Jay Long, Head Coach, Chadron State
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A summary of the transcript is available below the video.
OVERVIEW
Coach Long breaks down the Covered Step drill for offensive linemen, teaching a two-step sequence designed to generate power and drive at the line of scrimmage. The drill is run in lined boxes on turf, allowing coaches to get high rep volume with multiple players simultaneously.
STEP 1 — THE POWER STEP
Before the snap, linemen load their weight onto their big toe by pinching the opposite knee inward. This pre-loading eliminates false steps. On the coach’s “one” count, players take a short step — not a predetermined six inches, but however far it takes to transfer weight from the stance foot to the lead foot. This puts them into what Coach Long calls the silverback position — low pad level, numbers hidden from the defender.
STEP 2 — THE DRIVE STEP
On “two,” players drive their second step up the crotch of the defender and upfield. This is the step that creates movement. Players also practice a heel clap — slapping the heels of the hands together — to keep the punch tight and protect their chest from the defender’s hands.
KEY COACHING POINTS
- Pre-load the big toe to eliminate false steps
- First step is short — focused on weight transfer, not distance
- Second step drives up the crotch and upfield
- Play low enough to drive under a table
- Heel clap keeps the hands tight and chest hidden
- Whoever wins the first two steps wins the rep
DRILL SETUP
Can be run on yard lines using the field’s existing stripes as boards — no equipment needed. Multiple linemen go simultaneously, making it highly efficient for individual or camp periods.