Contents

Basics of the Youth Spread

Spread 'Em and Shred 'Em Offensive Plays Base Formation Player Selection Blocking Scheme Play Cues Motion Calling a Run Play Adding Motion to the Play Call Calling a Pass Play QB/FB Exchange Technique QB "FOLLOW" Technique Base Formation Variations Trips Formations Empty Backfield Power Formations Using Motion

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Formations and Using Motion

14
15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 37 38 39 40

Base Running Game

Base FB Trap Play FB Trap Play Variations QB Keep and QB Follow QB Keep and Follow Variations QB Read

20

Making Adjustments

Reading and Adjusting to Defensive Tendencies Reading and Adjustments, cont. Adjustments vs. 5-2 Adjustments vs. 4-4 Adjustments vs. 6-2 Adjustments vs. the 4-3 Forcing the 4-3 to Re-align Forcing the 4-3 to Re-align cont. H Trap and H Trap Follow vs.4-3

26

Jet Series

Jet Sweep Jet Lead Sweep Jet Reverse Jet Trap

36

Jet Trap and Jet Trap Keep Jet Flood Right

41 42

Power Series and JV Offense

Power Formations FB Power Jet Sweep Tackle Trap (counter) Power Pass Wedge Wedge Pass

43
44 45 46 47 48 49 50 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 60

Passing

The Flood Pass FB Bubble Screen Pass H Bubble Screen Pass Play Action Screen Pass Screen Passes- Left and Right Screen Passes- Middle Screen Other Screens

51

Installing The System

Base Run/Pass Package

59 61

Longhorn Defense

Basics of the Youth Spread

The Nuts and Bolts of the System

Spread 'Em and Shred 'Em

I came across this system and purchased a set of 4 DVD's advertised on their website. The thing that attracted me was the fact it was advertised as a Youth adaptation of the Spread. What I discovered it meant was a very simplified running game with simplified blocking schemes and simplified short passing game based on a screen package and a flood package. It also has a POWER package with QB under center but still based on the same basic schemes as the Spread version. If you have time, I would recommend you look at the web site and watch the DVD trailer. You will get the idea and most importantly you will see kids running it.

www.youthfootballguru.com
The basic premise of Spread is to take most of the defense's best players out of the "box" to gain a numbers advantage and then attack with a running game focused primarily on the QB and FB. With motion calls there is also a JET package for sweeps, to create misdirection or to pull a defender covering the motion back out of an area of the field we want to attack. Basically the offense just runs the defense all over the field!! I am impressed with the fact they have put the system together based on what youth defensive players are capable of doing and what they are most often coached to do. The base play is a Tackle Trap run to either side with either the FB or QB carrying. The blocking scheme for the O-Line is simply to block down to inside gap away from the POA with the backside Tackle pulling to playside and kicking out the DE. This scheme works against any youth defense, we would likely see. Even if something unusual comes up it can be handled usually with motion, leading the FB in front of the QB, using screens and flood passes and of course a READ KEEP OPTION by the QB if your kids had the ability to do it. Personel wise, like any offense, the better your players the better it works. What is really critical is a good center...two linemen who can pull effectively (Tackles)...an athletic QB and FB...A SPEED BACK and at least one kid who can catch reliably. Anything beyond that and things just get better. As with the DC Wing T, the offense depends on the whole coaching staff being involved to recognize how key defensive players are reacting. Who is the LB trying to read to decide which direction to flow? Are DE's boxing or squeezing to stop the Tackle Trap? Where do we have a mismatch on a cover corner or LB? At what point have pass cover defenders stopped covering receivers and go to playing run support first? Keep in mind that it may not be necessary to install everything and there may be some things that could be added once we know the capability of the kids.

Offensive Plays
What follows are some plays replicated from the DVD's "Chalk Board " illustrations so you get an idea of how it looks. Their terminology is not always clearly identified so I have taken a little liberty but have't changed anything structurally. Part of the simplicity of the system is the limited number of plays contained in it. Most if not all can be easily run to both sides and with formation variations, it poses a real problem for defenses to manage. The thing to remember is that this is primarily a running offense. The basic running plays from the Spread Formations are: 1. FB Trap 2. QB Trap Keep 3. QB Trap Lead (FB is leading) 4. QB Read (Optional) 5. Jet Sweep (H or Z Back is carrying) 6. Jet Reverse The passing plays from the Spread Formations are: 1. Flood Pass 2. Bubble Screen 3. Basic Screen Left/Right 4. Middle Screen 5. Under Screen 6. Flat Screen The plays from the Power Formation are: 1. Off Tackle Power (FB) 2. Tackle Trap (Counter)to the weakside (Z Back carrying) 3. Flood Pass 4. Wedge 5. Wedge Pass

Base Formation
Eagle

FS C B E
X H

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

E
Y

1. The QB is 6 to 7 yards deep with the FB to the right and 1 to 2 steps deeper. 2. The SE's are X and Y and they are wide...how wide is flexible based the throwing range of the QB and field position. On a field with hash marks with the ball spotted on the right hash, X would be halfway between the left hash and the left sideline. Y would be on the right sideline. 3. The Slots are about halfway between the SE and the Tackle. 4. Line splits are about a foot but can be more or less depending the players ability to cover their inside gap. What you notice right away is that against a 5-3, which we see a lot of, We have reduced their players in the box to 6 to our 7...leaving only one LB to cover the entire LOS. Even if they have two stud DE's we are always running away from one and trapping the other. It is very difficult for the lone LB to read the play because his only key is the QB or FB and they are usually going in opposite directions! Even if he is good enough to cover the entire LOS the offense simply adjusts and leads with the FB or uses the short passing game to work around him. Other defensive fronts are handled similarly. Only the 4-3 creates a problem but it too is controlled by formation adjustment by adding a TE to the LOS.

