Climb

On a combo block, two linemen drive a down defender together before one of them climbs — releases off the double-team up to the second level to block a linebacker. The art is timing: climb too early and the down lineman splits the double; climb too late and the linebacker runs free to the ball. A clean climb is what turns a run from a short gain into a long one.

Defined by Coach Jay Freeman — 32 years coaching the offensive and defensive line.

Related trench terms

Combo blockO-Line

Two linemen briefly working together on a single defender before one releases to the next level.

Inside zoneO-Line

A run scheme where all blockers step playside, working combo blocks up to the linebackers.

PancakeO-Line

A block that puts the defender flat on his back. The lineman’s highlight.

Drive blockO-Line

A straight-ahead block designed to displace the defender straight back.

Down blockO-Line

A block down on the defender to the inside, sealing him away from the play.

Go deeper

• Coach Jay’s lineman training library — the technique behind the term →
• Back to the full Trench Dictionary →
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