Tackling
15 min – DEFENSE INDY
15 min – DFW
15 min – Tackling
15 min – DEFENSE INDY
15 min – BB TRAP
10 min – BUCK WEDGE SERIES
15 min – DFW
15 min – DEFENSE INDY
30 min – DEFENSE
12 min – DEFENSE
12 min – OFFENE (work for 16 plays)
10 min – DFW
10 min – TACKLNG
10 min – OFFENSE SCOUT REPORT FOR DEFENSE (drink water during report)
15 min – DEFENSE INDY
10 min – DFW
10 min – TACKLING
10 min – DEFENSE SCOUT REPORT (drink water during report)
15 min – OFFENSE INDY
OL – ADJUSTMENTS – SHOULDER HIM, CUT HIM, POST TRACK
RB – DOUBLE tag, LOG tag. POWER SCHEME
10 min – DFW
10 min – TACKLING
15 min – DEFENSE INDY
15 min – OFFENSE INDY
OL – ADJUSTMENTS – Shoulder Him, Cut Him, POST TRACK, BOUNCE
RB – LOG, BOUNCE,DOUBLE – BUCK WEDGE SEREIS
10 min – DFW
10 min – Tackling
20 min – DEFENSE INDY
10 min – DEFENSE SCOUT REVIEW
10 min – OFFENSE SCOUT REVIEW
15 min – TEAM CIRCLE – DISCUSS BEING ON TIME, PREPARING FOR GAME, TIMES, GOALS.
NOTE: ENDURANCE TRAINING for below 10 should be replaced with either more offensive reps or defensive
Indys. Studies show that endurance training below this age group is not necessary as the energy systems are
basically all the same in this stage of a child’s development.
If you want to have a really strong team you need to set goals that are
both achievable and credible. That simply means that they should be
able to reach them and they should note marked improvement and
noteworthy accomplishments.
I always have Season Goals (long term goals) and Game Goals (short
term goals). I also set goals for each team and each unit in a team as
well. This gives them specific objectives for being on the field and it gives
them a reason to perform. Some kids simply don’t care about winning
(most do) but a linebacker with a goal of not allowing more then Twenty
positive yards in any one quarter will make darn sure he tries to achieve
that goal.
S.M.A.R.T =
Specific (is it specific and straight forward)
Realistic (is it a realistic goal for our team in its current and possible future
condition)
Time Specific (define short term as a game, I define long term as the
season.)
Offense
These are just a few goals that I have set for a game.
Team Goals
Go undefeated. ( This should be realistic if a team is not capable of it
don’t set them up to fail.)
Have a win percentage of .750 or we will achieve a 6-4 record. (some
times it is better to say we will win a certain number of our games (after
reviewing the schedule). This way if they bet that goal you can set a
higher mark and it can develop some much need team spirit in a young
or developing team.
Have zero unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in the season.
Offense
Have the TB get 20 rushing TD’s for the season.
Have the BB get 10 rushing TD’s for the season.
Have the WB get 10 rushing TD’s and 10 receiving TD’s for the season.
Have the QB get 15 passing TD’s for the season.
An average rushing yards per game of 200 yards.
An average points per game of 28.
An average of 2 penalties per game.
Defense
Average rushing yards of 50 per game.
Average points scored of 8 per game.
Average Defense points per game of 6 per game.
An average of 1 penalty per game.
An average of 10 tackles for loss per game.
An average of two turnovers a game.
Key elements:
When we start teaching backs we stress stance, ball security, and ball
handling first and foremost. Once we feel that all the backs understand
the emphasis we place on them and they should place on protecting the
ball we move to blocking. Every back on this offense is required to know
how to effectively execute the blocks for his position. Once these are
established we start working on running schemes and within this process
we emphasis faking and proper footwork. At all TIMES we STRESS BALL
Stances
TB – balanced two point stance seven yards behind the QB. Eyes are
looking right at the QB’s back. Hands are resting on his hips.
Coach lines up all the backs and calls out a position and then calls DOWN
and every back gets in that position.
Use a cone to simulate their markers. So the marker is the QB when you
call out BB, The center for the QB, EMLOS for the WB, and the QB for the
TB. Simulate depth and proper positioning.
1) One arm – Open Field Running - ball rests on the forearm with the
rear point in the cup of the inner elbow and the top point is
covered by the middle finger and cupped by the remaining fingers.
The ball should be tight and resting against the ribcage. The ball
should always be on the opposite side of the tackler or pursuit if
possible.
2) Two arms – Contact/LOS – ball in the one arm method but the ball is
moved to right below the chest and the opposite arm covers the
top of the ball with the forearms resting on top of the ball as the ball
is pressed into the body with the ball arm. The opposite arm’s hand
should rest over the cup of the ball arm’s elbow. When ever the
runner is near the boundary line the ball should go to the near
boundary arm.
3) Switching the ball – the ball carrier moves the from one hand to the
other by moving the ball across the lower chest line with forearm
and palm of hand over the top of the ball facing inward. The
opposite hand goes on top of the ball with the middle fingers now
cupping the point in the carrying arm’s elbow. He rolls the old arm
down and out and rolls the new arm down and gets the near point
into the cup of the elbow and down the side.
Coach lines up all the backs in a line each with a ball. He explains how to
hold the ball in one arm and then in two arms and how to switch the ball
when needed.
He then has them all start with the ball in the left arm, checks it, then calls
out switch and the ball carries switch to the right hand quickly and
correctly. Coach watches each ball carrier and checks that the switch is
correct. Walk around and tug on the ball on each ball carrier as well to
check that they are holding the ball correctly.
Coach pairs up two runners facing each other. One has a ball and the
other is facing him an arms length away. The coach calls the side the ball
carrier places it and the defender swaps it. The ball carrier then switches
the ball to the other side as fast as possible and the defender attempts to
slap it. They keep doing this until the coach blows a whistle. These
develops the switch that is needed for the back to move the ball to one
side and the other when he is protecting the ball.
Teaches the juke move; 5 cones in a straight line 5 yards apart from each
other and 5 yards from the runner. At first tell the runners to start with a jog
and concentrate on footwork. The footwork is key and as they gain
confidence and skill in it they can increase the speed. The key to a good
juke is the first step and where it goes. The cone represents a tackler and
we tell the runner to run right at the cone and then (if juking to the right)
lower you hips slightly (to lower center of gravity) to maintain control and
speed while taking a hard step to the left. Aim for the outside of the left
shoulder to force the defender to turn his hips and shoulders to the left
and immediately step hard to the right with the right and get up field; one
step and one step only. The wider and more controlled the step to the left
is the more effective the juke will be on the defender. Make sure the
runner doesn’t step in front or short step that first step. He must lower his
hips and step to the outside of the shoulder. We have the runners do it
the right going out and to the left on the way back. We have them jog it
until we see they have mastered the first step and hip drop. Then we
have them go a little faster, and then we have them do it at full speed.
Usually it takes a few weeks to get them going to full speed. By four weeks
your runners should have a really nice juke move to counter open field
tacklers and the infamous last defender on the edge.
Same drill but we add a player with a bag that the runner immediately
lowers his non-ball shoulder to and delivers a blow. Running through and
lifting the shoulder as contact is made.
The cone weave is used to develop quick feet and fast cutting ability that
is need for a running back. The runner should first start the drill doing it
slowly or jogging so that he can develop the proper movement patterns.
What is important is to lower the hips and bend the knees as you move
laterally. It is important to keep the hips square as possible and not the
cross the feet but take small fast steps that allow you to apply force from
the ground.
Single Cone Weave – the cones are spaced in a straight line with two feet
between each cone. Use eight cones and a ninth cone that is ten yards
a way. When the runner slides out from the last cone he steps and sprints
to the ninth cone and jogs back to the end of the line.
