Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
F Lead Read Option out of Pistol Weak is a designed run play built around the zone read mesh point, with the fullback leading through the hole to seal the alley defender. The offensive line executes a zone blocking scheme, working combo blocks to the play side while the QB reads the backside end man on the line to decide between a keep or handoff. This is a run play, not a pass concept, so the primary read progression is the QB reading the edge defender at the mesh point first, then following the FB lead block through the designated gap.
Defensive Reads
Watch for a scrape exchange from the linebackers, if the backside linebacker replaces the crashing end quickly this play gets shut down at the mesh point. Heavy fronts with extra defenders stacked in the box and a downhill safety are the biggest threat to this run since they clog both the give and keep lanes. Spread out light boxes with only six or seven defenders near the line are the ideal shell to attack, especially if the safety is aligned deep and not cheating down. Post snap, key the fullback lead blocker path, if the alley defender squeezes down too fast on the FB it forces a cutback that user defenders can exploit with quick pursuit. Contain defenders who stay disciplined on the edge without over pursuing the keep are the toughest to beat with this concept, since they force the ball back inside into traffic.
Usage Tips
Check the defensive end or outside linebacker alignment before the snap to predict the read option key, if he is crashing hard down the line the keep read opens up wide. Use this play on early downs like first or second and short to medium yardage when defenses are not yet in run funnel fronts. Motion the FB pre-snap if available to get a free read on whether the defense shifts, this tips their run fit intentions. Pair this play with Triple Option and HB Zone Wk from the same set so defenses cannot sit on one specific mesh point read, keeping linebackers honest on flow. If the defense shows a heavy box with extra defenders near the line, consider hot routing or checking to PA Crossers or Slants to attack the light coverage instead.
