AN OFFENSIVE LINEMEN must explode off the line of scrimmage on the snap of the ball and move the opponent wherever the play dictates.
The only way an offensive lineman is going to get the upper hand on any defender is by utilizing a well-executed first step. A quick, powerful first step will allow any linemen the opportunity to gain leverage and momentum on a defender, regardless of his size.
There are nine kinds of first steps that offensive linemen can utilize on play calls:
9 Types Of First Steps
1. Up-field Step: Directly forward. Body is square to the LOS. Heel-toe replacement.
2. Slide Step: Lateral step and up-field step with toes pointing forward. Body is square to the LOS. Get upfield with width, hips and shoulders squared upfield.
3. Lead Step: Directional step turned at 45 degrees. Toes need to be pointed 45 degrees. Upfield and width are important. Shoulders turn in same direction as foot.
4. Lateral Step: Lateral step with toes pointed forward. Body should be square to the LOS.
5. Pull Step: Foot is turned and pointed at 90 degrees. Body turns in same direction as foot. The other foot will be rotated the same.
6. Bucket Step: Get depth and stay wide. Foot is turned 45 degrees as are the shoulders.
7. Wide Bucket-Step: Same as bucket step, except wider.
8. Drop Step: Foot goes directly backwards with the toe pointing straight ahead. Use toe-heel replacement.
9. Open Step: Foot opens past 90 degrees with the body corresponding. Similar to the pull step, except deeper.