Two Cone Weave – two cones are placed together and each set is offset
by one cone so that it increases the weave and cutting of the runner.
Again eight sets are used with a ninth cone for a ten yard sprint.
Need a piece of rope ½ inch wide 10 feet long with a piece of 2 foot
water hose on it and knots at both ends to keep it from falling off. Surgical
tubing or resistance line can be used as well. At least two to four helps this
go faster. A ball carrier starts in a two-point stance with ball in hand. The
rope is around the chest plate and a resistance man is behind him with
the line taunt (he is not putting his weight into it). On GO the runner
explodes down the path for 10 yards and when the resistance man sees
him pass it he releases the rope and lets him sprint for 10 more yards. They
then switch and repeat the drill going the other way. The resistance man
must keep the line tight but not pull on the rope at all. He should just relax
and let the ball carrier pull him along. The runner must explode and
10yds 10yds
Set 1 Teaches a back how to properly stiff arm. (Kevin Thurman’s drill).
Two cones ten yards apart with a coach over the inside cone and a
runner 5 yards away from the inside cone. On GO the runner (holding the
ball with the outside arm) runs straight for the far cone. As he does the
Coach tosses the bag at the runner. He must vary the height from Knee to
Shoulder height as well as varying the angle of the bag. The runner must
use his inside hand (with thumb down) as the “lever” and use the bag’s
momentum to push himself away from the bag. If any part of the bag
touches the runner he is tackled. Do not lock the elbow out; it should be
slightly bent.
BB Blocking Drill#1:
This simple drill is used to teach a BB how to make the all-important kick
out and log block effectively and to know when to execute each block. I
have five cones representing the five interior linemen and a cone that is
set properly behind the center so that the B-Back can get in a proper
stance and depth. We always check his stance and depth. We have a
EMLOS on each side with a Shield. The coach is standing behind the BB
and on the blocking side. HE will call the side and then hand signal to the
EMLOS to either BOX (done at first), CRASH, or SIT. We tell the BB to always
kick out a boxer or a defender sitting and wide. We tell the BB to always
log a crashing defender or a defender sitting and in tight. We rep this to
each side several times and at first we work on the kick out and getting it
right and then incorporate the log. We can also signal the EMLOS to
widen or tighten as well. We tell the BB to cross over step at the inside hip
of the PSG and then go down the LOS and block the first defender to
cross his face. If he sees a crash he gains depth as he works to get his
head to the outside of the defender and then drive him up in to the LOS.
This is a more advanced drill for your B-back once he masters the concept
of kicking out and logging. It teaches him how to move down the LOS
and engage the first defender to cross his face. Just as in #1 we start with
kicking out first and then logging and mix the two in as he begins to
master it. This should be done to the right and the left side. We use four
defenders to conduct this drill that are numbered 1 to 4. 1 to 3 are filling in
just 1 foot off the LOS at C gap, tight D gap, loose D gap, and 4 is playing
wide at the same depth. The 1 and 2 simulates a defender crossing the
BB’s face from the guard out in a 4 to an 8 tech. The coach signals who is
crossing and how he is crossing. 1-4 straight across (kick out), 3 and 4 sit
(kick out). 1-4 crash (log) and 1-2 sit (log). We normally work on just the
kick outs at first and then move to logs and then mix them in. We want
our kids to master the kick out first though.
This drill teaches the Wingback how to execute his inside seal block on a
LB and the LONG call SAB IN block, and the REACH block. An offensive
line is formed using traffic cones with a cone representing a QB as well.
The WB gets in the angled two-point stance on the right side. The coach
signals a defender to either move in a LB position (20, 30, 40, 50, or 60), 6
tech, or a 8 tech. If the Defender goes in a LB position on GO the WB
releases outside and up field and back inside hugging the LOS and seals
the LB using a proper inside seal technique. If the Defender moves into a
6 tech the coach yells LONG and the WB moves up to line and sets. On
GO he executes a SAB IN block. I like to get a WB up and go through the
INSIDE SEAL two times and then rotate. Then work right the side as well.
Once they have the inside seal down we then do the LONG call the same
way. We then work on the Reach block and perfect them sealing off the
defender to the inside. Once they get them all down we can add to this
drill by having the coach do two of the three blocks randomly and then
rotate. We do this twice for each back and make sure we get every
block.
“reach”
This drill teaches our QB how to make the soft toss, spin flat, and get into
the hole and make the Outside/Inside seal block. The key component is
the stance, footwork, soft toss, and staying flat to the LOS and get up field
and out of the hole quickly. It is also important that he makes his block
with the head on the inside of the defenders head on an outside seal and
on the outside of the defender’s head on an inside seal. He must seal the
defender from scraping to the ball carrier. The key is to first teach the
Outside look (outside run force) and then teach the inside part and have
the CB cross the LOS and have the safety roll up. Teach the QB to look
outside and if he does not see a defender coming towards the hole he
then looks inside and the first defender he crosses he blocks. Start with
outside blocking to both sides and then add the inside and rep both sides.
Then have two defenders in place and mix up who he has to block.
Note: We have the BB do this same drill as well to teach the Lead block. We just
line him up at his position and perform the counter step and lead through.
Combining Drills – You can combine the BB, WB, and QB drills in various
forms to rep the super seal action as well. This will improve the timing of
the BB, QB, and WB’s blocks and creating the tunnel to run through. This
can be done to teach the QB/BB double block as well.
Backfield Action Drill – Skeleton Line of Cones – two pairs of backs working
in mirrored pairs (BB/DE, QB/CB, WB/LB, TB/LB for blocking and WB/Safety
for runner – his job is to attack the runner and force him to work for his
yardage)
When we first teach the offense we start with either of two series:
We have each group do it twice to both sides. Then we have the groups
switch and repeat. We keep doing this until we get the timing and
techniques down. We always talk it, show it, and then have them bird
dog it until the master the basic footwork. Then they run it at ½ speed
building up to full speed.
Since most youth teams do not have the luxury of a press box you have to
have to know how to scout a team from the sidelines. This can be a
tough thing to do but if you know where to line and how to watch it can
really help you in your decision making process as you call plays.
Sound Advice
The play caller needs to know the action and reaction of the defenders at
the point of attack.
If you note the Linebacker’s jersey numbers after each play simply look at
the play side and see if the BSLB is on the play side. If so then you know he
is attacking the play and more then likely not holding ground and reading
counter.
Select a few coaches and show them what to look for and how to signal
you. Below is an example
DB SCOUT – Watches the backside corner back and the Free safety (note
jersey numbers).
Youth Defenses
The number one area that youth offenses attack is the outside with the
sweep (this is because it is the easiest home run play in the youth team’s
arsenal) because of this the number one area youth defense defend is
the outside D gap (Sweep). In order to do this they must give up another
hole somewhere in the line or in the secondary. Usually that hole is the
inside D gap or C gap (off tackle). This is the Achilles heel of most youth
defenses and should be the main focus of attack. Once you attack this
hole defenses adjust one of four ways.
Just bear mind those quality defenses are going to show you eight or nine
man fronts of some sort. They are going to attempt to cause pressure in
the backfield and force you to get the ball out of the backfield fast.
Good youth coaches realize that causes problems for the average youth
offense.
My thought process on the super seal is that I want the defense to know
that we are capable of running this play every time at them on every
down. I want them to fear this play and fear the repercussions of over
committing on it as well. Thus they must remain mirrored against the
defense and attempt to stop the play by either technique or ability.
I tell my tail back he must that he must secure the ball while keeping his
eyes on the hole. He must attack that hole aggressively while he lets the
back side linemen pull through the hole to give him a wall of blockers. We
tell him to hit the hole hard and fast reading the QB and pulling linemen.
If the QB and backside linemen go under the BB as he logs he must stay
inside of the QB’s seal block and explode up field at first daylight. Do not
let the TB string this play out at all. The key to this play is to get up field
and inside at the first outside seal block. The reason for the shuffle step
after the snap is to keep the Tail back square to the hole and give his
blockers an initial moment to pull down the line and get in the hole. We
emphasize to the tail back (runner) that he must follow the QB, Backside
linemen, and B-Back and read what they do. It also forces the tail back
to stay as square as possible to the LOS as he hits the hole; we want this so
that he has a cutback to the inside or the outside as well as driving
forward.
S
C B B B C
E T N T E
Note: Unlike the classic double wing offense where the wingback attacks
the hole from a lateral position the tailback is attacking the hole vertically
from a seven yard position (6 yards for younger teams). This makes the
footwork for the quarter back and backside linemen a little more forgiving
as the distance covered by the tailback is longer then the three pullers.
Also since the blocking back is offset to the play side this allows him to get
to the kick out much faster then in a traditional double wing formation.
Note about the Tunnel: the Down/Seal block inside and the Kick out/Seal
block outside on the LOS create the tunnel. Also if a blocker on the play
side does not have a target on the LOS to block his path will take him into
the second level and force backside pursuit to go over him, which will
cause him to give ground and time to the runner. Creating that tunnel at
the first level with the Down block inside and the Kick out/Log outside is
very important as well as the seal block on the inside and outside on the
second level.
Kick Out (take an inside banana path and attack the inside shoulder of
the DE and kick him outside). The backside footsteps towards the play side
near outside lineman’s near hip (crossover). His helmet must be behind
the inside shoulder of the defender so that he signals the QB and ball
carrier that the hole is open. He must continue to drive the defender to
the outside and if he his stopped he must lock out his arms and keep his
feet moving.
E E
The key to teaching this is to drill it into the B-Back so that when he sees it
he can respond correctly.
Note: There are obviously other ways to adjust to a tough EMLOS that is
tough to kick out. See the table for how we adjust using play calling
tags.
Misdirection
Explanation of Misdirection
My thought process on the misdirection is that I will call it when I see the
defense start over pursuing from specific points of the defense that
weaken the defense’s ability to defend every gap. Once I see these
things occurring I note them and then attack them accordingly. Often
one misdirection play feeds into another misdirection as the defense
attempts to fill the leaks (like a kid trying to plug a leaking dam that is
about to burst). Once you get a defense into this state it falls apart so you
can’t let up. The base play becomes the jab and the misdirection play
becomes the punch so you set up the misdirection with a few power plays
then punch them with the misdirection. Then jab them with a few more
power plays and then punch them with the misdirection.
Golden Rule: Don’t counter from a play until the defense fears that play.
C B B B C
E T N T E
Above is an example of super seal flow and the backfield and line that
moves to the play side. Note that the TB, BSG, BST, QB, and BB are
shaded. The flow going to right side is forcing the defense to respect
super seal via formation and movement in the backfield.
At the youth level defensive backfields generally key the backs or key the
backs through the guards. By doing this they allow us to deceive them
with the use of our obvious strong side formation and movement in the
backfield. Even more importantly is the fact that any defense that sees a
constant swarm of bodies moving to one side and then seeing the ball
appear on that side is going to respond with movement towards that side.
The illusion we create with this constant action gives us the ability to use it
against the defense and gives us an effective misdirection game. The key
is setting up the illusion (Power Action) and forcing movement by the
defense.
If the defense wants to match up (man up) then they key in this manner –
SCB = WB
SLB = PSTE
MLB = BB
WLB = TB
WCB = BSTE
FS = QB
Often the defense might have the MLB/ILB key through the guards and
into the backfield. At the youth level what that really means is that the
backfield can still misdirect the defense. There not a lot of youth teams
that have the linebackers reading linemen and often even if they do the
backfield action often mesmerizes the young linebacker.
C B B B C
E T N T E
Backside Defensive End and Depth of Tail Back: I really feel the depth of
the tail back forces the backside end to react and move up field to cutoff
the runner’s path off; in doing so that backside defensive end leaves
himself open to the counter plays on his inside as he takes a direct to the
tailback.
L C L C
E E
1) 2)
Two Schools of Thoughts: There are those that believe you should hold the
counter plays and use them sparingly; more of a big bang play when the
defense gets lulled into defending your power running game. Then there
are those that believe it should be mixed in liberally to keep the defense
honest and allow for a more honest playing defense. I do both
depending on the defense I am facing. If I see an opportunity to get a
big play off the counter I don’t wait I call it and take that opportunity
given to the team. In the past I have been more of a hold it till I need it
but I have found that mixing in the counters a lot more keeps the defense
on its toes and forces them to defend the entire front at all times. The
Play of the Wing Back: The wing back must take a drop step to slide him
out of the way of the B-back who is going to be executing a kick out (if he
is not leading) to the EMLOS near him. Once he does that he aims for the
far hip of the last player on the LOS (OT or TE) and heads toward him
keeping the QB to his outside. As soon as he secures the ball he looks for
daylight. That daylight might appear on the other side of the center (A
gap) or down the line at the D gap. He has to get up field fast and get to
the outside boundary fast. The runner must never cut this play back inside
as the defenders that are recovery from the power action will be heading
towards you from that direction.
L C L C
E E
1) 2)
BB Trap
Adjusting the Trap blocking scheme – remember KICK, TRAP, and SHORT
TRAP are basically the same except they either extend or shorten the gap
you hit. That is the nice thing about the BB being offset to one side it
makes the timing and footwork easier and simplifies a lot of timing issues
that the normal DW counter trap has but it should be noted you don’t get
the quick trap to the play side that you do from a balanced set. With that
said if those linemen are trappable you simply flip the formation and go
from there.
LEAD WB Kick
Like the BB Trap you can adjust the blocking schemes on this as well to
take advantage of a certain defender or to seal off a problematic inside
linebacker.
XX BB Wedge
This is an awesome play once you set up the powers and counters. The
defense gets so fixated on defending the edges that the backfield action
draws them into the edges and the wedge runs right up the middle and
normally for a huge chunk of yardage.
BB Part
This is a good change up to the Trapping schemes when you are facing a
EMLOS that is expecting the kick out or the wedge and suddenly gets SAB
out blocked. This leaves the next defender inside isolated and if he is
attacking or pressing up field that makes him a huge target for the BSG’s
trap block. I like to us this against teams expecting the wedge or trap.
The play side line parts and suddenly the interior defender must make a
choice and often with all that space he attacks and is then trapped.
LEAD WB Part
This is just a more powerful version of the BB part using the blocking back
as a lead blocker now. You don’t have the passing threat of the WB in
the corner so that means the safety has to bite on the quarterback’s
booting action only.
SIDE
I think this is one of the best plays that I have come up with to compliment
my running attack. If the defense over plays the power action to the
strong side and the strong side linebackers are flowing hard to stop the
power action then seal will be a huge gainer as it will seal off the entire
strong side and send a lead blocker into the backside line backer with
your best runner cutting back into the alley. You get decent power with
good deception as the wing back and quarterback fake bootleg pass.
Buck Series
Beginning Stage
You need to develop some basic skills in your passer and your receiver.
Often coaches neglect this one area because they simply don’t
understand the mechanics involved in a well-thrown ball or how a
receiver actually catches a ball. There is really nothing complex in the
process at all once you understand what mechanics have to be taught
so that they will be successful.
