Johns DLine Manual

1
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
The most physically demanding position in football. Talent is not the issue (many talented
defensive linemen haven't reached their full potential because of lack of paying the price).
The issue is:
• Attitude towards work, towards practice, hustle and playing hard.
• Knowledge - gaining every edge. Know your job, study, prepare and know
yourself.
• Play with technique (skill development) - daily work habits towards ingraining your
skills.
• FINISH EVERYTHING! Finish every Pass Rush, Never give in!
These points take NO TALENT! It takes an attitude towards being the very best player
you can be.
• We must first work to make our habits. Then our habits will make us.
• Tedious repetitions of the simplest movements!
PRIDE/CONDITIONING
We have a lot of men with great pride. Your pride will not allow you to quit or get beaten.
Conditioning will always allow your pride to always surface. Conditioning will keep you in
every game.
CONSISTENCY IS A MUST! Every day, no matter if the weather is hot or cold. No matter
if we are ahead or behind. No matter if we are in pain or not. It doesn't matter - we must
be the same consistent person every single day.
If it were easy every talented lineman would be a great lineman.
Hold yourself to a higher standard - BE MORE THAN OTHER PEOPLE EXPECT OF
YOU!

2
COMMON ERRORS - DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
1. Lack of TOTAL EFFORT - Trying to save yourself for the fourth quarter. By that
time it doesn't matter.
2. Guessing - Not playing what you see because YOU THINK they are going to do
something different. Don't make s _____t up!
3. Trying to get the QB before defeating the pass blocker. Plan your rush, Rush your
plan.
4. Trying to make a tackle or big play without first defeating the primary blocker.
Hands, shed, tackle.
5. Giving up when you are picked up by a second blocker. Stay alive - FINISH. Tight
Bags!
6. Giving up when YOU THINK the play is over and not going to the whistle blows.
FINISH every play to the pile.
7. Not being prepared for a quick count. ("BALL'S ready - WE'RE ready.")
8. Not PUNISHING a ball carrier. With our size and strength we should hit the
ballcarrier hard enought to either separate him from the ball or make him very slow
in getting up, This makes a great deal of difference in some ball carriers by the
fourth quarter.
9. NEVER appear bedraggled, out of shape or dragging your body on or off the field.
NEVER breathe life into your opponent!
10. DLineman CODE: ATTITUDE!
• HARD
• MAX SPEED
• KNOWLEDGE
• FINISH
** NOTE: NONE OF THE ABOVE TAKES ANY TALENT!

3
Meeting Room
Structure:
1) Will have meeting Itinerary posted or on the board before players get in.
2) Will always be prepared with appropriate handouts or notes
3) Will encourage players to participate in every aspect of the meeting
4) Will provide multiple methods to present information to different types of
players
5) Will inform players of anything new expected of them or any changes in the
defense.
6) Will make sure all questions have been answered before the defensive
linemen leave the meeting room.
Meeting Room Rules
1) THE DL WILL BE ON TIME: Dressed, Taped and Ready
2) The DL will be prepared with anything they were instructed to bring to the
meeting (e.g. Playbook)
3) The DL will be attentive with eyes on what is being presented
4) When asked a question, asking a question, or simply commenting the DL will
be clear, speak up and will not mumble in order for the whole group to hear
them.
COMMUNICATION WILL BEGIN IN THE MEETING ROOM AND CONTINUE
ONTO THE FIELD!
5) We will respect everybody in the room and anything they have to say.

4
GET OFFS AND STARTS
1. Alignment: Crowd the Ball.
A. Align on the Front Tip of the football (If a credit card can fit between your
mask and the ball - tighten up.)
B. "Ball's Ready - You are Ready."
C. Does Center tilt ball up? If so, crowd the ball more. Know if the ball is flat
or not. (Shotgun).
D. Do not align on opponent. They will vary their depth and cheat deep.
Find the ball.
E. Ignore Lines! We will never practice on a line. (The ball is only on a line
8-12 times per game!) This will force you to concentrate.
F. Green Ball. Zero in. Make yourself study it!
2. Stance.
A. Tight, Narrow, Bunched - sprinter's stance.
B. Tail up high. Nose down.
C. Up hand on up knee. Push Down!
D. Down hand out and clawing grass.
E. Eyes up, peripheral everything.
F. "Hair Trigger" - Hold your breath...Tick, Tick, Tick - EXPLODE!!
3. Stimulus.
A. Movement, any movement - YOU'RE GONE!!
B. Ball, that's easiest. When it starts to move.
C. String tied from tip of ball to your nose. (Or????)
D. Movement down the line. An opponent? - or your teammate?
E. The QB's foot - Seat - or eyes?
F. The Tackle's outside knee?
G. Game plan - Coach's responsibility to find what moves first.
4. Response.
A. Throw your body.
B. Lead with Nose, Head, Shoulders.
C. Lean. East German Downhill training.
D. Fall out of your stance. Off a Cliff. Mat get offs.
E. 45 Degree angle or less.
F. Push down on knee of up hand.
G. Claw, pull grass with down hand.
H. Big, big step. Reach out... back foot replaces down hand.

5
GET OFFS AND STARTS
5. Cadence and Rhythm.
A. Do not Listen....movement, not sound.
B. Know their cadence. We will drill it.
C. Do they have a set pattern.
D. With motion….. do they go on two?
E. Audible’s….. do they go on two?

6
STIMULUS RESPONSE
Reaction and Movement
The biggest single factor in movement or reaction is the initiation of the act: the
stimulus. The majority of the speed requirements in sports are the stimulus - response.
(The sprinter responding to the stimulus of the gun is a very simple stimulus). "The speed of
a player is his ability to generate high velocity (power) and his ability to make his physical
response quickly after receiving a signal or stimuli."
As seen in the applicationto a live play in a football game, it is possible for an athlete
to receive many stimuli at once.
A track athletes' reaction to a starting pistol will probably be slower during a fireworks
display. Instead of focusing all his attentions on the starter's pistol, he is actually
distinguishing the difference in the fireworks and the pistol and then he reacts. In
comparison, the response to a signal light suffers on a sunny, glary day. It has been proven
that the response is best when the stimulus is strong and different from the surroundings.
The reaction time is dependant on the stimulus itself.
Reaction time tests are plentiful, but it is important to remember the various
problems and differences that may exist in each test. There are (5) different factors that may
change the outcome of any reaction time test and also the response to any stimuli:
1) Fatigue
2) Motivation
3) Practice
4) Types of Stimuli
5) Number of Stimuli
Fatigue can change the reaction time of anyone, being tested or not. A tired athlete
does not respond and perform as well as when he is rested.
Motivation, being positive or negative, can change a response. Punishment,
reward, pride or desire can motivate ones interest in performance.
Conclusion:
1) The stronger the stimuli produced the better the reaction times.
2) All reaction times are improved through practice.
3) The stimuli which are harder to identify can be improved upon the most
by repetition.
4) Any type of response can be taught to react to any of these stimuli.

7
TERMS THAT APPLY
1. Get Off One of the biggest factors to our success will be
our ability to react quickly to movement (Find
what moves first) Generate speed and power
upfield is a must!
2. Credit Card Alignment Getting tight alignment to the ball without being
off-sides. We're so tight the only thing you can
get between you and the ball is a credit card.
5)
3. Two Way Go Where you can defeat a pull collision block 2-
ways depending on where the blocker puts his
head. Backdoor (Water-ski) or cross his face.
6)
4. Fish Hooks A term used to describe poor angles to the
football.
7)
5. Pre Snap Not "tensed-up" but relaxed. Your mind should be
free of all thoughts so you can react and explode
on the snap.
8)
6. To Be a Factor measurable contribution per play.
9)
7. Hat in Crack Run defense term to defensive lineman. Get off
on movement and play your gap (Hat in a Crack).
10)
8. See a little...See a lot! Focus on your key. Tip of offensive lineman's
pad. If you focus on that only the play will expand
and you will make your plays.
9. See a lot...See Nothing If you start seeing too much, peeking into the backfield
(Turkey necking) you will see nothing.