Player Selection
The following profiles describe the prototypical skills by position the system needs to be successful. Split Ends Mostly these players are blockers although their ability to catch along with a QB who is an average passer can make them more of a threat to the defense. Since they are split wide they really only have to be able to get in the way of the defender assigned to cover them. This could be a place to play lesser skilled kids to get them in the game. These two are vital to the offense. They must be able to pull and kickout the defense's DE's. They would be LB or TE types with size and athleticism. Need to be capable but not outstanding. They will not be asked to pull but will need to able seal their inside gaps and at least win a stalemate against a defensive lineman. Must be able to make a consistant 7 yard snap to the QB's chest and at least win a stalemate against a NT or gap defender. These are wingback or halfback types. Speed, power, catching and blocking ability are things we would look for. Best overall athlete. Smart, at least average passer and tough because he will be the #2 ball carrier. Workhorse of the offense. Not really a true FB type but more of a FB/TB blend. Speed, quickness and good openfield instincts are the tools he needs. This could be a position that two good players could share.

Tackles Guards

Center Slot Backs Quarterback Fullback

Blocking Scheme
Base running play to the left

FS C B E
X H Q F

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

E
Y

One of the attractive things about the system is the simplicity of the blocking scheme. It is probably true that we tend to over complicate things for kids and then are frustrated when they have trouble executing. For over 90% of the offense this basic scheme is all the linemen and receivers have to learn. The rule is ON-GAP. 1. For linemen...if the play is going to the left and if there is no defender ON then you are blocking down to your GAP to the right...opposite the direction of the play. If there is no defender there then we continue to read up to the next level. Both Tackles need to able to pull and trap to the playside. 2. Whenever a TE is used his rule 1st LB to the inside. 3. Receivers need to be able to stalk block a defender assigned to cover them. 4. Screen plays have a slightly different scheme but it too is pretty simple. The spread formation, by removing defenders from the box makes the O-line's job fairly easy. There is much more time to work on a players technique rather than him having to make so many decisions about his assignment with multiple blocking calls. And much of the time the O-line doesn't necessarly have to dominate just get a stalemate at the LOS and the offense can be successful. However, if the O-line technique is good to very good, the running lane for the ball carrier could be anywhere from Center to Tackle.

Play Cues
The system uses a series of CUE words to customize the the play calling. below are the basic adjustments that we would us on a regular basis. O-Line
Trap Base blocking- ON-GAP away from POA. The OT opposite the POA is the Trap blocker...unless "Power" is added to the call. Base blockingON-GAP away from POA.

Backs

Receivers

FB is the ball carrier and Stalk Block aligns opposite the POA. QB attacks the backside DE after fake. QB is the ball carrier. FB aligns on the same side as the POA and attacks the backside DE after fake. Stalk Block

Trap Keep

Trap Follow

Base blockingON-GAP away from POA.

QB is the ball carrier. Stalk Block FB aligns on the same side as the POA and leads for the QB thru the POA. QB reads the backside DE to determine give or keep. FB is the ball carrier and aligns opposite the POA. FB or QB can be the ball carrier. Alignment rules above apply. Stalk Block

Trap Read

Base blockingON-GAP away from POA.

Power

Same as Trap...Base blocking- ON-GAP away from POA. Sweep blocking Base blockingON-GAP away from POA. Playside releases to LB; Backside Base blockingON-GAP away from POA. Man ON Wedge blocking Speed blocking Base blocking- ON-GAP away from POA.

H or Z is the Trap blocker. SE stalk block.

Jet Sweep Reverse Screen Bubble Screen Wedge Speed Flood

FB blocks 2nd defender from H or Z is the ball carrier outside. QB and FB lead for the ball carrier. FB, H or Z can be the receiver. FB is the receiver. FB is the ball carrier H and Z handle the ball. Se will stalk block. Stalk Block Stalk Block Wedge blocking

FB is responsible for playside DE

Flood routes

Motion
FS C B E
X H

FS B C T
G RT Z

B T
LT G

B E T
LT H G

B N
G

B C T
RT Z

E
Y X

E
Y

H Power
F

Q F

Z Power

FS C B E
X H

FS B C T
G RT Z

B T
LT G

B E T
LT H G

B N
G

B C T
RT Z

E
Y X

E
Y

H Jet
F

Q F

Z Jet

I have expanded the motion game beyond what they talk about on the DVD. Mainly it is to be more clear for the motion backs whether they are motioning to block..."POWER"...or to carry the ball, get into a pass route or just be a decoy..."JET" The motion part of the offense is pretty simple. The H and Z use a simple sprint motion. We want this to be a fast motion that enables them to take a handoff on sweep outside or get into position to kickout the DE to give another option to run the Trap. They will also use motion to get into passing routes on pass plays. When we tag a play with POWER we are changing the player who will execute the kickout block from the Tackle to one of the two Slot receivers. Using their number designations, "H Power" tells the H back he is going in motion and making the block. "Z Power" tells the Z back he is going in motion and making the kickout block. The other use is to create misdirection or force the defense to move a player or players to cover the motion back. That movement will open up an area of the field for the offense to attack.

