Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
Read Option out of Shotgun Split Close is a true option run play, showing the QB and HB in the backfield with crossing mesh point action indicated by the red and yellow arrow. The offensive line blocks down at the point of attack while the QB reads the edge defender to decide between keeping the ball or handing off to the HB. This is a run play designed to attack the alley by forcing a specific defender to be right almost every time, exploiting undisciplined edge defenders or overpursuing linebackers.
Defensive Reads
Watch the edge defender assigned to the mesh point since his crash or contain decision dictates the entire play. Stacked boxes with eight or more defenders in the box shut this down quickly by eliminating the numbers advantage for the offense. Linebacker depth matters heavily here, if they are sitting shallow and reading run keys fast they will close the alley before the QB can pull and go outside. User controlled defenders spying the QB neutralize the read option threat, so look for a defender hanging back instead of committing to run fits. Outside zone blitzes from the slot or overload fronts on the play side can beat this concept before the QB even makes his decision.
Usage Tips
Identify the defensive end or edge player pre-snap since he is your primary key for the entire play. Use this in run heavy personnel packages on early downs like first and second down to stay ahead of the sticks. If the defense shows a crashing DE or a defender who consistently sits inside, pull the ball and take it outside yourself for explosive yardage. Pair this play with HB Power O and FB Inside in the same set to keep defenders honest on inside runs before hitting them with the option look. Avoid calling this against heavy blitz packages with extra defenders stacked at the line since the numbers advantage disappears and the QB becomes a liability on contact.
