Building Unstoppable OL Lines: The 'Rider Rush' Drill
For Caesar Rodney Riders and other top Div I programs, dominating on the line is crucial. To improve their pass protection and run blocking, OL coach Mike Johnson recommends the 'Rider Rush' drill. This drill focuses on footwork, hand placement, and body positioning. Set up four cones in a square shape, with the OL player standing in the center. Coach will call out a 'rush' command, and the player must quickly move to the nearest cone, keeping their feet shoulder-width apart and hands up. Complete 3 sets of 10 reps, resting for 30 seconds between sets. Coaching cues include 'quick feet, hands up' and 'stay low, stay wide.' This drill translates to game performance by improving the OL player's ability to quickly react to defensive linemen and maintain a strong base in pass protection. By mastering the 'Rider Rush,' Riders can take their OL to the next level.