Calling a Run Play

Trap Left

FS C B E
X H Q F

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

E
Y

The interior linemen and the slot backs, H and Z are assigned numbers as shown in the diagram above. A running play call is contructed as follows: 1. Formation- Eagle...but we don't need to actually call it. 2. Motion if any- None in this example 3. "Trap Left" where: A.The Right Tackle knows he is the kickout blocker to the left. B. All other O-lineman know to follow their rule and block to their inside gap away from the direction of the play. C. FB aligns to the right...opposite the POA and is the ball carrier. The FB is the designated ball carrier unless the play call includes KEEP or FOLLOW which means the QB is the ball carrier. So the play in diagram 1 would be simply...Trap Left...with the FB carrying.

Adding Motion to the Play Call

Z Power Left

X H

LT

RT Z

Q F

Diagram 1 The play in diagram 2. would be Z Power Left. 1. Formation- Base...but we don't need to actually call it. 2. Motion if any- Z Power tells the Z back he is now making the trap block instead of the RT. 3. "Left" where: A. All O-lineman know to follow their rule and block to their inside gap to the right...away from the direction of the play. B. FB aligns to the right...opposite the POA and is the ball carrier. Nothing changes except that the trap block is now executed by the Z Back. There are no other changes for the O-line or the QB/FB.This additional versatility should make it more difficult for defenses to find any consistant keys to the offense.

10

Calling a Pass Play

H Jet Flood Right
10 and Out Deep Fade

5 and Out

X H

LT

RT Z

Diagram 3

The play in diagram 3 is "H Jet Flood Right" 1. Formation- Base...but we don't need to actually call it. 2. Motion if any- H Jet tells the H back he is in motion to the opposite side and running the 5 and out route. 3. "Flood Right" where: A. All O-lineman know to follow their rule and block to their inside gap to the left...away from the direction of the play. B. All receivers run their basic flood route assignments.

11

QB/FB Exchange Technique

E
X H LT G 0 G RT Z Y

Post-snap QB is in a Midline position with eyes on the backside DE.

Q Q F

Pre-snap QB is in a couch with feet shoulder width apart and hands extended.

This is a technique than we taught last year and will simplify the QB's footwork for most plays. It also makes it easier for him to run with the ball on called runs. The mechanics work like this this: 1. At the snap, The QB takes a 45 degree step with his playside foot, then brings his other foot back to get him into a midline stance. 2. He extends the ball back to his back hip and meshes and rides with FB. When put together, it almost looks like a hop or slide, all in one smooth motion. Fullback Technique The goal is to get the FB on downhill track as soon as possible. He has to run with "eyes up" to see the lanes produced by the blocking scheme. Most of the time we want him to make one cut or adjustment then GO! On the snap he will take a big counter step away from playside then adjust to get on a downhill path toward the POA. Once he is thru the LOS, he needs to be looking for an opportunity to break outside or cutback inside against an aggressively pursuing defense.

12

QB "FOLLOW" Technique

E
X H LT G 0 G RT Z Q Y

On the "FOLLOW" play the QB will not need to take the mid-line step. He will step back show PASS and follow the FB as he goes by.

13

Formations and Using Motion

Changing the Look of the Offense

14

Base Formation Variations

Eagle The base formation has the FB align to the right of the QB. The play call will determine if the FB stays on the right or moves to the left of the QB.
X H Q F LT G G RT Z Y

.Pistol FB is 1 to 2 yards behind the QB.

X H

LT

RT Z

Q F

Pro Moves H into the backfield and adds a TE to the right. Y is a flanker off the LOS.
X LT G G RT TE Y Q F

15

Trips Formations
Trips Right The TE could be a true TE type with the ability to catch or H could be moved over to play the position. F will align to the same side as the Trips. The play call will determine if the FB stays on the right or moves to the left of the QB. Spacing for Z and Y depends on which hash the ball is marked on. Y is now off the LOS

LT

RT

TE Z Y

TE X Z

LT

RT

Q F

Trips Left The TE could be a true TE type with the ability to catch or H could be moved over to play the position. F will align to the same side as the Trips. The play call will determine if the FB stays on the right or moves to the left of the QB. Spacing for Z and X depends on which hash the ball is marked on. X is now off the LOS.

16

Empty Backfield
Quad Right Unbalanced formation to the right. The FB is always the inside receiver. He can be in a traditional 1x1 alignment off the RT or wider.
X LT G G RT F Q H Z Y

Quad Left Unbalanced formation to the left. The FB is always the inside receiver. He can be in a traditional 1x1 alignment off the RT or wider.
X Z H F Q LT G G RT Y

LT

RT

TE F H Z

Jumbo Right This is really more of a novelty formation but it does have the potential to disrupt a defense. In this case the TE is ineligible so he could also be another Tackle. The FB is always the inside receiver. He can be in a traditional 1x1 alignment off the RT or wider.

Jumbo Left The FB is always the inside receiver. He can be in a traditional 1x1 alignment off the RT or wider.
X Z/6 H F Q TE 5 3 2 4

17

Power Formations

Y H

TE Z H FB

TE Z

FB

BLUE

RED

Although this is labeled a Power/Short Yardage formation it can be used anywhere. It has the traditional QB under Center with two WB's and a FB at about 4 yards in a 3 point stance. The SE receiver will usually align as wide as possible depending on how far out a defender will follow him. In other words, If the SE is not thought to be a pass receiving threat then a CB might cheat inside to be more help against the run. All the base plays can be run from here plus a couple of more that are illustrated later in the POWER SERIES section.

18

Using Motion
H Jet Trap Left vs. Man Coverage
FS C B E
5 H

B T
3

B T
2 4 Z

Against a man coverage, the LB responsible for covering H vacates that area and improves the trap play or opens up a slant to X or post if the FS is also distracted by the motion. If the defense makes no adjustment to the motion, the Flood Pass to the right is automatic.

Z Power Left
FS C B E T
5 H 3

B N
2

B T
4 Z

Now Z is the trap blocker and the left tackle blocks the backside DE. No other changes for the O-Line. If the defense makes no adjustment to the motion, the Flood Pass to the left is automatic.

H Power Right
FS C B B E
5 H

B T E
2 4 Z

T
3

Now H is the trap blocker and the left tackle blocks the backside DE. No other changes for the O-Line. Note that the FB has aligned to the left opposite the POA

19

Base Running Game

The Basis of Everything Else That Can Be Done With The Offense

20

Base FB Trap Play

EagleTrap Left

FS C B E
X H

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

E
Y

Q F

Position Split End (X) Left Tackle (5) Left Guard (3) Center (0) Right Guard (2) Right Tackle (4) Split End (Y)

Playside Stalk and block ON-GAP ON-GAP ON-GAP

Backside

ON-GAP Pull to playside and trap block the DE Stalk and block

Quarterback F H/7 Z/6 Midline Step; Handoff to Counter step away then Stalk and block Stalk and block F and attack the get on downhill path. backside DE. Take handoff and run inside the block of the Tackle. Coaches Notes: The FB Trap play is the base play of the offense and can be run from just about every formation except, of course, from an empty backfield set.

21

FB Trap Play Variations

EagleTrap Left
FS C B E
X H

EagleTrap Right
FS B C C B E
Y Z X H

B T
LT G

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

N
G

T
RT

E
Y

Q F F

Trips Left Trap Left

FS C B E
TE X Z

Trips Right Trap Right

FS B C C B E
Y X

B T
LT G

B T
LT G

B T
G RT H Z

N
G

T
RT

E
Y

Q F F

Pistol Trap Left

FS C B E
X H

Pistol Trap Left

FS B C C B E
Y Z X H

B T
LT G

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

N
G

T
RT

E
Y

Q F

Q F

Eagle Z Power Trap Left

FS C B E
X H

Eagle H PowerTrap Right

FS B C C B E
Y Z X H

B T
LT G

B T
LT G

B T
G RT Z

N
G

T
RT

E
Y

Q F F

22

QB Keep and QB Follow

Eagle Trap Right Keep

MLB starts to read the FB as his key. We run away from his read.

FS B B T
2 4 Z

B E
5 H

T
3

FB

Eagle Trap Right Follow

MLB starts to read the pulling Tackle or direction of the O-line as his key. We lead with FB to block him..

FS B B T
2 4

B E
5

T
3

FB

23

QB Keep and Follow Variations

Eagle Trap Left Keep
FS C B B E
5 H

Eagle Trap Right Keep

FS B C C B B E
5 Z H

B T
2 4 Z

T
3

N
2

T
4

T
3

FB

FB

Trips Left Trap Left Keep

FS C B B E
TE H 5

Trips Right Trap Right Keep

FS

B T E
2 4

B B E T
LT G

B T
G RT TE Z

T
3

FB

FB

Eagle Trap Left Follow

FS C B B E
5 H

Eagle Trap Right Follow

FS B C C B B E
5 Z H

B T
2 4 Z

T
3

N
2

T
4

T
3

FB

FB

Trips Left Trap Left Keep

FS C B B E
TE H 5

Trips Right Trap Right Follow

FS

B T E
2 4

C B E
LT

B B T
G

B T
G RT

T
3

E
TE Z

FB

FB

24

QB Read
Eagle Trap Left Read

FS C B E
X H/7 5

B T
3

B T
2 4 Z/6

E
Y

Q F

Position Split End (X) Left Tackle (5) Left Guard (3) Center (0) Right Guard (2) Right Tackle (4) Split End (Y)

Playside Stalk and block ON-GAP ON-GAP ON-GAP

Backside

ON-GAP Pull to playside and trap block the DE Stalk and block F H/7 Counter step away then Stalk and block get on downhill path. If QB pulls the ball, continue your path and fake running 45 Trap. Coaching Point Z/6 Stalk and block

Quarterback Midline Step; Eyes on the backside DE. If DE chases the FB, pull the ball and keep

This is a simple read for the QB to make after he gains a little experience. Once we see the backside DE chasing the FB we can allow the QB to pull the ball and keep. He should have plenty of open space to run in.

