How to Block at the Fullback Position

The fullback position in football, sometimes called the lead back or blocking back position, is an essential part of both rushing and passing offenses in American Football. Football Babble, states that the primary purpose of the fullback is to open clear running lanes for the primary ball carrier in the running game, usually the half back or running back. Equally important, according to Football Babble, is the ability of the fullback to protect the player passing the ball, the quarterback.

Things You'll Need

  • Football pads
  • Football helmet
  • Football cleats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Understand the blocking assignment. It is essential for the fullback to know his blocking assignment and which player to block for an offensive play to work properly. According to Mademan.com linebackers are a fullback's primary focus because they can rush the passer or play the run on any play.

    • 2

      Get into a proper blocking stance. A proper blocking stance will allow for maximum balance, mobility and power at the point of contact with the defender. This could be a three point stance or other stance that readies the fullback for contact.

    • 3

      Accelerate out of the blocking stance and make contact with the defensive player. The more explosive the acceleration, the more successful the block will likely be, according to Football Plays and Drills, a website focused on coaching football skills. For a successful run block, the fullback will focus on pushing outward on the defender's chest area to position the defender and make a running lane for the offensive player. For a successful pass block, the fullback will push outward and upward on the defender's chest making sure not to cross his feet as he moves with a defender and attempts to drive the defender away from the quarterback, as discussed in Football Plays and Drills and Mademan.com.

    • 4

      Finish the play. The fullback should always block until the official sounds the whistle, taking care to keep hands away from the defender's facemask. If the defender gets past the fullback the fullback should follow the defender and attempt to get in blocking position once again; however, the fullback should not block the defender in the back, as an official may call a penalty.