Ramon Chinyoung Sr. – Asst O-Line Coach, Dallas Cowboys
Watch the entire online clinic replay on Glazier Drive: Every Day O-Line Drills for the Run Game
This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.
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KEY FOOTWORK TECHNIQUES:
- Loading the instep (the C-shaped arch of the foot) to generate force
- Gaining ground with the first step using proper ankle flexion
- Second step should aim “through the crotch” of the defender
- Keep all cleats in the ground (avoid blocking on toes)
- Pound the arches to generate maximum power
UPPER BODY TECHNIQUE:
- Keep elbows tight against the rib cage (shouldn’t be visible during contact)
- Maintain flat back positioning
- Eyes up, “screws up” (likely referring to helmet position)
- Make contact with proper hand placement
- Strain at the top of blocks to provide that “last little push”
STANCE FUNDAMENTALS:
- Feet should be underneath the framework of the body (aligned with armpits)
- Body should not be “out of phase”
- Hand position “straddling the line” for proper balance
DRILL PROGRESSION:
- Work under “the shoots” (a training apparatus)
- Progress to “crow sled” drills
- Practice combinations and double-team blocks
- Work with and without coach resistance to develop control
COACHING EMPHASIS:
- Repetition is essential for mastering techniques
- Even NFL veterans and future Hall of Famers (like Tyron Smith) need continual coaching
- Importance of knee bend and ankle flexibility
- Focus on controlling “the pan” (the blocking surface)
- Proper technique works regardless of player size (demonstrates with 6’9″ tackle)
- No taking plays off – “maximize opportunity” and “maximize input and output”
The session demonstrates progressive drill work that builds from basic footwork to more complex combination blocks, always emphasizing proper technique, body control, and maximum effort.