PHILOSOPHY

I. MULTIPLICITY THROUGH SIMPLICITY

A. Be multiple by presenting opposing defenses with the look of
sophistication by utilizing an almost unlimited number of
personnel groupings, formations, motions, and shifts.
B. Maintain simplicity by communicating via the use of a build-on
or block approach.
1. Small building blocks of information are given to individual
or groups of players.
2. Each individual or group need only know where and what
information pertains to them.
II. PROTECT THE PASSER
A. The passer is protected through utilizing a scheme that is
easily teachable, learnable, and adjustable.
B. The concentration must be on everyone becoming
outstanding individual pass protectors and developing the
cohesion necessary to act as a well-coordinated unit.
C. Uncovered receivers must be thrown to at every given
opportunity.
D. Draws and screens to each eligible receiver must be
emphasized and used accordingly in order to discourage hard
up field pressure by the defense.
E. The passer's launch point must be varied as much as possible,
while at the same time accentuating his skills and strengths.
III. CONTROL THE FOOTBALL WITH THE FORWARD PASS BY
THROWING IT SHORT, AS MANY TIMES AS POSSIBLE TO PEOPLE
WHO SCORE
A. The offense must strive to control the football by gaining first
downs and eating up the clock.
B. Maintain a high completion percentage by utilizing simple
underneath throws.

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 C. Throw the ball short to skilled athletes who have the ability to
not only help maintain time of possession, but who can also
produce explosive plays.
IV. UTILIZE RUNS THAT COMPLIMENT THE FORWARD PASS
A. Make the defense play assignment football and take away
their aggressiveness by utilizing the option.
B. The offense must be able to utilize the zone running game
against quick and deep drops by linebackers and secondary
cover players.
C. Utilize an assortment of draws, sweeps, and traps to take
advantage of hard, up-the-field rushing defenses.
D. Make full use of the run-action pass to take advantage of the
defense's eagerness in stopping the better running plays.
V. TAKE WHAT THE DEFENSE GIVES US
A. Take advantage of what the defense is doing by attacking
certain portions of the football field or weaker personnel until
it clearly declares its intentions.
B. Through various personnel groupings, formation variation,
motion, and shifts, attempt to match up the offense's
strongest personnel versus the defense's weakest; make the
defense give the offense what it wants!
VI. UTILIZE ALL OF THE ABILITIES OF ALL OF THE INDIVIDUAL
PLAYERS
A. The players must be presented with the opportunity to play
out of a flexible system that emphasizes their individual
strengths instead of being restricted to a definite style of play.
B. Football is a team game and should be played as such.
1. Distribute the ball to as many players as is possible so
that:
• As many players as possible can feel they are
involved in the offense's success.

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 • The offense does not rely on a single player for
success.
2. Utilize each member of the backfield as a ball carrier and
all five eligible receivers as targets for the forward pass.
3. Involve as many personnel groupings as are possible.

PERSONNEL IDENTIFICATION AND PLACEMENT

I. PERSONNEL IDENTIFICATION
• Q - Quarterback

• H - Halfback

• F - Fullback

• X - Split end

• Y - Tight end

• Z - Flanker

II. PERSONNEL PLACEMENT

In regard to personnel, we know that each year we are going to
have a quarterback, fullback, one wide receiver, and five offensive
linemen. The first key consideration to be made then is who are our
11th, 12th, and 13th, best offensive players? This decision will dictate
each season what our base personnel sets will be each season. The

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 following criteria is used for choosing offensive players for their
given position.

• BACKS AND RECEIVERS

 Quarterback: This position requires a player that is willing
to work and learn, regardless of the amount of time, to
execute the offense to perfection. A competitor, that has the
respect of his teammates, whether through work ethic, talent,
or personality.
 Halfback: The halfback position in this offense is adaptable
to a variety of talents. Ideally, the halfback is a blend of
blocking, receiving and ball carrying capability.
 Fullback: The true ball carrier in our offense, the most
important quality is competitiveness. Must be a north and
south runner with the ability to churn out tough yardage in
goal-line and short-yardage situations, as well possess the
ability to make would be tacklers miss to create the explosive
play.
 Split end: A fearless athlete that competes on every play,
should be our best overall receiver with the ability to make
the clutch catch in difficult situations. Due to the nature of
our offense, he will oftentimes find himself faced with one-on-
one coverage. He has to be an excellent route runner and
possess excellent hands to make defenses pay for this tactic.
 Tight end: Should be a hybrid, part right tackle and part
split end. A power-forward type of player; he must possess a
variety of skills as a blocker and as a receiver. It is often
difficult to find a player with all of these qualities. In these
instances, we will split the duties between a lineman with

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 decent receiving skills and a receiver with good blocking
ability.
 Flanker: Should be an explosive playmaker with the ability
to make the big catch over the top of the defensive coverage
or carrying the ball on sweeps and reverses.
OFFENSIVE LINE
 Left Tackle: Our best-footed lineman should play this
position to handle wide rushers coming off the edge in the
passing game. He will usually be pitted against the defense’s
best pass-rusher. He should also possess the ability to combo
block with the tight end and left guard in the running game.
 Left Guard: May be one of the smaller linemen since he will
seldom be asked to single block a down defender. The left
guard is usually getting help from either the center or left
tackle on combo blocks.
 Center: Should be intelligent and have the ability to work
with both the play side and backside guards. Also, the center
must be able to make calls and recognize defensive fronts in
order to set pass protection schemes.
 Right Guard: Should be the strongest offensive lineman.
He will be put in more positions to have to single block
defensive tackles than any other lineman will.
 Right Tackle: One of the bigger offensive linemen, but does
not have to be one of the strongest or quickest footed. With
the design of our blocking schemes, the right tackle will often
receive help from either the tight end or right guard on combo
blocks.

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 PLAY-CALLING PROCEDURE

We are a balanced multiple formation, shift, and motion offense. The

crucial aspect to understanding it is rooted in each player gaining a
grasp of the building block concept. Our terms communicate
something to a particular player or group of players. The key is
knowing which call(s) can apply to you and then listening for them
within a play-call.

Play-calls are communicated in the following order:

• Formation
• Shift
• Motion
• Play
• Here is how it sounds:
 “Right Gun Strong In - 36 Counter” (Run)
 “Red L F 8 - A 23 Trap X Curl” (Run-Action Pass)
 “Rome Haze Right H Idiot 52 H Wheel” (Pass)

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 HUDDLE PROCEDURE
I. FORMING THE HUDDLE . . .
A. The center initiates the formation of the huddle by hustling
to a point directly behind where the referee has marked the
ball.
B. Upon reaching this point he faces the ball and alerts the
rest of the offense of the location of the huddle by putting his
hands above his head and giving the command, "HUDDLE!"
C. On the command, the rest of the offense takes their places
in the huddle as diagrammed.
1. The front line bends at the waist, hands on their
knees and their eyes up.
2. The back line stands erect, hands on their hips, their
eyes up.

• Everyone should take his place in the huddle as soon

as possible.
• Do your resting in the huddle, not on the way to it.

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 D. The quarterback does not take his place in the huddle until
after he has received all necessary information from the
coaches on the sideline.
II. IN THE HUDDLE . . .
A. The quarterback enters the huddle and commands, "OK."
B. On the command, the rest of the offense has their heads up,
directing all of their attention to the quarterback, ready for
him to make the play-call.
• The quarterback is the only person that speaks in the
huddle.
• Everyone focuses their eyes on the quarterback's
mouth to see as well as hear every word of the call.
C. The quarterback gives the down and distance and the play-
call once.
D. Upon hearing this information, the center, X, and Z, exit the
huddle to take their respective places at the line of
scrimmage.
• The center hustles to the line of scrimmage to take
his stance so that the rest of the offense may assume their
proper splits and alignments.
• The X and Z hustle out to their respective positions
so that they will already have assumed their splits by the
time the rest of the offense breaks the huddle.
E. Upon their exit, the quarterback repeats the play-call.
F. If a player has difficulty hearing any of the quarterback's
information, he waits until after the call has been completed
and commands, "check," and the huddle call is repeated by
the quarterback.
• Everyone should repeat the snap count to himself to
lodge into his subconscious mind.

