Cut block

A cut block is a low block aimed at a defender's thighs to put him on the ground and take him out of the play — common on the backside of zone runs and on screens. It's effective but controversial because of injury risk, and it's restricted or banned in certain situations and at certain levels (rules vary by league and state, especially in youth and high-school football). Know your league's rules before you teach or use it.

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

Related trench terms

Drive blockO-Line

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

Cut-off blockO-Line

A backside block to seal a defender away from pursuit on a play running away from him.

PancakeO-Line

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

Down blockO-Line

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

Reach blockO-Line

A block where the lineman gets his head past the defender's playside shoulder to seal him.

Go deeper

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