25

Making Adjustments

Adjusting to the Tendencies of the Defense is the Key to Making the Offense Successful.

26

Reading and Adjusting to Defensive Tendencies

The key to gaining the advantage over the defense is to be able to determine how they are keying your offense. This not a job for the players but rather for the coaches on the sideline during the game and/or in scouting reports. Against the Spread the best key that a youth defense will give is the play of the LB's... not what High School or College LB's might do but what youth LB's will do. We have three ways to make it virtually impossible for a defense to consistantly and accurately key what we are doing. 1. Formation change 2. Use motion to change the kickout block or pull a defender out of his initial area of responsibility. 3. Call a different play based on the observed tendancy of the LB's What basically happens is that with the combination of spreading out the defense and taking defenders out of the box along with formation and/or play selection there will usually only be one defender with a chance of stopping a play and that probably won't happen until we are 5+ yards downfield. Another problem for the LB is that on most plays the QB and FB are going in opposite directions. Establishing the QB early as a running threat forces the LB's to account for him before they react to to the actual point of attack. The Spread is really another form of series football, no different than the Wing-T. Plays start out looking the same then morph into something else. Added to that is the fact that we are always getting our ball carrier out into space right away. Assuming that our best and fastest athletes will be the one's handling the ball, the offense has an immediate advantage over the defense. Let's take a look at some of the ways a defense might try to key the Youth Spread running attack and how the offense would respond. LB's key the side of the QB that the FB lines up on and anticipate a play to the opposite side. Run QB Keep away from the FB's track and the flow of the LB's. LB's key the pulling tackle or down block of the O-Line and flow to playside. Run QB Lead to get an extra blocker with the FB at the POA. Run from Trips formation to get a TE involved and gain an extra blocker at the POA. Run Power motion to have the H or Z make the the kickout block. DE's key the pulling Tackle and follow him trying to get into the backfield and overtake the play. Run QB Read...where the QB can pull the handoff from the FB and run to the side vacated by the DE. Run Screen Pass behind the chasing DE.

27

Reading and Adjustments, cont.

Whenever motion is used the defense adjusts. Run or pass anything to the side the defense vacates. Whenever motion is used the defense does not adjust. Use motion frequently to take advantage on the playside, until the defense adjusts. Most youth defenses will choose pressure as their 1st weapon to stop a an offense that is effectively moving the ball. The Spread can limit their ability to get the numbers advantage they need in the box to generate pressure. The following pages will illustrate some of the ways to adjust the offense to maintain an advantage over the defense.

28

Adjustments vs. 5-2

Eagle Trap Right vs. 5-2
B B E
X H

The 5-2 has no safety and it's not uncommon for for both LB to flow to the expected POA.
B C

B N T E
G RT Z

T
LT G

Even if the playside LB flows to the POA., the FB has a lot of space to run in if he needs to. The play can break outside easily if the receivers are getting an effective stalk block on their defenders.

Trips Right Trap Right Keep vs.5-2

FS C E
X LT

SS B C T
2 RT

B T
3

E
TE Z Y

With Trips Right and the addition of a TE we now get a blocker on the playside LB and can also chip the DT on the way. The TE is also eligible so Flood Pass is also an option. The LB in coverage on the TE is also looking at the play action to his side so he is in conflict. Any delay getting into pass coverage will mean the TE should always be open on his Flood Pass route. We also widen the gap between the DT and DE.

Eagle Trap Left Follow vs. 5-2

B B E
5 H/7

B B N
3 2

The playside LB is reading the O-Line down block or he's just a tough guy that we need to block to be successful.
C

T E
4 Z/6

The Follow play has the QB show Pass before running to freeze any LB read. Notice there is no Safety, so once we clear the LOS there is a lot of room to run.

Eagle Trap Left Keep vs. 5-2

B B E
5 H/7

B B N
3 2

LB's flowing to where they think the FB is going. The Keep play is really kind of a counter and once again the middle of the field is open.
C

T E
4 Z/6

29

Adjustments vs. 4-4

Trips Right Trap Right vs. 4-4
S C B E
5

B T
3

B T
2 4 TE

B E
Z

Trips gives us another playside blocker with a TE. By rule we get a doubleteam on the DT and the TE has the playside LB. The Safety is the only defender with a chance to make the play and that would be 10 yards downfield.