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 • By concentrating on the snap count in the huddle, he
puts it into his subconscious mind where later it triggers
his get-off on the right count.
III. BREAKING THE HUDDLE . . .
A. After the quarterback has completed the huddle call, he
breaks huddle by commanding, "Ready . . . Break."
B. The rest of the players in the huddle clap their hands once, in
unison, on the command, "Break."
C. Upon clapping their hands, the offense hustles to assume
their positions at the line of scrimmage.

PROCEDURE AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE

I. PRE-CADENCE . . .
A. The offense must quickly begin applying pressure to the
defense as soon as they break the huddle by hustling to the
line of scrimmage!
B. Upon arrival at the line of scrimmage, the offense assumes
their proper splits and alignments.
1. The guards and tackles assume a two-point stance with
their hands on their thighs.

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 2. Everyone else assumes their proper stance according to
formation.
C. When the team is properly aligned at the line of scrimmage,
the quarterback immediately puts his hands in position to
receive the snap from the center.
D. The quarterback then takes a slight pause to take his pre-
snap read of the defense.
• The quarterback always views the defense from right
to left, and back left to right.
E. After the pause, he begins his cadence.
II. CADENCE . . .
A. The cadence consists of three phases.
Here is how it sounds:
• "Go . . . Set"
• "Number . . . Number"
• "Hit . . . Hit . . . Hit"
1. During the first phase the quarterback takes a slight pause
to get a pre-snap read of the defense, and commands,
"Go . . . Set."
• To make the command of "Set" a steadying
command, the quarterback actually says, "Say . . . It."
a. Any shifting occurs on the command, "Go."
b. On the command of, "Set," the guards and tackles take
their three-point stance.
c. Any motioning occurs by the quarterback kick-starting it
after the command, "Set."
d. The ball may be snapped on the quarterback’s first
sound during this phase of the cadence, “On Go.”
• No shifts, motions, nor audibles may occur if
the snap count is, “On Go.”

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 e. The ball may be snapped, “On Set,” during this phase of
the cadence.
f. After making his pre-snap read of the defense, if the
quarterback simply wants to switch the direction of the
play called in the huddle, he will call, "Bingo . . . Bingo,"
and then continue his regular cadence procedures.
• The quarterback always makes the "Bingo,"
call first to the right side of the formation, and then
to the left side, so he does not fall into the habit of
making his call first to the side of the new play.
2. The second phase of the cadence is the audible phase.
a. Either an audible or dummy call is made.
b. If an audible is needed, the quarterback repeats the
snap count called in the huddle and follows it with a new
play.
Here is how it sounds:
• Play called in the huddle - "R Gun Weak 36
Counter On One."
• New play called at the line of scrimmage - "Go .
. . Say It . . . 152 . . . 152."
• The new play to be run is 52 and the ball is
snapped on the count called in the huddle, "On One."
c. A dummy call is made by voicing a number other than
the snap count followed a dummy play call.
Here is how it sounds:
• Play called in the huddle - "R Gun Weak 36
Counter On One."
• Play called in the huddle does not change -
"Go . . . Say It . . . 292 . . . 292."

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 • After the dummy call is made, the play
called in the huddle will be run on the snap count
that was called in the huddle, "On One."
 The quarterback always gives the audible call
first to the right side of the formation, and then to
the left side, so he does not fall into the habit of
making his audible call first to the side of the new
play.
3. The third phase is the snap count phase.
a. The ball will be snapped on a series of hits that is
designated in the huddle.
Here is how it sounds:
"On One" "Go . . . Say it . . . Number . . .
Number . . . Hit."
"On Two" "Go . . . Say it . . . Number . . .
Number . . . Hit . . . Hit."
“On Three” “Go . . . Say it . . . Number . . . Number . .
. Hit . . . Hit . . . Hit.”
• The hits are non-rhythmical, with the pauses
between them, and the voice inflection in calling
them varying.

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 HANTA YO
• Our no huddle offense is called “HANTA YO!” This was the battle
cry of the Lakota Sioux Indian Warriors. The English translation is,
“Clear the way!”
• The no huddle offense does not need to be run quickly, although it
can be used as such when there is not much time on the clock near
the end of the half or the end of a game.
• We will use it as a change up in our normal offense, and because we
will not necessarily be going to the huddle, we have plenty of time
to line up on the ball, get an idea of the defense and then call the
play.
• The quarterback must be alert at any point in a game to receive the
HANTA YO signal from the coaches on the sideline. He will alert the
rest of the team by calling out, “HANTA YO, HANTA YO!”

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• This is not a panic mode situation; it is a way to develop another
facet of our offense. Remember the offense is in control.
• Plays will be called using wristbands with the plays numbered.
 The coach signals in the formation and the play number
and the quarterback will repeat them to the offense.
 The individual players will look to their wristbands to find
what specific play is being called.
• With regard to the procedure at the line of scrimmage, the
quarterback simply calls the formation and the play, and the ball
will be snapped first sound, “On Go,” once the players are set.

NUMBERING, ALIGNMENTS, SPACING, AND STANCES

I. Numbers between 0-49 name runs and their corresponding run-
action passes.

A. A two-digit number identifies running plays.

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 1. The first digit refers to the back that is to carry the ball.
a. The number 1 is assigned to any plays in which the
quarterback carries the ball.
b. The number 2 is assigned to any plays in which the
halfback carries the ball.
c. The number 3 is assigned to any plays in which the
fullback carries the ball.
d. The number 4 is assigned to any plays in which Z
carries the ball.
2. The second digit indicates the hole where the ball carrier is
to run.
a. The center’s right leg is assigned the number 0, and his
left leg the number 1.
b. The numbers 2 and 3 are assigned to the outside hips of
the guards.
c. The numbers 4 and 5 are assigned to the outside hips of
the tackles.
d. The numbers 6 and 7 are assigned to the outside hips of
the tight ends.
e. The numbers 8 and 9 correspond to the wide holes.
3. All backfield and hole numbers remain static regardless of
formation.
4. The type of blocking is called after the number.
B. Run-action passes are called exactly as the run that is being
faked.
1. The letter “A” is added before the number.
2. The pass-pattern is designated after the number.
II. Numbers 50-99 name drop-back or sprint-out action passes.
A. A two-digit number identifies passing plays.
1. The first digit refers to the protection series.
a. 50 Series . . . 3 Step Drop

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 b. 60 Series . . . 5 Step Drop, Split-Flow
c. 70 Series . . . 5 Step Drop, Weak-Flow
d. 80 Series . . . Sprint-Out Right
e. 90 Series . . . Sprint-Out Left
2. The second digit indicates the pass-pattern for the
receivers.
3. Any pass-protection or pattern adjustments are given after
the number.
III. RECEIVER SPACING, ALIGNMENTS, AND STANCES
12 yds
12 yds

5 yds

12 yds

A. Our basic spacing rules are a beginning reference point in

knowing where to align in relation to the formation and the
field.
1. Our spacing may vary at times according to the formation,
play called, and field-position.
2. The basic spacing for outside receivers is 12 yards from
the end man on the line of scrimmage and 9 yards from
the sideline.
3. When the ball is placed on a hash, the receiver to the
boundary is no closer than 5 yards to the sideline.
4. Inside receiver(s) split the difference between the outside
receiver and the end man on the line of scrimmage.

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 B. Receiver(s) split out from the formation assume a two-point
stance.
IV. OFFENSIVE LINE SPACING, ALIGNMENTS, AND STANCES

A. Our basic line splits are a beginning reference point, these

splits are adjusted according to a variety of factors including
the play called, game situation, etc.
B. Our basic splits for the line is 18 inches.
1. The guards line up with their front toe on the center’s heel.
2. The tackles line up on the guards.
3. The tight end(s) line up on the tackles.
C. The center’s dominant hand grips the ball with his feet wide
and parallel.
D. The guards, tackles, and tight end(s) feet have their dominant
hand down and dominant foot slightly staggered with a toe to
instep relationship.

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 PERSONNEL GROUPINGS
• To reiterate a previous statement from the Personnel Profiles
section, we will always put our eleven best players on the field, but
now we must know that we need to have our eleven best players for
a given game situation.
• The concept is based on five eligible receivers.
 The first number is the running backs in the game.
 The second number is tight ends in the game.
 The difference from five is how many wide receivers are in the
game.

