frogbone offense, v:1.5 the bullfrog spread...

Frogbone Offense, V:1.5The Bullfrog Spread Option

The Bullfrog Spread Option, what we call the Frogbone,is a series‐based offense that uses the Triple Option as the core scheme, and is executed from a Run and Shoot Formation. The Frogbone has the potential to have 4 WR's in the pass game and run an option game with 4 RB's.

Thus spake the master Coach:

“When you can know the error in the mesh, it will be time for you to leave.”

OL Blocking Schemes

In every offense, every play has some kind of blocking pattern, the “scheme”, that is called with the play. This is a collection of the most common schemes with a method for identifying the defender(s) to block.

As the o‐line goes, so goes the team.

Frogbone Blocking Schemes

• In every offense, every play has some kind of blocking pattern, the “scheme”, that is called with the play

• The Blocking Schemes presented here are a collection of the most common schemes with a method for identifying the defender(s) to block

• The objective is to define a set of blocking schemes that will remain constant for all levels of the program

– If we say the blocking scheme is Base or G or In everyone will know what the OL assignments are

• The objective is to train the OL in a few base schemes but vary the backfield action to increase the number of combinations without adding to what the OL has to learn

• The most common blocking schemes are used for blocking our plays

Frogbone Blocking Schemes

• The objective is to keep things simple for the players

– The players will play with more confidence and less thinking resulting in more speed if they know that they know what, and how, they are to do on each play

• We don’t want:

– A number of blocking schemes with variability based on the defensive alignment

– Changing the blocking schemes each week based on the defense we expect to see

– Changing the positions of the OL

• Leverage blocking schemes

– We want to teach the OL a few blocking schemes and then get really good at running those schemes

– Then we will change the backfield action, giving us more plays without increasing the mental load on the OL

• Our process

– Determine the plays we will run in our offense

– Associate the primary blocking schemes with the play

– Identify the types of blocks used in each scheme

– Build the inventory of blocks that the OL need to know

– Build the inventory of skills and drills necessary to execute each block

Sainted Six Blocking Schemes

Run Block SchemesSchemeName Play Skills and Techniques Play Call

In Victor Inside Veer • Double Team• Drive ‐ DL• Drive ‐ LB• Veer Release to LB

14 Inside Veer Arc M35

Victoria 14 Inside Veer Bob M35

14 Inside Veer Bubble

14 Inside Veer Twirl M44 T

16 Inside Veer Arc M45

16 Inside Veer Bob M45

16 Inside Veer Bubble

16 Inside Veer Twirl M36 T

Lead Larry Lead • Drive ‐ DL 34 Lead M35

Lisa 46 Lead M45

Midline Mike Midline • Drive ‐ DL• Drive ‐ LB• Veer Release to LB

14 Midline Cut M44 C

Mary 14 Midline M35

14 Midline No Mo

16 Midline Cut M36 C

16 Midline M45

16 Midline No Mo

Power Patrick QB Read • Drive ‐ DL• Pull & Lead

13 QB Read

Patricia 13 QB Read Jet M35 J

17 QB Read

17 QB Read Jet M45 J

Counter Option 14 Counter Option M44 T

16 Counter Option M36 T

24 Counter Option Iso M44 T

26 Counter Option Iso M36 T

Zone Zack Sweep • Reach & Run 31 Sweep Jet M45 J

Zoe 31 Sweep Rocket M35 R

49 Sweep Jet M45 J

49 Sweep Rocket M45 R

Pass Block Schemes

Quick Fire 0‐, 1‐Step • Scramble

Big‐On‐Big Bob / Bobbie 1‐, 3‐Step • Drop‐Back pass pro

Slide Zack / Zoe 1‐, 3‐Step • Drop‐Back pass pro, Zone look

Stop Stan / Stella 3‐Step • Drop‐Back pass pro

B‐Back Bubble Tarzan / Jane • Drive ‐ LB

Combo Screen Beast / Belle • Drive ‐ LB

Middle Screen Mickey / Minnie • Drive ‐ LB

Outside Screen Simba / Nala • Drive ‐ LB

Tunnel Screen Fred / Wilma • Drive ‐ LB

Skills Inventory – Primary Blocking TechniquesRun

Level Blocking Scheme Blocks & SkillsPrimary In

Lead

Midline

Power

Wrap

Zone Zone

Secondary OG Pull & Kick

Drive

Speed ZoneDown

Trap Drive

Pull & Trap

Pass

Primary Quick Scramble

Slide Full Slide

Play Action (Quick) Scramble

Secondary Big‐On‐Big Pass Pro

Stop Pass Pro

Sprint Sprint Zone

Screen Middle Drive ‐ LBOutside Drive – LB

Tunnel Pull & Drive (OG scheme)

