Description

Nick Young, Co-OC/O-Line Coach, Incarnate Word

Full video on Glazier Drive: Practicing O-Line Gap Scheme Pulls with No Pads 

This video covers coaching techniques for teaching offensive linemen how to execute pull blocks in gap power running plays, specifically focusing on drop-shuffle pulls and taking "first access" through the line of scrimmage.

MAIN COACHING PHILOSOPHY

The coach emphasizes slowing down the pull technique rather than rushing it. Guards should drop-shuffle (not skip) to maintain proper depth and positioning. The biggest issue in the 2024 season was players pulling too fast instead of being patient and taking the first available access point through the line.

THE DRILL SETUP

This drill was adapted from a running back zone-read drill. It uses two commands: "set, go" (starts the guard pulling) followed by "now" after 3-4 steps (triggers the defenders to move). Medicine balls or Bosu balls are used to simulate defenders that guards must fit and finish blocks on.

KEY TEACHING POINTS

Players work on identifying and attacking first access through the line of scrimmage rather than predetermining where they'll fit (A gap, B gap, etc.). The coach wants reaction-based pullers who can adjust to what they see. Guards practice clearing "color" (defenders) out of the hole by knocking back the Bosu ball before accelerating to the second level. Proper finishing technique is emphasized - fitting with a good base, bringing hands up and under, driving feet through contact at the second level.

DRILL VARIATIONS

Coaches constantly mix up combinations and can simulate game-plan-specific movements during pre-practice or practice sessions. Defenders move in different directions to force guards to react to various scenarios, including backside shades hitting away where the guard must plant and get vertical in the gap he just left.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

The drill uses Bosu balls and medicine balls instead of heavy pad work to protect veteran players with extensive career snaps from unnecessary wear in the offseason. Player-held equipment is utilized for teams without large coaching staffs - players hold pads and balls while understanding what the drill is trying to accomplish.

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