"00" - 0 RB, 0 TE, 5 WR

"01" - 0 RB, 1 TE, 4 WR
"10" - 1 RB, 0 TE, 4 WR
"11" - 1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WR
"12" - 1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR
"20" - 2 RB, 0 TE, 3 WR
"21" - 2 RB, 1 TE, 2 WR

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 "22" - 2 RB, 2 TE, 1 WR

FORMATIONS

We are a multiple formation, shift, and motion offense. The crucial

aspect to understanding it is all rooted in each player gaining a grasp
of the building block concept. Our terms communicate something to a
particular player or group of players. The key is knowing which of
these can apply to you and then listening for them within a play-call.

• Formations are called in three parts:

 Set and Adjustment(s)

♦ Usually designated by a color in relationship to strength.

 Strength

♦ Designated by a term beginning with R or L.

 Formation and Adjustment(s)

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 ♦ Descriptive terms that usually verbally illustrate where a
player or players is to align.

FORMATIONS
R (L)

RIGHT (LEFT)

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RIGHTY (LEFTY)

ROME (LONDON)

FORMATIONS
RED R (L)

YELLOW R (L)

GREEN R (L)

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BROWN R (L)

BLUE R (L)

FORMATIONS
RED RIGHT (LEFT)

YELLOW RIGHT (LEFT)

GREEN RIGHT (LEFT)

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BROWN RIGHT (LEFT)

BLUE RIGHT (LEFT)

FORMATION VARIATIONS
GUN

RED R (L) GUN

IN

RIGHT (LEFT) IN

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OUT

R (L) OUT
EMPTY

R (L) EMPTY

FORMATION VARIATIONS
STRONG

GREEN RIGHT (LEFT) STRONG

WEAK

R (L) GUN WEAK

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CLOSED

YELLOW RIGHT (LEFT) CLOSED

OPEN

RIGHT (LEFT) IN OPEN

FORMATION VARIATIONS
FLIP

BLUE RIGHT (LEFT) FLIP

FLOP

RED RIGHT (LEFT) FLOP OPEN

OVER

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GREEN RIGHT (LEFT) FLIP OVER
SPREAD

RIGHTY (LEFTY) SPREAD

FORMATION VARIATIONS
BUNCH

R OUT BUNCH
CLUSTER

RIGHT STRONG FLIP OPEN CLUSTER

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 SHIFTS

Our basic pre-shift formations are ROME and LONDON. We will only
shift two of three players at a time (H, F, or Z). Our basic shifts are
communicated via a two-part call that is given after the formation has
been specified, but before any motion has been called.
• First:
 WHOM we want to shift.
 We designate the whom by calling a term that has
both players letter designations in it:
♦ FISH
♦ FUZZ
♦ HAZE
• Second:
 WHERE we want them to shift.
 We designate the where by giving them a direction:
♦ RIGHT
♦ LEFT

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 ♦ APART
• If APART is called, H or F will shift right or left according to
whichever side is closest, and Z will go opposite if involved in
the shift.
• If involved in a shift, Z will always end up outside of the
other shifter if sent in the same direction.
• All shifters and linemen must be set for one full second
before the ball is snapped or anyone else is allowed to go in
motion.
• The quarterback calls “Set,” after all of the shifters have
assumed their post-shift positions, and before kick-starting
any motion.

SHIFTS
FISH

ROME (LONDON) FISH APART

HAZE

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ROME (LONDON) HAZE RIGHT
FUZZ

ROME (LONDON) FUZZ LEFT (RIGHT)

MOTIONS

Our basic motions are communicated via a two-part call that is given
after the formation has been specified.
• First:
 WHOM we want to motion.
 We designate the whom by calling their position
name:
 H, F, X, Y, or Z
• Second:
 WHERE we want them to motion.
 We designate the where by using the same set of
numbers that apply to the holes in our running game.

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 MOTION NUMBERING

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 MOTIONS
BLUE RIGHT (LEFT) FLIP Z-6

R (L) GUN WEAK F-8

R Y-9

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 SPECIAL MOTIONS
When we want to give a player a more specialized motion assignment
we will have a name given to the motion technique we want executed
that follows the position name of the player we want to execute it.

IDIOT

GREEN RIGHT (LEFT) STRONG Z-IDIOT

STUPID

R (L) EMPTY F-STUPID

CRAZY

RED R (L) Y-CRAZY

ROCKET (LAUNCH)

GREEN R (L) H-ROCKET (LAUNCH)

SPECIAL MOTIONS

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ORBIT

RIGHT (LEFT) STRONG H-ORBIT

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We have two basic types of series within our passing game, each of
which have their own nuances of communication:

• 50 SERIES

 This is our quick passing game; it possesses its own set of

route packages, unique to this group of passes.

 These passes are thrown off a quick rhythm; three step

action, and are the highest percentage plays within our offense.

• 60, 70, 80, and 90 SERIES

 These series encompass our split- (60) and weak-flow (70)

straight drop-back, and sprint-out right (80) and left (90)
protections.

 These series will make use of its own set of route packages
that all have the potential to be married with any of these
protections.

Despite the diversity of these series, there are some basic rules of
communication that hold up throughout all of them:

• Assignments are designated by relative position within the

formation, not by position.

 We number our receivers in each formation, from the

outside in playside and backside.

 Focus only on the words and terms that apply specifically

to you, as this is the key to understanding and functioning within
a multiple offense.

• Learn to see the big picture.

 You will truly begin to learn and grow quickly within this
offense when you reach the level of learning in which you are not
just trying to decipher and figure out what you are supposed to

34
 do, but when you are visualizing what is being created within
each call, and how you fit within that picture.

PASS PROTECTION

50 SERIES

• All linemen fire out and drive block the man over them inside out, or
first man to their inside.

 If a defender is playing at normal depth from you, fire out

and execute an all-out drive block attacking his numbers.

 If a linebacker on you is playing 3 feet or less from you

treat him like a down lineman and go after him.

 If a linebacker is playing off more than 4 feet, follow rule

and block next man inside out.

• Keep head and eyes up, maintain contact, keep feet moving until
whistle and above all else keep the defender’s hands down!

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60 SERIES

• We like to keep things simple and sound in all of our protection

schemes. Our base protection is sound against any front or blitz
that a defense will use. If we are having problems with protection
we can employ a two-back set, keep the tight end in or keep the
tight end in and use two backs.

• We will block big on big on one side and zone to the other. There
will be various adjustments causing the BOB side guard or the
center to double read from the inside out.

• The defensive alignment will determine the type of protection rules

that we will use. There will be five base calls:

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  LIZ (zone left, big-on-big right)

 RIP (zone right, big-on-big left)

 LARRY (slide left, double read man right)

 RICKY (slide right, double read man left)

 MIKE (big-on-big across the board with double reads

possible)

• RIP or LIZ will be a zone protection to the side of the call and BOB
away from the call.

• RICKY or LARRY will be a Slide protection to the side of the call and
BOB away from the call.

• MIKE is big-on-big protection across the entire line.

 The MIKE call can be given as part of the huddle call.

 When MIKE is given in the huddle, this is a KEEP IT call, and

we will not check out of it.

• It is very important when facing a stemming front (moving front

prior to the snap) that the quarterback gives the offensive line a
chance to change their protection calls. All protection adjustments
must be communicated down the entire offensive line.

• We incorporate double reads to maximize protections. When a

lineman is assigned a double read he must first check for an inside
linebacker blitz if there is no inside blitz he works deep and late to
pick up the outside blitz. If there is not a threat of an outside blitz
he doubles with his partner or works out to help the tackle to his
side.

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• For the scheme to be successful the entire protection unit must be
working together. Communication within the group will determine
the level of success that we will have.

• The quarterback must understand that while utilizing a one-back set

that we only have six players involved in the protection and if the
back releases there are only five.

 He must know which linebacker that might not be blocked;

this will be his HOT read.

 When using a five-man protection scheme he must choose

the most dangerous linebacker that may not be blocked and use
him as his HOT read.

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RULES

I. Offensive Line

A. The center will always protect to the side of the 1 or 2i

technique.

1. The center will give a RIP or LIZ call to the side of the
1 or 2I technique.

2. In the event that there are two 2i techniques we will

zone to the backside of the quarterback (right-handed
quarterback zone to the left, left-handed quarterback zone
to the right).

B. If we see a 1 technique and a 2i technique we will zone

to the side of the 1 technique.

1. The BOB side tackle blocks his covered threat if he is

uncovered he sets inside and double reads inside out.