8
BASIC ALIGNMENTS
A. HEAD UP – EVEN NUMBERS
STRONG END IN OVER AND DT’S
IN EVEN. NOSE IN BASE/30
B. OUTSIDE SHADE – SHADE, 3, 5, 9.
OPEN END, UNDER END
OR TACKLE. AND LIBERTY/
SPLIT
C. INSIDE SHADE – 2i,
7 TECH. NOSE VS. 2 BACKS
END IN FIELD OR VS. SECOND
TE IN OVER.
D. 2’ OUTSIDE - LOOSE 5.
OPEN END TO THE 3TECH. STRONG
END IN OVER VS. OPEN END.
BUCK IN UNDER
E. COCKED – ANGLED TO THE SHOULDER
OF THE CENTER. NOSE IN UNDER
C.P. – HEAVY DESIGNATES EYE-TO-EYE
ALIGNMENT. HEAVY 3, HEAVY 5
6 4 2 0 2 4 6
9 5 3 1 1 3 5 9
6i 2i 2i 6i
L5 L5
2,4, 6 0
SHADE,
1, 3, 5, 9
2I, 6i

9
UNDER FRONT
POSITION ALIGNMENT KEY RESPONSIBILITY
END
5 Technique to the
Mike Call
Outside shade
Of the Tackle
Head of the Tackle
Ball/ Movement
Run To: C-Gap
Run Away: C-Gap Squeeze
to Backside
PASS: Rush! Work a
Move. Get to QB. Don’t
rush past QB.
BUCK
Loose 5/ 6 Tech.
Away from the Mike
Call
Slightly Cocked
Outside shade of OT
Or Head up on TE
Tackles Head or TE
Ball Movement
CP – Read as you
get off. Can’t get
hooked
Run To: C-Gap
Run Away: C-Gap shuffle to
squeeze
Pass: Rush: Best outside
move. Rush at level of QB.
Read 3t for natural game
NOSE
1 tech. or Shade to
the Mike Call
Slightly Cocked on
Nose
Outside shade of OC
Centers head/ Ball
Movement
CP – Penetrate and
Cut defense in half
Read as you go.
Can’t run to you
Run To: A-Gap
Run Away: A-Gap Squeeze
Pass: Rush, Club on
Shoulder. Work move. VS.
turn protection rush OG
TACKLE
3 Tech. Away from
the Mike Call
Outside shade of the
Guard
Guard’s head/ Ball
Movement
CP
1. Penetrate
2. Read as you get
off
3.Get Knockem back
Run To: B-Gap
Run Away: B-Gap
(squeeze)
Pass: 2 way Go!. L-5
Technique has possible
Natural Game.
END NOSE TACKLE BUCK
5T SHADE 3T LOOSE 5

10
OVER FRONT
END
6 tech/loose 5 if TE
to: 5 Tech if TE
away
Outside shade
Of the Tackle Or
head up on TE
Head of the Tackle
Ball/ Movement
Run To: C-Gap
to Backside
PASS: Rush! Work a
rush past QB.
BUCK
6 tech/loose 5 if TE
to: 5 Tech if TE
away
Outside shade of OT
Or Head up on TE
Tackles Head or TE
Ball Movement
CP – Read as you
hooked
Run To: C-Gap
squeeze
NOSE
1 tech. or Shade
Away from the Over
Call
Slightly Cocked on
Center or 2i
Outside shade of OC
Centers head/
Guards head/ Ball
Movement
Cut defense in half
Read as you go.
Can’t run to you
Run To: A-Gap
Pass: Rush, Club on
TACKLE
3 Tech to the Over
Call
Guard
Movement
CP
1. Penetrate
2. Read as you get
off
3.Get Knockem back
Run To: B-Gap
Run Away: B-Gap
(squeeze)
Natural Game.

11
FIELD FRONT
END
5 Technique to the
Mike Call, to field
Outside shade
Of the Tackle
Check Tear: Move to
a 7tech
Head of the Tackle
Or TE if a 7tech
Ball/ Movement
CP – check tear vs.
TE Trips, echo call to
nose and align 7tech
Run To: C-Gap
to Backside
PASS: Rush! Work a
rush past QB.
BUCK
Loose 5/ 6 Tech.
Away from the Mike
Call, to boundary
Slightly Cocked
Outside shade of OT
Or Head up on TE
Tackles Head or TE
Ball Movement
CP – Read as you
hooked
Run To: C-Gap
squeeze
NOSE
1 tech. or Shade to
the Mike Call, to field
Check Tear - 2i
Slightly Cocked on
Nose
Outside shade of OC
2i – inside eye of OG
Centers head/ Ball
2i - Guard
Movement
Cut defense in half
Read as you go.
Can’t run to you
Run To: A-Gap
Pass: Rush, Club on
TACKLE
3 Tech. Away from
the Mike Call, to
boundary
Guard
Movement
CP
1. Penetrate
2. Read as you get
off
3.Get Knockem back
Run To: B-Gap
Run Away: B-Gap
(squeeze)
Natural Game.

12
TAMPAFRONT
END
5 Technique away
from the MIKE Call
Outside shade
Of the Tackle
Head of the Tackle
Or TE if a 7tech
Ball/ Movement
CP – check tear vs.
TE Trips, echo call to
nose and align 7tech
Run To: C-Gap
to Backside
PASS: Rush! Work a
rush past QB.
BUCK
9 Tech to the Mike
Call, to boundary
Slightly Cocked
Outside shade on
TE
Tackles Head or TE
Ball Movement
CP – Read as you
hooked
Run To: C-Gap
squeeze
NOSE
1 tech. or Shade
away Mike Call,
Slightly Cocked on
Nose
Outside shade of OC
2i – inside eye of OG
Centers head/ Ball
2i - Guard
Movement
Cut defense in half
Read as you go.
Can’t run to you
Run To: A-Gap
Pass: Rush, Club on
TACKLE
3 Tech. To the Mike
Call, to boundary
Guard
Movement
CP
1. Penetrate
2. Read as you get
off
3.Get Knockem back
Run To: B-Gap
Run Away: B-Gap
(squeeze)
Natural Game.

13
LION
UNDER: MIKE LEFT
5TECH SHADE 3TECH LOOSE 5
RAM
UNDER: MIKE RIGHT
BUCK TACKLE NOSE END
LOOSE 5 3 TECH SHADE 5 TECH
LION UNDER: 2 TE
MIKE LEFT
5TECH SHADE 3TECH 6 TECH
RAM UNDER: NO TE
MIKE RIGHT
LOOSE 5 3 TECH SHADE 5 TECH
OVER: RAM
OVER Left
6TECH 3TECH 2i 5 TECH
OVER: RAM
Mike Right
BUCK NOSE TACKLE END
5 TECH 2i 3 TECH 6 TECH
OVER: LION 2 TE’S
OVER LEFT
END TACKLE NOSE BUCK
6TECH 3TECH 2i 5 TECH
OVER: RAM
MIKE RIGHT
BUCK NOSE TACKLE END
5 TECH 2i 3 TECH LOOSE 5
POSITION NAMES AND ALIGNMENT BY FRONT

14
POSITION NAMES AND ALIGNMENT BY FRONT

15
LINE STUNTS
Blood Move: Anytime we cross the face of a blocker to the adjacent gap.
Three ways to take a gap in all blood moves:
1. Your Body
2. His Body
3. Back Door
PIRATE Align from under front: 3tech blood
move to the A gap.
Outside player blood move to the B-
Gap
- Do not change stance of alignment
-Nose: automatic twist vs. pass to
contain
GUT
Nose: Align in a 2i. Execute a Half,
blood move to the B-gap.
Tackle: Execute a Tag>Blood move
to A-Gap
Buck: “Q”. Which is a Chase
Technique.
End: If nose is up field turn into a
natural game
ANGLE
Nose: Execute a Half vs. pass get to
contain. Must keep going
Tackle: Execute a Tag
Buck: Execute a Pirate
End: vs. Pass - Automatic twist>
First seam to Contain.