Other Blocking SchemesBase OL Blocking Play Play Call Scheme Name

Draw Draw 36 Draw M45 J Donny

45 Draw M35 J Doris

In Inside Veer 14 Inside Veer Flip M44 C Victoria Flip

14 Inside Veer Load M35 Victoria Load

14 Inside Veer Reverse M35 Victor Reverse

14 Inside Veer Switch M35 Victoria Switch

16 Inside Veer Flip M36 C Victor Flip

16 Inside Veer Load M45 Victor Load

16 Inside Veer Reverse M45 Victoria Reverse

16 Inside Veer Switch M45 Victor Switch

Midline Midline 14 Midline Bubble M35 Mary Bubble

16 Midline Bubble M45 Mike Bubble

Power Blast 33 Blast Kick M35 Patricia Betsy Kick

47 Blast Kick M45 Patrick Brad Kick

QB Counter 14 QB Counter M45 J Patricia Kick Q Carol

16 QB Counter M35 J Patrick Kick Q Chris

QB Iso 14 QB Iso Patricia Out Q Iso

14 QB Iso Patricia Out Q Iso Bubble

16 QB Iso Patrick Out Q Iso

16 QB Iso Patrick Out Q Iso Bubble

Wing Counter 33 Wing Counter M45 C Patricia Out Corrina

47 Wing Counter M35 C Patrick Out Charles

Trap Midline 24 Midline Mary M35 Tracy Mary

26 Midline Mike M45 Tom Mike

Trap 24 Trap Tracy

26 Trap Tom

Wrap Midline 14 Midline Mary M35 Wanda Wrap

16 Midline Mike M45 Wayne Wrap

Wrap 24 Wrap M35 Wanda

26 Wrap M45 Wayne

Zone Outside Zone 23 Outside Zone Zoe Sara

27 Outside Zone Zack Sam

QB Sweep 11 QB Sweep Q M35 J Zoe Suzie Q Jet

19 QB Sweep Q M45 J Zack Steve Q Jet

Speed 13 Speed M45 J Zoe Down Sandy

17 Speed M35 J Zack Down Simon

Blocking SchemesScheme DescriptionBase Base is a drive‐blocking rule that gives the offensive line a numbering‐rule system.

Identification, beginning with the playside:• The defensive lineman or linebacker on/over, or inside the center, is 0• The next defensive lineman or linebacker is P1• The third defender on or off the LOS is P2• The last defender on the LOS is P3• The strong safety or force player is P4• The numbering construct is repeated for the backside defenders, B1‐B4

Blocking assignments:• The center drive blocks 0 away from the hole• The playside guard drive blocks P1 away from the hole• The playside tackle drive blocks P2 away from the hole• The playside tight end drive blocks P3 away from the hole• The backside guard and tackle base block B1 and B2• If P1 is stacked behind a defensive tackle (P2) the playside guard must combo block with the

playside tackle

This is per the book, however it only goes into 3 examples. I think that additional examples of defensive alignments would be necessary to prove out the concept to the point that there would be no question about

which defender was which number.

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

Base

PSTE Drive block P3 away from the hole

PST Drive block P2 away from the hole

PSGDrive block P1 away from the holeIf P1 is stacked behind a defensive tackle (P2) the guard must combo block with the tackle

C Drive block 0 away from the hole

BSG Drive block B1 away from the hole

BST Drive block B2 away from the hole

BSTE Drive block B3 away from the hole

Base – Defender Identification

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P1

P2

B1

B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41T G G T

2 41

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P1 P2B1B2

B3 P3

T G G T

2 41

0

P2 P3B1B2

B3 P1 P4

Playside ‐>

PRIMARY RUN SCHEMES

Lead (Base)LTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Lead Right Base Base Base Base Base #1 DL Base #2 DL Base #3 DLLead Left Base #3 DL Base #2 DL Base #1 DL Base Base Base Base

This is a very basic play that puts our players in a 1:1 blocking assignment. This is an old fashioned we’re coming right at you play. The blocking is Base, meaning that each OL has 1 defender to block and so this is an aggressive blocking strategy. The OL are blocking a single defender and the blocking back is attacking a LB. The other RB will read the block and adjust.

