Football Toolbox

Game-Changing O-Line SOP: The Secret to Simplicity, Tempo & 5 Functioning as 1 – Cooper Bassett

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This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.

Cooper Bassett, Co-O-Line Coach at Oklahoma State has created a systematic, repeatable approach to zone blocking that allows offensive lines to handle various defensive looks efficiently, especially at a fast tempo when complete pre-snap identification isn’t possible.

He shares a part of it in the video below. The segment was taken from his Glazier Drive video, Building O-Line Standing Operating Procedures “S.O.P.S” for Zone, Gap, & Slide Scheme.

We have listed some of the key points from the video below.

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This video is a detailed coaching session about implementing zone blocking. Here are the key points:

Core Zone Blocking Concepts

  • The Zone SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) sheet is introduced as the foundational document for teaching zone blocking
  • Two primary variations are explained: inside zone and outside zone
  • The main difference between them is the targeting system (inside number of defender vs. outside/playside armpit)
  • The footwork technique changes based on the target location

Decision-Making Framework

The transcript outlines a clear decision tree for offensive linemen:

  1. If there is “color” (defender) in your playside gap → attack it
  2. If no color in playside gap → pry with backside lineman, keeping eyes to your gap
  3. If no color in either gap → work square through playside gap with eyes ready
  4. If color crosses your face → check first level before moving to second level

Communication System

  • “Zebra” call for zone plays – used as a contingency when defense presents:
    • Unusual fronts
    • Late defensive movements
    • Blitz threats
    • Situations requiring quick adjustments

Practical Examples

The transcript includes several in-game examples showing:

  • Using the SOP in tempo situations against USC and Utah
  • Adjusting to defensive movement and pressure
  • Maintaining blocking discipline in various scenarios
  • How proper technique prevents negative plays even against challenging defenses

The overall emphasis is on creating a systematic, repeatable approach to zone blocking that allows offensive lines to handle various defensive looks efficiently, especially at a fast tempo when complete pre-snap identification isn’t possible.