In order to have a passing game you have to have reliable passers and
receivers. You have to have kid that can throw the ball and a few kids
that can catch the ball. The good news is they don’t have to be perfect
but they do have to have the natural instincts to get the job done. The
rest is up to you has a coach to make sure he gets the necessary skills and
masters them in order to be successful.
First you have to find a passer and a receiver. Lets talk about the
receivers first because they are pretty easy to find and pretty easy to
coach up once you find them.
Receiver
Teaching a receiver how to catch is fairly simple but you have to find kids
that can naturally catch to begin with. Some kids simply don’t have the
motor skills or coordination development to catch a football. More often
then not this is simply because they haven’t developed the
neuromuscular patterns and physical skills necessary to do so or they
simply have not done it enough to understand the concept. So your first
job is to just watch the kids playing catch and note the kids that can
catch pretty easily on their own and pull those kids aside and work with as
your receivers. Speed is not a big importance remember your using play
action (a form of misdirection) so the emphasis is on catching not
separating as that is going happen from the faking of the run action.
•First and foremost a receiver must learn how to properly catch a football.
•They must be given a variety of ways to catch a football. Often if you
look at a young receiver who is struggling it is because he only knows one
way or just a few ways of catching a football. A good receiver must be
able to catch a variety of throws.
Finding a Receiver
•At the beginning of practice simply throw out a few footballs and watch
the kids play.
•Make a note of kids that can naturally catch the football, release, and
run routes also note the kids that can throw as well for later when you start
looking for passers. The kids that you noted that could catch are the ones
you want to work with as receiver. Find kids of various sizes as well as you
are going to want some bigger kids at tight end that will block as well as
catch.
The key to having a successful passing offense is finding kids that can and
want to catch. You have got to get them reps and stress the importance
of stance.
Keys to Receiving:
• Get your eyes on the ball and get your body in front of the ball.
Focus on the center of the white stripe and wrap your hands
around it.
• Focus on the ball and attempt to catch it at its highest spot as it
approaches you.
• Go after the ball; don’t wait for it to come to you.
• Spread your fingers and get your thumbs together to form a triangle
if the ball is above your waist. Watch the ball in to the triangle and
as the ball comes in wrap your hands around it. Keep your hands
loose and not straight out. They should be relaxed but spread with a
slight inward bend in the fingers and palms.
• If the ball is below your waist get your pinkies together and form a
shovel and get them under the ball.
What we stress:
•Focus on the tip! (Watch the ball from first sighting it till it is secured).
•Soft hands! (You cannot catch a ball with stiff hands. We ask them if a
NET is stiff or soft, so we want your hands soft like a net to absorb the ball
and wrap around it). Do not catch a ball with your body or pads!!!
•Thumbs together if chest or higher! (Keep the hands soft and let them
wrap around the ball has it makes contact with the hands.)
•Secure it! Don't attempt to take off up field until you secure the ball.
Place two cones five yards apart and have the receiver in the middle.
You can do multiple stations with two receivers working together in pairs
as you watch. This gives everyone a lot of reps.
The ball thrower stands five yards back with five tennis balls. He throws the
balls with medium force, not fast and not slow but good enough to make
the receiver work for the catch.
1st drill – toss at the chest – Thumbs together – 5 balls and switch.
2nd drill – toss at the waist – Pinkies together – 5 balls and switch.
3rd drill – receiver turns around and looks over either shoulder – pinkies
together over the shoulder – 5 balls (switch up shoulders)
These are basic skills you can develop with a tennis ball.
Receiver stands in the middle and you throw five quick balls in various
areas between the cones. Stress getting in front and using proper
technique. Throw them low and high and explain how to dig and jump
for the balls. If in pairs switch and repeat and you should do this twice
with each player so they get a good amount of reps.
•QB in the middle with receivers forming the circle around the QB. If you
have two or three QBs you can put them all in a circle so that the QBs
form a triangle facing the receivers. The receivers should be ten yards out.
•1) QB's throw to every receiver's chest (midline). First high. Second round
is low. IF you have two QB's that is a total of four catches. We focus on the
above rules correcting mistakes.
•2) QB's throws to every receiver's left side. First high then low. Total of four
catches again. We focus on the above rules correcting mistakes.
•3) QB's throws to every receiver's right side. First high then low for a total
of four catches. We focus on the above rules correcting mistakes.
•At this point every receiver has caught 12 passes (6 high/ 6 low).
•4) Receivers turn around so they face away from the middle. QB throws
to over the shoulder to left side so that the WR has to go and get it (about
5 to 7 yards). Then we go to the right side for a total of 2 rounds (4 catches
each). Stressing pinkies together and over the shoulder.
•At this point every receiver has caught 16 passes and the more times a
receiver catches a ball with correct form the more natural these
techniques will become.
•With two QB's this takes 15 to 20 minutes the first time you do it due to a
lot of dropped balls and teaching. The second time it will take about 12 to
16 minutes. The third and fourth time it should drop to about 10 to 14
minutes of time. That is about as good as it gets on time. The key is to get
them to feel comfortable watching the ball in, catching the ball, and
securing it quickly.
•Getting quality reps is what will improve the quality of your receivers.
Adding to it
•Have the receivers facing away and the coach calls his pre-assigned
number just as the QB releases the ball for 1,2,3. (good way to add to it
during the season for quick reaction).
•Have the receivers widen out to 12, 15, or 20 yards to work on distance
accuracy.
•Have one QB in the circle one at a time performing rollouts and passing
sequences to the left and right. This is a very good way to teach accuracy
of throw on the move to the QB and for the WR to focus on the ball.
•We use only the receivers and passer in the drill. (TE, WR, FB, WB, TB, QB)
•2nd Step: Release – we teach and review how each position releases.
–TE/WB: outside radical release, play action inside-out release.
–FB: bump and go release, inside playaction release.
–TB: bump and go release, outside playaction release.
•3rd Step: Routes – we then review route patterns with our receiving corps.
This step they simply run the routes at slow and then full speed. The passer
practices footwork as well. No ball is used.
•4th Step: Passing – QB then begins throwing the ball using his key for that
particular pass play. He will throw to every receiver to include any tag
receivers. We try to hit each key receiver three to four times and each
tag receiver two to three times.
The Passer
Fundamentals of Passing
• The ball is just below the ear and the throwing arm is cocked (elbow
out) and ready to throw as soon as you drop or make your run
action off of play action.
• Both hands are on the ball with the off hand mirroring the passing
hand on the other side.
• You must set with the non-throwing foot and hip pointed in the
direction of the target along with the point of the elbow of the non-
throwing arm.
• As you throw it starts from the twisting of your hips, upper body, and
into your arms. The index finger as you release the ball should point
in the direction of the receiver. This forces the hand to come down
on the ball creating spin.
• Upon delivery of the ball the non-throwing foot is pointed just inside
of the receiver and your hips are square to the receiver as well. This
is caused from the rotation of the hips and shoulders as you throw.
The throwing foot should be point down field now at the receiver
and the heel off the ground.
Aiming
• If the ball is thrown directly at the receiver the throwing hand should
be pointed at the chest of the receiver. The index finger should be
the last part of your body to touch the ball and should be pointed
right at the receiver. (bullet pass) If it is a longer pass then you raise
the finger up to the head so that ball drops into the chest and then
adjust accordingly.
• If the ball is thrown deep (a bomb) at the receiver the hand (index
finger) should be point above the receiver and the throwing
shoulder should drop slightly. The height of the finger above the
head varies with distance and arm strength. The index finger
pointed above the receiver. The dipping of the shoulder and the
• If throwing off an action you can either Stop, Set, and Throw or you
can throw on the run. A younger less experienced passer benefits
from the Stop, Set, and Throw as it is easier for him to execute but
you need to give him time to throw.
