Zone Blocking, Part II – Footwork and Blocking Scheme

Proper footwork and technique are critical for an offensive lineman.In Part I of this three-part series, we introduced our offensive line philosophy, the basics of the zone offense and key offensive line coaching points. In Part II, we will discuss the footwork, co-op blocks, and schemes of the zone game.  FOOTWORKThe footwork is different for the zone play than most other offensive plays. The first step is a directional step. The second step is a power step with the emphasis on getting it on the ground as soon as possible. The tighter the down defenders’ alignment, the tighter the step should be. When executing the footwork for the zone play, linemen will step simultaneously, taking either a six-inch lateral jab step (set to drive directional step) or a bucket step with an angle of departure of 45 degrees (set to reach directional step) to the left or right. All