This coaching presentation provides a comprehensive guide to running the Flexbone Midline offense, covering blocking schemes, backfield mechanics, and adjustments for multiple defensive fronts.

CORE BLOCKING TECHNIQUES AND BACKFIELD ACTION

The fundamental blocking scheme assigns specific responsibilities to each position. The play-side guard targets the middle linebacker and assists with the backside linebacker if the center cannot reach him. The backside tackle executes a seal-and-hinge technique to prevent B-gap pressure, with the flexibility to fan out on wide backside edge players.

The backfield mechanics are precisely coordinated: the quarterback steps into the backside A-gap while pushing the ball to the B-back, who steps with his opposite foot to create a running pocket. The B-back attacks the midline while the center steps with his opposite foot, presses the nose guard, and fans off into the play-side A-gap. This coordinated action creates the foundation for successful midline execution.

OPTION PHASE AND PERIMETER BLOCKING

The backside A-back enters the option phase by stepping into the backside A-gap, crucially avoiding pre-snap motion to prevent tipping off the defense. The play-side A-back executes an "ice block" on the inside linebacker in single-back or middle linebacker situations, with potential B-gap blocking responsibilities depending on the front.

On the perimeter, both wide receivers block the deep defender (typically the corner) to run them off and create space. The coach emphasizes using drone footage and still shots of defensive fronts to study how opponents defend these concepts.

FOUR-MAN FRONT ADJUSTMENTS

Against four-man fronts, the read key is the first defender head-up to the outside of the play-side guard. The play-side tackle executes a "Peter block" on the defensive end, while the A-back ices through the B-gap on the unblocked linebacker. The guard blocks the backside linebacker, and if a nose guard is present, the guard and center execute a double-team. The tackle steps vertically to engage the outside linebacker while the A-back steps inside to handle the play-side inside linebacker.

FIVE-MAN AND SIX-MAN FRONT BLOCKING

For five-man fronts, the guard identifies the five-technique as the read, with the tackle Peter blocking the next defender outside. The play-side A-back ices underneath through the B-gap, while the zero-technique nose is doubled and worked to the backside linebacker for a combination block.

Against six-man fronts, the play-side guard blocks the single middle linebacker (mic), while the center and backside guard combo the A-gap defender on the backside. The center chips off and climbs to the backside safety or scraping defender. The play-side tackle Peter blocks the wide seven-technique, maintaining gap integrity on the edge.

GAME FILM EXAMPLES AND EXECUTION

The presentation includes multiple game film examples demonstrating these concepts in action. In a state championship game example, the midline was executed to the right with the quarterback making an exceptional play while getting everyone walled off on the backside. The center successfully blocked the backside linebacker while the A-back engaged the linebacker at the point of attack, resulting in a touchdown.

Against a four-four defensive look, the offense Peter blocked the three-technique with the guard working all the way to the backside linebacker. The quarterback's execution created walls on the backside, allowing the play to develop successfully.

HANDLING HEAVY FRONTS

When facing six-two fronts with defensive lines "burying themselves," the strategy adjusts to let the big defensive lineman take the dive back while making the blocking "ugly" at the point of attack. The guard works underneath the large defender while the blocking scheme ensures all other defenders are accounted for. The pitch option remains available with the A-back running upfield to create second-level blocking opportunities.

KEY COACHING EMPHASIS

Throughout the presentation, the coach stresses the importance of precise timing, proper footwork, and reading defensive alignments. The offense's flexibility allows it to attack any defensive front by adjusting blocking assignments while maintaining the core midline concept. The emphasis on avoiding pre-snap keys (particularly with A-back motion) and creating double-teams at critical points demonstrates the system's sophistication in creating numerical advantages and running lanes regardless of defensive structure.