Post Reply to Rock's House

This is not a vent board or any other kind of therapy. Before you hit the POST button, ask yourself if your contribution will add to the level of discussion going on.

Important notes on articles:

Handle:
Password:
Subject:

Message:

HTTP Link (optional):

Poster's Email (optional):

 


Post being replied to

USA Football is teaching for these changes already... by CoachS

The progression since I started coaching HS in 1990 has been to gradually eliminate the helmet from blocking. Until the late 90s technique drills and holding rules were intended to keep the hands out of the block. We emphasized putting the opponent in the "V" between the head and top of the shoulder so they couldn't slide off the block. Now it's more about the "strike" of the hands (thumbs up...wrists together) to the near-side edge of the defender. On pulls & open field blocks we instruct players to "sink & strike"...sink your hips and strike, similar to an open field tackle...but without wrapping up...hopefully.
At first, I resisted the change as too soft for "real" football. But now, it's obvious to me that when taught properly, these blocks can be just as effective AND reduce the amount of helmet contact. Just watch Quenton Nelson.