16
STUNTS CONTINUED
HALF
TAG
SLIP
Nose: Align in 2i. Blood move to
B gap.
Redirect based on the block of
the Guard back to the zone.
Nose: Align in a 1 tech or a
shade. Blood move across the
face of the Center
Run to the boundary must close
off the opposite A gap
Tackle align in 3 technique.
Blood move to the A gap
Redirect based on the block of
the Guard back to the zone.
Nose scrape vs. any pass. To
be inside pressure rusher.

17
RUN RULES…DEFEND YOUR GAP
1. Play the Defense Called (Play your Gap)
A. Know your alignment and technique
B. Note Opponent’s stance. Weight and Split
C. Know Backfield Sets
D. Get the Big Picture. See any and all movement around you
E. GET OFF!
F. Execute your Charge
2. Reactions – No Guessing
A. Key head of the lineman you are on. Focus your eyes on him.
B. Stimulus Response
C. High Hat, Low Hat – Get your hat in your Gap
D. Footwork
E. Hands, Proper Placement. Lock out. (Shed) get off blocks.
3. Keys – Reactions
PLAY YOUR GAP. DO YOUR JOB….NO GUESSING – GET OFF

18
BLOCKING PATTERNS FOR
 NOSE TACKLE – 1 TECH
 TACKLE – 3 TECH
 OPEN AND CLOSED ENDS
 5 TECH
 6 TECH
 LOOSE 5

19
NOSE TACKLE
3-point stance with inside foot back.
Slightly cocked. Outside shade of Center - play as tight to him as
possible without being hooked.
Key: Center's Head.
Run Responsibility: Run To: A-Gap.
Run Away: Squeeze Far-side A-Gap.
Close air to the key with inside step attacking the near shoulder of the Center (Should be
a Train Wreck). Get your Hat in the Crack. Get “knock’em” back on the Center. Lock-out
and separate. Hold A-Gap and squeeze.
SCOOP BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Center. Get your Hat in the
Crack. When you feel the Guard - get in the seam. Shoot upfield shoulder through. Make
Guard push you into the play (Hold onto the Center as long as you can - this will pull you
into the gap).
C.P. - Cannot allow Center off on the LB. If you do - Your play!
1-Technique
Stance:
Alignment:
DRIVE BLOCK

20
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Center (Train Wreck). Get
your Hat in the Crack. When you feel the Guard, drop your outside hip and snap your hat
to the Guard. Work upfield and split the Double Team. Stay low.
WHAM BLOCK
Crack. As the Center stalks or blocks back - look for Wham. Go to Spill Back with
upfield shoulder.
DRAW BLOCK
Explode upfield with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Center. Get your Hat in
the Crack. High Hat = Pass! Club on shoulder, Swim or Rip. Feel the Center turn you
out. Comeback the way you went in. Divert the course of the Back. Note the difference
between the Draw and Pass set.
DOUBLE TEAM BLOCK

21
Explode upfield with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Center. Get your Hat in
the Crack. High Hat = Pass! Rush, Rush, Rush. Club on shoulder, Swim or Rip. Work a
move into your lane. Get to the QB.
NOTE: Can get Turn Protection - Rush the Guard.
BACK BLOCK
Crack. If the Center goes flat away from you - play back to Guard's Down Block. Either
squeeze back into Guard or get upfield and knock off puller. Don't get driven off the LOS.
C.P. - Be aware of pre-snap splits, stances and weight. Especially the uncovered Guard.
HOOK BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Center (Train Wreck). Get your
Hat in the Crack. Drive through the Center's head with hand shiver and push with onside
arm on shoulder. Flatten and keep leverage on block until the ball is declared inside or
outside.
NOTE: Understand the Fake Reach - Press back and make tackle.
DROPBACK PASS

22
Crack. See the Center run upfield and Guard coming on. Fight to stay in seam.
Backdoor and flatten as you run through. Make Guard push you into play. Use backside
arm to stay alive. Replace the Linebacker.
NOTE: Tug Block on U.T. = Nose Tackle over the top.
Zone Block on U.T. Get upfield - ball with cut back.
SCOOP (CENTER RELEASES OUTSIDE CYLINDER

23
TACKLE
3-Technique
Stance: 3-point stance with inside foot back.
Alignment: Slightly cocked. Outside shade of Guard.
Key: Guard's Head.
Run Responsibility: Run To: B-Gap.
Run Away: Squeeze and release to A-Gap.
DRIVE BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Guard (Should be Train Wreck). Get
your Hat in the Crack. Knock back the Guard. Get hands inside - lock out and
separate. Hold B-Gap, squeeze down. Shed and escape.
HOOK BLOCK
your Hat in the Crack. Flatten the Guard on the LOS and keep outside leverage. Shed
and escape. Create “Knock’em Back”.

24
your Hat in the Crack. Down Block = Trap! Redirect and close. Look for Trapping
Guard. If Trapper is coming - Spill outside with upfield shoulder.
FOLD BLOCK
your Hat in the Crack. Go through the backdoor by lowering the inside shoulder and
flattening down the line. If Tackle is flat and you get stuck - lower outside shoulder and
Spin across - or Crossface staying square.
NOTE: Grab the Puller (Water Ski).
SCOOP BLOCK
your Hat in the Crack. Drop inside shoulder to run through. Reach for hard inside
shoulder of the Guard. Plant outside foot and push off. Use outside hand to protect legs.
Don't get cut,
C.P. - Note pre-snap splits and stance. This is the #1 block vs. 3 technique. The tighter
the Tackle gets to you - the tighter you get.
FLASH TRAP

25
your Hat in the Crack. Squeeze Guard into A-Gap protecting the B-Gap. When there is no
threat to B-Gap - shed and escape.
DOUBLE TEAM BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Guard (Train Wreck). Get your
Hat in the Crack. When you feel Tackle, drop your outside hip and snap your hat to the
Tackle and work upfield and split the double team. Stay Low.
PULL AND REACH BLOCK
Note the OT cheated down - his split and stance. Tighten down to outside eye of the
guard. Get off on ball or movement. Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder
of the Guard (No Crack to get Hat in). Ricochet off the Tackle and flatten with Guard. Use
outside hand to protect your legs. Don't get cut.
CUTOFF BLOCK

26
Crack. Pull - Think fold by Center. Go to run through. Drop inside shoulder and flatten
down the line - backdoor.
C.P. - Note Pre-snap stances and splits. Guard is light, Center is Heavy...think Pull.
PULL BLOCK (CENTER FLAT)
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Guard. Get your Hat in the Crack. Pull -
Think Center Fold. Feel Center's block. Drop inside shoulder and cross face -Center
staying square.
INFLUENCE TRAP BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Guard. Get your Hat in the
Crack. High Hat = Pass! Keep rushing. Guard release outside...Trap! Close down
inside and squeeze the Trapper.
PULL BLOCK

27
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of the Guard. Get your Hat in the
Crack. Squeeze the block of the Guard. When you see the flash of OT pull - cross the
face of the Guard.
NOTE: Feel the Flash of the OT pulling.
WHAM BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Guard. Get your Hat in the Crack. May
read as Hook or Turnout at first. But eventually Down = Trap! Redirect and close. Spill
back with upfield shoulder.
DRAW BLOCK
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Guard. Get your Hat in the Crack.
High Hat = Pass! Keep rushing. Feel the Guard turn you out. Go back out the way you
came in. Retrace your steps. Divert the Back's course. Squeeze the Guard and feel the
Draw set. Close the Run Lane.
COUNTER OT BLOCK

