Terminology and Communication for Sound Offensive Line Play

Coach -

In his 11th season as #15 Utah's offensive line coach, Jim Harding has firmly established the Utes' offensive line as one of the best in the country. Since 2017, he has also served as Utah’s assistant head coach, previously holding the role of co-offensive coordinator for two seasons.

Under his leadership, eight of his linemen have earned first-team All-Pac-12 honors, and six have been drafted into the NFL, showcasing his ability to develop top-tier talent.

As with any Top 25 team, strong offensive line play will be a necessity to get into the final 12 by the end of the season.

We will dig into the communication system of the Utes as presented by Coach Harding, but let’s take a peek at the outlook for the 2024 Utah Utes.

Season Preview Capsule

After rising to prominence in previous conferences, Utah enters the Big 12 as a legitimate top 15 team. With key returning players like QB Cameron Rising and TE Brant Kuithe, the offense is expected to improve significantly. The defense, under coach-in-waiting Morgan Scalley, remains a force with a strong defensive line and a veteran secondary. Utah has high expectations to lead the conference right out of the gate.

However, there are some questions. Can the offensive line with only two returning starters gel quickly? Can the pass rush emerge after losing a key player? Overall, Utah's talent and experience position them for a strong showing in the Big 12.

Utah Strengths:

Offense:

Returning QB Cameron Rising (46 touchdowns, 5,500 yards in past seasons)
Tight End Brant Kuithe (expected to be a top TE nationally)
Running back depth with Micah Bernard and Jaylon Glover
Receiving corps with Money Parks and USC transfer Dorian Singer

Defense:

Strong defensive line with 3 returning starters (including top tackle Junior Tafuna)
Linebacker corps with leading tackler Lander Barton and rising star Sione Fotu
Veteran secondary with Zemaiah Vaughn and Kenan Johnson (transfer from Georgia Tech)
Ranked 13th nationally in total defense (2023)
4th in the nation in run defense (2023)

Clinic: 6 Man Pass Protections

Offenses vary widely in how they designate routes, blocking protections, plays, and directions. By using a number system, coaches can alter game tempo and many other factors. Simplify the system, ensure it covers all bases, and make it your own.

For instance, Coach Harding’s blocking system illustrates this concept. By changing the number of digits, coaches can adjust the blocking scheme, the direction of the back, and the play tempo.

The number system is favored for its ability to allow quick and effective communication, eliminating the need for complex play calls like "Y-short to strong-right clamp Ace; H 2-Y Bingo X comeback; cannon with roll-right B shallow on two."

In the end, unless a team has the time and mental capacity of an NFL team, the system’s value must be clear. Create a system that is unique, easy to teach, and familiar to your staff. This approach maximizes playbook flexibility, game manipulation, and player understanding, ensuring they can play confidently and effectively.

Coach Harding explains the use of a 1-digit and 3-digit system here:

Video: 3-Digit vs. 1-Digit

Terminology drives communication and is key to the cohesive execution of the offensive line. A well-developed terminology system allows quick, clear communication, enabling linemen to identify defensive schemes and adjust accordingly.

This system helps eliminate the impact of great defenders and allows upperclassmen to elevate the performance of underclassmen.

A common terminology ensures consistency, even with player substitutions or play call mix-ups. If communication falters, it allows the line to adjust blocking assignments in real-time.

Fluidity is key, requiring players to adapt to the game's flow and the opposing coordinator's strategies. This approach gives players ownership and responsibility, aids development, pride, and motivation, and promoting team contribution.

Coach Harding explains this in detail in this video:

Video: 6 Man Pass Protections

Incorporating a well-structured terminology system into your offensive strategy can significantly enhance your team's performance. Clear communication, adaptability, and player ownership are pivotal for success on the field.

By simplifying and standardizing your terminology, you empower your players to make quick, informed decisions, ensuring a cohesive and dynamic offensive line.

Embrace this approach to create a culture of continuous improvement, teamwork, and resilience.

As Coach Harding demonstrates, the right communication strategy not only streamlines gameplay but also builds a strong, united team ready to tackle any challenge.

-Coach Grabowski, Coach Kauffman and the CoachesClinic Team