Blocking Rules

A run scheme defines the overall architecture and path of a run play: where the offense attacks, whether linemen step in unison or pull into space, and how double-teams are coordinated. A blocking rule is the individual assignment progression each lineman executes at the line of scrimmage to carry out that scheme against any defensive front without changing the play call.

Offensive lines organize rule-based blocking around three primary assignment models:

Gap Rules

In gap schemes like Power and Counter, linemen check inside-out using rules like Gap-Down-Backer or Gap-On-Down. Gap-Down-Backer checks the inside gap, down-blocks on an adjacent interior lineman, or climbs to a linebacker, intentionally skipping a head-up defender so a pulling teammate can kick him out. Linemen executing Gap-On-Down remain on first-level defenders, base-blocking head-up or outside-shade threats under the 'On' rule on direct downhill runs like Dive without releasing to linebackers, while scheme-specific pullers can still leave the line.

Zone Rules

In zone schemes based on covered and uncovered rules, linemen read pre-snap alignment and play track. On Inside Zone, a covered lineman attacks the down defender's playside number while an adjacent uncovered lineman combos with him to generate vertical displacement before peeling to a linebacker. On Outside Zone, blockers take synchronized lateral reach steps targeting the defender's outside shoulder; uncovered linemen do not default to double-teams, instead running in tandem on their track to cut off linebackers or overtake slanting defenders on the move.

Perimeter Hybrid Rules

Hybrid schemes like Pin and Pull blend zone alignment reads with gap-scheme blocking mechanics. Covered linemen execute angle down-blocks to pin edge defenders inside, while adjacent uncovered linemen pull around the pin blocks into the alley to lead the ball carrier on the perimeter.