Having a running back who can pass block will give you the protection of having another offensive lineman on the field. Creating a clean pocket for a quarterback is often predicated on the running back’s ability to block a blitzing linebacker or support with a defensive lineman.
In this article, we’re going to show you how to coach your players to be elite pass blockers.
Pass Blocking Technique For Running Backs
To effectively pass block as a running back, you’ll need to teach them about leverage. If your running back is 5’4 and a 6’2 linebacker blitzes from 5 yards off the line, there will be a high impact. However, we can leverage this player by forcing him to go one way, so that we don’t get knocked back into the quarterback.
Footwork
The most important part of pass blocking from the running back position is how they transition into the line of scrimmage.
If it’s off of play-action or a simple drop-back pass, the running back needs to clear the lane for the quarterback. If the running back just stays in place, it’s another body the quarterback has to throw over. The running back needs to step up and meet any opposing threats at or 1 yard behind the line of scrimmage. They want to essentially become another offensive lineman when they step up.
Contact
On contact, they should have their feet square, so they can leverage the blitzing linebacker one way or another. They will naturally create a pocket for the quarterback to navigate.
When punching the linebacker, the running back’s helmet should be below their chin, with their hips loaded up, and the middle of the shoulder pads should be struck.
Once contact is made, grab a hold of the shoulder pads and torque the linebacker off of their mark. If it’s a smaller running back, force the linebacker to go one way if the mass and speed become too much. The key is not to fall backward and not to get steamrolled.
Running backs who can block will completely change your protection, as your quarterback will feel more comfortable and will be able to deliver the ball with a clean pocket.
Inside our membership vIQtory Pro, you’ll find exact instructions and tutorials on how to turn average running backs into explosive, downhill runners.
To learn even more running back techniques, read here: