Read Option

Pre-snap, identify whether the defense is in a true base front with a standalone edge defender or if there is a scrape exchange linebacker lurking behind him to take away the QB keeper. Watch the play side defensive end's first two steps after the snap since crashing hard down the line is the signal to pull and keep, while sitting square or shuffling is the signal to give. Man coverage on the bunch receivers can be exploited if the offense chooses to audible into a pass concept, but as a run play the bigger concern is a blitzing linebacker filling the alley before the QB can turn upfield. Defenses that load the box with an eighth defender or run a contain blitz off the edge take away both options and should be countered with a hot route pass check or a different play call. If the safety rotates down into the box pre-snap, expect extra run support and be ready to pull the ball only if the alley defender is still accounted for by a blocker.