In (Inside Veer)LTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

In Right Base Base Base Base 1stman

inside PST, may double with PST

1stman

inside,Inside gap, linebacker, , may double with PSG

Veer Release

In Left Veer Release 1stman

inside,Inside gap, linebacker, , may double with PSG

1stman

inside PST, may double with PST

Base Base Base Base

In is a combo block by the PSG and PST. If the PST is uncovered he can release to the playside LB if the PSG has a 2i technique (or can handle a 2‐tech). If there is a 3‐tech the PSG will call for ‘Us’ telling the PST that he will double‐team the 3‐tech with the PSG.The PSTE will veer release and block the force defender unless the block is called In Load. Load tells the PSTE to come inside and block the defender over the PST. If necessary, this also allows the PST to combo block inside. If the PSG is uncovered he can also combo block with the C, or release up to the LB’s.

Note: This version of blocking the ISV is commonly called the Zone ISV.

MidlineLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Midline Right

Base Base Base Base Inside release

direct to ILB

Out Out

Midline Left Out Out Inside release

direct to ILB

Base Base Base Base

Midline tells the PSG to release inside and attack the ILB. The PST blocks out on any defender outside so the motion back can lead on the PSLB.

PowerLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Power Right Base Base Pull & Lead Down Down Down Down

Power Left Down Down Down Down Pull & Lead Base Base

Power tells the BSG to OG pull and lead up into the hole on LB’s or secondary players. The PSTE, PST, PSG, and C down and combo block. The three OL and TE create a wall by stepping down at a 45‐degree angle. They must attempt to place defenders on the V of their inside neck. The BSG may be turning up to the 2

ndlevel at

any point past the PSG, depending on the call.

For the Power pull we will use the Skip technique where the OL will keep his shoulders and hips square to the LOS.Variations/Calls:

Out: The PST blocks out, like on Midline, and the BSG pulls around the PSG, not the PST.Log: The BSG will pull and attempt to log (gain outside leverage) of the EMLOS/DE. If he cannot establish outside control he will then drive the DE to the sideline.Kick: The BSG pulls and kicks the DE/EMLOS out (This is the OG blocking scheme)

Cousin: The Wrap block where the C pulls around the PSG is a cousin of the Power. The C has to be trained in how to make the Power block.

ZoneLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone RightZone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left

Zone tells the entire OL and TE’s to take a lateral step at a 90‐degree angle with the playside foot, keeping the shoulders square to the LOS. Then, as their second and third backside steps land, they begin to turn upfield to lock on the defender. If the OL or TE is covered, he will most likely block this defender as long as the DL does not slant in the opposite direction.

If a zone blocker is uncovered, he steps laterally at a 90‐degree angle to stop any outside slants. If no slant occurs, the zone‐stepping lineman tries to reach the next defender over. Next defender over tells the OL to reach his helmet across the next defender. The exception is the last man on the LOS. He does not release his defender until the inside lineman next to him takes over the block.

If the defender is any good he will read the OL’s helmet and step laterally with the OL. So most of the time the OL will still block the same defenders.

Variations/Calls: Down: The PST blocks down to the inside which is comparable to the Speed blocking scheme.

SECONDARY RUN SCHEMES

Lesser used and/or variations on the primary schemes

DrawLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Draw Right Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge

Draw Left Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge Hinge

Draw tells the OL to invite the DL to run outside the running lane of the draw’s location. The OL must know where the draw is going before taking a 12‐inch drop step. The hinge step invites the DL to run up field. As the DL rushes, the OL pushes the DL past the running lane. The uncovered OL always takes a drop step, then attacks the LB. The C and Guards can always use an X block with this same draw technique.

OGLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

OG Right Base Base Pull & Kick Base Base Base BaseOG Left Base Base Base Base Pull & Kick Base Base

OG tells the BSG to pull playside around the end to block the force man, or kick‐out the first defender head‐up or outside the end. The BSG can roll, cut, or kick‐out this defender. If uncovered the C must block down on the BSG’s defender.

OutLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Out Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right DownOut Left Down Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left

Out is used for the Outside Veer where we will option the EMLOS. We would normally run this with a TE or Nasty X/Y. All of the OL Zone block with the exception of the TE that would down block.

SpeedLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Speed Right Zone Zone Zone Zone Zone If EMLOS: Release

inside, hook or seal

If TE then combo

Combo with PST

Speed Left Combo with PST

If EMLOS: Release

inside, hook or seal

If TE then combo

Zone Zone Zone Zone Zone

Speed tells the PST to release directly upfield to seal or hook block a defender in front and on his inside. The PST releases the last defender on the LOS if he aligns outside his numbers. If the PST is facing two defenders outside an open‐end tackle, the PST must block the 4/5 technique defender. If the PST is in the Flanker formation, the PST zone blocks. The PSTE combo blocks with the PST. The rest of the OL zone blocks to playside.

TrapLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Trap Right Base Base Pull and trap Base Makes CallYOU: Combo with C, or pull (influence) behind PSTME: PSLB

YOU: Down to inside, but ignore DL inside (2‐, 3‐, 4i‐technique)ME: Base

Base

Trap Left Base YOU: Down to inside, but ignore DL inside (2‐, 3‐, 4i‐technique)ME: Base

Makes CallYOU: Combo with C, or pull (influence) behind PSTME: PSLB

Base Pull and trap Base Base

Trap tells the BSG to pull and kick‐out the first DL head‐up or outside the PSG. The PSG makes a call by yelling “YOU” or “ME”. This signal/call tells the PST and PSG their assignments. “YOU” tells the PST to down block the PSLB because the PSG is going to combo, release inside with the C, or influence behind the PST. “ME” tells the PST to base block because the PSG is going to block the PSLB. The PSG always calls “YOU” if he cannot release up to the middle linebacker, but first the PSG must always block down on any defender who is in the A‐gap or covering the C.

WrapLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Wrap Right Scoop Scoop Scoop to LB Pull & Lead Down Out Out

Wrap Left Out Out Down Pull & Lead Base Base Base

Wrap is a scheme where the C will loop around the PSG and look to block the 2ndlevel. The PSG will block

down on the A‐gap or Nose over the C. The PST and PSTE block out. BSG, BST, BSTE all scoop block.

For the Wrap block (a variation of the Power pull) we will use the Skip technique where the C will keep his shoulders and hips square to the LOS.

Cousin: The Wrap block where the C pulls around the PSG is a cousin of the Power. The C has to be trained in how to make the Power block.

ADDITIONAL RUN SCHEMES

Lesser used and/or variations on the primary schemes

BellyLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Belly Right Base Base Base Base Pull & Kick Down BaseBelly Left Base Down Pull & Kick Base Base Base Base

Belly tells the PST to block down on a covered PSG and tells the PSG to pull behind for a kick‐out or roll block on the first defender in front or past the PST. If the PST is covered the PSG hook blocks the defender. If the formation has a PSTE then the PSG will block the force defender because the PSTE hook blocks the defensive end. The FB will block the strongside LB. Backside OL will block base.

BounceLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

BounceRight

Base Base Base Base Step playside then Hook

Step playside then Hook

Step playsidethen Hook

Bounce Left Step playside then Hook

Step playside then Hook

Step playsidethen Hook

Base Base Base Base

Bounce tells the PSG, PST, PSTE to take one base step playside in order to sell the lead, but then hook block their defenders (DL or LB playing directly in front of them) to the inside. The RB automatically bounces to the outside. The FB takes two steps downhill towards the PST’s inside leg but then breaks it around the end to seal block on the LB.

CounterLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

CounterRight

Base Pull & Lead Pull and Kick Down Down Down Down

Counter Left Down Down Down Down Pull and Kick Pull & Lead Base

Counter is a blocking scheme where the C and the PSG, PST, PSTE block down so the BSG and BST can pull. The down blocks must take care of the DT’s and N with double‐team blocks on the playside and combo blocks on the backside. The BSG pulls for a kick‐out or roll block on the first defender past the end of the LOS, and the BST leads into the hole.

GLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

G Right Base Base Base Base Pull & Kick Down Down

G Left Down Down Pull & Kick Base Base Base Base

G tells the PSG to kick‐out or roll block on the last defender on the LOS. The PSG wants to block the DE in the direction he is going. If the DE steps forward and up, the PSG blocks with the outside V of his neck on the DE’s inside hip. If the DE comes flat inside behind the PST or PSTE down block, the PSG rolls him inside by using the inside V of his neck on the outside hip. If the DE squats or slow‐plays the PSG can cut block.

GOGLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

GOG Right Base Base Pull and lead/seal

Down If PSG and PST are covered then PSG must stay. Otherwise pulls and kicks

If covered, Hook block.If uncovered, down block.

Hook block

GOG Left Hook block If covered, Hook block.If uncovered, down block.

If PSG and PST are covered then PSG must stay. Otherwise pulls and kicks

Down Pull and lead/seal

Base Base

GOG tells the BSG and the PSG to pull playside. If the PSG and PST are both covered then the PSG must stay, unless the uncovered C is going to reach the playside DT. The PSTE hook blocks, and the uncovered C blocks down. If the PST is uncovered he blocks down. The PSG blocks the force defender and the BSG seals pursuit from the inside (leads into the hole).

GTLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

GT Right Base Base Base Zone Pull to outside

Pull to outside

Base

GT Left Base Pull to outside

Pull to outside

Zone Base Base Base

GT tells the PSG and PST to pull. Even if both players are covered, they will pull laterally to the outside to chop block the secondary defenders. The C will zone block playside.

Power – CenterLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Power Right Base Base Base Pull & Lead Down Down Down

Power Left Down Down Down Pull & Lead Base Base Base

Power tells the TB or motion back to load block the last defender on the LOS. Power also tells the C to pull and lead up into the hole on LB’s or secondary players. The PSTE, PST, PSG, and C down and combo block. The three OL and TE create a wall by stepping down at a 45‐degree angle. They must attempt to place defenders on the V of their inside neck.

OpenLTE LT LG C RG RT RTE

Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone Right Zone RightZone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left Zone Left

Zone tells the entire OL and TE’s to take a lateral step at a 90‐degree angle with the playside foot, keeping the shoulders square to the LOS. Then, as their second and third backside steps land, they begin to turn upfield to lock on the defender. If the OL or TE is covered, he will most likely block this defender as long as the DL does not slant in the opposite direction.

If a zone blocker is uncovered, he steps laterally at a 90‐degree angle to stop any outside slants. Of no slant occurs, the zone‐stepping lineman tries to reach the next defender over. Next defender over tells the OL to reach his helmet across the next defender. The exception is the last man on the LOS. He does not release his defender until the inside lineman next to him takes over the block.

If the defender is any good he will read the OL’s helmet and step laterally with the OL. So most of the time the OL will still block the same defenders.

PASS BLOCKING SCHEMES

The objective is to provide sufficient protection for our quarterback so that we can have the opportunity to complete a pass. To do that we will have several pass protection schemes.

Pass Protection SummaryProtection(Blockers)

ProtectionCall Description

5‐man Quick • Use the Base run‐blocking assignments• The ball will be gone quick enough that we don’t have to worry about the OL going downfield

• It is important that the OL attack the defenders to keep the DL hands down.

6‐man Big‐On‐Big • Bob is a man‐man protection that uses the Lead/Base blocking scheme to determine the OL assignments

• The PSG makes a call to tell the 2‐back which gap the PSG will be taking

Slide • Rob and Lobo are full slide protections with the TB attacking the EMLOS away from the call side/direction of the OL slide

7‐man Stop • Stop is a 7‐man protection with the OL stepping to the inside and the backs taking the EMLOS to their side

• Romeo & Lima indicate the responsibilities for the B‐ and A‐backs

Play Action • Blocking is based on the run play call

Sprint Sprint • OL step AWAY from the sprint direction, the backs cover the EMLOS on the call side.

Middle Screen Middle • The blocking scheme stays the same with the OT’s going for the OLB’s, the OG’s after the ILB’s, and the C going after the Safety.

