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"zone" blocking?

jfleag61

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In Reggies presser yesterday, he was something about running behind our lines zone blocking scheme, as if it was a new thing. Since I really don't get to see the preseason games, i was wondering if this was what they were working on all preseason. Is the fact that they are running a different type of system the reason they are struggling? Did they actually use a lot of that scheme during the preseason?
 
In Reggies presser yesterday, he was something about running behind our lines zone blocking scheme, as if it was a new thing. Since I really don't get to see the preseason games, i was wondering if this was what they were working on all preseason. Is the fact that they are running a different type of system the reason they are struggling? Did they actually use a lot of that scheme during the preseason?

It appeared that they tried this on the left side of the line while the right side went with a lunge and fall to the ground approach. The zone seemed to work better.
 
OK, I know this sounds stupid, but can someone please explain exactly what is meant by the term "zone blocking"?
 
Here is a great article in breaking down a ZBS.

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/6/9/900288/understanding-zone-blocking-and

Further down there is a great analysis of the "type of runner" that goes well within a ZBS (a one cut type of RB) and understanding that and the type of looks that Daboll has previously used, we can see why a guy like Ronnie and even Ricky may not be ideal RB options, unlike a Bush and Thomas who are/can be 1 cut guys, especially Daniel Thomas. Also a reason why Denver has stuck so many no named runners into their system and had success because the system is designed for the OLine to work as a unit, over one on one battles, so you just need a guy who can tote the rock inside of that system.
 
It appeared that they tried this on the left side of the line while the right side went with a lunge and fall to the ground approach. The zone seemed to work better.

You, sir, win 1000 internets.
 
Here is a great article in breaking down a ZBS.

http://www.tomahawknation.com/2009/6/9/900288/understanding-zone-blocking-and

Further down there is a great analysis of the "type of runner" that goes well within a ZBS (a one cut type of RB) and understanding that and the type of looks that Daboll has previously used, we can see why a guy like Ronnie and even Ricky may not be ideal RB options, unlike a Bush and Thomas who are/can be 1 cut guys, especially Daniel Thomas. Also a reason why Denver has stuck so many no named runners into their system and had success because the system is designed for the OLine to work as a unit, over one on one battles, so you just need a guy who can tote the rock inside of that system.
Thanks, that ishelpful.
 
OK, I know this sounds stupid, but can someone please explain exactly what is meant by the term "zone blocking"?

basically everyone has "zone" or gap responsibility. instead of blocking a man you block that zone or gap and whoever is there, you pick up
 
Left side = Zone Blocking

Right side = Done Blocking
 
I saw very few times in the preseason where a team would engage a player and then one would release to get the LB at the next level. The only player I saw ever do it consistently was Berger...oh, but we cut him...
 
I saw very few times in the preseason where a team would engage a player and then one would release to get the LB at the next level. The only player I saw ever do it consistently was Berger...oh, but we cut him...

And you hit that right on the head that is the most important aspect of zone blocking , keeping ones eyes up and getting to the next level. The lineman that stays has to work their head to the side of the man who is leaving while they peel off and pick up the backer at the next level.
 
They aren't going to be running a pure zone blocking scheme, and a lot of it will likely be inside zone plays, meaning that it will be a bit less extreme and less dependent on 280 pound interior linemen. Its mixed, Daboll does a bit of everything. I don't think the zone blocking has anything to do with preseason struggles. Its very simple to learn, and basically involves the linemen memorizing simple rules on who to block based on linemen/linebacker positions. Most of our linemen have experience doing it, even if it was basically only used on the Jet Sweep in Hennings offense.
 
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