Article CategoriesAFM Magazine
|
3 Complementary Plays To The Wishbone Triple Optionby: Paul Anthony MarkowskiFullbacks Coach Simon Fraser University (CAN) © More from this issue The wishbone triple option play is the base play within the greater wishbone triple option offensive philosophy. As its name indicates, it is actually three plays in one. There is a dive option to the fullback, a quarterback keep off-tackle option, and a halfback option pitch play to the perimeter of the field. Triple option teams almost exclusively use this option play over and over again and, in most cases, it has become a very productive offensive force. However, at some point during a game, it does become necessary to “change it up” in order to keep the defense guessing. It is at this point in a game when the triple option complementary plays should be put into the game plan. Here are three triple option complementary plays that can be used at any time during a game. Base Play:
Wishbone Option, Triple Right This play is the base play of the wishbone triple option series of plays. Execution: the quarterback is lined up directly behind the center. The fullback places his down hand exactly two yards behind the QB’s feet. The two halfbacks are split behind the fullback with their feet two yards behind the fullback’s feet and their bodies aligned directly behind the offensive guards.
This play should be run exactly like the base triple play. The only differences in this play are the blocking assignments and the role of the Z receiver. Execution: It is imperative that this play be run to “look” exactly like the base triple play. The beauty of this strategic tactic is to show the defense nothing different as this play gets underway. This will avoid a “tip off” which could give the defense a decided advantage. The play begins with a very quick QB-FB mesh (no long mesh ride) followed by the QB taking the ball parallel along the line of scrimmage towards his supposed “pitch key.”
Complementary Play #2: Wishbone Open, Double Counter Option Left Using counter plays that feed off of the success of any base play has always been a favorite of many great football coaches in the past. The double counter option play is no different as it feeds off of the success of the base triple option play. Execution: The play begins with the QB reversing out and performing a quick mesh with the FB. The play appears to be heading towards the right side of the field (See Diagram 1) as the entire backfield all take their lead steps in that direction. After completing the fake handoff to the FB, the QB reverses his direction and heads towards the pitch key (the DE). Note: it is very important that the offensive left tackle “scrapes” the pitch key before he continues on to his main blocking assignment, the Will linebacker. This “scrape” will delay the attack of the DE on the QB. After making his read, the QB either takes the ball off tackle or pitches the ball to the trailing HB. Complementary Play #3:
Wishbone Open, Z-Slant Corner This play also takes advantage of the defense’s preoccupation with trying to stop the base triple play. Execution: The QB opens up and does a quick QB-FB mesh which should, in theory, keep the linebackers at bay since they will be reading a triple option run play once again. The two HB’s run their assignments like they would in the base triple play. The Z receiver also appears to be headed towards the SS in order to carry out his block during the base triple.
Visit Coach Markowski's Pistol-Flex Triple Option Blog |
|
HOME |
MAGAZINE |
SUBSCRIBE | ONLINE COLUMNISTS | COACHING VIDEOS |
Copyright 2024, AmericanFootballMonthly.com
All Rights Reserved