Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
RPO Alert Strong Power runs a downhill power run scheme to the strong side with the offensive line pulling to lead through the hole, while the alert component keys a single receiver on a quick out breaking route to the flat off the snap. This is an RPO built for a pre snap or post snap alert on a slot or wing defender, giving the quarterback a binary decision between handing off the power run or pulling and hitting the flat throw if that defender crashes down on the run fit. The primary read progression starts with the alert defender over the slot receiver: if he sits or widens for the pass, give the ball on power, if he steps up to fill the run lane, pull and throw the quick out.
Defensive Reads
Watch the slot or wing defender responsible for the alert receiver: if he crashes down into the box pre snap or immediately on the snap, expect the quarterback to pull and throw the flat route. Key the strong side linebacker depth: a linebacker sitting deep in coverage or bailing to zone drop signals the offense will likely hand the ball off into a lighter box. Watch for user controlled defenders flying downhill on the snap to blow up the pulling linemen, since power schemes are vulnerable to fast flowing linebackers who diagnose the play early. Man coverage with an aggressive slot corner squatting on the alert route can bait the quarterback into a bad read, so look for cornerbacks jumping the out route as a way to shut this play down. Stacked boxes with eight defenders in the box take away the power run but can leave the alert route open, so check if the defense is willing to live with that tradeoff.
Usage Tips
Use this play on early downs like first and second and short to medium yardage when defenses are more likely to load the box for run support.
Pre snap, identify the alignment of the slot defender over your alert receiver: if he is sitting inside or shaded to help against power, that is your green light to throw the out route quickly.
If the defense shows a stacked box or a linebacker walked up into the alley pre snap, favor pulling the ball on the RPO read instead of forcing the power run into a bad numbers situation.
Pair this play with Mtn HB Power O and PA Power O in the same set to keep the defense guessing between straight power runs, RPO reads, and play action off the same look.
Hot route the backside receiver on a quick hitch or slant if you expect man coverage, giving you a second answer if the primary alert defender plays the run correctly.
