Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 12 playbooks
Breakdown
HB Quick Base is a downhill run play out of Shotgun Tight 11 personnel that hands the ball to the HB on a quick dive path directly behind the center. The offensive line blocks base gap assignments with double team potential at the point of attack, aiming to get the running back through the hole before linebackers can fill. This is a pure run play with no route combos or pass options shown in the diagram, designed to attack light boxes and undisciplined gap fits.
Defensive Reads
Key the middle linebacker depth before the snap, if he is stacked tight behind the nose or center he is likely to fill the dive lane immediately. Watch for a heavy box with eight defenders in the box, this is a strong indicator the defense is selling out to stop the run and you should consider an audible. Look at the defensive line alignment, if the interior linemen are shaded into gaps rather than head up on the offensive line, gap penetration will beat this play before the back can get to the hole. Identify blitz packages from the linebackers, a delayed A gap blitz can blow this play up for a loss since the dive path has no misdirection to counter it. Man coverage on the perimeter with safeties creeping into the box signals the defense expects run, so be ready to check to a play-action or RPO from the same personnel if the read presents itself pre-snap.
Usage Tips
Call this play when you see a light box with six or fewer defenders in the run fit, especially against nickel or dime personnel that leaves the middle exposed. Use pre-snap motion or a hard count to draw the defense offside or force linebackers to declare their run fit before the snap. User the fullback or lead blocker if available to seal the first second level defender you see filling the hole. Pair this play with HB Draw and Read Option from the same set to keep defenders guessing on run direction and hesitant to crash down early. Best used on first and second down in short yardage or when you need to establish tempo and force the defense to respect the run before dialing up play-action shots later in the drive.
