Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
FB Dive Weak out of the Near Jumbo set lines up the fullback directly behind the QB with the TE attached to the weak side of the line, showing heavy run blocking with the offensive line stepping into a downhill dive scheme. The diagram shows the fullback taking the handoff and hitting the weakside gap immediately, with the line blocking down and creating a natural crease rather than pulling. This is a straightforward inside run play built to attack light boxes and gap fits, with the primary read being the weakside A or B gap crease off the fullback's first step.
Defensive Reads
Key the weakside defensive tackle and linebacker depth before the snap, since stacked fronts with a linebacker crowding the line kill this run immediately. Watch for a user-controlled Mike linebacker sitting in the gap, as that defender is the primary threat to blow up the dive before the fullback gets to the hole. Identify whether the defense is in a run-fit front like 46 or Bear, both of which clog the interior gaps this play is designed to hit. Look for safeties creeping down into the box pre-snap, which signals run support and should discourage calling this play. Post-snap, track linebacker flow direction since fast flow to the play side means the crease closes before the fullback can plant and go.
Usage Tips
Use this play when the defense shows a light box with six or fewer defenders and no extra run support near the weak side.
Check the alignment of the weakside linebacker and defensive tackle pre-snap since a wide 9-technique or blitzing backer opens the crease faster.
Snap the ball quickly after the read to prevent user defenders from flowing over the top and filling the dive lane.
Pair this play with FB Dive and HB Inside from the same Jumbo Near set to keep defenders guessing on run direction without changing personnel.
Save this call for short yardage and goal line situations where the defense is forced to respect play action, since the heavy formation naturally sets up PA Strong Flow afterward.
