VT Coach Ron Crook's Essential OL Run Game Techniques
Jul 08, 2024 4:25 pm
Coach -
Over the next several weeks, we will share emails featuring clinic talks from the FBS Preseason Top 25.
Coach Kauffman introduced the Top 25 last season and is back to help again this year.
Trent, a former Division 3 football player whose career ended early due to injury, spent three years as an Offensive Line student assistant and two years as a Defensive GA at Ashland University. He moved to Wake Forest to work in their recruiting and player personnel office this offseason.
Trent kicks off our Top 25 countdown with a feature on Virginia Tech, an honorable mention on the list. The feature focuses on OL play and Coach Ron Crook.
-Coach Grabowski
VT Season Preview
The Hokies are poised to surprise in the ACC this year. With the conference eliminating divisions, the 2024 season brings new dynamics. The Hokies ended last season strong, with a 5-2 finish, including a bowl victory.
Key Points:
- Favorable Schedule: Avoids NC State, Florida State, Louisville, and hosts Clemson.
- Defense: Expected to excel under Brent Pry with key players like Antwaun Powell-Ryland, Cole Nelson, Aeneas Peebles, and Kelvin Gilliam. Focus on increasing interceptions.
- Offense: QB Kyron Drones returns, bolstered by WR Ali Jennings and TE Nick Gallo. Emphasis on improving the run game with Bhayshul Tuten and Malachi Thomas.
- Offensive Line: Led by OL Coach Ron Crook, aiming to exceed last season's 190 YPG rushing average.
- Overall Outlook: Strong on paper, success hinges on the running game and maintaining defensive standards.
Pre-Snap Routine
Ron Crook's S.H.I.T.S pre-snap process is a simple yet effective way to guide your offensive line. It ensures they know where to go and the proper position once the play starts.
Video: Pre-Snap Routine
For a successful pre-snap process, it needs to be memorable and straightforward. Athletes must quickly and effectively progress through it, especially as games wear on. Conditioning is crucial for this, even for the offensive line.
Conditioning
Video: Part 1 Conditioning Drills
Conditioning can vary depending on your offense's tempo. The faster the tempo, the more focus needed. Maximize time and avoid monotonous running by speeding up practice tempos. This gamelike application enhances functional movements.
Gap Scheme Double Teams
Video: Gap Scheme Double Teams
Double teams require coordination, conditioning, and understanding of the play's direction. Communication clears up confusion, but execution is key.
Mastering these fundamentals will elevate your offensive line's performance, ensuring they are prepared for any challenge this fall. Emphasize simplicity, conditioning, and effective communication to build a cohesive and resilient unit.
Compete!
Coach Kauffman
Other Clinics from Virginia Tech Staff:
5 Man Pressure - Brent Pry, HC
Linebacker U-Fundamentals & Technique - Brent Pry, HC
Return Game Principles - Stu Holt, STC/TE
Man Coverage Techniques & Concepts - Derek Jones, DRC/CB
Attacking Spread Offenses - Shawn Quinn, Stars/Nickels
Run Game Blocking Fundamentals - Ron Crook, OL
Inside Zone Fundamentals - Ron Crook, OL
OLine Run Game Fundamentals - Ron Crook, OL