Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
HB Draw out of Shotgun Bunch Open Offset shows a bunch alignment to the right with a single receiver split wide left, and the running back aligned in the backfield next to the QB with a delayed handoff design. The offensive line sells pass protection for a beat before the RB presses the mesh point and follows his blockers, aiming to freeze the linebackers and defensive line with the play fake before hitting a run lane. This is a pure run play built to counter aggressive pass rushes and blitz packages, with the primary read being the RB identifying which gap the DL and second level defenders vacate as they rush upfield.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify if the defense is showing man coverage with corners pressed on the bunch since that often means fewer defenders are reading run flow. Look for linebackers creeping toward the line of scrimmage as blitz indicators, since HB Draw is designed to exploit blitzes that overcommit vertically. Post-snap, key on the middle linebacker's first step. If he bites on the pass fake and flows toward coverage responsibilities, the draw lane opens immediately. This play struggles against disciplined zone defenses with linebackers staying square and reading the mesh point, so avoid calling it into passive read and react fronts. Watch for a spy or a defender staying home in the box, since a disciplined defensive tackle who holds his gap can blow up the draw before it develops.
Usage Tips
Call this on early downs or in short yardage situations after showing pass heavy tendencies from this same formation to keep the defense honest.
Watch for defensive linemen crashing hard off the snap since HB Draw thrives against overaggressive four man and five man rushes that get too far upfield.
Pair this with RPO Alert Out and RPO Read Bubble from the same set so defenses cannot sit on the run once they see the bunch alignment.
Use manual motion pre-snap sparingly since this concept works best off a clean, quiet look that mimics your dropback pass shots from Bunch Open Offset.
Take control of the fullback or lead blocker if available to seal off a blitzing linebacker and manufacture an extra running lane on the second level.