28
High Hat = Pass! Rush, Rush, Rush. Work a move - stay in your lane. 3T has a 2-way
go. Get to the QB! This is why you are here. Inside-outside rush move. 6-Technique End
has a possible Natural Game.
SPRINT OUT PASS
Work a pass rush move and get into your lane. Keep coming and don't let the QB set up.
DROPBACK PASS

29
CLOSED END
3-point stance with inside foot back.
Slightly cocked. Outside shade of Tackle. Get as tight as possible
without being hooked.
Key: Tackle's Head.
Run Responsibility: Run To: C-Gap.
Run Away: Squeeze and release to B-Gap.
DRIVE BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle (Train Wreck). Get your Hat in
Crack. Get hands inside, Lock out and Separate. Hold C-Gap. Squeeze down -shed and
escape.
HOOK BLOCK
Crack. Flatten the Tackle on the LOS and keep outside leverage. Shed and Escape.
Work the Hook Block upfield. Ball cannot cross our face.
HOOK BLOCK (OUTSIDE CYLINDER)
Crack. If Tackle is too flat - drop outside shoulder and wheel backdoor. Flatten and
pursue. You must replace the Linebacker.
5-Technique
Stance:
Alignment:

30
Crack. When you feel pressure from the TE - drop your outside hip and snap your hat to
the TE. Work to get upfield. Stay low.
DOWN BLOCK (TRAP)
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in the Crack.
Down Block = Trap. Redirect and close. Look for trapping Guard. If Trapper is coming
spill outside with upfield shoulder.
SCOOP BLOCK
Down. When you feel the TE get into the seam shoot upfield arm/shoulder through.
Make TE push you into the play. (Hold onto Tackle as long as you can). This will pull
you into gap.
C.P. Cannot allow Tackle off on LBer. If so-your play.
DOUBLE TEAM BLOCK

31
Shoot hands inside. Lock out and separate. Squeeze down and condense B-Gap. When
there is no threat to C-Gap - Shed and escape.
SCOOP
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in the Crack. If
Tackle is too flat, push off outside foot, drop inside shoulder and wheel backdoor. Flatten
and pursue. You must replace Linebacker.
U-BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in the Crack.
Down but Tackle is pulling. Push off your inside foot and drop outside shoulder and
wheel backdoor. If you get stuck or TE is too flat, Cross Face out or Club By. Flatten and
pursue.
CUTOFF BLOCK

32
Down. Down Block = Trap. Redirect and close. Look for Trapping Guard. If Guard
has a deep course this means the Bill Block. Get upfield and take on Back with outside
shoulder and get underneath.
C.P. - Key is Guard's course. Flat is Trap, Deep is Stick. If in doubt - Play Trap.
BLUFF POWER BLOCK
Down. Down Block = Trap. Redirect and close. Look for Trapping Guard. If the Trapper is
coming - ignore Back - close and squeeze with inside shoulder. Do not let Back
influence you.
C.P. Key is Guard course.
NOTE: Tackle goes down - I go down.
STICK BLOCK

33
Down. Down Block = Trap. Feel down block of the TE. Plant inside foot and try to
penetrate. Fight not to get washed down. See the backside Pullers and try to knock one
off. Flash of Guard.
PULL BLOCK
Note cheated down TE. His split and stance. Tighten down to outside eye of the Tackle.
Get off on Ball and Movement. Close air on first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle
(No Crack to get Hat in), ricochet off TE and flatten with Tackle. Use outside hand to
protect legs. Don't get cut.
EXTRA BLOCK (BY BACK OR TE)
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Tackle pulls, Plant outside
foot and close. Rip and come under Back (or TE). Cannot be cut-off or forced upfield.
You still have C-Gap. C.P. - Use your Hands!!
POWER - O

34
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in the
Crack. Down. High Hat = Pass! Keep rushing. Feel Tackle or Push By. Come back out
the way you came in. Divert the Back's course. Know and read the difference between
Pass and Draw set. Squeeze the B-Gap. Feel the Set.
DROPBACK PASS
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in the
Crack. Down. High Hat = Pass! Rush, Rush, Rush, Rush. Work a move. Stay in your
lane. Get to the QB. This is why you're here. Rush at the level of the QB.
SPRINT OUT
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Get your Hat in Crack.
Work a pass rush move upfield and get into your lane. Keep coming and don't let QB set
up.
DRAW BLOCK

35
LOOSE 5
Loose 5-Technique
Stance:
Alignment:
Key:
Run Responsibility:
3-point stance
Slightly cocked. One yard outside Tackle.
Tackle's Head.
Run To: C-Gap.
Run Away: Squeeze and release to
B-Gap.
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle (Train Wreck). Plant inside
foot and ricochet off. Widen and give ground. Work outside and up. Keep outside arm
free. Can never be hooked from Loose-5.
HOOK BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle (Train Wreck). Plant outside
foot and close down. Get “Knock’em Back” - Lock out and Separate. Squeeze down and
condense B-Gap. When there is no threat to C-Gap - Shed and Escape.
DRIVE BLOCK

36
CUTOFF BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking the Near shoulder of Tackle. Plant outside foot and close
down. Get hands inside - Lockout and separate. Squeeze down and condense B-Gap.
When there is no threat to C-Gap - Shed and Escape.
DOWN BLOCK (TRAP)
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Down Block = Trap! Redirect
and close. Look for Trapping Guard. If Trapper is coming - Corkscrew with upfield
shoulder. Make the ball Spill.
LEAD BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Down Block = Trap!
Redirect and close. This hits quick. Corkscrew with upfield shoulder. Make the ball Spill.

37
DOWN BLOCK
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Tackle blocks down on 3tech so
you are on air. Shuffle with shoulder square to LOS. Look for anything coming. Cutback,
Boot, Reverse in that order, then pursue at ball depth.
Close air with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. Tackle seals on 3T. so you
are on air, squeeze to hip of OT on LOS. Look inside and take on TE with outside
shoulder and get underneath. Don't get cutoff. You've got C-Gap on cutback. Use your
hands.
DRAW BLOCK
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. High Hat = Pass! Keep
rushing. Feel Tackle Club or Push you by. Go out the same way you came in. React by
retracing your steps. Divert the Back's course. Once you feel the Draw - squeeze the
Run Lane. Must feel Draw sets.
EXTRA BLOCK (TE MOTION)

38
DROPBACK PASS
Explode upfield with first step attacking near shoulder of Tackle. High Hat = Pass! Rush,
Rush, Rush, Rush. Work a move and get into your lane. Get to the QB. This is why
you're here.