2. The quarterback is responsible for the number 2

linebacker to the BOB side.

C. With a 0 technique we will block either RICKY (SLIDE

right, BOB left) or LARRY (SLIDE left, BOB right).

1. We will always try to RICKY or LARRY away from the

uncovered guard side.

2. The guard on the BOB side, if uncovered, has a

double read. If the linebacker blitzes his position he takes
him, if he drops he works downhill to his outside.

39
 3. The quarterback is responsible for the number 2
linebacker to the Ricky or Larry side.

D. If the defensive front does not have a 0 or 1 technique

and there is not an inside shade on either guard (two 2
techniques) the center will give a MIKE call and the entire line
will block BOB.

1. The center will read the middle linebacker and take

him on a blitz.

2. If the middle linebacker drops he will double read to

the left, checking for a A-Gap blitz to his side then work
downhill picking up the outside blitz to the strong side of
the defensive front.

3. We will also use MIKE protection when the RB

releases in a route or we are using a no-back formation.

a. The MIKE call can be given as part of the huddle call.

b. When MIKE is given in the huddle this is a KEEP IT

call and we will not check out of it.

4. Our rule for MIKE is very simple; if you are uncovered

you have an inside out double read. You can also use
combinations to gain an advantage.

5. Combinations can occur between the center and

guard to the 2i or the 1 technique side.

a. They will combo the 2i or 1 technique and read the

most dangerous linebacker to their side.

b. Versus a straight 0 or 2, no combinations will be

possible.

II. Backs

40
 A. When using a two-back set, one back will block to the right
inside out and the other to the left inside out. If one of the
backs is involved in a pass route revert back to the base
protection rules.

B. When we are in a one-back set, the back must be alert as

to what protection is being employed by the offensive line.
He must listen for the protection audible so he can adjust his
protection assignment if needed.

1. When a RIP or LIZ protection is used the back will block

away from the call side inside out.

2. When RICKY or LARRY protection is the call the back will

read the LB’s inside out on the side of the RICKY or LARRY
call.

a. He will always block the inside blitz to the outside

blitz.

b. If there is no linebacker blitz to his side the back

helps the OL or releases.

3. On a MIKE call, no 0 technique and there is not an inside

shade on either guard (two 2 techniques) the center will
give a MIKE call and the entire line will block BOB.

a. The center will read the middle linebacker and take him
on a blitz. If the middle linebacker drops he will double
read to the left working down hill picking up the outside
blitz to the left.

b. The back will block the right the A-Gap blitz to the C-
Gap blitz to the right side.

c. If there is no blitz, check release for hot pass.

III. Quarterback

41
 A. The quarterback is responsible for knowing which
linebacker will not be blocked. This linebacker becomes his
HOT READ.

B. The inside receiver, lone receiver or tight end must also

eyeball the linebacker and adjust his pattern to a HOT ROUTE
if he blitzes.

C. The quarterback is also responsible for making this blitzing

linebacker miss since he knows he is coming. He must hit the
HOT ROUTE.

D. The number 1 outside linebacker or number 2 linebacker to

the BOB side is usually HOT.

E. If the lone back or both backs are releasing on a route the

most dangerous linebacker becomes the HOT linebacker. This
is why the quarterback must know what the protection is.

F. The HOT read may change from week to week.

70 SERIES

• This is our weak-flow protection in which we will use the tight end in
the pass protection and free release the weak side back.

42
• All of our protection rules apply.

 When a RIP or LIZ call is used and the tight end is to the zone
side, the tight end blocks the end man on the line of scrimmage.
The tackle to the zone side takes any C gap threat.

♦ If the zone side tackle has no C gap he keeps his eyes up

to check for blitz then looks to help the guard or tight end.

♦ When the tackle on the side of the zone call is uncovered

and there is a 3 technique he can pop set the 3 technique to
help the guard while checking C-Gap.

 When the tight end is on the side of the BOB call he blocks the
end man on the line of scrimmage.

♦ When the tackle on the side of the BOB is uncovered he

can set inside and help the guard while eyeballing the
linebackers.

♦ If the tackle eyeballs an outside blitz he double reads to

the outside and picks up the outside blitz.

 If the tight end is to the side of a RICKY or LARRY call the

tackle and tight end follow the same rules as RICKY or LARRY
rules with the tight end blocking the end man on the line of
scrimmage.

♦ If the tackle does not have an immediate threat in his gap

he can step inside to help while eyeballing any C gap threat. If
no threat occurs he can double the guard or work downhill to
the outside and help the tight end.

♦ When the tight end is on the side opposite the Ricky or

Larry call he blocks the end man on the line of scrimmage.
The guard and tackle follow BOB. If either the guard or tackle
is uncovered they follow double-read rules.

43
  The back automatically blocks weak inside out.

RIP CALL
B B
E T N T E
ZONE SIDE BOB SIDE

44
80/90 SERIES

• With our 80/90 series passing game, we are trying to get our
quarterback outside the defensive contain man so we can put run-
or-pass pressure on the next outside defender.
 The playside tackle and playside guard reach their play
side gaps without losing any ground.
 If there is a 0 technique or a 1 or 2i-technique play side,
the center reaches him without losing any ground.
 If there is not a 1 or 2i-technique play side, the center
reaches his playside gap and hinges.
 The backside guard and backside tackle reach their play
side gaps and hinge.
 The back checks and helps against the play side DE; if the
end is secured, he leads the quarterback and checks blitzes from
the play side D-Gap to the play side A-Gap.

45
$ B B $
E T T E

HOTS

• Any receiver to whom we can throw quickly and expect to gain 4

yards because of the alignment of the nearest short defender is
considered “hot” to us.

• We only throw hot on 1st or 2nd down, or 3rd down with 5 yards or
less to go.

• We have two basic ways to take advantage of different types of hot

situations through our play-calling and audible system:

4 (5)

46
4 (5) TO 2 RECEIVER SIDE

C
S M W
E T N E
1

INSIDE RECEIVER: QUICK 3-STEP ARC; #1: BLOCK MOST

4 (5) TO 3 RECEIVER SIDE GET HEAD AROUND, CATCH BALL DANGEROUS, C IN THIS
GOING FORWARD, FIND LANE AND CASE.
SPLIT DEFENDERS.
C

S M W
E T N E
1
3 2
#2: BLOCK
NEAREST/MOST
DANGEROUS, W
IN THIS CASE.

47
 HOT RECEIVER: 45 DEGREE STEP,
6 TO 2 RECEIVER SIDE STRAIGHTEN, SHOW YOUR
NUMBERS, CATCH, SPLIT
DEFENDERS NORTH
AND SOUTH C
S M W
E T N E
1
2 OUTSIDE RELEASE TO TURN C
AWAY FROM HOT; BLOCK ON
1-STEP, DELIVER A FIRM BALL RIGHT RECOGNITION
TO RECEIVER'S NUMBERS IN STRIDE.

INSIDE RELEASE TO
6 TO 3 RECEIVER SIDE TURN W AWAY FROM
HOT; BLOCK ON
RECOGNITION
C
S M W
E T N E
1
3 2 OUTSIDE RELEASE TO
TURN C AWAY FROM
HOT RECEIVER: 45 DEGREE
1-STEP, DELIVER A FIRM BALL RIGHT
STEP,STRAIGHTEN, SHOWUNCOVERED; BLOCK ON
TO RECEIVER'S NUMBERS IN STRIDE.YOUR NUMBERS, CATCH,RECOGNITION
SPLIT DEFENDERS NORTH
AND SOUTH.

• CADENCE CONSIDERATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS

 For basic 4 (5) and 6 calls, the hot routes are triggered
by the quarterback calling any of those numbers in place of the
snap count and any other number within the course of the
audible phase of his cadence.

 To maintain continuity, we call these plays the same

way in the huddle.

48
• The final and most punishing way we have of dealing with defenses
who attempt to hone in on our hot calls is to create special numbers
that tell a receiver or receivers to fake 4 (5) or 6 and then take off
to a predetermined deep lane.

 To call this fake 4 (5) or 6, we simply attach special

numbers to a 4 (5) or 6 call that tells a receiver or receivers to
fake and go.

 Fake 4 (5) calls only exist to the #3 receiver, and are

thus called by using, “403 (503).”

