Run Block Finesse is a crucial attribute in American football video games, specifically determining the success rate for specific types of blocking assignments in the running game.
Understanding Run Block Finesse
Run Block Finesse is an offensive line attribute that dictates how effective an offensive lineman will be at executing blocks that require agility, precise positioning, and technique rather than brute force. It directly influences the success chance for:
- Zone blocks: These blocks are fundamental to zone running schemes, where linemen block areas or "zones" rather than specific defenders, often requiring quick adjustments and angles.
- Reach blocks: A specialized type of zone block where an offensive lineman blocks a defender to their outside, cutting them off from pursuing the ball carrier. This requires quickness and precise footwork.
- Zone-Double Team blocks: Where two linemen work together to block a single defender, typically driving them out of a zone before one lineman peels off to block a linebacker at the second level.
These types of blocks are typically found in plays designed to stretch the defense horizontally, exploiting space and leveraging the agility of both the ball carrier and the blockers.
Plays Requiring Run Block Finesse
For successful execution, Run Block Finesse is paramount on plays such as:
- Outside Zone: This play aims to get the ball carrier outside the tackles, often requiring linemen to "reach" defenders or execute zone blocks to create running lanes.
- Stretch: Similar to the outside zone, the stretch play is designed to get the running back to the perimeter, often forcing defensive linemen to flow laterally and creating cutback lanes.
Run Block Finesse vs. Run Block Power
To fully grasp the importance of Run Block Finesse, it's helpful to compare it with its counterpart, Run Block Power. While Finesse focuses on agility and technique for perimeter and zone plays, Power emphasizes raw strength and drive for direct, downhill runs.
| Attribute | Determines Success Chance For | Key Characteristics | Example Plays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Run Block Finesse | Zone, Reach, and Zone-Double Team blocks | Agility, technique, precise positioning, lateral movement | Outside Zone, Stretch |
| Run Block Power | Drive, Down, and Power Double Team blocks | Strength, pushing ability, direct engagement, downhill run | Toss, Power O, Inside Zone |
Understanding these distinctions allows players to tailor their offensive line personnel and play-calling to maximize their running game's effectiveness. An offensive line with high Run Block Finesse will excel in schemes that rely on mobility and opening outside lanes, while a line strong in Run Block Power will dominate in schemes focused on powerful, direct runs up the middle.