39
6-TECH
6-Technique
Stance:
Alignment:
Key:
Run
Responsibility:
2-point stance with feet even.
Head up on TE.
TEs Head.
Run To: C-Gap. Power thru TE Block.
Run Away: Squeeze to inside.
Mirror with first step attacking head of TE. Explode hands inside. Fingers up. Lock out
and Separate. Power him back upfield. Hold C-Gap. But, always shed to make play.
Knock him back.
EASY BLOCK (ARC RELEASE)
Mirror with first step attacking Head of TE. If TE releases look inside and read Tackle's
block. Close on any block coming from the inside. Squeeze with upfield shoulder. If
Pass, rush the passer.
SCOOP BLOCK
Mirror with first step attacking Head of TE. When you feel the Tackle get into the Seam.
Shoot upfield arm / shoulder thru. Make Tackle push you into the play (Hold the TE as
long as you can). This will pull you into the Gap.
C.P. - Cannot allow TE off on Linebacker. If so, Your Play! Knock the TE into the
backfield if he stays on.
DRIVE BLOCK

40
BASE BLOCK
Mirror with first step attacking Head of TE. Push through inside shoulder and hold
point. Should never get knocked off LOS. Hold Point and Squeeze.
DRAW BLOCK
Mirror with first step attacking inside shoulder of TE. High Hat = Pass! Rush. Close gap
between you and OT as quickly as possible. Work outside move and get up field. If you
see or feel Draw go back out the way you came in. Retrace your steps. Divert the Back's
course.
DROPBACK PASS
Mirror with first step attacking inside shoulder of TE. High Hat = Pass! Rush, Rush,
Rush, Rush. Work a move. Rush at the level of the QB. If doubled - take on blockers
one at a time. Get to the QB.
NOTE: Tackle pass blocks - feel for a Natural Game with the U.T. Never end up behind
the QB.

41
Mirror with first step attacking inside shoulder of TE. When you feel the Tackle -drop your
inside hip and turn your shoulder to the Tackle and work upfield and split the Double
Team. Stay low.
HOOK BLOCK
Mirror with first step attacking head of TE. Play inside-out through the TE. Do not cross
his face until the ball is committed outside. Hold C-Gap. NOTE: Knock the TE back.
Knock off Pullers
HOOK BLOCK (OUTSIDE CYLINDER)
Mirror with first step attacking inside shoulder of TE. Gain ground and step to push
through his inside shoulder but come backdoor and flatten. You must make play on all
Run Throughs,
DOUBLE TEAM BLOCK

42
Mirror with first step attacking head of TE. With hands inside and fingers up Lock Out and
Separate. Shed and make play. If TE cuts you off, put his body down LOS. NOTE: Never
take easy route - Go through the TE.
CUT OFF BLOCK

43
OVERLAPPING LINEMAN
The key to our Run Front is defeating the Down Blocks (Angles). Any Rushmen who
encounters a Down Block must get vertical to create penetration (This eliminates the
cutback). The next adjacent Lineman feels the Overlap while first defeating his initial key.
*Overlap's can also be used in Zone Blocking (Tags).
TUG BLOCK
WIPE BLOCK
U-BLOCK

44
"0" Men Pass Rush Guidelines
The Tackle Set Line
The tackle-set line runs from the L.O.S. through the outside of the offensive
tackle to a depth of approximately 8 yards. It is approximately a 70° angle to
the L.O.S.
Anytime the offensive tackle is forced across this line, the "Inside" is exposed
and vulnerable. The target is four yards off of outside foot of OT.
"0" Man Target/
(1 yard)
• Break Point
TACKLE SET LINE PRINCIPLE
1. Get off on ball, charging upfield and make contact with outside hand. First significant
touch wins majority of pass pro’s.
2. A "Race" move is the "0" mans starting point, make the O.T. take it away. You are a
better athlete than the offensive lineman.
3. Watch O.T. while in "Race" if "O.T.". crosses tackle- set line, club and come inside.
Read OT's movement. The O.T. cannot be right. If he comes out, club and go inside. If
he stays in race. If he beats you to the spot he cheated.
QB
X

45
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN
PASS RUSH PHILOSOPHY
1. Most Important Maneuver on Defense!
We will rush the passer more than any other single thing on defense.
A. Every Pass attempt.... Multiply by 4!
B. On a Winning Team, More Pass.
2. React to Keys
A. Stop the Run on the way to the passer.
B. Penetration Kills the Running Game.
C. Never Surprised by a Pass
D. No such thing as Play Action.
E. Execute your charge.
3. Pass Rush Attitude
A. Play with Self-Confidence. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. Cut
Loose and
make a play. Frenzy.
B. Your sack will come. But, you don't know when.
C. Realize you may beat your man clean...and not get your sack.
D. Realize it is a numbers and percentage game.
E. Realize Pressures, Holding calls, Grounding and Interceptions mean
it's only a
matter of time.
4. Stimulus and Getting Off
A. Ideally, get a knee jerk reaction.
B. Be ready to recognize stimulus - "See a Little - See a lot!"
C. See the big picture around you.
5. Response and Reaction.
A. Go, Connected with string.
B. Moving Target, Make him miss.
C. One-on-One basketball.
D. Try that move.
E. "New Shoes."
F. Under/Over every play.
G. Hands
and Feet.
H. Hips.
6. Defensive Lineman Attitude
A. Hustle reel. All you got.
B. Nasty reel. It's your job.
C. Homework and Study.
D. Pre-game reads and Tips.
E. InGame readsandTips.
F. Post Game reports.

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7. Game Package (In the Greatest Sack)
A. Delayed, looks like a Race.
B. Delayed and Grab.
C. 2,3,4 Man deals.
D. Calls, Dummy Call.
E. Execute.
8. Evaluation
A. Grade sheet and tabulations. Factor Grades!
B. SACK Film library.
C. Self Tapes.
D. Study Tapes (Other defensive linemen).

47
PASS RUSH PHILOSOPHY
"You can only Block Yourself
1. STIMULUS - RESPONSE - Movement / Ball - Get Off!
a. Response can be taught. Stimuli is the key! We must be able to
focus on movement/ ball. Rep after rep, Day after day, under all
conditions.
2. PASS RUSH ATTITUDE
a. We, as a DLine man will rush the passer more than any other
maneuver we will perform all year. We must and will be successful at
this skill. We will spend a great deal of practice time developing our
skills.
b. Pass Rush First. React to the run.
c. Self Confidence, not as afraid to make a mistake as to make a big
play. Go for the big play. You cannot be half pregnant.
3. BASIC PRINCIPLES
a. Get Off.
1. Alignment - tight to the ball as possible (credit card).
2. Stance - Weight forward, Hair Trigger.
3. Ball's Ready - You're ready.
4. HANDS AND FEET
a. We're connected to the ball with a string. Hands and Feet are moving
together
coordinated movement.
b. We're a moving target, make the blocker miss.
c. One-on-one basketball. Beat him to the bucket. If he takes it away,
counter
move.
d. All pass rush moves finish with an over (swim) or under (rip) move.
Finish your
moves.
e. Hands vs. Guns. (Knock them down or to the side).
f. Keep coming, always moving upfield - you only have 3 seconds.
g. Someone, somewhere is going to do a Hat Trick. Why not you?
5. GAMES
a. Quick vs. Run.
b. Delay - Make our Games look like a race rush!

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DEFENSIVE LINEMAN PASS RUSH PRINCIPLES
(Most important maneuver on defense. We will rush the passer more than
any other single thing on defense. Never Surprised by a Pass!)
1. Remember - you are a big league pitcher. Not just a thrower.
Each pitch compliments the next one.
2. Pre-determine your move (Have a plan). It will aid your quickness.
Believe in it. Mix things up but don't be too cute.
3. Don't tip yourself. Study your stance, steps and body lean. Crowd the
ball.
4. Get off on the ball or movement. Find what moves first. Get the rhythm.
5. Never align or attack head on. Attack 1 / 2 man, one side or the other,
land marks, runway.
6. Work your move close to the blocker-know his set. Is he short or
deep?
7. Close the distance between you and the blocker as quickly as possible.
8. Use your hands on all moves - must always have Over / Under and a
check.
9. Same hand-same foot....on all slaps swims, rips (Puppet).
10. Turn your numbers, make yourself small. Give it and take it away.
Torque.
11.Understand - they cannot block you........you can only block yourself!!!
Make them move and make them work.
12. Be sudden and brisk with your hands. Not lethargic!! Razor not a sledge
hammer. Rifle in a clock tower. Sting and go.
13. Sell all fakes - never as good as you think (Double them). Hat, hand
and foot. Coffee House.
14. Keep weight, feet and upper body going forward. Get penetration.
Advance -Don't Dance!
15. Use one move, then one counter. Never give in. (Rip, Re-
Rip) (Rip, Hump).
16. Use power rush two or three times a game. One arm is longer than
two. T's Stutter, E's = outside foot.