403 (503)

403 (503)

SS
#2: BREAK DOWN AS IF TO BLOCK W,
SELL IT, ACCELERATE THROUGH C
#1: SELL THE
OPEN DEEP LANE
STALK AND RUN BY
S M W HIM OUTSIDE.
E T N E
1
3 2

#3: ARC COURSE, THEN PROCEED UP

FIELD UNTIL YOU FIND A DEAD SPOT.
ONE STEP, BALL SEPARATION FAKE, REGATHER AND SETTLE AND LOOK AT QB.
KEY PS SAFETY. IF #2 IS BEHIND HIM, THROW IT.
OTHERWISE, CHECK #1 DEEP BACK TO #3 AS AN OUTLET.

49
 • For fake 6 calls, we use the following numbers:

♦ 601: Tells the #1 receiver to fake a 6 course.

♦ 602: Tells the #2 receiver to fake a 6 course.

♦ 603: Tells the #3 receiver to fake a 6 course.

601, 602, 603

50
 STAY

Our method of dealing with defenses that attempt to get after us with
the blitz and pressure schemes in long yardage, sure passing situations
when we cannot audible hot is to protect with eight and release our
two outside most receivers. We recognize blitz through our pre-snap
read of the defense.

• We simply add the term “STAY,” to our 60 or 70 series pass

protections.

 We utilize the 60 STAY protection versus the SS blitz, and

70 STAY protection versus the FS blitz.

• The quarterback’s reads are all based upon match ups and other
various aspects of the defense that will be game planned each
week.

• To make things as simple as possible, we only have three routes

that we will utilize to attack the blitz.

65 STAY

51
 C FS C
LIZ CALL
$ B B
E N T E $

REDUCE YOUR SPLIT SOMEWHAT.

GET A CLEAN RELEASE, FAVORING GET A GOOD WIDE ALIGNMENT, GET A
INSIDE, AND GET OVER BALL'S CLEAN RELEASE AND ACCELERATE UP
ORIGINAL ALIGNMENT AS THE SIDELINE. SCORE!
QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE.
SCORE!

67 STAY

PUSH TO 13-14 YARDS, JUST LIKE A GO. PLANT OUTSIDE

FOOT AND DRIVE BACK DOWNHILL TO THE BALL.

C FS C
LIZ CALL
$ B B
E N T E $

69 STAY

52
 C FS C
LIZ CALL
$ B B
E N T E $

GET A GOOD WIDE ALIGNMENT, GET A

CLEAN RELEASE AND ACCELERATE UP REDUCE YOUR SPLIT SOMEWHAT.
THE SIDELINE. SCORE! GET A CLEAN RELEASE, FAVORING
INSIDE, AND GET OVER BALL'S
ORIGINAL ALIGNMENT AS
QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE.
SCORE!

51

1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT

53
 #1 (TRIPS) FADE. Distinct technique based on coverage, basically, outside
release and get to hole between safety and corner versus
press, or use weave to pin corner on hip and fade to ball
outside if coverage is soft.
#2 (TRIPS) SEAM. Take best possible release past defender over you,
favoring outside. Straighten back up and look for ball in void
behind him, throttling down slightly to stay open.
#3 (TRIPS) GET OPEN. You have freedom within the area 7 yards or
deeper over or inside your alignment. If there is no FS in deep
middle, get deep inside. Sit in hole versus zone; flat across
versus man.
#1 FADE.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SEAM.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 QUICK STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. Find best side and work it.
K Fade if isolated, fade to seam off safety versus cover 2 and 4.
Possible throw off of FS from seam to seam versus cover 3.

52

54
 1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) STOP. Release and push upfield just like a fade, at 9-10 yards,
look back for ball and lay hands out. When you see the corner
turn upfield, plant outside foot, open inside, and accelerate
downhill to the outside.
#2 (TRIPS) SEAM. Basic seam technique, except this time with the
emphasis that you want to inhibit any short defender over you
from working outside, so outside release and collision if
necessary.
#3 (TRIPS) GET OPEN. You have freedom within the area 7 yards or
deeper over or inside your alignment. If there is no FS in deep
middle, get deep inside. Sit in hole versus zone; flat across
versus man.
#1 STOP.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SEAM.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 BIG STEPS AND HOLD. 1 STEP AND HOLD IN GUN. Pick a side
K based on matchup, field width, or underneath coverage width.
Throw stop unless under coverage gets in lane beneath it, if
that happens, then throw the seam.

55
 53

1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) SLANT. Push to 5-6 yards at the outside shoulder of the corner,
use a strong head and shoulder nod to the outside to get
separation from your defender, plant off your outside foot and
break in at a flat angle inside.
#2 (TRIPS) SLANT. Push to 5-6 yards and angle inside the defender over
you. Your angle has to be skinny enough to avoid next LB
inside, flat enough to inside a cover 2 hash safety.
#3 (TRIPS) SHOOT. Get flat and outside quickly, after push up field of no
more than 1-2 yards. Look for the ball immediately, get the
sideline, and turn up for R.A.C.
#1 SLANT.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SHOOT.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 BIG STEPS. 1 STEP FROM GUN. Basic idea is to take best
K available slant lane, dumping to shoot if flat coverage hangs in
the hole. From trips, think shoot first or backside.

56
 54

1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) QUICK OUT. Drive at the outside shoulder of the corner, snap
around to quick out second time outside foot hits the ground.
Fade if pressed.
#2 (TRIPS) SEAM. Take best possible release past defender over you,
favoring outside. Straighten back up and look for ball in void
behind him, throttling down slightly to stay open.
#3 (TRIPS) GET OPEN. You have freedom within the area 7 yards or
deeper over or inside your alignment. If there is no FS in deep
middle, get deep inside. Sit in hole versus zone; flat across
versus man.
#1 QUICK OUT/FADE READ.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SEAM.
(DOUBLES)

57
 QUARTERBAC 3 QUICK STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. Basic read is the flat defender,
K throwing quick out unless he gets width. If he widens hit the
seam in the ear hole in a hurry.

55

1 1
2 3 2
#3 (#2 OF 2)#2 (#1 OF 2)
-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 GO. Split at least 16 yards outside and run a go.
(PLAYSIDE)
#2 SHOOT. Get flat and outside quickly, after push upfield of no
(PLAYSIDE) more than 1-2 yards. Look for the ball immediately, get the
(#1) sideline, and turn up for R.A.C.
#3 TURN. Release upfield 5-6 yards, using best available release.
(PLAYSIDE) Be aware of the defender inside you, and wall him off, turning
(#2) your back to him as you plant and spin outside, ready for the

58
 ball.
#1 SLANT. Push to 5-6 yards, use a strong head and shoulder nod
(BACKSIDE) to the outside to get separation from your defender, plant off
your outside foot and break in at a skinny angle.
#2 SPLIT. Basic job is to get deep quickly through defense, 20-25
(BACKSIDE) yards deep over the ball. Split cover 2, replace safety that
leaves. If a window opens underneath on your way, settle and
look for ball.

QUARTERBAC 3 QUICK STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. The read will happen fast, look
K for the turn first unless first short defender walls him from
outside. Alert for backside slant if LB’s slide to formation.

56

1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) HITCH. Push at the defender over you, plant and snap your
head inside at 6. Fade versus cover 2. Fade if pressed.

59
 #2 (TRIPS) SEAM. Take best possible release past defender over you,
favoring outside. Straighten back up and look for ball in void
behind him, throttling down slightly to stay open.
#3 (TRIPS) GET OPEN. You have freedom within the area 7 yards or
deeper over or inside your alignment. If there is no FS in deep
middle, get deep inside. Sit in hole versus zone; flat across
versus man.
#1 HITCH/FADE READ.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SEAM.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 QUICK STEPS. 1 STEP FROM GUN. Basic read is the flat
K defender, throwing hitch unless he gets width. If he widens hit
the seam on the ear hole in a hurry.

57

60
POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) SHORT. Angle to a spot 3 yards deep over #2’s position and
look for ball. If defender over #2 leaves, you need to arrive as
he does. Versus zone, go straight to spot, versus man, push up
and use double misdirection move.
#2 (TRIPS) SLANT. Push to 5-6 yards at the outside shoulder of the corner,
use a strong head and shoulder nod to the outside to get
separation from your defender, plant off your outside foot and
break in at a flat angle inside.
#3 (TRIPS) SLANT. Push to 5-6 yards and angle inside the defender over
you. Your angle has to be skinny enough to avoid next LB
inside, flat enough to inside a cover 2 hash safety.
#1 SHORT.
(DOUBLES)
#2 SLANT.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 BIG STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. Read defender over #2. If he

K collapses and turns in with slant hit the short quickly. If he
hangs, drill the slant outside the next LB.

