These are some simple things to tweak the play calling and offensive game plan. While the concepts are fairly basic, we need to practice them a lot as part of an expanded game plan until we can really execute this kind of varied attack.
Not in any particular order, here is my list:
1. Develop a more balanced attack now so that when the better teams stop the run game, we have something to fall back upon, a Plan B and C. Mix up the play calling so that they can not over load the box and they can not blitz as frequently without being burned. No more two runs, a pass and a punt. Get a little more creative. We don't want to show too much in these early easier games, but we have to start now so we can do it when needed. Use the QB more and sometimes spread out the receivers. It is easier to pass block five OL against three or four than seven OL on seven.
2. Learn and use the rugby scrum push aka the "Bush push" on finishing short yardage plays. It is legal now in college and the pros. The OL just stays on their man longer, keeps their legs moving, while the FB pushes the QB or the runner from behind. Practice it to minimize the risk of injury. Handy for TDs and first downs.
3. Throw some slant and crossing routes when the defense sets up to protect the outside. When they move in to cut off the slant, then throw some hitches to the outside WR or TE.
4. Get the running backs involved in the receiving game more often with middle and side screens, as well as delay patterns after blocking or check-downs. Clear a zone with the WR or Slot and then run a RB into that zone.
5. Perfect the pick play pass so it doesn't look like a pick. JUst run past the defender at the right moment, but don't hit him.
6. Use our height advantage at WR and TE by throwing some higher balls on fades in the corner end zone or the TE in the back of the end zone. At the same time, teach the WRs and TEs to go down and scoop the lower passes over the middle to minimize picks. Sideline come-back passes are harder to defend than a straight out corner pass.
7. Keep running the roll-out zone flood pass with the QB play action and boot leg.
8. When the front seven on defense are playing man-to-man with one or two safeties in a deep zone, then hit the WR or TE on a seam route or post pass, e.g., the TD pass to Collins. Or just run the same seam pass that made almost all the Stanford TE's famous.
9. In fact, why not speed up the offense once in a while to tire out the defense by going no huddle and only calling the plays from the sidelines after the defense has lined up.
10. Keep using the counter trey run behind a pulling guard or center. Our OL are good at that.
11. Use some misdirection two or three times a game to keep the defense honest.
Not in any particular order, here is my list:
1. Develop a more balanced attack now so that when the better teams stop the run game, we have something to fall back upon, a Plan B and C. Mix up the play calling so that they can not over load the box and they can not blitz as frequently without being burned. No more two runs, a pass and a punt. Get a little more creative. We don't want to show too much in these early easier games, but we have to start now so we can do it when needed. Use the QB more and sometimes spread out the receivers. It is easier to pass block five OL against three or four than seven OL on seven.
2. Learn and use the rugby scrum push aka the "Bush push" on finishing short yardage plays. It is legal now in college and the pros. The OL just stays on their man longer, keeps their legs moving, while the FB pushes the QB or the runner from behind. Practice it to minimize the risk of injury. Handy for TDs and first downs.
3. Throw some slant and crossing routes when the defense sets up to protect the outside. When they move in to cut off the slant, then throw some hitches to the outside WR or TE.
4. Get the running backs involved in the receiving game more often with middle and side screens, as well as delay patterns after blocking or check-downs. Clear a zone with the WR or Slot and then run a RB into that zone.
5. Perfect the pick play pass so it doesn't look like a pick. JUst run past the defender at the right moment, but don't hit him.
6. Use our height advantage at WR and TE by throwing some higher balls on fades in the corner end zone or the TE in the back of the end zone. At the same time, teach the WRs and TEs to go down and scoop the lower passes over the middle to minimize picks. Sideline come-back passes are harder to defend than a straight out corner pass.
7. Keep running the roll-out zone flood pass with the QB play action and boot leg.
8. When the front seven on defense are playing man-to-man with one or two safeties in a deep zone, then hit the WR or TE on a seam route or post pass, e.g., the TD pass to Collins. Or just run the same seam pass that made almost all the Stanford TE's famous.
9. In fact, why not speed up the offense once in a while to tire out the defense by going no huddle and only calling the plays from the sidelines after the defense has lined up.
10. Keep using the counter trey run behind a pulling guard or center. Our OL are good at that.
11. Use some misdirection two or three times a game to keep the defense honest.
