Playbooks

HB Draw

Shotgun·Spread Flex·11
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This play belongs to no NFL team or scheme playbook, so it may not appear in the in-game builder.

Quick Reference

FormationShotgun

In 1 playbook

Spread Classic

Breakdown

HB Draw out of Shotgun Spread Flex is a delayed run play that shows pass set on the snap before handing off to the HB, designed to exploit aggressive pass rushers and zone drops that flow away from the box. The offensive line pass sets initially then engages defenders at the second level, pulling linebackers and edge rushers upfield before the RB attacks the vacated interior lanes. This is a run play and a change of pace call, not a man or zone beater in the passing sense, and the primary read is the frontside gap first, working back to the backside cutback lane if the initial hole is clogged.

Defensive Reads

Pre-snap, check if the defense is showing a blitz look with linebackers crashing downhill, since HB Draw thrives against overpursuit and disguised pressure. Watch safety depth before the snap, two deep safeties sitting back usually means lighter box counts which favors the draw hitting big. Post-snap, key the defensive tackles and edge rushers, if they are selling hard upfield on a pass rush stunt or twist the draw lane opens immediately behind them. User linebackers who bite on the pass fake and drop into coverage or spy too early leave the middle of the field exposed for the cutback. This play struggles against controlled zone fronts where the defensive line reads run first and linebackers stay square, as well as against a spy or contain defender who stays home on the RB.

Usage Tips

Call this on early downs after you have shown pass looks from this same personnel and formation to keep the defense honest and slow their pass rush trigger.

Use it against defenses that bring five or six man pressure or overload blitzes since the delayed action lets blockers absorb the rush upfield before the RB hits the crease.

Avoid calling HB Draw against disciplined zone teams that key the RB out of the backfield or against heavy run blitz fronts stacked with extra linebackers at the line.

Pair this play with Tear Y Cross, PA Dig, or Four Verticals from the same set so the defense cannot sit on run and must respect the pass first read.

Take what the blocking gives you and do not force the play backside if the frontside double team and linebacker flow open a clean lane, patience is the key to hitting the explosive gain.

Other Plays in Spread Flex