This is one way to run a Power Option out of Split Backs. The Split Backs formation pulls defenders into the middle of the field. If you have a lot of speed, backs can turn the corner and get upfield with relative ease.
What makes this a "Power" Option is that both Defensive Linemen (DL) are accounted for at the point of attack. In traditional Option plays in tackle football, the back-side DL is left unblocked. Some flag football teams find that quick DLs will blow up an Option play behind the line when left unblocked. "Power" Option allows your team enough time for the play to develop.
Admittedly, this play has a lot of moving parts. Ironically, Power Option was one of our most successful Option plays because of its slow development.
1. The QB must take 1-2 steps forward after the snap. This encourages an inside rush, keeping defenders inside, and also makes room for the Running Back to sprint play-side behind the QB.
2. The real surprise is the Center blocking the back-side rusher. This block impedes the back-side DL and also freezes the Safety in coverage in the middle of the field. The Safety's confusion lifts after 1-2 seconds, and the Safety peels off to pursue play-side, but that delay is all you need to get the QB and pitch man in position.
3. The play-side back blocks the DL to the inside. The DL sees an open path to the QB and often bull rushes the QB at the step up. The QB then changes direction behind the blocker. DLs often collide with the blocker in this tangle, so plant your feet, blockers! It's considered incidental contact if your hands are clasped behind your back and your feet are rooted to the ground.
4. The defense is now trailing the play, pursuing inside out with the Safety and two trailing DLs. The QB must cut upfield, attack the nearest Safety, and force them to commit to the flag pull.
5. With the nearest Safety locked on the QB and the DLs in trailing positions, the QB pitches to the running back. The running back is now into the defensive secondary at almost full speed.
The play assumes all things are essentially equal in talent/skill between you and your opponent. If you are playing against a far more talented team or a much faster defense, stick with plays that are simple to execute.
What Option plays work well for your team? Share your thoughts in the comments box or via Twitter @MyCoachArt, or on Facebook on the "Winning Flag Football" page.
What makes this a "Power" Option is that both Defensive Linemen (DL) are accounted for at the point of attack. In traditional Option plays in tackle football, the back-side DL is left unblocked. Some flag football teams find that quick DLs will blow up an Option play behind the line when left unblocked. "Power" Option allows your team enough time for the play to develop.
Admittedly, this play has a lot of moving parts. Ironically, Power Option was one of our most successful Option plays because of its slow development.
1. The QB must take 1-2 steps forward after the snap. This encourages an inside rush, keeping defenders inside, and also makes room for the Running Back to sprint play-side behind the QB.
2. The real surprise is the Center blocking the back-side rusher. This block impedes the back-side DL and also freezes the Safety in coverage in the middle of the field. The Safety's confusion lifts after 1-2 seconds, and the Safety peels off to pursue play-side, but that delay is all you need to get the QB and pitch man in position.
3. The play-side back blocks the DL to the inside. The DL sees an open path to the QB and often bull rushes the QB at the step up. The QB then changes direction behind the blocker. DLs often collide with the blocker in this tangle, so plant your feet, blockers! It's considered incidental contact if your hands are clasped behind your back and your feet are rooted to the ground.
4. The defense is now trailing the play, pursuing inside out with the Safety and two trailing DLs. The QB must cut upfield, attack the nearest Safety, and force them to commit to the flag pull.
5. With the nearest Safety locked on the QB and the DLs in trailing positions, the QB pitches to the running back. The running back is now into the defensive secondary at almost full speed.
The play assumes all things are essentially equal in talent/skill between you and your opponent. If you are playing against a far more talented team or a much faster defense, stick with plays that are simple to execute.
What Option plays work well for your team? Share your thoughts in the comments box or via Twitter @MyCoachArt, or on Facebook on the "Winning Flag Football" page.
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