Addressing the Problem Areas in Wide Zone Runs

By Mike Kuchar
Senior Research Manager
X&O Labs
Twitter: @MikekKuchar

Issue 1: Blocking a Wide First Level Defender

Any wide first level defender has the potential to alter wide zone blocking schemes, particularly if he is at the point of attack. Sometimes it becomes necessary to alter your footwork based on the leverage of the down defender. In order to block those wide leveraged defenders, consider the following techniques.

Solution 1: Drop & Pop Technique, John Donatelli, Towson University

When defenders are in a wider alignment, Donatelli will use what he calls drop and pop footwork in his middle zone concept. In this technique the play side foot drops, steps behind the L.O.S. for equal width and depth to achieve “Big toe/Little Toe” Landmark. The second step is on the same angle but again on an up field-attacking angle. We utilize this footwork for attacking a hard defender off of our body’s or when piercing the backside second level.

To see how Coach Donatelli teaches the Drop and Pop Footwork, click on the video below: