Block destruction is key for linebackers. If they are afraid to get on a block, they will never be able to get off of it. When training linebackers, building confidence through drill work and proper fundamentals will help them block destruct.
In this article, we’re going to show you step by step how to block destruct and get off blocks from offensive linemen.
Block Destruction
Feet
The most important part of getting off a block from an offensive lineman is to make sure your feet are in the proper position. Due to the fact that offensive linemen are often bigger than linebackers (both height and size-wise), having improper footwork will often result in the linebacker being on their back.
On contact, the linebacker should have their feet staggered, not square. The reason you want them staggered is so the body can brace for impact. If the feet are square, there is nothing to drive off of and nothing to absorb the impact.
Arms
When the offensive linemen approach the linebacker, it’s important for them to strike the chest plate of the offensive linemen.
Ideally, if you can play 1/2 a man (striking the middle of the chest plate and the upper shoulder pad), then you can play with leverage. Playing with leverage is important because if the linebacker has a single gap responsibility, they can still make a tackle.
When striking, make sure their thumbs are facing to the sky or outward on contact. This allows the linebacker to lock their arms out. Locking arms out is important because it creates separation between the offensive linemen and allows you to control the fight. Once the arms are locked out
Helmet
The last part of block destruction is making sure your player’s helmet is below the chin of the offensive linemen. A good rule of thumb is “play below the chin, and you’ll always win.”
Playing below the chin of the offensive linemen will allow your linebacker to play with leverage lower to the ground, absorbing the incoming impact.
Disengage
The last part of block destruction is disengaging the blocker. This is often forgotten about, as linebackers will try to rock the offensive linemen as hard as they can, but forget to use a disengaging move.
The two main forms of disengaging are an arm-over move or a rip move.
An arm-over move is when a linebacker locks out their arms, pushes the offensive linemen, pulls with the inside hand, and brings their other arm to chop down on the forearm, successfully disengaging
The rip move has a similar action to the arm-over; however, instead of pulling and chopping down on the forearm, the opposite arm will rip up and through the arm. This will allow them to disengage any offensive linemen who have clamped on. If they are holding your linebacker, it will be clear and evident to the referee.
Inside our membership vIQtory Pro, you’ll find exact instructions and tutorials on how to turn average linebackers into run-stopping and pass-rushing forces that disrupt offense.
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