• Throwing on the run the passer must open his hips (belly button) to
the receiver (hips facing the receiver) and he must realize that he
has added power if throwing to a receiver on his throwing side and
less power throwing to a receiver on his off side since he is now
throwing across his body. He also must realize that there is a natural
tendency to under throw the ball when moving laterally so you must
stress the hand points at the target correctly (start at the head vice
chest and adjust upwards as needed).
Ball Grip:
Thumb – Pushes the ball during the initial throwing and release action;
provides leverage. If a passer’s hand is big then the thumb will tend to
point to the back of the football while a passer with a small hand the
thumb will tend to point more towards the middle of the ball. The
important thing is that there should be a space between the thumb,
palm, and football that should not exceed a ½ inch of space. The easiest
way to check this is the place your non-throwing hand index finger can fit
between the palm and the ball. The space and size is proportional with
kids; so his index finger should fit into his palm or a coaches pinky finger will
do as well.
Little Finger – Controls attitude of the ball (like front sight alignment of a
rifle). It must be on at least one of the first three laces of the near the front
of the ball. Once it gets set correctly it should not be adjusted.
Middle Finger – Just on or just off the laces and is pointed vertically across
the ball; perpendicular to the point of the ball.
Fourth Finger - Should have contact with the laces, at least to the first
knuckle overlapping the laces.
Spacing – Two points of spacing that should be noted; one is the spacing
of the finger from each other. A proper spread of the fingers, that is the
fingers are spread wide, provides stability of the overall grip of the ball.
Proper spacing allow the QB to hold the ball in one hand as he rotates his
arm to throw. He should be able to run with his arm down at his side. If the
ball does not fall out he has proper spacing and grip. Secondly; the
spacing between the palm and the football is important as well since
palm provides nothing in the way of ball security or delivery. The spacing
is critical for a correct feel of the ball as this affects the pushing of the ball
on the release.
Like ball grip proper throwing motion is affected by the body type and
arm length of your passers but a few things need to be taken into
consideration when instructing your passers on throwing mechanics.
Step 1 Arm Position - right handed passer uses his left hand to drive the
ball up into the throwing motion. The left pushes up and comes off the
ball naturally at about the shoulder.
Step 2 Shoulder Position – throwing arm elbow extends out and back just
below the wrist until the ball reaches shoulder level. The football is lifted
up above the shoulder to position behind and higher then the elbow.
Step 3 Angle of the Football – football is turned slightly outward from the
body. The nose of the ball is pointed away from the passer and should be
Step 5 Finger Release – The fingers leave the ball in this order – little finger
(attitude), fourth finger, middle finger, thumb, and fore finger. The
forefinger provides accuracy and the final spin of the ball. It should be
pointed at the target (bullet) or above the target (lob or bomb) and the
throwing shoulder should drop if it is a lob or bomb. Velocity is generated
from the feet, hips, and shoulder and then into the arm, wrist, and finally
the hand. The arm should straighten or lock out as the football leaves the
hand, which provides additional push.
Ball Position:
The ball once snapped (quick pass) or after bringing it up from the belly
button (play action) should be a below the throwing shoulder with both
hands on the ball. This allows the passer to set and throw the ball with
relative ease and quickness. The higher the ball is held the faster the ball
can be delivered. The ball should be just above the numbers and below
the ear and away from the body. This ensures a full range of motion and
allows for a tight spiral.
If playaction is occurring hand fake and put the ball on the hip away from
the LOS then execute the proper mechanics to get it up as you prepare
to pass.
Foot Work:
The feet must work in concert with the arms in the passing process if not
one of two things often happen. First if the feet lead to far ahead of the
arm in the throwing action the ball dives or sails. Second if the arm is to far
Now those are the basics and it sound really complex but teaching a kid
how to throw is not that complex. Above was a perfect situation and you
drill to get to that perfect situation.
Take passers working in pairs (note you can have the receivers catch the
balls and hand them to the passers).
After two to three warm up throws have them start throwing the ball hard.
They have to get used to throwing accurately while throwing with force.
Stress aiming the finger and adjusting it as they need to. At first they will
tend to have the index finger point up or outward and that will cause the
ball to rotate with a big wobble and be inaccurate. The other problem is
they will push the ball with their palm vice rotating their hand. The index
finger should pointing at the target and the thumb should be pointing
upwards. If you correct these two problems you have gone a long way to
making your passers more accurate.
After they throw ten to fifteen passes like this then move on.
Again focus on upper body mechanics but now you are going to
introduce the non-throwing foot and hip facing the receiver.
Have them throw five passes and then one of them moves left or right.
Then tell the passers that their off hand foot (one on the ground) has to
point in the direction of the receiver and you have to rotate your hips so
that the belly button points at the receiver.
Standing Throw
Each passer stands and gets in a proper pre-delivery stance. Off foot
pointed at target, both hands on ball, ball above shoulder, and ready to
throw.
They will throw back and forth using a good delivery and good
mechanics. Again starting slow and building up to full velocity for ten to
fifteen throws.
Three-Step Drop: This drop allows our QB to get depth from the LOS and
time up to patterns that are at a short to medium depth like fades. The
depth of the drop is 4 to 6 yards depending on stride and height of passer.
The QB must have the ball in a throwing position from the snap. As soon as
the last foot hits the ground the passer must have the ball off.
Assuming a Right Handed QB – He drop steps with his right foot for
maximum depth (the deeper this step is the farther from the LOS he is)
and the left crosses over, then the right foot drop steps again. As the foot
hits the ground he must position the body so the off hand foot points
down field to the receiver.
When throwing to the left his first step is to reach, then crossover, and
finally reach. On the final step he should open his front hip to a 45-degree
angle with the LOS. He must get his belly button at the target.
1) No ball just drop. Correct footwork (depth of first step and speed).
2) Add ball and check for ball getting to the correct carrying position.
3) Check footwork on final step.
4) Add a receiver that in a specific position down field (end point of
route) (can be a coach).
5) Add a cone to the left and right of passer and tell the passer that is
a rusher. When you call out a side just has he sets he must set and
then immediately move two steps laterally set and throw as fast as
possible.
After that we simply add in the play and practice the routes as the
receiver progression above, first using skeleton (receivers and passer) and
then the entire team. Adding pass defenders or rush defender after
working on it on air.
Football games are won and lost on field position. Because this is a ball
control offense you have to understand the concept of field position in
relation to your offense and defense.
Position Action
On your Goal or –10 yard line Get as much yardage as you can in
the first down and consider quick
kicking on 2nd through 4th. A good
rule is if your getting 3.5 yards a
carry each down attempt the next
down.
-10 to -35 yard line Get as much yardage as you can in
the first and second down and
consider kicking on 3rd through 4th.
Apply same rule as above.
-36 to Opponent End zone Play all four downs unless game is
nearing the end and you are in the
lead by eight points or less. Then
apply same rule as above.
That is a general rule that I like to follow on quick kicking and punting.
Quick Kicking
I am not a big fan of traditional punting at any level or the traditional punt
formation. Why tell the defense what I am about to do? So I would rather
quick kick and let the defense assume that I am going to run or pass the
ball until the very last second. This gives you more advantages then the
defense in my opinion.
1) They are not prepared to rush the kicker as they are in a normal
punt.
2) Playaction forces them to respect your base action or play action.
3) Often their best return man is not set or position to receive the kick.
How do I do it
I use either the Bull or Bear formation with the strong side on the wide side
of the field. We kick to pin the ball to the sideline and allow our hunters to
go from outside in and pin the ball down field. We use a Super Seal
playaction to set the quick kick.
