Dominate the Trenches: 7 Must-Try Drills to Become a Top Pass Blocking Offensive Lineman
Pass blocking is a critical skill for any offensive lineman, and there are several drills and exercises that can help improve their technique and performance. Here are some of the best drills and exercises for offensive linemen to become better pass blockers:
Mirror drills: This drill helps linemen improve their footwork and reaction time. Set up cones in a line, and have the lineman shuffle back and forth while mirroring a coach or teammate's movements. The goal is to keep their feet in the proper stance and maintain balance while mirroring the other player's movements.
Punch drills: The punch is a key technique for offensive linemen in pass blocking. One exercise to improve the punch is to have the lineman punch a heavy bag or a padded shield. The lineman should use proper technique, keeping their elbows in and using their hips to generate power.
Hand placement drills: Proper hand placement is crucial for offensive linemen to control the defender. One drill to improve hand placement is to have the lineman practice punching and grabbing a towel or resistance band while maintaining proper hand position.
One-on-one pass blocking drills: In this drill, the lineman faces off against a defensive lineman one-on-one. The goal is for the offensive lineman to maintain proper technique and block the defender from getting to the quarterback.
Resistance band drills: Resistance band drills can help offensive linemen improve their strength and explosiveness. One exercise is to have the lineman attach a resistance band to a stationary object and practice their punch and hand placement while pushing against the resistance.
Footwork drills: Good footwork is essential for offensive linemen to maintain balance and control in pass blocking. One drill is to have the lineman practice stepping forward, backward, and sideways in a precise pattern.
Film study: Watching game film can help offensive linemen identify areas for improvement in their technique and decision-making. By studying their performance and that of their opponents, linemen can learn to recognize and anticipate different types of pass-rush moves and adjust their technique accordingly.
To become a top offensive lineman, athletes must develop a strong work ethic, dedication to technique and form, and a commitment to improving their strength and agility. In addition to drills and exercises, linemen should focus on maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest to support their physical training. Working with experienced coaches and seeking feedback from teammates and opponents can also help offensive linemen improve their skills and performance.