How Paul Johnson Ran Midline Triple Option
July 7, 2026
This video outlines the precise, rules-based execution of Paul Johnson’s midline triple option (10-11). The concept isolates interior defensive linemen to create a devastating complementary play to the standard veer phase. This concept relies on rigid assignments across all 11 positions.
The Give/Keep Phase (The Interior Read)
The play is orchestrated by the Quarterback (QB) and the B-Back. On the snap, the QB executes a drop step with his playside foot, sliding his weight to the front foot to open the path. He reads the 3-technique defensive tackle (\bm{3TQ}) to determine the give or keep phase. If the \bm{3TQ} widens or plays the QB, the QB gives the ball to the B-Back. The B-Back points his playside foot at the playside hip of the QB, takes a midline step, and hits the center’s hip to drive upfield toward the Backside Linebacker (BSLB). If the \bm{3TQ} squeezes to take the B-Back, the QB pulls the ball, takes one step, and immediately transitions to reading the next defender on the line of scrimmage for the pitch phase.
The Pitch Phase (The Perimeter Attack)
Perimeter execution relies on synchronized track and blocking assignments to outnumber the defense:
BSA (Backside A-Back): Executes tail motion on the snap to become the pitch route runner.
PSA (Playside A-Back): Utilizes no tail motion, executing an arc release directly to target defender #2 on the snap.
Z Receiver: Executes a push stalk block to neutralize the cornerback for the pitch phase.
X Receiver: Runs an across-field technique to seal the backside.
The Blocking Front
The offensive line minimizes defensive penetration by releasing past the read key to lock up the second level. The Playside Tackle (PST) and Playside Guard (PSG) both execute veer releases—the PSG through the A-gap—climbing to block the playside and backside linebackers up to the Free Safety (FS). The Center (C) and Backside Guard (BSG) execute a “Reverse Ace” to base blocking technique to handle the interior and secure the backside linebackers. Finally, the Backside Tackle (BST) secures the edge with a full anchor-down block, completing a highly efficient, assignment-sound triple option attack.
