offensive line play

Question
what is zone blocking and how dp you teach it?

Answer
Dear Jorge,
Zone blocks are also known as a gap blocks, and fold blocks. The goal of a zone block is to stop all defensive penetration into the play side gap. For example, if you run a sweep right you don't want the defense to get any penetration into the right gap. When you run a sweep to the left you don't want any penetration into your left gap. In both cases, if the defense is successful they will be able to stop you cold.

How to execute a zone block

To execute a zone block, the Offensive linemen must ignore all blocking rules taught to then in the past. For example, we teach our offensive linemen to block the defensive lineman (lineup) head up, the defender in the gap, or the linebacker just off the line. When zone blocking, we don't care where the defender lines up we only care about what he does when the ball is snapped. The offensive linemen's job is to stop any defender from penetrating through the play side gap (the side to where the ball is going).

The offensive's linemen's has to take a short control lateral step with the foot nearest the play side gap in order to cut off any defender's rush. He slides his head in front of the defender's body followed by his own body. This is done weather or not there is a defender in the gap. This tactic will stop all stunts or delay blitzes into the play side gaps. Another tactic being used more and more is to run your offense with no gaps at all. This will have the same effect as a zone block stopping the defense from gaining defensive penetration into your backfield.
I hope I was of help. If you have anymore questions please let me know I will be happy to help you.
Yours truly, Coach Louis