Playbooks
Load Option is a run-based option play out of the Flexbone Close formation that combines a lead blocker with a dive and pitch option to attack the edge. The fullback dives inside to draw the read defender while the quarterback options the edge with a pulling blocker leading the way for the pitch to the slot back. This is a run play built to stress a defense's assignment discipline: the primary read is the dive key, typically a defensive end or outside linebacker crashing on the fullback, and the QB reads that defender to decide whether to keep, pitch, or hand off.
Watch the defensive end or edge defender assigned to the dive key before the snap, if he is sitting wide he is likely playing pitch first and will crash the option. Check linebacker depth, if the linebackers are stacked tight to the line this suggests an aggressive run blitz package designed to blow up the dive before the option can develop. Look for safety rotation into the box pre-snap, a single high safety look with the corner playing outside leverage often signals run support that can beat the pitch phase. Post-snap, track the flow of the linebackers, if they overreact to the fullback dive fake the edge is open for the quarterback to pull and option outside. Be aware of user-controlled defenders spying the quarterback, since a disciplined spy can shut down both the keep and pitch options by mirroring the QB's decision.
Attack light boxes and defenses that stack the line to take away the dive, since that opens the pitch lane on the edge.
Use pre-snap motion or a quick glance at the defensive end alignment to identify if the defense is set up to crash down on the fullback or stay disciplined on the option.
Pair Load Option with Midline Triple and Inside Veer Triple Opt in the same play calling sequence so the defense cannot key on one option look, forcing linebackers to hesitate on their reads.
Hot route the slot back on the pitch side to adjust his path if you notice a fast flowing linebacker or a safety rotating down into the box.
Best used on early downs (first and second) or in short yardage situations where defenses are more likely to sell out on stopping the dive, giving you the edge on the pitch.