PSTE to Center blocks SAB IN waiting for ball to be kicked and then release
up field separating at 5 yards to from lanes. The head straight and pin the
ball up field. BSTE shoe shines then releases up field when ball is kicked.
He takes an angle to seal the side line off as he has side line containment.
WB releases up field working wide until the ball is kicked he then hunts the
ball outside in.
BB kicks out first defender to cross his face and when the ball is kicked he
works up field outside inside hunting the ball.
The QB reverse pivots tosses the ball then seals the first defender outside
inside. When the ball is kicked he works up field outside inside hunting the
ball.
The TB takes the toss attacks up field for two steps and then kicks the ball
up field aiming at the near side line. Not right at the side line but towards
that side. Make sure he turns and steps to the back side to kick.
The key to the quick kick is establishing the run fake for just a few moments
forcing the defense to commit to the run action and then kick the ball.
A good quick kick should hit the ground and roll up field or out bounds not
allowing the defense the opportunity to field the ball. If the ball is short
kicked or handled by the defense there is a good chance that it will be
mishandled or fumbled.
BONUS PLAY
I decided to add one play into this playbook that I used at the end of my
2005 Spring Select season. I had a lot of success with this play and I really
like using it if I have a wingback that is more of a power runner like the tail
back. The play is run only out of the Bison formation and uses a bit of
deception with the tailback faking the power action like the power series.
It is a power running play that slips the wing back into the inside of the
faking tail back as he fakes the power wider forcing the defense to step
down and attack the tailback as the wing back goes by.
CP
The TB must
give a great
fake and take
the ball
outside
towards the
EMLOS
outside hip to
force the
inside hole to
open so that
the wingback
can slip in.
Line Backs
PSE – SAB IN QB – reveres pivot soft toss ball to path of TB and then
PST – SAB IN flow straight down the LOS and hitting SEALING first
PSG – SAB IN defender outside that crosses your face. Try to stay
Center – SAB IN tight to the LOS so that you can get in the alley fast.
BSG – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) TB – Slide step to play side and then attack down field
BST – Pull & Seal (GET THERE!) faking toss and attacking the outside hip of the
BSE - Cut EMLOS. DON’T WAIT for the backside to pull. Fake all
the way up field and outside forcing the defense to
CP: SHORT SEAL if the PSLB is going over the BB – cross over step and kick out the first defender to
top of the SAB tracks. cross your face. YOU MUST DRIVE HIM OUTSIDE TO THE
CP: LONG SEAL if a 5,7,6, or 9 is a problem. BOUNDERY!
CP: DOUBLE (QB/BB) if the kick out target is
WB – Align right behind the BSG and just behind the
giving the BB a problem. (double kick out).
CP: POST & TRACK at the hole to get a double hip of the quarter back. On the snap the wingback
team if you need it. open steps with the play side foot then takes the
handoff lets the backside lineman pass and gets on
the hip of the BST and hits first daylight and gets up
field. Make sure he does not take it wide but gets up
field.
Stretching
More often the not if you go to a football practice the first thing you see is
the coaches lining up the players into neat lines or circles and then having
the athletes do static stretching. This comes from the good old days of
when we where players and our coaches really didn’t know any better.
However times, and more importantly our knowledge of the human body
and how it functions, have changed and we know that the muscles in the
body operate in a chain or series of muscles working together not in
isolation as science assumed in the past. A major muscle contracting
(agonist) induces the opposite muscle (antagonist) to relax or stretch all
the while also getting additional help from synergist muscles and the
stability muscles (deep muscles around the joint structures involved in the
movement). Static stretching has its place but it is not before a practice
Planes of Motion
Sagittal – plane bisects the body from the front to back into right and left
symmetrical halves. Flexion and extension motion will occur on this plane.
Coronal – plane bisect the body form side to side dividing it into front and
back halves. Lateral flexion, abduction, and adduction motions occur
on this plane.
Transverse - plane divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior
(lower) halves. Rotational movements will occur in this plane.
Dynamic Stretching
Warm up Sequence
Have the team split into lines so that you have no more then five players in
a line (that means if you have thirty players you would have six lines of five
players). Any more then five and it can become cumbersome to watch
each kid as they perform the warm up routines with one coach. If you
have an additional coach you can increase it up to ten lines.
LINEAR WARM UP
This is done to twenty yards out and a form run back and then to the end
of the line.
1) Form Run
2) High Knees
3) Butt Kickers
4) Drum Majors
5) Fast Skips *
6) Straight Leg Bounding *
7) Walking Lunges
LATERAL WARM UP
This is done to ten yards out and back.
1) Walking Shuffle
2) Walking Crossover
3) Shuffle
4) Tapioca
5) Carioca
6) Shuffle and Touch *
7) Lateral Run *
8) Lateral Lunge
BACKWARDS WARM UP *
Done at ten yards and form run back.
1) Backwards Walk *
2) Backwards Run *
3) Slow Back Pedal *
4) Back Pedal +
* You can add these after the base movements are mastered.
This is the basic Warm up cycle that I use before any practice. It takes
twenty minutes when you first introduce it and start teaching form and
proper movement. After they begin to master the movements and
understand the warm up sequence it gets down to about ten minutes. At
that point you can add the additional movements.
Start slow and work on proper movement and form and as they master it
then have them increase the speed. When you’re doing warm ups
nothing is ever at 100%, at most it is 75% and no more then that.
Explanation of Movements
Linear – warms up body in the sagittal plane for the most part.
High Knees – a jog stressing the knee lift portion. The knee should attempt
to go above the belly button. Maintain proper linear form at all times. This
stretches the hamstring and all the stability and synergy muscles
associated with the hamstring.
Butt Kickers – a jog stressing the heel lift portion. The heel should make
contact with the butt. Maintain proper linear form at all times. This
stretches the quadriceps and all the stability and synergy muscles
associated with the quads.
Drum Major – this is at a fast walk. One leg is raised and the lower leg is
rotated inward so that the heel of the foot strikes the hand of the opposite
arm. The hand is at the waste line. The heel should go as high as possible
Fast Skips – this is basically skipping at a fast rate using good linear form.
Start with a slow longer skip and work towards a fast rapid skip with the
feet touching the ground and quickly coming off the ground. Stretches
and warms up the muscles in the foot, ankle, and shin.
Straight Leg Bounding – Some times called Russian skips. The legs are
straight using a good linear. The feet should have very little ground
contact and work for the feet to get good height off the ground. This is
another good movement for the hamstrings and gluteus.
Walking Lunges - Take a long step out so and lean forward so that the
back leg is almost straight and then sit down into the lunge. This stretches
the pelvis muscles, inner muscles around the hip joint, quadriceps, and hip
muscles. It also works stretches the hamstring of the front leg as well. All
the stability and synergy muscles are being warmed up and stretched as
well. Make sure the upper torso is upright at all times. Have them do this
slowly so that they get a good stretch.
Lateral – warms up and stretches the body in the coronal and transverse
planes.
Walking Shuffle – This is nothing more then a shuffle at a walk. IT is the first
exercise we do in our lateral warm up. Make sure you are using correct
lateral form at all times. The feet do not touch or cross over. The hips and
knees are bent and the body is low to the ground but not bent at the
waste. This stretches the hip and pelvis muscles as well as the groin
muscles and all the stability and synergy muscles involved.
Shuffle – This is a faster version that further warms up the muscles and
stretches them.
Tapioca – This is a fast short cross over steps using good lateral movement
form. This really stretches the hip flexors and gluteus as well as the lower
back muscles and all of the associated stability and synergy muscles.
Shuffle and Touch – This is nothing more then a shuffle with the upper body
staying low and on every second shuffle the hands touch the ground in
between the feet while the head stays up. This further stretches the lower
back, gluteus, and hamstrings as well as all the normal muscles being
stretched during the shuffle.