49
17. Use quick moves vs. short set. Inside move is fastest route to QB.
18. Spin or Club-back if deeper than ball. Keep coming.
19. Crawl, Roll, Kick or Chung Lee if tripped, tackled or held. It's never over!
20. We're just waiting for them to make one mistake! Then the QB is
ours! (Prison Break-Big Play).
21. Never jump or leave feet, run thru the QB. Use his body as a cushion to
break your fall. Land on him. Stay on his upfield shoulder.
22. Know the QB's escape route and mechanisms. You may have to rake,
gator, pin or reel in.
23. All QB's "Run at own risk." Cheetah! Finish off a cripple.
24. Find QB on all interceptions. He wouldn't be ready. But, do not go
Helmet to Helmet.

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PASS RUSH TECHNIQUES
1. MENTAL APPROACH
"Pressure on the Passer." This exemplifies the spirit and aggressiveness of a
strong defensive team. The pressure must come from both the rush Tackles
and Ends and a move aggressive hell-bent attitude when blitzing the entire
unit. To be the best pass rusher you can be you must develop a fanatical
desire to get to the passer - always applying pressure and never relaxing or
letting up.
We must now work and concentrate - both as individuals and as a unit - to
become respected and feared by our opponents through our actions and desire
to annihilate the passer. Achieving this goal calls for the improvement of
individual skills on pass rush technique, and equally important we must
strive to completely eliminate missed assignments and mental errors. (Such
as Rush Lanes - Never give up two consecutive Rush Lanes).
2. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF RUSHING THE PASSER (GET VERTICAL)
A. Get Off- The single most important factor which will determine a
successful Pass
Rush is the Get Off. By utilizing our Get Off we want to beat the
Offensive Lineman
out of his stance. Don't allow him to get set up. From the moment
of movement we'll close on the Offensive Lineman as quickly as
possible.
B. Target - Proper body angle, getting our shoulder level down. You
must have a pre-snap plan to where you want to go on the blocker.
Make the blocker believe he has to defend a certain area, because of
your great Get Off.
C. Plan - You must have a plan to execute when you get to the target
area. Know what you want to do to the blocker.
1. Always go to your strength first. What do you do best? What
is your best move for your ability?
2. What have you done before? Can you make the blocker
anticipate one move when you are actually going to execute
another mover?
3. Know your opponent! What type of set does he have?
a. Short Setter - Who'll take you on right at the LOS?
b. Deep Setter - Gets quick depth away from you.
c. Lunger - Very aggressive pass blocker who wants to stone you.
d. What are his strengths and weaknesses?

51
3. "HANDS" AS AN EFFECTIVE TOOL IN PASS RUSH
After the Get Offs this may be the next most important phase of Pass Rush -
the strategic use and placement of your hands. The Rules allow the Offensive
Linemen to freely use their hands - we must counter this by gaining an
advantage by using our hands. Hand "quickness" is essential. To improve this
quickness is vital to our success. While "working to keep our pad level down we
must lead with our hands, for placement, slap or lift.
A. Offensive Blocker's Hand Placement and our Counter.
1. Gun aimed at your breastplates - we want to block these
punches from outside-in while rotating our wrist in. We want to
pin the blocker's arm in so it will allow us to execute our swim
technique.
2. Knife where the blocker's hands are shot in your throat region or
higher. Will grab the high sticker from underneath in an upward lift
with thumbs in. Make sure we squeeze his arms as we lift. This
will allow us easier access to our arm rip.
4. FOUR BASIC TECHNIQUES OF PASS RUSH
A. Swim
Using a hard forward angle, attack the blocker and control his shoulder
pads with your hands. Once you get control of the blocker jerk his
outside shoulder down with your outside hand. Then step through to
the outside with your inside leg. Now, take your inside arm and swim it
over the shoulder of the pass blocker which will now clear you of him. If
his hands are extended, slap to pin his arm to the inside to use the swim
technique on him. Your swim move should drive right over the top of his
shoulder pad. Finish the move with your swim arm on his back to help
you escape.
B. Arm Rip
Using good body angle sprint to the outside or inside of the Offensive
blocker. Try to shoot your hips past his hips. Once you have created
this position (with good body angle) use and arm rip with your inside
arm. The arm rip is used in an upward thrust. Note: The arm and inside
leg should be working simultaneously. The arm should keep working
upwards and eyes should be looking upwards while driving the feet to
the QB. To finish the move off drive the inside elbow into the back of
the Offensive Lineman to get free. Also, use your off hand to help you
escape. Once you engage the blocker kick your feet out to keep
pressure and create leverage on the blocker to collapse the pocket.

52
C. Spin Move (Ice Pick)
This is an excellent counter move off of an arm rip. The move must
come off pressure of the Offensive Lineman. Once you feel the
Offensive Lineman's weight is over committed to your arm rip. This is
when you want to spin.
COACHING POINT: Make sure there is pressure. You must lean into the
blocker hard with your shoulder. Once you feel him over commit pivot on
your inside foot while leaning into the blocker. Whip your outside arm
around back. Your outside foot must drive all the way around - and point
your fist. Burst, Good body angle is a must. Also, you must gain ground on
your spin. Never stay in place!
D. Dent Move (Dent and Hoop)
This is a race rush move all the way. Sprint upfield taking a half-man
advantage on the blocker. When we get to the move area (you must know
your opponent) take your inside arm and Tomahawk the Offensive
Lineman's outside hand. Once you have done this - rip and hoop. If you
miss the hand - rip and hoop. Note: Never slow down to make the move.
The above technique can be used in different combinations to help us
move effectively to get a good pass rush. Every step we take should be
toward the QB. Note: All rush moves have a chance to be successful if
there is great get off. No rush move works - no matter how they are
executed - with get off. Always finish with and over or under move.

53
DEFENSIVELINEMAN BASIC PASSRUSH MOVES
1. CLUBAND RIP (UNDER)
2. CLUBAND SWIM
3. DOUBLE SLAP
4. CLUB RIP AND SPIN
5. JAB OLE
6. RACE
7. RACE AND DENT
“I” Men may execute on LOS. “O” Men usually in 3rd
or 4th step. CP- Arm that rips must be tied to the foot
on the same side.
“I” Men may execute on LOS. “O” men usually in 3rd
or 4th step. CP – Arm that goes over (swims) is tied
to the foot on the same side
“I” men may execute on LOS. “O” Men usually in 3rd
or 4th step. Slap on side opposite you are ending
up”
I” Men may execute on LOS. “O” Men usually in 3rd
or 4th step. Drive your “Rip” into the blockers arm
pit. Feel Pressure and throw opposite fist (ICE
PICK). Spin on Arm Rip and shoulder. Do Not Spin
too Soon.
Better suited for “I” Men. May execute on LOS.
Execute same as double slap, but without first
contact. Flash Fake.
Better move for “O” Men. An outside upfield club
with an over or under move – speed, target and lean
are vital.
Better move for “O” Men. An outside upfield slap of
hand with our inside hand where speed, target, and
lean are vital. Speed and target can be used to get
blocker to over commit to the outside rush. We can
now counter back to the inside. CP – Tackle Set
Line
Better rush for “O” Men. – “I” men must execute
LOS. Work fakes quickly (still only have 3 seconds).
Most blockers cannot react 3-times but must be sold
in first or second fakes. Especially the second fake.
CP – always finish with an over or under
Good for “I” or “O” Men. Counter move off a rip. CP –
Create movement with rip and lean. Bring rip arm out or
rip. Club with it – Using the blockers momentum to aid
rush. Good move to stay at the level of the QB with.
“I” men may execute on LOS. “O” Men usually on third
step. Rusher changes speed (“O”) or Stalls. “I” men
before move – get the blocker to lunge.
8. OUT IN OUT
9. HUMP MOVE
10. DEAD MAN RUSH