Outside Screen Outside • The OT’s take their defender upfield, the G‐C‐G make contact and then break outside of the call side hash

Tunnel Screen Tunnel • The C and PSG pull to the outside, the PST takes the EMLOS defender and drives him outside past the depth of the QB

QB Calls

Call Back Action

Stay Left Left A‐Back • Block the EMLOS on the left• Would move into a wing alignment rather than slot

Stay Right Right A‐Back • Block the EMLOS on the right• Would move into a wing alignment rather than slot

Sit Left B‐Back • Block to the left side, looking A‐gap out. Take 1st defender to show• Would move to a King alignment

Sit Right B‐Back • Block to the right side, looking A‐gap out. Take 1st defender to show• Would move to a Queen alignment

A Stay or Sit call will ALWAYS override the alignment and assignment of that player

Pass Protection UsageIf we call this pass scheme

Then we use this protection Because we think this

Quick, 0‐Step Fire

• The QB will be getting the ball and throwing it as quickly as possible, he will not be taking any drop steps

• The OL must fire out and stop the DL at the LOS, there can be NO penetration

• Preference is to cut the DL to put them down on the ground

1‐StepFireSlide

• The QB will be taking a single large step and then looking to throw the ball

• The quickness of the throw requires that the DL hands be down and that there is no penetration

3‐StepBig‐On‐Big

SlideStop (Max)

• The QB will be taking 3 steps and then looking to throw the ball• We will have this capability but the 3‐Step will not be a primary part of the offense, our goal is to throw the ball quickly

Play Action Fire

• The backfield will execute the play action fake• OL will fire out and put the DL on the ground

Sprint Slide

• OL block back (Zone) away from the call side• The RB’s will pin the call side DE/EMLOS

QB Drop

Protection 0 1 3 Sprint

Fire Yes Yes

Bob Yes

Slide Yes Yes Yes

Stop Yes

QB Calls

Usage Operation/Coaching Points

The QB can override the assignments of the backs by using calls. He would use these when he sees an overload by the defense or if there is a strong defender that is causing problems.

These calls take precedence over the player assignment.

• Stay Left: The left slot stays and attacks the EMLOS /most dangerous defender (LB) to the left side

• Stay Right: The right slot stays and attacks the EMLOS /most dangerous defender (LB) to the right side

• The Stay call will likely require either a shift or a motion to get the slot into the proper position

• Sit Left: The B‐Back will attack the left A‐gap, looking for blitzes and then move to the outside.

• Sit Right: The B‐Back will attack the right A‐gap, looking for blitzes and then move to the outside.

• The QB can tell the B‐back to change his alignment to stop a visible threat by the LB, for example moving up into the A‐gap

• It is likely that the B‐back would move into a King/Queen alignment with a Sit call

E T

B BB

T E

2

Stay Left Stay Right

Sit Left Sit Right

2

13 4

Possible Protection Configurations

• 5 Blockers: 5 OL

– OL attack the defenders, used for quick passing

– Back can go out on route/play action

– Backs can a) motion, and b) go out on routes

• 6 Blockers: 5 OL + B‐Back

– A‐Back(s) can a) motion, and b) go out on route, usually Bubble/Swing to the play side

– This would include Big‐On‐Big

• Man‐on‐man protection

• B‐Back stays and blocks the play side gap called by the OG

– This would include Slide

• Full slide protection by the OL

• B‐Back blocks EMLOS away from the call side

• 7 Blockers: 5 OL + B‐Back + A‐Back

– Backs block the EMLOS, OL step inside

– This is the Stop protection

5‐Man Protection


5‐man protection used for the 0‐Step (quick) passing game. The B‐Back is not part of the protection, he is not close enough to the LOS to be effective without getting into the throwing lane(s) for the QB. The B‐back can be moved into a King/Queen alignment and then he will take/assist with that side A‐gap (Sit). The A‐Backs can be kept in if they are aligned as wings and not as slots (Stay).

There is no play action by the QB or RB’s.

• Pass is gone very quickly so the OL has to block aggressively and attack their assignment

• OL are aggressively attacking the defenders to keep them from making penetration and to keep their hands down and keep the DL on the LOS

• Preference is to cut the DL• OL are manned up, use Lead/Base blocking rules for

assignments• C takes on/occupied gap• G takes #1• T takes #2

• The OL 1st look is inside gap first• If an LB appears in the gap the OL has to take

inside• If there is a visible threat from the ILB the QB can

move the B‐back up to that side to take the gap (Sit call)