61
 58

1 1

2 3 2

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) HITCH. Run a 6-yard hitch, regardless of the corner’s
alignment. Expect the ball. Exception: If no one is inside you
running a quick smash over the top, fade if pressed.
#2 (TRIPS) QUICK SMASH. Your goal is to get into a hole halfway between
the corner and safety. Push to no more than 5-6 yards, nod to
lose under coverage, and get there.
#3 (TRIPS) GET OPEN. You have freedom within the area 7 yards or
deeper over or inside your alignment. If there is no FS in deep
middle, get deep inside. Sit in hole versus zone; flat across
versus man.
#1 HITCH RUN IT.
(DOUBLES)
#2 QUICK SMASH.
(DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 BIG STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. Pick a side and throw the hitch
K on time unless he closes, in which case, lead the quick smash
to an open spot. Be aware of a wide cover 3 flat player.

62
 59

1 1
2 3 2

-Doubles Rule- -Trips Rule-

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 (TRIPS) FADE. Distinct technique based on coverage, basically, outside
release and get to hole between safety and corner versus
press, or use weave to pin corner on hip and fade to ball
outside if coverage is soft.
#2 (TRIPS) SEAM. Know whom you are trying to beat, either short flat
defender in cover 3, or hash safety in cover 2 or 4. This
dictates when and if you throttle and look for the ball. Get a
clean release and attack quickly.
#3 (TRIPS) BREAK OUT AT 6. Push to 6 and break out, coming right off
seam’s hip. Use misdirection move, collision versus man
coverage. If a zone defender waits outside of you, settle and
turn back inside to void.
#1 FADE.
(DOUBLES)
#2 BREAK OUT AT 6.

63
 (DOUBLES)

QUARTERBAC 3 QUICK STEPS. 1 STEP IN GUN. In general, work fade to out

K off corner’s movement, favoring out if he is soft. Versus cover
2 you may work fade-seam off safety in some cases.

61

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 NUMBERS GO. Work deep upfield to a landmark along the top
(PLAYSIDE) half, using your weave to gain outside leverage on your
defender. Versus press, work hard for outside release.
#2 HASH GO. Get a clean release, and get vertical and deep 1-2
(PLAYSIDE) yards outside the hash. If a FS works away from you or a hash
1 2
safety crosses your face, look for the ball, but do not lose
1
speed.
-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION,
2
SHOOT.
3
Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.

64
(FROM If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.
BACKFIELD)

#3 OPPOSITE HASH. Get over the top of LB’s quickly 10-12 yards
(PLAYSIDE) deep, get within a yard of the opposite hash and turn up,
(IN FORMATION)
looking for the ball.

#1 NUMBERS GO.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 HASH GO.
(BACKSIDE)
QUARTERBAC 5 QUICK STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Versus a single FS, work him
K to one side with your body language and throw to the opposite
hash go. Versus cover 2, pick a side and work the safety
numbers go to hash go.

62

1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 POST. Your job is to take the top off the defense quickly.

65
 (PLAYSIDE) Reduce your split somewhat, release cleanly, favoring inside,
and get deep over the ball’s original position as quickly as
possible.
#2 MESH. Push upfield 1 step and then set the mesh’s depth at 6
(PLAYSIDE) yards or less. Run your route in front of the MLB. #1BS will
come underneath you. Settle in the first hole you come to after
you mesh with #1BS versus zone; keep running versus man.
Flare it upfield when you get outside the hash.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION, SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.
#1 MESH. Push upfield 1 step and mesh underneath #2PS. Settle
(BACKSIDE) in the first hole you come to after you mesh with #2PS versus
zone; keep running versus man. Flare it upfield when you get
outside the hash.
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(BACKSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.

QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Read the mesh, throwing to the
K one who gets the cleanest separation or whose zone was
vacated.

63

66
 1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 DIG. Reduce your split somewhat. Push vertical to 10 yards,
(PLAYSIDE) stick the route, push toward the post for 5 yards, stick the
route, and dig across. Settle in the first hole versus zone, run
versus man.
#2 CENTER. Release inside and run vertical for 10 yards and then
(PLAYSIDE) break across. Keep running versus man, settle in first hole
outside box versus zone.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.
#1 POST. Your job is to take the top off the defense quickly.
(BACKSIDE) Reduce your split somewhat, release cleanly, favoring inside,
and get deep over the ball’s original position as quickly as
possible.
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. SHALLOW CROSS. Take best
(BACKSIDE) possible release, run shallow cross at 3 yards.

QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Look deep through middle,

K reading FS for post to dig, then underneath for center to
shallow cross. Versus cover 2, look underneath for center to
shallow cross.

67
 64

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 OUT. Drive at the outside shoulder of the corner, snap around
(PLAYSIDE) to quick out third time outside foot hits the ground. Fade if
pressed.
1 2
#2 OPTION OVER BALL. Release inside, sell crossing route 1
pushing
(PLAYSIDE) to 8-10 yards. Settle over the ball versus zone, snap around
-BACKSIDE-
and keep running versus man. -PLAYSIDE-
2 3
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. STOP. Release upfield, angling for
(PLAYSIDE) a spot halfway between #1 and EMLOS. Read #1, if he runs an
out, run a stop at 2-3 yards deep, spotting up halfway between
EMLOS and #1. If he runs corner, run flat at 2-3 yards deep.
#1 OUT.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. STOP.
(BACKSIDE)

QUARTERBAC 5 QUICK STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Pre-snap look for best-

K located safety; work outside in to that side, zeroing in on out. If
you have a lane to hit him, hit him. If not drop the ball off to
stop. Versus cover 2 pick a side, high to low on the corner.
Versus any man coverage, go to #2PS on option route.

68
 65

1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 GO. Get a good, wide alignment, get a clean release and
(PLAYSIDE) accelerate straight up the sideline. Do not look back unless you
break completely into the clear.
#2 SAIL. Push to 10-12 yards, and break outside based on
(PLAYSIDE) coverage. Versus man, push hard to inside and break back
outside. Angle deep zone. Sit out versus press corner.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION, SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.
#1 POST. Your job is to take the top off the defense quickly.
(BACKSIDE) Reduce your split somewhat, release cleanly, favoring inside,
and get deep over the ball’s original position as quickly as
possible.
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. SHALLOW CROSS. Take best
(BACKSIDE) possible release, run shallow cross at 3 yards.

69
 QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 IN GUN. Key SS, read flat coverage peek at go,
K and work sail to shoot. If FS flashes over sail, hit post behind
him.

66

1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 CURL. Release inside, run a curl 13 yards back to 10 yards.
(PLAYSIDE) Push vertically for 13 yards, stick the route, come back down
the stem to 10 yards and settle to grass.
#2 CURL. Release inside, run an 8-15 yard curl route, getting open
(PLAYSIDE) between the hashes. Sell a crossing route, when you get MLB
turned, stick and separate back to the ball. Settle to a hole
inside or outside.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION, SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.

70
#1 CURL.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION, SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(BACKSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.

QUARTERBAC FIVE BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Key MLB through FS, if either
K goes hard weakside, throw strongside, reading inside out, #1PS
curl to #2PS curl to #3PS shoot. If both stay middle, throw
weakside, reading outside in, #1BS curl to #2BS shoot to #2PS
curl. Keep the ball down on curl.

67

1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 CORNER. Push inside at a 45-degree angle for 4 steps. Push
(PLAYSIDE) vertical to 10 yards, stick the route and break to the corner
away from coverage. Versus cover 3, speed cut at 10-12 yards.

71
 #2 READ SEAM. Vertical release, look for a vertical seam. Hold
(PLAYSIDE) any hash safety; if he widens and leaves bend slightly inside. If
someone stays over the top and stops seam, hook tightly, get
in a hole.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. FLAT. Release upfield, angling for a
(PLAYSIDE) spot halfway between #1 and EMLOS. Read #1, if he runs
corner run flat at 2-3 yards deep. If he runs an out, run a stop
at 2-3 yards deep, spotting up halfway between EMLOS and #1.
#1 CORNER.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. FLAT.
(BACKSIDE)

QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Versus cover 2, pick a side and
K read across the field, throwing opposite of where the safeties
go. Versus cover 3, read like 64.

