How to Shed a Block in Football?

To shed a block in football, a player must first identify the type of block he’s up against. Next, maintain a strong base by keeping his feet shoulder-width apart and staying low. Then, utilize hand technique, such as swiping, grabbing, or pushing. Lastly, maintain forward momentum by stepping forward and exploding through the block with speed and power. This allows the player to break free from his blocker and pursue the play.

Identifying the Type of Block

The first step to shedding a block in football is to understand the type of block being used by the opponent. Recognize if it’s a drive block, reach block, or cut block and adjust your approach accordingly.

Maintaining a Strong Base

Always maintain a strong base when facing a blocker. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and stay low to generate power and maintain balance. This helps you stay in control and react effectively to the block.

Staying Low

By staying low, you create leverage and make it harder for the blocker to displace you. Use your legs to generate power and stay grounded.

Utilizing Hand Techniques

Develop effective hand techniques to shed blocks efficiently. Hand techniques include swiping, grabbing, and pushing.

Swiping Technique

Swiftly swipe the opponent’s hands away from your body. The goal is to prevent the blocker from gaining control over you by neutralizing their grip.

Grabbing Technique

Grab the blocker’s shoulder pads or jersey while keeping your elbows tight into your body. This gives you control over the direction and movement of the blocker.

Pushing Technique

Place your hands on the blocker’s chest or shoulder pads and use your lower body strength to drive them away from you. This helps create separation and allows you to break free from the block.

Maintaining Forward Momentum

Always maintain forward momentum by stepping forward and exploding through the block with speed and power. This ensures that you are the aggressor and not being controlled by the blocker.

Additional Drills for Shedding Blocks

Incorporate specific drills and exercises in your practice routine to improve your block shedding skills. Focusing on reaction time, hand fighting, and overall strength can help make it easier to shed blocks in a game situation.

Reaction Time Drills

Improve your reaction time by using drills that emphasize visual cues and quick responses. Engage in activities like partner mirror drills or practicing with a ball machine to challenge your speed and agility.

Hand Fighting Drills

Work on hand fighting with drills to enhance your swiping, grabbing, and pushing techniques. Some examples of relevant drills include the “hand slap” drill and the “one-armed strike” drill.

Strength and Conditioning Drills

Integrating strength and conditioning exercises into your workout routine can improve your overall ability to shed blocks. Focus on muscle groups that are crucial for generating power and maintaining balance, such as your legs, core, and upper body.

Analyzing Opponents

Take the time to study your opponents’ blocking techniques, tendencies, and strengths. Understanding the blocking schemes used by different teams will allow you to adjust your approach and increase your chances of successfully shedding blocks.

Importance of Footwork

Developing strong footwork is essential for shedding blocks in football. Quick, agile moves can help you sidestep or redirect the blocker, allowing you to break free and make a play. Incorporate footwork drills, such as ladder drills or cone exercises, to improve your balance and agility on the field.

Coaching Tips

Work closely with your coaches to hone your block-shedding skills. Ask for feedback on your technique, strive for continuous improvement, and implement the strategies and techniques taught in practice. A knowledgeable coach can provide valuable insights and help you optimize your skills.

FAQ Section

Below are some frequently asked questions related to shedding a block in football, along with short, direct answers to assist in further understanding the concepts discussed in the blog post.

What block is the most difficult to shed and why?

The difficulty of shedding a block depends on the individual player’s skill set and the blocking technique used by the opponent. However, a reach block can be challenging due to its goal to secure positioning and out-leverage the defender.

How can I improve my hand strength for block shedding?

Improving hand strength can be achieved through exercises such as farmer’s walks, plate pinches, and grip trainers. Additionally, incorporating activities like rock climbing can help develop overall hand and grip strength.

What lower body exercises will help me stay grounded and maintain balance?

Lower body exercises that can improve your balance and grounding include squats, lunges, deadlifts, and box jumps. These exercises target major muscle groups essential for football performance and block shedding abilities.

Is quickness or power more important when shedding a block?

Both quickness and power are essential for shedding blocks. Quickness allows you to react rapidly and evade your opponent, while power enables you to drive through the block. A balance of both attributes can lead to more successful block shedding.

How can I incorporate shedding block techniques into my regular practice routine?

Work with your coaches to include shedding block techniques during individual or team drills. Focus on the key components for shedding blocks, such as hand techniques, footwork, and maintaining forward momentum. Allocate time for specific block shedding drills in your practice schedule.