E T

B BB

T E

13 4

2

2

6‐Man Protection Calls

• Big‐On‐Big

– OL are manned up, use Lead/Base blocking rules for assignments

• C takes on/playside gap/backside gap

• G takes #1

• T takes #2

– Playside OG makes blocking call for the B‐Back

• Apple – The OG is taking the A‐gap, B‐Back takes B‐gap

• Bravo – The OG is taking the B‐gap, B‐Back takes A‐gap

• Help – The OG is telling the C to help with the A‐gap defender, B‐Back takes the B‐gap (Apple)

• Slide

– Left – The OL slide to the left

• Linemen reach block/Zone/step to their left

• FB goes to right EMLOS

– Right – The OL slide to the right

• Linemen reach block/Zone/step to their right

• FB goes to left EMLOS

Slide Left


6‐man pass protection with full slide by the OL. The B‐Back takes the EMLOS to the right (away from call) side and the OL slide to the call.

This protection can be used with either the 1‐Step or 3‐Step QB drop.

The QB will be throwing TO the call side (Left).

• The B‐back has to attack the EMLOS and not wait.• This also allows the QB to do a flash run fake

• The B‐back has to take the EMLOS to the outside so the DE does not get a direct path to the QB

• OL stay square to the LOS• RB attack the inside hip of the OT and take the inside

number of the defender off the edge

1

E T

B B

T E

2

3 4

Slide Right


6‐man pass protection with full slide by the OL. The B‐Back takes the EMLOS to the left (away from call) side and the OL slide to the call.

This protection can be used with either the 1‐Step or 3‐Step QB drop

The QB will be throwing TO the call side (Right).

• The B‐back has to attack the EMLOS and not wait.• This also allows the QB to do a flash run fake

• The B‐back has to take the EMLOS to the outside so the DE does not get a direct path to the QB

• OL stay square to the LOS• RB attack the inside hip of the OT and take the inside

number of the defender off the edge

1

E T

B B

T E

2

3 4

Slide – Notes vs. Odd Front (3‐4)


6‐man pass protection with full slide by the OL. The B‐Back takes the EMLOS to the left (away from call) side and the OL slide to the call.


The QB will be throwing TO the call side (Right).

• The B‐back has to attack the EMLOS and not wait• This also allows the QB to do a flash run fake• The B‐back has to take the EMLOS to the outside so

the DE does not get a direct path to the QB• OL stay square to the LOS• Backside (Left) OT and RB have the “B & E” or inside

defender off the edge• Backside (Left) OG and C have the “N & M”, C cannot

just leave the N• Playside (Right) G & OT have the “E & S”, OT should

set for a speed rush by the E

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SW

Big‐On‐Big


6‐man protection that uses BOB protection assignments. Each OL takes the nearest DL in man protection. The B‐Back will take the gap away from the call of the playsideOG,

The C will take the Nose , then nearest DL. The OG takes the 1st DL, the OT’s take the 2nd DL (Lead/Base blocking rules). The playside OG will make a call depending on the alignment of the playside DL.


• If the pass is going toward the right the playside OG will make an Apple , Bravo, or Help call. This tells the B‐Back which gap the OG is taking and for the back to take the other gap

• Applemeans the OG is taking the A‐gap and the back takes the B‐gap

• Bravomeans the OG is taking the B‐gap and the back takes the A‐gap

• Helpmeans that there is a defender in the playside A‐gap and the OG needs help from the C – he wants a double‐team

• The OG will determine which gap he will be taking based on the alignment of the nearest DL.

• The OG will use the best angles, so if the DL is inside he will call Apple

• If the DL is outside he will call Bravo• If head up he can choose either Apple or

Bravo (possibly an in‐game adjustment)E T

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• In this example if the pass was targeted to the right (Pamela), the right OG would make a Bravo call, the DL is head‐up or outside, telling the B‐back to take the A‐gap.

• If the pass was targeted to the left (Pablo), the left OG would make an Apple call, the DL is head‐up or inside, telling the B‐back to take the B‐gap.

• Since there is a DL in the inside gap the left OG could make the Help call which gets the C to actively double‐team with the OG. The B‐back would take the B‐gap.

