How To FINISH Your Block Destruction

Mar 19, 2025

Block Destruction happens in stages.

There’s the APPROACH.

There’s the COMBAT POINT (using either a Power Move or a Speed Move).

Then there’s the FINISH.

Here are a few words on the FINISH.

Rip

The Rip is a classic disengagement move.

It involves bringing the near arm UP and through the blocker’s hands.

But don’t forget about the FEET.

Your near foot must step past the blocker’s hip as you Rip.

If you don’t bring the feet, you’re still being blocked.

I used to call this a “Swim Move”.

I changed it to “Arm Over” a few years ago.

The term “Swim” suggests a big circular movement with the arm.

I prefer a tight action. Almost like a punch.

The arm must come over and DOWN to clear the blocker’s hands.

Again, you must bring the feet with you.

Just like with the Rip, you need to step with your near foot to clear the blocker.

Note: If you’re looking to take a deeper dive into Linebacker play, click here. I’ve even put together a brand new COACHING BUNDLE.

Once you disengage, you need to “stack” the blocker.

This means replacing the blocker’s position and putting yourself between the blocker and the ball carrier.

If you don’t, the blocker has another chance to block you.

Once the blocker is stacked, the only thing they can do is block you in the back.

Great Linebackers are tough to block.

But only if they learn how to FINISH their block destruction.

All the best,

Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx