Playbooks
Mtn RPO QB Draw is a designed quarterback run wrapped in an RPO shell out of Shotgun Wide Slot Right WK. The motion at the snap manipulates the defense pre-snap while the offensive line executes a draw blocking scheme, allowing the QB to read the box count after the mesh point rather than committing immediately. Because the run action is packaged with a quick RPO throw, this play beats zone defenses that leave the box light and man coverage that follows the motion man out of the core, with the primary read progression being box count and second level flow first, then the RPO throw window if the numbers say pass.
Pre-snap, check safety depth and alignment since two high shells with soft linebackers are prime for the QB draw hitting the open lane. Watch cornerback leverage on the motion man, if the corner follows tightly into man coverage the underneath RPO window opens up for an easy completion. Post-snap, key the linebacker flow, if they crash hard to stop the run the RPO bubble or glance concept behind them becomes the better outlet. Beware disciplined defenses that spy the QB with a linebacker or defensive lineman, since a spy erases the draw lane and forces you into the pass option every time. Blitz packages that send extra rushers up the middle can actually help the QB draw if the edges stay wide, but a well timed A gap blitz combined with man coverage on the outside shuts this play down completely.
Use the motion pre-snap to bait linebackers into flowing with the receiver and confirm whether you are getting man or zone coverage before the snap.
If the defense shows a light box with six or fewer defenders in the run fit, pull the trigger on the QB draw immediately and trust your blocking up front.
If the box is stacked or the defense rotates a safety down late, take the RPO throw instead of forcing the run into a loaded front.
This play pairs well with Mtn RPO QB Power and Inside Zone Split since all three attack downhill gaps and force linebackers to respect run action, setting up Mtn Post Curls or Mtn PA X Post off the same look later.
Best called on second and short or early first down when defenders are more likely to sell out on the pass or bite on the motion.