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7‐Man Protection Call – Stop

• All linemen punch and take 1 reach step toward the center of the line

– This does not change with the skills call

• Left

– B‐back goes to left side and is responsible for the EMLOS

– The left A‐back goes in motion to the right and has responsibility for the right EMLOS

• Right

– B‐back goes to right side and is responsible for the EMLOS

– The right A‐back goes in motion to the left and has responsibility for the left EMLOS

Stop Left


7‐man pass protection with the B‐Back and A‐Back staying in to block. The B‐Back goes to the EMLOS towards the left (call) side. The A‐Back to the left (call side) motions and takes the EMLOS to the right (away from the call).

• The OL are stepping to the inside and the backs are taking the EMLOS

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Stop Right


7‐man pass protection with the B‐Back and A‐Back staying in to block. The B‐Back goes to the EMLOS towards the right (call) side. The A‐Back to the right (call side) motions and takes the EMLOS to the left (away from the call).

The OL are stepping to the inside and the backs are taking the EMLOS.

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Sprint


7‐man pass blocking scheme used for sprinting the QB to the outside. This uses both backs in the protection. The play side back may go on a Double‐Out route if there is no threat to the QB.

The playside wing has to establish the edge by pinning the DE. Help will come from the B‐Back, but the primary responsibility for the edge is the playside A‐Back.

• The OL Zone block away from the play• Gap first, then on. If a DL is inside or shaded

then take that DL 1st. The next player outside will take the DL head up.

• The RB’s have responsibility for the playside EMLOS, for establishing the edge .

• The back has the option to change his alignment to make his assignment easier

• QB flash fakes to the B‐back as on Stretch or Zone• All linemen punch and take 1 reach step away from

the play side• A‐back has responsibility to pin the EMLOS, creating

the edge• B‐back attacks the EMLOS with the A‐back, but can

release into the combination if the DE/edge is pinned and no further defensive threats show

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Screens

• Screen rules

– All linemen initially engage per BOB assignment rules

– Make contact and then take 1‐2 steps back, forcing the DL to the outside

• Middle Screen

– This screen can be called with any of the backs or receivers

– After 2 steps the OL attack their second‐level defenders

• C has the MLB or $

• OT’s have the OLB to their side

• OG’s have the ILB to their side

• Outside Screen

– The carrier here is the B‐back

– After 2 steps the G‐C‐G attack their second‐level defenders

• Aiming point is outside of the hash marks to the call side

– OT’s maintain contact with their assignments and take their defenders as far upfield as feasible

Middle Screen


Special protection for running the middle screen. The OL engage, drop back while forcing the DL to the outside, and then disengage and attack the LB’s. Each OL has a specific blocking assignment based on his position.

The slot getting the ball will change depending on the call and formation.

• The OL engage the DL and drop back like in Lobo/Rob protection

• The OL have to reliably perform their ‘act’ by taking a good pass stance inviting the defenders to the outside. Take 1 step back, make quick contact, and then attack their assigned defender.

• If the OL has a head‐up defender he can take a hard step to the inside to shift the alignment of the DL

• Let the DL come upfield and then attack the LB’s• C has the MLB or $• OT’s have the OLB to their side• OG’s have the ILB to their side

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• Whichever slot is tagged, the others vacate the area

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Outside Screen – Left


Special protection for running the middle screen. The OL engage, drop back while forcing the DL to the outside, and then disengage and attack the LB’s. The middle OL will disengage and attack to the outside depending on the call. The OT’s will continue to take their defender up the field in full pass‐protection mode.

The back getting the ball will change depending on the call and formation.




• Let the DL come upfield and then attack the LB’s• C & OG’s make contact, take one step, and

then head outside of the hash, looking for the most‐dangerous‐man (MDM)

• OT’s have the defender to their side, they maintain contact and do not leave their man

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Outside Screen – Right


Special protection for running the middle screen. The OL engage, drop back while forcing the DL to the outside, and then disengage and attack the LB’s. The middle OL will disengage and attack to the outside depending on the call. The OT’s will continue to take their defender up the field in full pass‐protection mode.

The back getting the ball will change depending on the call and formation.







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Tunnel Screen – Right


Special protection for running the tunnel screen. The OL engage, drop back while forcing the DL to the outside. The C & PSG pull to the outside and attack the #2 & #3 defenders. The OT’s will continue to take their defender up the field in full pass‐protection mode.

• The C & PSG pull to the outside and attack the #2 and #3 defenders

• The other OL engage the DL and drop back like in Big‐On‐Big protection






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frogbone offense, v:1.5 the bullfrog spread...

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