Chop block: The legal variety is used within 3 yards of the line of

scrimmage to slow the oppositions pass rush. A lineman blocks down low
with his shoulders and arms, attempting to take the defenders legs from
underneath him and stop his momentum. If this play occurs 3 yards or more
beyond the line of scrimmage, the blocker is penalized 15 yards.
Cutoff block: Generally used on running plays, which are designed to allow
a defensive player to come free, or untouched, across the line of
scrimmage. After that happens, an offensive lineman deliberately gets in the
way of this onrushing defender. This block is sometimes called an angle
block because the offensive lineman hits the defensive player from the side,
or from an angle.
Double team: Two linemen ganging up on one defensive player. Its more
common on pass plays when the center and a guard work together to stop
the penetration of a talented inside pass rusher. However, the double team
also works well on running plays, especially at the point of attack or at the
place where the play is designed to go. The double team blockers attack one
defender, clearing out the one player who might stop the play from working.
Drive block: This one on one block is used most often when a defensive
lineman lines up directly over an offensive lineman. The blocker usually
explodes out of a three point stance and drives his hips forward, delivering
the block from a wide base while keeping his head up and his shoulders
square.
Man on man blocking: The straight ahead style of blocking, with a
defender playing directly over you and you driving straight into him. Most
defenses use four linemen, so man on man blocking is common on pass
plays, with each offensive lineman choosing the opponent opposite him, and
the center helping out to either side.
Reach block: An offensive lineman reaches for the next defender, meaning
he doesnt block the opponent directly in front of him but moves for an
opponent to either side. The reach block is common on run plays when the
play calls for a guard to reach out and block an inside linebacker.
Slide block: The entire offensive line slides down the line of scrimmage a
coordinated effort by the line to go either right or left. Its a good technique
when the quarterback prefers to roll or sprint right, running outside the
tackle while attempting to throw the football.
Trap block: The offensive line deliberately allows a defensive player to
cross the line of scrimmage untouched, and then blocks him with a guard or
tackle from the opposite side or where hes not expecting it. The intent is to
create a running lane in the area that the defender vacated.
Zone block: Each lineman protects a specific area or zone. Even if the
defensive player leaves this area, the blocker must stay in his zone because
the play or ball may be coming in that direction and the quarterback wants

that area uncluttered. Blocking in a zone is generally designed to key on a

specific defensive player whos disrupting the offensive game plan.