Trips Right Trap Right Follow vs. 4-4

S C B B E
5

B T
3

B T
2 4 TE

E
Z

Trips gives us another playside blocker with a TE. By rule we get a doubleteam on the DT and the TE has the playside LB. The Safety is the only defender with a chance to make the play and the FB is leading the play with the Safety as his target.

Trips Right Trap Right Keep vs. 4-4

S C B B E
5

B T
3

B T
2 4 TE

E
Z

Trips gives us another playside blocker with a TE. By rule we get a doubleteam on the DT and the TE has the playside LB. The Safety is the only defender with a chance to make the play and that would be 10 yards downfield.

Jumbo Right Trap Right Keep vs 4-4

FS C B E
5

B T
3

B T
2 4

Jumbo pulls three defenders out of the box and with the TE we can block the inside LB. The Qb would show PASS then run...It is really a QB Draw.

E
Z/6 H/7 F X Y

30

Adjustments vs. 6-2

The first thing you notice is that the 6-2 can't be run against a Spread team. The CB's are out numbered and the only question would be how many points you wanted to score.

FS C E
X H/7 Q F 5

B T T
3

B T
2

C T
4 Z/6

E
Y

Red H Power Right

FS C E
H

B T T
5 3 Q

B T
2

C T
4 TE Z

However, in short yardage or goal line situations it can be used. The good news is that our base rules take care of it.

E
Y

31

Adjustments vs. the 4-3

SS C B E
X H Q F LT

FS B T
G

B T
G RT Z

E
Y

Although the 4-3 is not very common in Youth football we will want to be prepared for it if we see it. It is the most common defense against the Spread at the High And College level. Against our base formation we are even in the box.

FS C E
LT

B T
G

B T
G RT

SS

E
TE F H Z Y

To regain our advantage in the box we can formation to Jumbo to regain the advantage.

32

Forcing the 4-3 to Re-align

Jumbo Right Trap Right Keep

FS C E
LT

B T
G

B T
G RT TE F

B SS E

Y H Z

Quad Right Trap Left Keep

FS C E
X LT

B T
G

B T
G RT F

B SS

E
Y H Z

33

Forcing the 4-3 to Re-align cont.

Trips Right Trap Right Follow vs. 4-3

S C B B E
X LT

B T
G

B T
G RT

E
TE Z Y

FB

Trips gives us another playside blocker with a TE. By rule we get a doubleteam on the DT and the TE has the inside LB. The "Follow" cue brings the FB as a lead blocker for the QB and allows us to account for all the playside defenders.The Safety is the only defender with a chance to make the play and that would be 10 yards downfield.

34

H Trap and H Trap Follow vs.4-3

Pro H Trap Right

FS SS C E
X 5

B T
3

B T
2 4

B E
TE

Y Q F

H/7

Pro H Trap Right Follow

FS SS C E
X 5

B T
3

B T
2

B E
4 TE

H/7

35

Jet Series

The Jet Series uses sprint motion by the H or Z back to create an additional advantage at the point of attack or as misdirection. The plays in the series are: 1. Jet Sweep Right / Left 2. Jet Lead Sweep Right / Left 3. Jet Trap Lead 4. Jet Flood Pass Right / Left

36

Jet Sweep
H Jet Sweep Right
B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
G RT Z

B E T
LT H G

E
Y

Q F

This is the basic sweep play. the key block is the reach block on the playside DE. Everyone else is ripping and running to get upfield. The opposite play would be Left Z Jet Sweep Left. A possible variation if the playside DE is to difficult to block would be to align Z close enough that he could get a crack block on the DE and allow the Tackle to get upfield and block the FS.

37

Jet Lead Sweep

H Jet Sweep Right Follow
B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
2 4 Z

B E T
5 3

E
Y

FB

Same as basic Jet Sweep, except with QB carrying. FB seals the DE. H fakes and turns up field looking for the the 1st defender to show.

38

Jet Reverse
H Jet Reverse Left
B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
G RT Z

B E T
LT H G

E
Y

O-line blocks base rules ON-GAP. QB and FB lead For Z. H takes initial handoff and hands/tosses to Z on the reverse.

39

Jet Trap
H Jet Trap Left
B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
2 4 Z

B E T
5 3

E
Y

FB

40

Jet Trap and Jet Trap Keep

H Jet Trap Left
B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
G RT Z

B E T
LT G

E
Y

FB

The Jet motion gives a misdirection look to the play. If B follows H's motion all the way across the formation, it will create a lot of open space for the FB to run.

H Jet Trap Left Keep

B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
G RT Z

B E T
LT G

E
Y

FB

The Jet motion gives a misdirection look to the play. If B follows H's motion all the way across the formation, it will create a lot of open space for the Q to run.

41

Jet Flood Right

H Jet Flood Right

B may or may not follow H's motion.

FS B B T
G RT Z

B E T
LT G

E
Y

FB

The key for the H is to hesitate as if to block the DE before releasing into his route. FB has the key block to seal the DE.

