The combo block is one of the best blocks in football. It’s a block that I feel is underutilized on the youth football level. A combo block is when you use two linemen to block two defenders who are on different levels (D-lineman to linebacker). In order to execute this block properly, both offensive linemen must work together to block the first level defender (D-linemen) with a double team technique while eyeing the second level defender. One of the linemen then comes off the double team and blocks the linebacker. The advantage of using a combo block is it will allow you to place two offensive linemen on one defensive linemen which will give you a vertical push. This is a technique that needs to be practice, but if you master it, you will put up large amounts of rushing yard. You will see combo blocks occur on plays like Power. However, a combo block can be executed on any play that you have a double team going.
Coaching the Combo and Double Team Block
When teaching the combo block you need to start with the double team aspect of the blocking technique. When you are practicing the double team block with your offensive linemen, place a defender or coach with a blocking shield between the two offensive linemen that are executing the double team. Both offensive linemen then will use the defender’s chest numbers as aiming points when executing the double team. The linemen must get hip to hip and drive the defender vertical. The initial steps will be directly at their respective chest number. Each linemen will block half of the defender. It’s all about getting movement on the defensive linemen while getting eyes on the linebacker. While driving the defensive linemen off of the line of scrimmage, the offensive linemen prepares to engage the linebacker when he shows on either side of the defensive linemen.
Combo Double Team: Tackle / Guard & Tackle/ Tight-end
If the second level defender (linebacker) shows on the inside of the double team, the inside lineman combos off the first level defender (defensive linemen) and onto the second level defender- then the outside linemen stays on the first level defender. If the second level defender shows on the outside of the double team, the outside lineman will combo off the first level defender and onto the second level defender- then the inside lineman stays on the first level defender.
See Also: Offensive Linemen Blocking Technique
Power (Guard / Tackle Combo)
Here is a look at Power with the play-side RG and RT combo double team. The middle linebacker takes an inside path so the inside RG combos off onto the M and the RT stays on the defensive tackle.
Power (Tight-end / Tackle Combo)
Here is a look at Power with the TE and RT combo double team. The middle linebackers takes an outside path so the outside TE combos off onto the M and the LT stays on the defensive end. The TE and T double team combo isn’t as common, but on the youth football level it’s an effective way to block those wide defensive tackles that are giving you trouble.
This is a technique is something that needs to be practice often. When you go into individual offense period take your offensive line and practice this technique. It’s also nice to have game film on your opponent so that you know what defensive look you’re going to see. Knowing what defense you’re going to face will allow you to practice your combo blocks against the look you are going to see on Saturday or Sunday.