68

1 2

72 1

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3
POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 RITA. Sell a fade for 5 yards, and then return on the same path.
(PLAYSIDE) Bring it in about 2 yards from original alignment.
#2 CORNER. Release outside and push the route vertical 8-10
(PLAYSIDE) yards, stick the route, break to the corner at an angle away
from the coverage.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. READ SEAM. Vertical release, look
(PLAYSIDE) for a vertical seam. Hold any hash safety; if he widens and
leaves bend slightly inside. If someone stays over the top and
stops seam, hook tightly, get in a hole.
#1 LISA.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. CORNER.
(BACKSIDE)

QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS IN GUN. Pick a side keying the corner. If
K he comes up, hit the corner route behind him. If he backs up,
hit the Rita or Lisa route in front of him.

69

73
 1 2

-BACKSIDE- -PLAYSIDE-
2 3

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 POST. Your job is to take the top off the defense quickly.
(PLAYSIDE) Reduce your split somewhat, release cleanly, favoring inside,
and get deep over the ball’s original position as quickly as
possible.
#2 CROSS. Run a crossing route, if you were to run out of bounds,
(PLAYSIDE) you would be 18-22 yards deep. Run under SLB, over MLB.
Versus zone settle in the first hole after MLB. Versus man,
convert to a center route, sticking the route at 10 yards and
keep running. If MLB blitzes, convert to a shallow cross, looking
quickly for the ball.
#3 CHECK PASS PROTECTION, SHOOT. Check pass protection, run
(PLAYSIDE) a shoot route to the numbers and settle. Expect the ball early.
If you can make 10 yards call for the ball.
#1 GO. Get a good, wide alignment, get a clean release and
(BACKSIDE) accelerate straight up the sideline. Do not look back unless you
break completely into the clear.
#2 CHECK PASS PROTECTION. SHOOT.
(BACKSIDE)

QUARTERBAC 5 BIG STEPS. 3 STEPS FROM GUN. Read weakside, go to cross

K to shoot. Be prepared to throw post if FS flashes toward cross.

74
 SCREENS

• OFFENSIVE LINEMEN: Stop the feet of the defensive linemen and

then release. Take a flat path. You can work up field if you are too
shallow, but you cannot work back.

 If you miss your man or your man is not there, work up

field or outside to the next one. Never chase a man you miss,
you will not get there in time.

 Regardless of whom you man is, block anyone who crosses

your face. This man is an immediate threat to the play.

 Get your head on the side where you expect the ball
carrier.

• BALL CARRIER: Any receiver is a potential quick screen receiver.

Sell up field to loosen the defender, but be sure to catch the ball
behind the line of scrimmage.

 After the catch make 5 yards before you make your cut.
This allows the blocks time to engage. Now decide whether to
cut inside or up the sideline. If you cut inside, go at about a 45-
degree angle. Get behind the butts of the offensive linemen.
This lane will be hard to see because there will be bodies
everywhere, but there will be a lane. Always go inside if you are
unsure about the outside lane. You should go inside about 75%
of the time. Once you get inside and you run into traffic, break it
hard back outside until you find another lane.

 If you cut up the sideline make sure you can see the lane.
If you cannot see it, it is not there and you need to cut inside. If
you go up the sideline a ways and run into traffic, then break it
hard inside until you find another lane.

75
• RECEIVER NEXT TO THE BALL CARRIER: Block the most dangerous
man. It is your job to insure the catch. Sometimes it is the man
over you and sometimes it is the man over the ball carrier.
Eliminate the man that can make the play first.

RANDY (LARRY)

WE THROW RANDY (LARRY) TO ANY RECEIVER.

THE SCHEME IS THE SAME

FS

C C
$ B B $
E N T E

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 Randy. Push upfield 1 step and then retreat back behind the
(PLAYSIDE) line of scrimmage. Catch the ball and make 5 yards upfield.
Find the alley inside or up the sideline.
#2 Block the most dangerous man. In this case $, get your head
(PLAYSIDE) outside.
#1 Fake Lisa. Work inside to get corner, if cannot get him work up
(BACKSIDE) to the safety.
#2 Try to block $. If you cannot get him, work up to the safety.
(BACKSIDE)

76
FB Block DE. Get your head outside, making sure to keep his
hands down.
QB 1 STEP. Throw a sharp, quick ball to #1.
LT Show pass and draw DE upfield.
LG Block the DT. Count “1001, 1002.” Release and block B. If he
is not there, work upfield.
C Block anyone that comes. Count “1001, 1002.” Release and
block B. If he is not there work upfield.
RG Stop the feet of the DT. Count “1001, 1002.” Cut the first
person you see outside. Work upfield if everyone is blocked.
RT Take a path inside the DE and block the outside man or the first
person that crosses your face. In this case the corner. Be too
flat, not too deep.

RITA (LISA)

RITA (LISA) GO TO #1

FS

C C
$ B B $
E N T E

POSITION ASSIGNMENT
#1 Sell a wide fade route for 3 steps. Retrace your steps and catch
(PLAYSIDE) the ball behind the LOS. Cut off the butt of the RG. Find a lane.
When you run inside, break hard inside or outside.
#2 Sell vertical to loosen the defender over the top of you. Go

77
 (PLAYSIDE) vertical about the distance that the corner is off Z. Then go
block the corner.
#1 Release outside the corner and try to block the safety.
(BACKSIDE)
#2 Block the safety.
(BACKSIDE)
FB Line up on the side of the play. Show run to the opposite side
and block anyone who shows outside the LT’s block.
QB 3 QUICK STEPS. Throw the ball to Z. If you do not have a lane
initially continue to drop.
LT Show pass. Draw the DE upfield.
LG Show pass. Stop feet of DT. Count “1001, 1002.” Release flat
and block B or first man that crosses your face. If no one is
there work upfield.
C Show pass. Block anyone that comes. Count “1001, 1002.”
Release flat and block B or first man that crosses your face. If
no one is there work upfield.
RG Show pass. Stop feet of DT. Count “1001, 1002.” Release flat
and block defender over Y. If no one is there work upfield.
RT Show pass. Draw the DE upfield.

In our attempt to adhere to our philosophy of multiplicity through

simplicity, we keep things very elementary within our running game.
This is due to a variety of factors:

• Run the same plays from multiple formations, creating the look of
complexity to the defense, yet keeping things uncomplicated for our
offense.

• A higher level of execution is attained when we only utilize a few

runs, giving us the opportunity to perfect those selected plays.

• Our running game can be condensed into two primary categories

and a handful of secondary categories, with each category having a
set of rules and techniques that are easy to understand and
execute, and that we can carry out from any one of our multitudes
of formations.

78
  Inside Zone

♦ Gut

♦ Belly

♦ Boss

 Outside Zone

♦ Stretch

♦ Option

♦ Sweep

♦ Quick Pitch

 Pop

 Trap

INSIDE ZONE PRINCIPLES

The first principle of our inside and outside zone running game for our
offensive linemen is to understand whether they are COVERED or
UNCOVERED.

• COVERED: Offensive lineman has a defender lined up on him

anywhere from head up to his outside shoulder to the playside.

• UNCOVERED: Offensive lineman does NOT have a defender lined on

him head up or outside shoulder to the playside.

79
• Offensive linemen in our zone running game work primarily in pairs,
so each must carry out his technique while at the same time having
eyes the linebacker they are responsible for, FOUR EYES ON THE
LINEBACKER.

• TECHNIQUES

 STRETCH-BASE: The COVERED offensive lineman’s first

step is laterally, without losing ground, to the playside. His
second step is at the defender’s crotch, without crossing over.
He strikes at the breastplate of the defender with his thumbs up.
Take the defender where he wants to go.

 STRETCH-DOUBLE: The UNCOVERED offensive lineman’s

first step is at the defender. His second step is at a point directly
behind the near foot of the defender. If the defender plays
straight ahead, an inside-out double team occurs.

 Although the linebacker is technically the responsibility of

the uncovered lineman, he still must stay with the double team
until he reaches the linebacker or until the linebacker comes to
him.