Lateral Run – This is running laterally with the rear leg being in front at all
times. Good lateral movement form is important. This stretches all the leg
muscles, hip flexors, pelvis, and lower back muscles as well as the stability
and synergy muscles involved in the coronal and transverse planes.
Lateral Lunge – Does the same thing as the walking lunge but in the
coronal plane. Make sure the upper torso is upright and this is done as a
slow pace.
Upper Body – This warms up the upper body in the sagittal plane but it
adds body weight and ground force reaction.
Bear Walk – A bear crawl at a walk. The butt should be down and the
knees stay off the ground. The walk is to develop proper movement form
for the full speed bear crawl. It stretches and warms up the muscles in the
arm, shoulder, upper back, and chest along with the stability and synergy
muscles. It also warms up the core. This is performed on all fours with the
stomach facing the ground using all four appendages.
Bear Crawl – A full speed version of the bear walk. Further warms up and
develops the upper body; also good for developing coordination in the
four appendages and body awareness.
Crab Walk – This is performed on all fours with the butt facing the ground.
This basically works out and stretches all the muscles that the bear crawl
does but in reverse order.
Spider man – This is a more complex bear crawl. The athlete basically
starts in the prone position with the arms and legs away from the body.
He then lifts his body off the ground and crawls (like spider man). This is a
much more complex movement that further develops body awareness
and coordination.
Backwards Run – Running Back wards applying good linear form and
leaning slightly forward. Your eyes are forward at all times and you simply
look for the last marker out of the corner of your eyes.
Slow Back Pedal – The chin is over the knee and the hips and knees are
bent so you are low. The heels of the feet drive back in short slow steps as
you pump your arms. Done at 50% of the normal speed.
Speed Training
I have found that with young kids if you apply some time to practice to
develop linear and lateral speed that over the course of the season you
are developing superior athletes. If you have a four-week preseason you
can actually start to see benefits in game one.
First and foremost is upper body technique. It is the most overlooked area
of youth athletes. Youth athletes simply have sloppy upper body form and
correcting it is fairly easy and the payoff is enormous.
Second is balance and stability. Most kids simply don’t have good
balance and stability and that is because their body is growing and
developing and the last muscles to develop are the muscles around the
joints that provide balance and stability to the major muscles and joint
structure. Taking time to develop these allow for smoother movement
and more coordinated movement. From a neuromuscular stand point this
is a key component to speed.
Third is explosive leg strength conditioning. The vast majority of kids either
simply have poor explosive leg strength or don’t know how to skip , hop,
or jump which are fundamental parts of explosive leg strength and
running in general.
Couple all these together and you get quicker and faster athletes.
The first rule you should always apply to coaching is not to "over coach"
an athlete. The second rule is to not teach an "unnatural movement
technique". I see a lot of so called knowledgeable speed coaches over
teaching techniques and teaching incorrect movement techniques that
do not fit the athlete’s natural movement patterns. This can cause more
problems and damage then good so be aware of it at all times.
Tall action: This means erect; running on the ball of the foot (not toes or
heels) with full extension of the back, hips, legs as opposed to "squatting
down low" when running. Developing and stressing proper posture while
in movement and static is fundamental to creating a good running form.
Smooth action: This means float across the top of the ground. All motion
should be forward not up and down or to the side. Leg action should be
efficient and rhythmic. The legs should move easily under the body in a
constant even pattern like a moving wheel.
Drive action: This means push from an extend rear leg (very important),
rear elbow drive with a high forward knee drive followed by a strike of
claw foot action just behind the body's center of gravity (COG),
Head and neck are aligned with the body. You should have straight line
from the head, neck, back, and rear leg. The head and neck should be
relaxed; by simply letting the jaw hang will help reduce tension in the
There is a myth that the hands should be straight out (as if shaking some
ones hand) is in fact a false misconception and should not be listened to.
When you keep your hand straight you tense the muscles in the palm and
this causes the muscles in the forearm to tense as well which in turn cause
the muscles around the elbow to tense causing the elbow to lift from the
body or run in a less smooth manner. Instead the hands want to be in a
curled position naturally. Meaning the fingers should curl into the palm as
if wrapped around a roll quarters and the thumb should rest just over the
index finger.
Let the body lean forward naturally but don't not bend over. The body
should have a slight forward tilt with the head, neck, back, hips, and back
leg inline. At the acceleration phase (starting) there is going to be more
lean initially. The athlete should be looking down in front of him, which in
turn creates additional lean to create a shorter stride (faster shorter steps
= more power). The athlete as he accelerates and the body begins to lift
to it natural lean his head comes up and looks past the finish line.
Run on the balls of the feet and not the toes or heels. The ball should strike
the ground and stay on the ground for just an instant as the leg turns over
and drives (pushes) off the ground. This is key point a lot of young runners
run on the toes and that causes excessive braking or a loss of power
The foot should land directly underneath the sprinter. An over-stride will
result in the foot landing in front of the center of gravity, which will cause
braking. Under striding causes a lot of fast movement and energy
expenditure without covering enough ground. A key point is that the
body leans at about 60 degrees (approximation) and if a line is drawn
through the body from the head to the foot and the line becomes
baseline the forward thigh of the runner should be at or near 130 degrees
to that baseline. This means the knee needs to drive forward (not
upward) to create the pulling force necessary to increase speed.
Keep the head and trunk still and the entire body relaxed. The body
(specifically muscles) is more receptive to neuromuscular commands from
the brain when it is relaxed. Furthermore the torso and core must be
relaxed as it must move in multiple directions as the body increases in
speed. When the right arm is back the left leg is back that means the
right shoulder is forward and the left hip and lower back is moving
backward. This means the torso is twisting and in doing so if the torso is
tensed there is a bigger chance of muscle pulls in the torso area
(specifically the lower back and rear shoulders). Also the more tense the
torso is the less flexible it becomes and this reduces not only
neuromuscular control but decreases speed as the body cannot create
additional force through the torso.
Part of good technique is to relax the trunk, arm, and antagonists of the
stride movements. Energy is often wasted to keep accessory muscles
contracted and the body rigid, and wasted energy equals decreased
speed. Use relaxation to be as efficient as possible and recover as quickly
as possible.
Now bear in mind if you are football player and you carry the ball (QB, RB,
WR) you need to understand how to carry a ball and run as well. Simply
follow the above techniques and lock the ball into the inside of the elbow
by turning the hand upward with the palm of the hand on the front tip
and the bottom tip in the inner elbow. Simple press the ball and the
fingers lay on the top of the football keeping it locked in. The angle is still
90 degrees and the arm still moves inline with the direction. The ball
comes in and is locked by turning the hand inward and pressing the ball
Knees – sitting on both knees with butt of the legs so that the thighs, butt,
and upper body are straight. Using good arm form start slow using good
arm technique and relaxing the upper body. Start of very slow and build
up to 75% speed. Arm turnover is the real key to speed. The faster the
arms go the faster the legs go.
Standing – Now standing with feet shoulder width apart work on upper
body technique once more but now really stress the importance of the
hip swing in concert with the arm swing. Let them feel how the body
works together. Again start slow and build up to 75%.
Running Place – Now have them incorporate the lower body by using
good form again. Make sure they are on the balls of their feet and the
knees are driving up wards. Everything appendage wise should be
moving towards the finish line. Start slow so that they can feel the body
movement and allow the neuromuscular system to develop proper
patterns then increase the speed.
FORM RUN – Four to Six reps at 40 yards. The key is to let them do it at their
own pace at 50%. Allot at least a full minute for this may be more.
Watch as they do the runs and stress correct form.
