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Breakdown
Power Option out of Pistol Weak Slot is a designed run play built off a lead option look with the QB and both backs aligned to work the edge. The diagram shows the fullback and HB running parallel paths to the strong side, with the fullback arcing out ahead as the lead blocker while the HB stays tucked behind him for the pitch phase, and the offensive line sliding down to seal gaps on the play side. This is a run-first concept with no route combos shown, so the QB progression is simply read the edge defender: give to the HB on the option pitch if the defender crashes on the QB, or keep it himself and follow the fullback's block if the edge stays wide.
Defensive Reads
Watch the play side defensive end or OLB pre-snap, if he is squeezed inside the tackle box he is likely crashing hard on the dive or pitch key. Post-snap, key the unblocked edge defender's first two steps, if he sits and reads the QB the play is designed to pitch outside quickly. Man coverage with an overhang defender who stays home on the option is the best way to shut this down, since it forces a phase decision without a numbers advantage. Look for user-controlled defenders flowing hard downhill on the fullback's block, if they overcommit the backside cutback lane opens for the ballcarrier. Zone shells with a linebacker scraping flat to the play side can beat this if he stays disciplined and does not bite on the fullback's initial path.
Usage Tips
Use this play on early downs in run-heavy sets to establish tempo and set up the option keys for later in the game.
Check the alignment of the play side defensive end or OLB before the snap, this is your option key for the entire play.
If the defense shows a hard edge crash from a run blitz look, plan to pull it and use the fullback as your personal escort around the corner.
Pair this with Read Option and Lead Read Option from the same set so the defense cannot sit on one option key without getting burned by the other.
Avoid calling this into stacked box looks with extra defenders showing run blitz unless you have a QB with reliable speed to win the edge himself.
