Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
HB Draw out of I Form Slot Open shows a five man offensive line pass set at the snap to sell dropback pass, with the fullback leading through the hole and the HB delaying before hitting the crease. The line initially retreats into pass pro before engaging run blocks at the second level, drawing linebackers upfield on the play fake before the HB cuts north. This is a pure run play designed to bait aggressive pass rushers and blitzing linebackers, with the primary read being the fullback's lead block: follow him through the initial hole, then bounce outside if the alley is clogged by scraping linebackers.
Defensive Reads
Key the middle linebacker's first step at the snap: if he flows hard toward pass coverage drops or blitzes upfield, that is a green light for a big draw gain. Watch for defensive tackles being replaced by user controlled defenders sitting in the A gaps, since a spy or plugged interior defender kills this run before it starts. Check safety depth pre-snap: two deep shells with linebackers playing downhill run support will squeeze the draw lane and force an early bounce outside. Man coverage with linebackers turning their backs to run support (chasing slot receivers or the fullback in coverage) opens up the natural draw lane up the middle. Beware of user lurk linebackers sitting still and reading the fullback rather than the quarterback, since a disciplined lurk defender can blow up the play at the mesh point.
Usage Tips
Call this on early downs after showing dropback pass concepts from the same personnel to keep the defense honest and guessing run or pass.
Use it heavily against defenses that bring nano blitzes or overload pressure packages, since the delayed handoff lets blitzers run past the play.
Watch linebacker depth pre-snap: if both linebackers are creeping toward the line of scrimmage, this play has a high chance of hitting big because they will overrun the play fake.
Pair HB Draw with Quick Slant and Dagger from the same Slot Open set so the defense respects the quick passing game and stays honest instead of sitting on the draw.
Avoid calling this on obvious passing downs like third and long, since disciplined defenses will diagnose the delayed action and rally fast.