42

Power Series and JV Offense

A Power Package to use Anywhere...Anytime

AND

An Effective JV Offense Built on the Same Principles

43

Power Formations
RED
Line splits- 1 foot TE- Align to the right of the formation as a 2nd Tackle...not an eligible receiver. SE (Y)- Align to right of the formation as wide as the defender will follow. FB- 4 yards from QB; 3 point stance. H and Z- Align as wingbacks; 1yd x 1yd QB- Under center.

LT H

G Q

RT

T/E Z

FB

RED Over

Same as RED except the Y moves "OVER" to the other side of the formation so that the TE is now an eligible receiver.
G Q RT T/E Z

Y H

LT

FB

BLUE

Opposite of RED...TE and SE(Y) align to the left of the formation.TE is NOT eligible

Y H

T/E

LT

G Q

RT Z

FB

BLUE Over

Same as BLUE except the Y moves "OVER" to the other side of the formation so that the TE is now an eligible receiver.
Y Z

T/E H

LT

G Q

RT

FB

44

FB Power
Red H Power Right

FS C B E
H

B T
LT G Q

B T
G RT TE Z

C E
Y

The Power package starts with a different formation we'll call RED...to indicate the use of a TE and the QB under center. You will notice that the blocking scheme for POWER is the same as always for the O-line. One of the keys to the play is the block by Z on the nearest LB to him. He wants to get inside the DE if possible to make the block. However, if the LB plays run and slides early to fill the hole, he almost guarantees that that the next time the play call will be the Flood Pass and an easy catch for a touchdown, extra point or 1st down. Even though it is tagged as a short yardage scheme it can be used anytime, anywhere on the field.

45

Jet Sweep
Red Over Z Jet Sweep Left

FS C B E
Y H

B T
LT G Q

B T
G RT T/E Z/6

46

Tackle Trap (counter)

Red H Jet Z Trap Left

FS C B E
H

B T
LT G Q

B T
G RT TE Z/6

E
Y

This was my favorite Double Wing play. The QB makes an inside handoff to the Z back after faking the Power to the FB. H is still running his motion route as on Power. Running the play requires that we have begun to influence the backside LB to flow toward the Power point of attack.

47

Power Pass
Red Jet Flood Right

Deep Fade

FS C B E
H

10 and Out

B T
LT G Q

B T
G RT

C
5 and Out

E
TE Z Y

The two previous running plays set this up. QB has his choice of receiver. One of them will be open. This is the same route package and blocking scheme as in the basic spread.

48

Wedge
Red 2 Wedge

FS C B E
H

B T
LT G

B T
G RT TE Z

E
Y

49

Wedge Pass
Red H Power Wedge Pass

FS C B E
H

B T
LT G Q

B T
G RT TE Z/6

E
Y

50

Passing

Applying the K.I.S.S. Principle

Keeping in mind that the Youth Spread is primarily a running offense. It is necessary to be able to at least throw short high percentage passes. The Flood Pass and several different Screen packages give the offense that capability. You will notice that there is no drop back passing series...everything is rollout or screen passing making the Oline's job much easier. Of course, the more ability you have at QB and Receiver the more the passing game can be expanded. The principle to follow is:

Run 1st and Often...Pass only when you want!

51

The Flood Pass

H Jet Flood Right
Deep Fade 10 and Out

FS C B E
X H

B T
LT G

B
5 and Out

N
G

T
RT

E
Y Z

The Flood Pass can be run left or right and from a variety of formations but the beauty is that the route package doesn't change. 1. If no one follows H, he will ALWAYS be open! Even if MLB recognizes the pass it is almost impossible for him to get there to cover H. 2. The QB has only one read and that is OLB covering Z. If he steps up to play run or for some reason jumps H's route then Z is open. 3. The throw to Y would probably be a called throw because of a recognized mismatch on the corner...and assuming our QB had a strong enough arm. 4. The throw to X on a backside slant or post would be a called option. Pass blocking is the same as for a run to the right. The FB has the key block on the playside DE to protect the QB in his rollout. If there is no receiver open then we want the QB to run. Just to change it up the the play be called as a run for the QB...H Jet Flood Right Keep.

52

FB Bubble Screen Pass

FS C B E
X H 5

H Jet FB Bubble Screen Right

B T
3

B T
2 4 Z

E
Y

The Bubble Screen uses a different blocking scheme for the O-Line...Basically Big on Big. The play can also be run from Trips Right formation or Pistol formation with the FB aligned behind the QB.

53

H Bubble Screen Pass

FS C B E
X H 5

H Jet Bubble Screen Right

B T
3

B T
2 RT Z

E
Y

54

Play Action Screen Pass

Z Jet H Screen Left

FS C B B E
5 H

B T
2 4 Z

T
3

Q F

Fake to F then quick throw to H.

55

Screen Passes- Left and Right

FB Screen Left

FS C B E
X H 5

B T
3

B T
2 4 Z

E
Y

Over FB Screen Right

FS C B E
X H 5

B T
3

B T
2 4 Z

E
Y

56

Screen Passes- Middle Screen

Quad Right Middle Screen

FS C E
X

B T
LT G

B T
G RT F H

E
Y Z

O-Line release to LB level. FB steps up and gets behind D-line and slide to the left, looking for the ball. QB draw defenders with deep drop and loop a pass over them to the FB.

