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Breakdown
Close HB Lead is a power run play out of the I Form Wing set with 22 personnel, showing a tight formation with the wing tucked in close to the offensive line. The blocking scheme sends the fullback through the hole first to lead block for the HB, isolating the play side linebacker while the offensive line seals interior gaps, which is the classic Iso concept. This is a downhill run play designed to beat light boxes and overaggressive linebacker fits, with the primary read being the FB lead blocker's kick out or log block to determine whether the HB cuts front side or bounces backside.
Defensive Reads
Key the middle linebacker depth pre-snap since a linebacker sitting too close to the line signals a run blitz that can be exploited if the FB adjusts his kick out block. Watch for safety rotation into the box, if both safeties stay high the defense is likely in a two high shell that leaves light run support and favors this Iso concept. Post-snap, track whether the play side linebacker scrapes over the top or fills downhill, since a scraping linebacker means the HB should cut backside off the FB's block. This play struggles against odd fronts or 4-3 under looks with a stacked nose tackle since the interior gaps get clogged before the FB can get to the second level. Beware of user-controlled linebackers flying downhill on the snap since a well timed shoot blitz through the A gap can blow up the play before the lead block develops.
Usage Tips
Check the box count before the snap and only run Close HB Lead into 6 or fewer defenders in the box to avoid running into a stacked front.
Use the wing alignment to bait linebackers into overplaying the strong side since the tight wing can suggest extra run support to that edge.
Hot route the FB to adjust his aiming point if you see a blitzing linebacker filling the play side A or B gap pre-snap.
Pair this play with HB Lead Dive or Mtn Power to keep defenses honest on their run fits since both plays share similar formation tells but attack different gaps.
Best used on early downs like first and ten or second and short when you want to establish tempo and force the defense to respect the run before dialing up PA Power O or PA Boot Flow off the same look.
