Pressing the Line

     One of the most important jobs that a Running back has is setting up the blocks so the offensive line can make bigger more defined running spaces for the backs.  This can be done by a running technique called Pressing the Line.  A lot of runners make it hard on themselves on wide plays and cut backs, because they take bad angles after the hand off is secured.  These angles enable the D-Line and Line backers to avoid the linemen and get to the runner without problem.  On wide plays and misdirection plays the Running back can drastically alter the defenders path before contact.  After the hand off is secured the back can make the defense think that he is heading for a certain gap by the path that he takes.  In actuality the play is meant to hit wide or cut back against the grain.  Most defenses, now a days are built around speed, a trait that can cause havoc on an offense if not countered properly.  Misdirection plays and cut backs are a way of neutralizing a defenses speed and using it against them.  Incorporation with teaching your runner how to press the line of scrimmage you can send defenses way out of position for easy gains.