How to Over-Power an Offensive Lineman

Dominating the line of scrimmage can go a long way to dictating the results of an American football game. One way to gain this important advantage on defense is to overpower the offensive line with fundamentally sound technique. Getting past offensive blockers and putting pressure on the opposing quarterback can lead to sacks, fumbles or even interceptions.

Instructions

  1. The Swim

    • 1
      A strong three-point stance is important when trying to explode forward.

      Crouch down in a squat position with one foot slightly ahead of the other. Lean forward and plant your dominant hand on the ground in front of you. Keep your head up. Stay in this staggered three-point stance until the ball is snapped.

    • 2

      Take your first step forward with your back foot and quickly straighten your body out of the crouch position.

    • 3

      Take a second step toward the offensive lineman and place your left hand on the right side of his shoulder pad (your left). Allow the offensive player to straighten his arms and make contact with you.

    • 4

      Adjust your momentum to the side on which your hand rests. Swing your other arm above his outstretched arms (with the aid of your resting hand) and wedge your elbow at his side or on his back. Use the leverage you now have to create space with your elbow by pushing your opponent in the opposite direction you intend to run. This will create room for you to pursue the quarterback unabated. When executed properly, the swim technique will look similar to a freestyle swimming stroke.

    The Rip

    • 5

      Start in the three-point stance.

    • 6

      At the snap of the ball, take a first step forward with your back foot in a low and hard manner. Doing so will help you build forward momentum and stay balanced.

    • 7

      Angle your second step toward one of the shoulders of your blocker. This step should be directed upfield, toward the quarterback.

    • 8

      Take a third step in the same direction and throw a violent uppercut (also known as a rip) to the arm/shoulder of the blocker. Keep your pad level low going into the move so that you get underneath the offensive lineman's arms and knock him off balance. Winning the battle of leverage when you are hip to hip with your opponent will allow you to get upfield and past his block.

    The Bull Rush

    • 9

      Start in the three-point stance.

    • 10

      Take a hard first step with your back foot when the ball is snapped. Shoot your arms outward in anticipation of contact.

    • 11

      Establish contact in the bull rush by taking another step toward your opponent. Choose half of his body to approach, either the right side or left side. Do not try to go up through the middle of his body, as this is where your opponent is strongest.

    • 12

      Take a third step forward and lock your arms near the chest of the offensive lineman. Continue your forward momentum and try to drive your man into the backfield by using a combination of speed and strength. Good pressure from a bull rush will require the quarterback to get rid of the ball prematurely or risk getting sacked.