Which blocking concept is most associated with guards pulling on designed runs?

• A. Zone blocking with the center leading the run.
• B. Man blocking where each lineman engages the defender in front.
• C. Pulling guards are common on power and counter plays.
• D. Only the center can snap and block on pass plays.

Answer: (C)

Pulling guards are used on designed runs to create extra blockers by pulling out of their normal gaps to lead the play. This technique is a hallmark of power and counter plays, where the guard’s movement helps seal or kick out a defender on the play side, opening a lane for the ball carrier. Zone blocking focuses on linemen moving to their zone rather than pulling, and man blocking describes each lineman locking onto the man in front without a retreating lead block. The center snapping the ball is unrelated to this pulling concept, and blockers from other positions (guards, tackles) participate in pass protection as needed.