Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
PA Power O out of Pistol Wing Tight Z sells the Power O run action to the offensive line and backfield before working a three level route concept off the fake. The backside receiver runs a deep crossing route to the opposite sideline, the play side receiver stems vertically before breaking into a deep corner route, and the tight end or wing runs a short comeback or curl in the flat as the checkdown. This is a play-action shot play designed to punish zone defenders who bite on the run fake, with the primary read progression going corner route first, backside crosser second, and the flat route as the built in checkdown against pressure.
Defensive Reads
This concept is built to beat single high shells and defenders who step up hard on run action, so Cover 3 and Cover 1 defenses that overcommit to the play fake are the most vulnerable. Pre-snap, identify if the linebackers are stacked tight to the line, aggressive run fits make them late to their pass drops and open up the crosser and corner route. Post-snap, watch the deep half or deep third defender responsible for the corner route, if he flows toward the run fake even slightly, the corner will be open on time. Cover 2 and Cover 4 shells with disciplined safeties are the toughest matchup for this play since the deep corner route runs directly into help over the top. Watch for a user controlled defender sitting in a lurk spot near the flat or shallow crosser, that defender can jump the underneath routes and bait a bad throw if the quarterback stares down his first read.
Usage Tips
Use this on early downs or in run heavy personnel counts so the play-action fake actually holds linebackers and safeties.
Check the safety depth pre-snap, if both safeties are sitting shallow expecting run support, the corner route has a high chance of hitting over the top.
Pair this with HB Power O and Read Option from the same set so defenses cannot key on run versus pass just from formation and personnel.
If the corner is playing off man or shows soft zone, prioritize the corner route immediately, if the corner sits underneath, work the backside crosser against man coverage leverage.
Use the flat route as your answer versus disguised blitzes or when the pocket collapses quickly, it is the fastest developing throw in the concept.