54
MOVE
1. Club/Rip
Same Hand, Same Foot
Hi Rip to Sky Duck Under
2. Club/Swim
Hammer To the Anvil
3. Jab/O le
Put it in, Take it Out
Corkscrew / Tornado
4. Stutter / Slap Swim
Stutter / Slap Rip
Stomp Grapes and Bob, Shake
German Shepherd Mesmerize
5. Fake 1-way, Go other (Bite and Go)
Hat, Hand, Foot Wave Flag
Look Him Off - Coffee House
6. Dent / Hoop
7. Dent/Ice Pick
Hi Guy Ice Pick
8. Speed Rush
Dip and Rip
9. Race and Club (Mann)
1,3,5
2,4,6
10. Chop / Slap / Swim
Chop/Slap/Rip
11. Wax on. Wax off (2 Hands)
Mr. Mvagi (2 Hands)
Sweep (2 Hands)
12. Bull Rush
Stutter Bull - Tackles
Outside Plant
COUNTER
Rip / ReRip (Take it Out) Rip / Swim
(Take it Out) Rip / Spin (Not till you see
Fist) Rip / Hump (Sling) (Take it Out)
Swim / Rip (Gravity) Swim /
Spin (Elbow Check)
Double Slap (Soft)
(Long 1 Winds Up)
Swim / Rip (Make Him Lunge) Rip / Swim
Double / Slap (Soft and Hard) Dead Man
(Down Shift)
Bore and spirn
Reverse Spin (Double)
Bore and Spin
Out - In - Out (By Alignment)
Bull
1 Arm
*Try on a New Pair of Shoes.
Slap/Rip
Rip/Swim

55
PASS RUSH GAMES
1. Philosophy of Pass Rush Games
a. Pass rush games are designed as a change-up for our one-on-one pass rush
moves. Well-executed games not only get sacks, but will also keep the
offensive line off balance.
Pass Rush games are designed to:
1. Foul up blocking assignments.
2. Force a Zone Team to go Man (delay and grab games).
3. Can force a Man team to go Zone - quick games.
4. Turn delay games into quick game - Q-call. Now we can disrupt blocking
patterns.
5. Disguise by calls and dummy calls.
6. Take advantage of a strong or weak opponent.
7. Camouflage our speed rush. Fake games.
8. Set up speed moves.
9. Confuse, disorganize, and worry offensive line.
a.. Games can be delayed or run quick. The key to all good games is the
second
Man. The scraper must convince his opponent that he is running a one-on-one
pass rush move. The scraper must always try to maintain eye contact with his
offensive man. Then, always run your game as tight as possible. Anticipate the
width of the pocket collapsing. Always run our games on the offensive side of
the ball.
Note: Penetration - get to his back!
Timing, execution, cleverness and creative planning will allow us to develop the
Conference best game package.
Definitions:
1. Games: Pass rush "Stunt" run on a 3-step delay.
2. Q Games: Stunts executed quickly. Used to pick and confuse man
blocking. Must get to your gap when used as run stunt. Also
run with / grab or Freddy.
3. Fake: Games - run off second step with head fake. Use with "tables"
call.
4. Built-lns: Automatic games / stunts used in blitz or dog. (PIRATE /
STICK).
5. Read Games: "If Pass Shows" turns into a game (PIRATE/STICK).

56
SPLIT
Position Alignment KEY RESPONSIBILITY
END
L-5. 1 Yard
outside of
Tackle.
Straight Up.
TE = L-9.
Hand on Foot.
TE / Tackle's
Head / Ball.
Whatever
moves first.
All out Rush Mode. Give Freedom for
D-Line to run special games for the
opponent. Based on Game Plan,
Coaching Points and Protections.
BUCK
L-5. 1 Yard
outside of
Tackle.
Straight Up.
TE = L-9.
Hand on Foot.
TE / Tackle's
Head / Ball.
Whatever
moves first.
TACKLE
3-Alignment.
Straight up.
Outside
shoulder of
Guard
Guard's Head /
Ball. Whatever
moves first.
NOSE
3-Alignment.
Straight up.
Outside
shoulder of
Guard
Guard's Head /
Ball. Whatever
moves first.

57
SPLIT CALLS
1. The huddle call will be Split and then the coverage. Split to the DLINE puts us in an all
out Rush Mode
• Our thought process when we get a Split call is 1st - know what personnel is in the
game. Check the personnel cards on the sideline. Once we know the personnel,
now we find out the deployment of the offensive personnel within that group
(Trips, Near, Far, Gun S/W, etc.)
• Each personnel group and deployment of personnel will give us certain clues to the
opponent's protection. (Where the Center is sliding etc).
• It is our job to stay on top of all the details and subtleties of the protection. (Film
study).
• Each of our rush games can be called with a code work. Example = Knife, Ringo
/Lucky or the use of hand signals (working in silence).
• Our fronts in Split Calls start with our Base Front. Tackles in Double 3-techniques
and the Ends out wide. Put yourself in position to execute your rush. Example
=Vs. a TE and you are running a You - Align outside of the TE. If you are
running and Me you want to put yourself inside of the TE for better timing.
• Another front we use is a BACK front. This will tell the U.T. to match-up on the
offset back, or in I go left for turn protection. Understand the clue's the offense gives
you.
2. Communication: Starts with becoming a good listener. NO-M.E.We must and will
all be on the same page.
Other clues include Down and Distance and Red Zone. Be on top of your details.
People will do certain things in specific areas of the field. Be tuned
in.

58
Games Key Points and Concepts:
• Understand that they can't block you - Only YOU can block you.
Pass Rush Concepts and Coaching Points!
1. You Game: Talking to the 3Tech. He is the penetrator. End is the scraper.
3Tech must drive to the back of the Tackle and Contain through the B-gap. End
comes under on either 3rd step if outside hand is down, 4th step if inside hand
down. If OC turns to the You Game, the End must make him miss.
2. Natural game: talking to the Defensive End on all outside rush. If your tackle is
ahead of you - fall back under him like a You (except it is a Natural. Don't look for
it, let it happen naturally.
3. Level of QB - Never end up behind the QB. Work a counter move back to the level.
We eliminate a pass rusher when he's behind the QB!
3 4

59
4. ME/KNIFE Game: End
LE: 1, 2, Plant drive to the back of the guard - get vertical.
RE: Right Handed Stance, 1 Step, plant and drive.
Eye contact: Tackles engage (sell, sell, sell) wait for penetration - pick, then loop to contain.
POA inside foot of Offensive Tackle - use as a landmark to run a tight game (Looper)
eye contact.
5. Twist Game: Wide Tom - talking to the 3-Technique. He's the penetrator. NT. is
the Scraper. The game is based off of the alignment of the back.
• We like to run it out of a Jet front. Jet tells the NT. (2i Alignment).
BOB: Nose Tackle goes first in a Jet alignment (2i)! Again based on the alignment
of the back.
• Note: Only run a Tom game vs. a hard sliding center. Never vs. a Man
setter.

60
6. Coffee House: Faking a game. Coffee House Exit - Tackle flashes head outside,
End fakes the Exit then rush your lane. Sell, sell. End can Coffee House a Tex
game. Subtle head snap - look to the inside then edge rush. Can also do with a Tex
game.

