Why Cant The Offensive Line Hold Like The Guys On The Defensive Line Do?

Question

i played offensive line yesterday for the first time, and i held someone back and they told me i cant do that. so the whole time i had to push them back, and it wasnt doing much effect. what am i suppose to do as an offensive line man? specifically as an offensive tackle? is pushing them back is what im suppose to do? is there any other techniques/strategies i can use on the offensive line?

Answer 1

If you could hold a defensive lineman they'd never be able to make a play.  Pop them really hard with your hands initially and move your feet to get in their way.  EXTEND THOSE ARMS!

Answer 2

Because those are the rules....that's 'holding' as a penalty...

Answer 3

you can grab him a little bit if you grab him inside his shoulder pads.....