Dominate Duo & Inside Zone Runs: How & When to Use Stacked vs. Hip-to-Hip Combos - Wade Lytal

Tired of inconsistent production from your run game? Discover the game-changing distinction between stacked and hip-to-hip combo blocks that elite offensive line coaches use to dominate on duo and inside zone concepts.

The video below is taken from:

How & When to Use Stacked vs. Hip to Hip Combos on Your Duo & Inside Zone Run Game in a Pro-Style/Spread Offense

The entire presentation from Wade Lytal, OC/O-Line Coach. Trinity (TX) is available on Glazier Drive.

Key Differences Between Inside Zone and Duo

• Inside zone uses stacked combos while duo uses hip-to-hip blocking technique
• Running back/QB footwork differs: in inside zone, RB gets to mesh point; in duo, QB brings ball to RB
• Inside zone works better with RPOs and from offset shotgun
• Duo works better from pistol formation and maintains B-gap relationship

Hip-to-Hip Combination Blocking Technique

• Used when anticipating defensive redirects as it keeps offensive linemen square
• Aiming point: play side knee to crotch of defender
• Two player roles in combinations: "drive player" and "lift player"

Technique Specifics

• Drive player: Uses "near-foot lead" or "gallop footwork" with shoulder fit initially
• Lift player: Uses "settle lift footwork" with good posture in squat position rather than lunging
• Both must triangulate the backside foot (90 degrees to contact surface) for leverage
• Proper body posture at contact point is emphasized for power generation

Practice Drills Demonstrated

• Fitted combination drills where players start in the final desired position
• Using pads between blockers to ensure proper hip-to-hip positioning
• Practicing against moving defenders and linebackers
• Hit-and-leave technique for situations with two-gappers or fast-plugging linebackers