61
TACKLING OFF OF PENETRATION
1. With our style of defense, pass rushing and penetrating type of upfield play, a lot of
tackles will be coming off of redirection and movement. It's going to be more
important than ever to grab, grab jersey and try to bring our feet as quickly as
possible.
a. Get as much body in front of the runner as possible.
b. Keep working your feet to get better leverage.
c. Always work an arm wrap. If the grab is all you can get, continue to work for
arm wrap.
2. Clean Up Tackling.
Punish the ball carrier! We must sprint. 100% effort on every snap to the ball. Never
let up. Consistent effort. We want this type of effort to punish the ball carrier or QB and
discourage them from wanting to continue to play.
a. When going in to clean up - always keep your head up and eyes open so
you don't clean up a teammate.
b. Always be alert to stripping the ball.

62
DEFEINSIVE LINEMAN DRILL BOOK
GET OFF DRILLS
Purpose: To increase the reaction time for a Rushman reacting to a stimulus -
whatever moves first.
A. Proper Stance - Weight forward, narrow base.
B. Proper Technique - First step should replace your down hand. Down hand
should
pull grass.
C. Work on your trained eye. Always work the same side.
D. Go on movement, not sound. The coach must bark out cadence to draw
off Rushman.
E. This is a high quality, high repetition drill. Done every day to start individual
period.
*Coaches move - not players.
E T T E
Purpose: Progression drill for our get-off drills.
Once we've had get-offs, we progress to the mat drills then back to the get-off.
MAT DRILLS
A. Needed - Mat for the players to fall on. Also the ball.
B. Emphasis - Get off, and working on getting a big first step, replace your
hand.
C. C.P. - Keep your back foot stepping straight so you won't waste movement
by stepping out or under while replacing your hands.
D. Keep pad level down and explode out of your stance with a lotof forward
lean. Fall out of your stance.
C

63
LINE DRILL
Purpose: To teach get-off and rushing the passer while also teaching to redirect to the run
without Fish Hooks. REDIRECT AND BURST.
A. Types of reactions - High Hat = Pass, Low Hat = Run. Draw and Screen keys
can be added.
B. High repetition drill, with good quality.
C. This drill can be done with or without pads in the summer months to build skill
level.
POP UPS
Purpose: To work on our top four pass rush move everyday. By using Donkey Dicks we
can emphasize the club part of our move with explosive movements and speed.
Organization: Five Donkey Dicks set up with a 7-8 yard spacing in between, so that we
can Burst off each move. 1 Rushman at a time will run the Donkey Dicks. Have a finish to
the drill. After finishing last pop-up turn the corner to the next bag. Reduce your shoulder
and Burst to the bag.
Position Concepts: We will work on Club and Rip, Club Swim, Dent, Spin, and Double
Slap. When making our pass rush moves, hit the bag in the front side, not the back end.
C.P. Reach to make your moves, flip hips, details of rush moves.
Emphasis: Working your pass rush moves at full speed being technically sound.

64
HOOPS
Purpose: To work on our body lean, turning a corner and reducing our inside shoulder
(constricting the passers pocket), while running full speed.
Organization: Two hoops used, one Rushman at a time, one Donkey Dick, Green ball used
for movement.
MOVEMENT DRILL
Purpose: To teach various line movements and techniques (Spikes, Sticks Pirates).
A. Position Concepts:
1. Ball Key
2. Flat Step
3. Reaction to lineman, proper pursuit angle to the ball.
B. Organization:
1. Three Offensive Linemen - Center, Guard and Tackle vs. one
Defensive Lineman. Ball is needed by Center. Defensive Lineman
key the ball, not head.
2. Two drills can be run at one time - LT/RT working in two separate
drills.

65
BEND THE CORNER / TACKLE SET LINE DRILL
Purpose: For the outside Pass Rusher to get the feel of coming off the corner and
bend / collapsing the width of the pocket.
A. Organization - Need two Offensive blockers and a QB. One Defensive
Lineman
goes at a time.
B. Position Concepts - *Get off the ball, good body angel by dipping the
inside
shoulder. Lean into the blocker and bend the corner. This move should
come
off the outside foot after the second step. Start your initial drive straight
upfield,
then turn the corner on the second step.
NOTE: Within this drill we can also create a situation for the Defensive End by
having the Offensive Tackle work upfield too far and allowing the Tackle to come
under to pressure theQB. (T.S.L.)
PASS RUSH PROGRESSION
Purpose: To start the Defensive Lineman in a very basic position and to
isolate the skills involved in pass rush. Between eight and ten repetitions can
be done quickly.
A. Position Concepts:
1. Grab and Swim: Secure the jersey, pull down and away.
2. Arm Rip: Be hip to hip with wide offensive blocks.
*Club Arms: With lead hand - Swim or Rip with trail arm.
NOTE: All players are on one knee. On command will work the upper body
parts of the various pass rush techniques. Every man works with a partner
and uses both arms. Second phase is to get both men standing up and
now making the same upper body moves while tying in their footwork.

66
WRIST CONTROL DRILL
Purpose: To teach hand speed for pass rushing.
A. Gun Drill: Offensive man reaches from the hip like he is pulling a gun.
Defensive player either slaps hand down or inside. Quickness is the key along
with hand placement (Los Stick).
B. Knife Drill: Offensive man is high, defensive man takes the hand up and goes
to an under move.
C. Organization of Drill:
1. Offensive and Defensive men face each other. Offensive man starts the
drill on his movement. He can go with a knife or gun moving with either
hand, Defensive man must react.
2. High speed and repetition drill.
HARD SHOULDER DRILL:
Purpose: To Teach Defensive lineman to lockout and shed blocks..
A. Start engaged with Offensive Lineman in fit position.
B. Press hard shoulder of lineman and lock out. Hands above eyes and run your
feet.
C. First 2 reps press offensive lineman and continue back into fit position. On the
third rep press the hard shoulder and rip off into your gap.
6 TECHNIQUE MIRROR DRILL
Purpose: To Teach outside players to Play 6 Technique on Tight End
A. Align in to point head up on Tight End.
B. When tight end steps, outside player steps to Mirror his movement with a
short step.
C. Step and punch the hard shoulder of the Tight End and Knockem’ Back

67
SLED PROGRESSION/WALL DRILL
Purpose: To teach defensive line to launch with face and hands and attack
offensive lineman
A. Start on knees and fire hands to sled
a. Strike with elbow in tight and thumbs up
b. Shoot with hands tight, they will spread out on impact
B. Stance and strike
a. Key ball and attack sled
b. Keep feet moving and proper pad level
CP: keep proper power angles at ankles, knees and hip.
C. Strike and disengage
a. Strike sled twice and on third strike disengage with a rip into primary gap
READ KEY DRILL - PULL RICOCHET DRILL (Key Work)
Purpose: While working on get-offs to rush the passer - this drill is used to redirect vs.
the run, and to react to blocking patterns. Key to the drill is get-off
penetration, pass rush, redirect to the run.
A. Snap count is used for offense. Key drill - High/Low Hats.
B. Can also incorporate trap and pulls for 3 on 1 drill

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FOLD WATER SKI DRILL
Purpose: While working on get-offs (upfield pressure) this is another redirection drill.
This drill whill highlight grabbing a puller (water ski).
A. 3 on 1 - The puller can go either direction, the A collision block replacing
the puller. The Defensive Lineman has a two-way go. Guard puller.
HARD SHOULDER DRILL
Purpose: Teach 6 technique to disengage from Tight End to tackle the zone
going away.
A. Start 6 technique head up and engaged with TE. TE will fight to cut the
defensive lineman off.
B. Defensive lineman must violently arm over into his gap and close air to
the C gap.
C. Coach can also insert a running back to practice roll tackle down the
line
CP – when defensive lineman make a roll tackle he must shoot his head
across the ball carrier with the same leg, same shoulder. The ball must not
bleed out for a gain of more than 2 yards.
T

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