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The drive block drill begins with one tight end playing a linebacker and lining up in a two-point stance, feet spread the width of his shoulders, knees slightly bent, back straight, head up, and the palms of both hands open facing the offensive man at a position just even with his jersey numbers. A coach should give the tight end the snap count to start each drill and call out a cadence when he sets at the line of scrimmage. It is also very important for the coach to position himself correctly so he can observe the blocker, making certain that the tight end is using proper blocking technique. The defensive man should merely react to the block and not attempt to charge across the line of scrimmage. That way, the tight end is not worried about penetration from the defensive man, and he is free to concentrate on rolling off the front foot and taking a good short power step, straight at the defender, with his back foot as he starts the drive block. The blocker must also concentrate on making certain that he does not raise his upper body straight up into the air. Keeping his shoulders low, his back straight, and his head up is very important for the tight end as he moves into the block. When the actual contact is made, the tight end must have both feet on the ground shoulder width apart and be prepared to take short, powerful steps as he drives the linebacker backward. The blocker must explode with his legs in a forward and upward motion. Using the palms of both hands, he should strike the linebacker in the numbers, extending his arms as he feels the contact of his hands on the defender's jersey. Finally, the tight end must finish off the blocking by thrusting his hips forward, driving his feet, extending and pressing up and back with his body, arms, and hands while attempting to drive the defender off the line of scrimmage.
Play Football The NFL Way is the ultimate football manual for coaches and beginning players who want to learn the basics of football correctly. Author Tom Bass is a former NFL coach with more than 20 years of experience with the Cincinnati Bengals, San Diego Chargers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For a personalized autographed copy of Play Football the NFL Way, plus information on the new Coach Bass Sport MapsTM - football guides that aid in watching and enjoying college and professional football, please visit http://www.CoachBass.com. For information on Coach Bass' In-Depth Coaching Clinics go to http://www.Takeaknee.com.
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