 The covered and uncovered theory holds true for everyone

on the line of scrimmage except for the backside tackle. He will
execute a stretch-double with the backside guard if the guard is
covered.

 If side by side linemen are both covered, the one nearest

to the playside is on his own.

 If the playside guard, tackle, or tight end have a down

defender lined up in an inside shade on them they should get
after them immediately, stepping at the defender with the inside
foot.

80
 32/22 GUT

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Open playside, and get ball deep to
ball carrier, boot away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step, plant and square up to
press the line of scrimmage, on your
third step aiming over the outside leg
of the playside guard.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run
downfield to daylight.
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

81
 22/32 GUT

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Hop back and open to the backside,
stare down the defensive end away
from the play, hand off the ball, and
boot away from the play.
• On Gut Read, read the backside
defensive end, and hand off or keep
the ball accordingly.
• On Gut Read Option, read the force
defender, while attacking his inside
foot. If he attacks you pitch to the
back. If he drops or covers the back
tug the ball and head upfield.
• Versus backside blitz on Gut Read,
hand off or throw hot adjustment.
Ball Carrier:
• Open with the playside foot, roll on
your 2nd step, and plant and square
up to press the line of scrimmage, on
your third step aiming over the
outside leg of the playside guard.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run

82
 downfield to daylight.
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

32/22 GUT

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• 80/90 action, get ball back deep to
ball carrier, sliding the ball into the
pocket he has made, continue sprint
out after hand off.

Ball Carrier:
• Open up to outside, get big making a
pocket for QB to slide to ball into, and
wait for QB to bring ball back to you.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run
downfield to daylight.

83
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

32 BELLY

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Reverse out, and get ball deep to ball
carrier, boot away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step, plant and square up to
press the line of scrimmage, on your
third step aiming over the outside leg

84
 of the playside guard.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run
downfield to daylight.
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

23 BOSS

$ B B $
E N T E

QB: • Boss may only be run from 2 back

sets.
• Open playside, and get ball deep to
ball carrier, boot away from play. • Back blocks overhang, if no overhang,
block first linebacker inside.

85
Ball Carrier:
• Slide step, plant and square up to
press the line of scrimmage, on your
third step aiming over the outside leg
of the playside guard.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run
downfield to daylight.
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

33 BOSS

$ B B $
E N T E

QB: • Boss may only be run from 2 back

sets.
• Reverse out, get ball deep to ball
carrier, boot away from play. • Back blocks overhang, if no overhang,
block first linebacker inside.

86
Ball Carrier:
• Slide step, plant and square up to
press the line of scrimmage, on your
third step aiming over the outside leg
of the playside guard.
• Do not cut back until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line. Attack
the line of scrimmage hard and run
downfield to daylight.
• Stay close to piles while cutting back
upfield.

OUTSIDE ZONE PRINCIPLES

• TECHNIQUES

 RIP-REACH: The COVERED offensive lineman takes a hard

step at a 45-degree angle to the defender’s outside number. He
locks on with his inside arm, and stays on his block until he feels
the uncovered lineman take control of the defender. He then
forces his stomach upfield and releases to the linebacker.

 REACH-OVERTAKE: The UNCOVERED offensive lineman’s

first step is at a 45-degree angle to the defender’s inside
number, and works himself to the defender’s outside shoulder,
overtaking the covered lineman’s man.

 If the playside tackle and tight end are both covered, the
tight end knows he has no help and that he must maintain his
block.

87
  The covered and uncovered theory holds true for everyone
on the line of scrimmage except for the backside tackle. He will
execute a reach-overtake with the backside guard if the guard is
covered.

 If side by side linemen are both covered, the one nearest

to the playside is on his own.

28/38 STRETCH

88
 $ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Open playside, stretch to get ball as
deep as possible to ball carrier, boot
away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step playside, attack the inside
leg of the tight end, while reading
block. If he reaches the defensive
end, cut outside. If the defensive end
strings the play out, jam underneath
and get upfield.
• Do not make cut until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line.

89
 28/38 STRETCH

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Stare down the defensive end away
from the play. Hand off the ball and
boot away from the play.
• On Stretch Read, read the backside
defensive end and hand off or keep
the ball accordingly.
• Versus backside blitz on Stretch Read,
hand of or throw adjustment
accordingly.
• On Stretch Read Option, read the
force defender, while attacking his
inside foot. If he attacks you pitch to
the back. If he drops or covers the
back tug the ball and head upfield.
Ball Carrier:
• Attack the inside leg of the tight end,
while reading block. If he reaches the
defensive end, cut outside. If the
defensive end strings the play out,
jam underneath and get upfield.
• Do not make cut until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line.

90
 38 STRETCH

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Reverse out, get ball deep to ball
carrier, boot away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step playside, attack the inside
leg of the tight end, while reading
block. If he reaches the defensive
end, cut outside. If the defensive end
strings the play out, jam underneath
and get upfield.
• Do not make cut until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line.

91
 29/39 STRETCH

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Open playside, stretch to get ball as
deep as possible to ball carrier, boot
away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step playside, attack the inside
leg of the ghost tight end, while
reading block. If he reaches the
defensive end, cut outside. If the
defensive end strings the play out,

92
 jam underneath and get upfield.
• Do not make cut until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line.

39 STRETCH

QB:
• Reverse out, get ball deep to ball
carrier, boot away from play.

Ball Carrier:
• Slide step playside, attack the inside
leg of the ghost tight end, while
reading block. If he reaches the
defensive end, cut outside. If the

93
 defensive end strings the play out,
jam underneath and get upfield.
• Do not make cut until you reach the
heel line of the offensive line.

18 OPTION

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Push off backside foot, take a deep
reach step, get off the midline and
gather step.
• Attack the outside shoulder of option
man.
• Bingo to best edge.

94
Ball Carrier:
• Freeze until QB’s second step hits the
ground, sprint to pitch relationship.

28/48 SWEEP

FS

C C
$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Snap ball when motion man reaches
guard/center gap.
• Open to ball carrier and hand off,
boot away.

Ball Carrier:

95
• Automatic 0 or 1 motion, motions at
85% speed to guard/center gap.
• Receive hand off, push off inside foot
to gain depth, read block, either
getting to the sideline or making a
hard cut up inside.

28/38 QUICK PITCH

$ B B $
E N T E

QB: QUICK PITCH RULES:

• Turn and pitch, follow with pop fake.
• Bingo to best edge.
• Playside guard and reach man on, or
reach linebacker if they are
uncovered.
• Playside tackle pulls and either block
force or seals the linebacker.
• Everyone from the center backside
follows outside zone rules.

Ball Carrier:
• You need to get right behind pulling
tackle to cut off of his block.

96
 21/31 POP

$ B B $
E N T E

QB: Pop Rules:

• Fake QP with hard step; this clears
the way for the ball carrier.
Ball Carrier:
• Everyone covered or with a player
shaded to their outside gap turns that
man out.
• Everyone uncovered or with a man
shaded to their inside gap blocks the
linebacker to their side.
• The linebacker on the quick pitch side
is the last person accounted for.

97
• Shuffle and go hard between center
and guard, cut back after clearing the
first level.

24/34 DRAW TRAP

$ B B $
E N T E

QB: Trap Rules:

• Drop back action, bring ball back to • Trap the first defensive lineman at or
ball carrier, hand off, continue inside the hole.
dropping back.

98
 • All other defensive linemen from the
center to the playside are blocked
and double-teamed if possible.

Ball Carrier:
• Shuffle 2 steps, wait for QB to bring
ball back to you, drive hard inside
trapping guard’s block, look to make
cut at the 2nd level.

30 TRAP

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:
• Bingo to 3-technique.
• Push off backside foot, take a deep
reach step, get off the midline and

99
 gather step.
• Mesh with ball carrier.
• Run option course playside.
Ball Carrier:
• Drive hard at center’s mid-point,
attack line of scrimmage, looking to
make cut at second level.

30 TRAP OPTION

$ B B $
E N T E

QB:

100
• Push off backside foot, take a deep
reach step, get off the midline and
gather step.
• Mesh with ball carrier.
• Attack outside shoulder of option
man.
HB:
• Freeze until QB’s second step hits the
ground, sprint to pitch relationship.

FB:
• Fake trap; get tackled by playside
linebacker.

101