The 80\'s Series

Delaware State\'s Run & Pass Option to the Tight End
Head Coach, Delaware State
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One of the most effective run option, pass series used at Delaware State University is our 80’s series to the tightend. This series can be run from a one or two back set. It may be used against any front and is very effective against blitzing defenses. In red zone and short yardage situations, the 80’s series has proved to be an effective scoring weapon. Our blocking schemes for the 80’s series are primarily area based. Because of the area-based rules, defensive fronts that commonly stem should not affect the execution of this series.

First, let’s talk about the run portion of our 80’s series. The play that we use in this portion is called “down.” This play may be executed from a one or two set. Depending on the front, the point of attack is the “C” gap between the offensive tackle and tightend. The particular play incorporates the same backfield movements and quarterback steps as the option and pass portion of the series. The linemen to the playside will execute a “down, down, kickout scheme,” using angles and spacing to create running lanes for the fullback. When a midrange amount of yardage is needed (10 yards or less), this play may be run on first or second down situations.

Diagram 1

“DOWN”

FRONTSIDE BLOCKING RULES
FSWB - Gap, Down, Backer
FSTE - Gap, Down, Backer
FST - Gap, Down, Backer
FSG - Pull, Kick-Out 1st Defense on L.O.S.
Center - Step and Protect Playside “A” Gap

BACKSIDE BLOCKING RULES
BST - “Rip Scoop”
BSG - “Rip Scoop”
BSWR - Cut Off Backside Safety
BS Slot - 3 Step Motion, Carry Out Pitch Fake
FB - Stretch Step to Inside Leg of TE
QB - Reverse, Pivot-Hand Off to FB - Fake Opt

OFFENSIVE LINE ALIGNMENTS
Because we are a Wing-T Offense, our offensive linemen use 2 to 21/2 foot splits, to create blocking angles, and to weaken the core of the defense. We also align our offensive guards and tackles as far off the ball as legally tolerated. This assists our line in recognizing any line movements or stunts and allows our linemen to execute their assignments.

DOWN OPTION
The second phase utilized in the 80’s series is the down option. The down option forces defenses to play assignment football. It is a good choice in second, third and long situations. The blocking scheme for this particular play is area based. The point of attack is the outside perimeter of the defense. We are trying to attack the flank as quickly as possible. The down option play looks exactly like our down play. The difference is a subtle variation in the quarterback’s steps and the path of the frontside guard.

Diagram 2

FRONTSIDE BLOCKING
FSTE - Gap, Down, Backer
FST - Gap, Down, Backer
FSG - Pull, Cut, Log, or Kick Out
Center - Set Playside, Work to Second Level
FSWB - Block Backer to FS

BACKSIDE BLOCKING
BST - “Rip Scoop”
BSG - “Rip Scoop”
BSWR - Cut Off
FB - Run for Inside Foot of Tackle & Block Safety
HB - Leave in Three Step or Back Step Motion Sprint at 1
QB - Reverse Pivot - Fake to FB - Run Option

KEEP PASS

The third and final phase of the down series is the Keep Pass. The Keep Pass offers the quarterback four possible options. Three of those options are pass and the final threat is the quarterback becoming a run threat. We try to incorporate a play action pass threat while attacking the perimeter defenders with the pass. Variations in patterns and alignments may be implemented depending on what you as a coach intends to accomplish.

Diagram 3

BLOCKING ASSIGNMENTS OFFENSIVE LINE
FST - Block on or Reach First Down Lineman
FSG - Block on, Turn Back
Center - Block on, Turn Back
BSG - Turn Back
BST - Turn Back

BACKFIELD ASSIGNMENTS
WB - Sprint to Flat (Look Immediately)
FSTE - Seam Route Inside Release
FB - Bend path for outside foot of guard, Block first man in area
HB - One step motion or three step motion, Block 1st man off corner
QB - Reverse pivot, ride ball to FB, option run or pass
BSWR - Post (15 Yards)

In closing, the down series allows your offense the flexibility of attacking the defense in three different phases (run, option and pass). All three phases initially look the same, so defenses will have trouble recognizing the point of attack. Timing is very important in the execution of this series. Ample practice time should be allotted for all phases of this series. Our players enjoy running the 80’s series because they believe in it. Because of their belief and trust, it has become one of the most successful series in our offensive game plan

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