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Quick Reference
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Breakdown
Off Tackle out of the Split Backs 3WR set is a designed run play with the FB leading through the hole and the ballcarrier reading his block to hit off the tackle to the play side. The diagram shows the offensive line with down blocks and the FB releasing into the alley just ahead of the RB, who takes a slight aim point outside the tackle box. This is a run play, not a play-action or RPO look, so the primary read progression is entirely pre-snap: identify the box count and run fit, then let the FB's block dictate whether you bounce it outside or press it downhill inside the tackle.
Defensive Reads
Watch the linebacker depth pre-snap, if they are stacked tight to the line in a run-blitz alignment, this play is likely to get blown up before the FB can seal the edge. Check for extra defenders in the box, base 4-3 or 3-4 looks with only six in the box are ideal for this concept while eight-man fronts will stuff it. Post-snap, key the play side defensive end and outside linebacker, if they crash down hard on the FB's block, the running lane outside the tackle will open up for a bounce. User-controlled defenders flowing hard downhill can be baited by the FB's initial path, use that aggression against the defense by cutting away from the flow. Cover 1 or Cover 3 with an extra run blitzer at the second level is the biggest threat to this play, since it adds a fast, unblocked defender to the point of attack.
Usage Tips
Check the defensive box count before the snap and only run this into light boxes of six or fewer defenders to avoid a stacked front.
Use the FB lead block as your key, if the FB gets immediate penetration or gets stood up, bounce the run outside the tackle rather than forcing it inside.
This works best on early downs, especially first and second and short to medium, when defenses are more likely to sit in base personnel instead of nickel or dime.
Pair this with FB Belly from the same set to keep defenders guessing between two similar-looking lead run concepts, forcing linebackers to hesitate on their run fits.
Mix in Slants or Curls Read Special after a few successful Off Tackle runs to punish linebackers who start creeping up to stop the run.
