I Asked AI How to Run a Successful Flexbone Triple Option Offense and…
July 2, 2024
Whether you agree or disagree, this is what AI suggests about running a successful flexbone triple option offense.
Running a successful flexbone triple option offense in football requires a combination of precise execution, disciplined decision-making, and effective coaching. Here are the key elements:
1. Personnel
- Quarterback (QB): The QB needs to be a smart, athletic player with good decision-making skills, as they will read the defense and decide whether to hand off, keep, or pitch the ball.
- Fullback (FB): A powerful runner who can handle inside runs and block effectively.
- Slotbacks (SBs): Fast and agile players who can run the ball on the outside and catch passes.
- Offensive Line (OL): Athletic linemen who can execute blocks in space and get to the second level quickly.
2. Play Design
- Triple Option: The core play involves three options:
- Dive Option: The QB reads the defensive tackle. If the tackle crashes down, the QB hands off to the fullback.
- Keep Option: If the tackle stays put, the QB keeps the ball and reads the defensive end.
- Pitch Option: If the defensive end commits to tackling the QB, the QB pitches the ball to the trailing slotback.
3. Key Principles
- Reads and Keys: Train the QB to make quick and correct reads based on the defense’s alignment and movement.
- Blocking Schemes: Utilize cut blocks and angle blocks to create running lanes and take defenders out of the play.
- Misdirection: Incorporate motion and counters to keep the defense off balance and guessing.
4. Practice
- Repetition: Drill the core plays repeatedly to ensure every player knows their assignment and can execute under pressure.
- Film Study: Review game film to identify defensive tendencies and adjust the game plan accordingly.
- Conditioning: Ensure players are in excellent physical shape, as the offense relies on speed and endurance.
5. Game Management
- Play Calling: Mix up the play calls to keep the defense guessing and exploit their weaknesses.
- Adjustments: Be ready to make in-game adjustments based on the defense’s reaction to your offense.
6. Coaching
- Discipline: Instill discipline in players to follow their assignments and trust the system.
- Flexibility: Be flexible with the playbook to adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of your personnel and your opponents.
Example Play:
- Formation: Flexbone formation with a fullback directly behind the QB and slotbacks just outside the offensive tackles.
- Snap: The QB takes the snap and immediately reads the defensive tackle.
- Dive Read: If the tackle crashes inside, the QB hands off to the fullback for a quick dive.
- Keep Read: If the tackle stays outside, the QB keeps the ball and reads the defensive end.
- Pitch Read: If the defensive end commits to the QB, the QB pitches the ball to the trailing slotback.
Drills
- Mesh Drills: Practice the QB-FB handoff repeatedly to ensure smooth exchanges.
- Option Drills: Run through keep and pitch scenarios to train the QB and slotbacks on proper decision-making and timing.
- Blocking Drills: Work on cut blocking and downfield blocking techniques to support the run game.
By focusing on these elements and emphasizing execution, discipline, and adaptability, you can effectively run a successful flexbone triple option offense.