At first you will do Knees and Standing for one minute each. As they
master it and get comfortable (that is key) add Running In Place then
Form Run.
EXAMPLE – BEGINNER
EXAMPLE – INTERMEDIATE
KNEE – 30 seconds
STANDING – 1 minute
EXAMPLE – MASTERING
KNEE – 30 seconds
STANDING – 30 seconds
RUNNING IN PLACE – 1 minute
FORM RUN – 1minute
EXAMPLE – ADVANCED
STANDING – 30 seconds
RUNNING IN PLACE – 30 seconds
FORM RUN – 2 minutes
As they master the techniques you can move away from upper body
technique and only introduce it occasionally as a refresher.
This is actually a very easy portion to teach but offers a lot of positive
feedback.
During the progressions remind them as they lose balance and need to
rebalance or stabilize to simply bend or straighten the weight bearing
knee and hip. This teaches them how to shift their center of gravity and
use their lower body to correctly stabilize themselves.
BASIC –
Keeping Leg Straight raise the left foot straight out so that it is almost a
foot of the ground. Calling out NEURTAL allow them to hold it for three to
five seconds once they achieve balance.
KNEE UP so the knee is above the groin line. Have them hold that position
for three to five seconds once they achieve balance.
KNEE OUT so that the knee shifts out to the side at the same height as the
KNEE UP and hold for three to five seconds once they achieve balance.
Switch legs. They should not allow their leg to rest at any time during the
sequence. This develops strength in the stability muscles of each leg in
different manners.
INTERMEDIATE –
KNEE UP
KNEE OUT
NEUTRAL
HEEL UP – left the heel of the foot up towards the butt and hold that
position for three to five seconds.
NEUTRAL
SWITCH
ADVANCED –
KNEE UP
KNEE OUT
NEUTRAL
HEEL UP
NEUTRAL
TOUCH THE GROUND – have them bend over and touch the ground with
both hands as they lift neutral leg behind them. It must remain straight at
all times. Hold that position for three to five second.
At this point you should be about six to seven minutes into speed training.
Core conditioning
Abdominal Bridge with one foot resting on one knee – five reps each side.
This places additional body weight on the weight bearing leg and requires
the hip, knee, and ankle joints to stabilize as well.
Abdominal Bridge with one leg straight out and up in the air – five reps
each side. This places further body weight on the weight bearing leg and
requires the ankle, knee, and hip to stabilize.
V ups – from the rest position above shoulders come off the ground and
the arms come off the ground and to each side of the legs forming a V.
The legs come of the ground and point up in the air so that the body
forms a perpendicular V to the arms. Hold position for a few moments
then REST. UP – REST. Ten Reps.
V ups with leg sequence – UP (hold) – OUT (legs open up) (hold) – IN (legs
close) – LOWER (legs drop to 6 inches) – REST. Work for 5 reps.
V ups with alternating leg – One leg at a time as you do V ups alternating
on each rep. 10 reps.
Super Mans – like flying the arms, shoulder lift off the ground slightly, and
the legs and pelvis lift off the ground. This causes the lower back and
supporting muscles to contract. Do ten reps with a pause on the UP
position.
Kneeling Extensions – On all fours (REST POSITION) – Starting with right arm
straight out and the opposite leg straight out. Make sure the fingers are
point straight out and the toes are as well. Make sure the leg and arm are
neutral with the back and that the body is fully aligned. Do ten
alternating reps with a pause.
Side Plank Raise – in a lateral position on the ground with the left elbow
under the body lift off the ground so the left elbow is bearing the upper
body weight and the left foot the lower body weight. Make sure the body
is straight and the hip is off the ground. Hold for ten seconds and do three
to five reps.
Skip Progression
Using 40 yards with a midline of 20 yards. Skip first twenty and sprint last
twenty. Doing it there and back.
1) Fast Skip
2) Skip for Height
3) Skip for Distance
Hop Progression
(Bunny hops are feet together fast long hops trying to develop height.)
(Distance Jump is feet together jumping for max distance on each jump.)
Starting
Again I normally start seeing results around week four with eight fifteen
minute training sessions but bear in mind I actually get an additional
fifteen minutes every practice with DFW’s. So I get eight thirty minute
training sessions or four hours.
Also you can hold one hour speed camps using the above segments and
the DFW segment as well as a fun drill like Air Force football during the pre
season to evaluate players.
Endurance Conditioning
The more important factor and often overlooked by coaches that say the
only conditioning they ever do is repping plays is the mental toughness
training that it provides and that is important in testing and pushing a
player’s psychological and physical boundaries. Often these never get
pushed until a game and that is not the time to be pushing them and
then find out that you have players that are not used to being pushed in
that manner.
Adjust the distance to account for the correct time of the exercise for the
age group. A good rule is 40 yards for 12 and above, 30 yards for 10 to 12,
and 20 yards for below 10.
In the 40 you have four 5-yard segments and a 20 yard segment. In the 30
you have three 5-yard segments and a 15 yard segment. In the 20 you
have two 5-yard segments and a 10 yard segment.
5 yards 5 yards
20 yards 20 yards
Cross Sprint & Sprint the player cross sprints to the side cone then
immediately sprints to the cone ahead and repeat the process all they
way up until they hit the long cone and sprint through.
Side to Side Sprint and Touch Cone the player sprints to the second cone
on the other side touches the cone with the near hand and then
immediately cuts and sprints the second cone on the other side until he
hits the last cone before the long straight and then sprints full speed.
Get the entire team in a circle; double arms apart. Tell them the next
portion is going to test your Courage and Heart. I tell them that as long as
your mind is in control of your body you can do anything with it you want.
I am going to be yelling, screaming, and getting on to you for everything
you do wrong I tell them not to take it personally. At any point you decide
you have had enough step out of the circle and go get some water and
take a knee.
So the point - place them in a physically demanding drill that does not
stop. Add mental and emotional pressure to it and see who breaks and
who holds up. This is a mental and physical test that pushes kids to the
edge and then checks to see if they can push that barrier.
The rules - I sound off an exercise and they keep doing it until the hear
another exercise. IF they don't understand it they run it place or do
jumping jacks until they figure it out. Everything is at full speed. I have a
stop watch and do each exercise for twenty or thirty seconds and then
switch it.
If anyone stops, slows down, or can't keep up they are told to leave the
circle. If they break down or complain they leave.
(Note this is a tough drill and kids will cry but the point is to push those
boundaries a little and see what you have).
On the first exercise you get them going. Any one making mistake or
going slow you jump on them and you jump on them fast and furious. You
are not talking you are screaming and yelling. If they get smart with you
are slow down stay on them. Make it tough for everyone.
Jumping jacks
Jump Squats
Good Morning
Burpees
Push ups
Jumping Jacks
V ups (long holds)
Super Mans (long holds)
Walk Out
Wind Mills
Jumping Lunges
Jumping Jacks
Mountain Climbers
Jump Squats
Shoulder Rotations
Alternating Crunches w/ Knees
Jumping Jacks
The exercises are endless just have a note card with a list and follow the
list. Make sure you have two to three full body movement exercises with a
static isometric exercise or an isolation exercise in between to break up
the routine and allow for a controlled recovery.
The exercises alone are tough but you start to tear into them a little and
put a lot of emotional and mental stress in it that 10 to 15 minutes will tell
you a lot about a kid and what he is capable of. It will also allow the kid
to understand how to handle adversity of that nature. Just like a game
where there attempting execute physical skills while under mental duress
and pressure.
Just make sure you explain that the ENDURO DRILL is tough and the
screaming and yelling is a part of it. JUST like football games are tough
and the opponent is unforgiving you are during the ENDURO DRILL.