The cut block has largely been phased out in football, but it can still be an effective tool at the youth and high school levels.
In this article, we’ll show you how to cut block and keep your players safe.
Coaching The Cut Block
The rules of cut blocking at the high school (NFHS) and most youth rules require the cut block to happen as soon as the ball is snapped. There can’t be any delays or any faking a block only to cut block.
The benefits of cut blocking are to slow down an opponent by taking out their legs or keeping their hands down if you’re throwing quick game.
Cut Block Technique
The most important part of cut blocking is to make sure your player’s head is completely out of the cut block.
To cut block effectively, the shoulder should hit the thigh of the offensive lineman. As the defensive lineman fires forward, the momentum from him coming forward and the contact on his thigh should knock him down and have him land on his stomach.
If you’re throwing quick game, this is ideal because he won’t be able to get his hands in the air. This will provide a clear throwing lane for your quarterback.
If you’re having issues with the player not falling, change the aiming point lower or have your players crawl instead of lunging forward for the thigh.
The most important thing is that your players don’t hit their heads on the defensive lineman’s thigh. Keep your players safe for an uncomfortable technique.
Inside our membership vIQtory Pro, you’ll find exact instructions and tutorials on how to turn average offensive linemen into physical, dominating forces that own the line of scrimmage.
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