57

Other Screens
H Jet FB Screen Left
FS C B B E
X 5

B T
2 4 Z

T
3

E
Y

Against a defense that is in man coverage the H Back in Jet motion will take the playside LB out of the area we are running the screen to.

FS C E
X FB H Z

Quad Right Under Screen

B

B T N T E

C
Y

The backside Slant or Post can also be a called variation if the FS is overplaying.

FS C E
X FB H Z

Quad Right Flat Screen

B

B T N T E

C
Y

The backside Slant or Post can also be a called variation if the FS is overplaying.

58

Installing The System

Because of the limited number of plays, the installation of the system allows much more time for teaching skill and techniques that can be applied to several plays rather than having to learn different skills for every play. The first group of plays are shown in the table on the following page. For the most part, everything else becomes just a minor variation of one of these plays. The Power/Short Yardage package would be a separate install but would follow many of the same principles.

59

Base Run/Pass Package

This is the first group of plays to install. There is a lot of skill repetition for players so that they are actually learning multiple plays at a time. The multiple formation possibilities can be taught at the same time. Play
FB Trap

O-Line
ON-GAP rules to both sides. ON-GAP rules to both sides.

Split Ends
Stalk Blocking

Slot Receivers
Stalk Blocking

FB
Handoff footwork technique and open field running. Handoff Fake technique

QB
Handoff footwork technique Handoff footwork technique and open field running. Handoff footwork technique and open field running. Handoff footwork technique and open field running. Handoff footwork technique Handoff technique Handoff technique Roll out passing technique

QB Keep

Stalk Blocking

Stalk Blocking

QB Follow

ON-GAP rules to both sides.

Stalk Blocking

Stalk Blocking

Handoff Fake technique and lead block on LB

QB Read

ON-GAP rules to both sides.

Stalk Blocking

Stalk Blocking

Handoff Fake technique

Power

ON-GAP rules to both sides. Sweep blocking rules ON-GAP rules to both sides ON-GAP rules to both sides. Screen blocking technique Screen blocking technique

Stalk Blocking

Motion to kickout block a DE

Handoff footwork technique and open field running Stalk Blocking Stalk Blocking Pass blocking DE

Jet Sweep Jet Reverse Flood Pass Bubble Screen Flat Screen

Stalk Blocking

Handoff technique and open field running. Stalk Blocking Handoff technique and open field running. Flood pass route Flood pass route assignments assignments Stalk Blocking Flat Screen routes Stalk Blocking Flat Screen routes

Bubble route tecnique Roll out passing technique Flat Screen routes Roll out passing technique

60

Longhorn Defense

61

46 VS. Double TE WING LIL T LIL E Big T Big E Sam SS CB FS CB Will

Mike

POSISTION ALIGNMENT Big E 9 Tech Away from Strenght Little E 3 tech,to strength

KEY Flow to TE/OT Flow to Guard

VS RUN Contain B gap

VS PASS Contain Rush B Gap

Big T LIL T SS

Zero Shade 3 tech ,opposite strength 9 tech/ 6 tech vs. no TE 8 Tech on TE 4 tech opposite JC Head up on #1 rec. If #1 TE 5X5 from DE 12 yds deep in 3 tech opposite SS 4 Tech opposite mike LB

Flow to center Flow to Guard Near back

A Gaps B gap Contain

Rush A Gap Rush B Gap 1st back out

Sam LB Mike LB CORNER

TE Near Back TE or Number 1

2 gap through TE Run to Flow NONE

TE 1 back out Man on # 1/ Deep 3rd Deep 3rd 1 back out

FREE SAFETY Will LB

QB Near Back

Flow to Alley Force Flow Away cut back Run to Flow

Schemes: Order of Defensive call.

Defensive Front
Base (46)

Stunt
Single (SS)

Coverage
3 call Base Coverage

Over (43 look) only adjustment SS is now playing 2nd safety

Sam, Mike, Will Plug (single man Blitz) S.A.M, W.A.M, S.A.W ( 2 LB Blitz)

2 call (coverage vs. 1 man Blitz)

Opie (man Press) 2 LB Blitz

2 One man combos: Single Mike, Single Sam, Single Will Hamburger blitz ( All Lbs)

Cheeseburger (All Lbs and SS)

The basics of the defense are on based on pressure. Now blitzing is not a very favorite scheme for me yet Im going to be using a pressure defense. You may say thats contradicting. Well pressure is not only stacking linebackers and D backs on the line of scrimmage. Pressure means applying proper strategy for the situation to maximize the defensive force. Basically putting players in a position to put pressure on the Offense and force them to make mistakes. I will blitz in situations deemed necessary to change up tempo and create more pressure to force bad decisions. The philosophy I have is almost exactly the same as in the 46 Bear, keep everything underneath kill the big play idea. FORCE the offense to earn every yard on every down. A defensive player on a pressure defense has certain responsibilities at all times. Be aware of down and distance Alert to the offensive formation and tendencies in that formation Knowing the defensive game plan Maintain poise during critical game situations

The advantage of the 46: Outnumber tackle to tackle blocking scheme at point of attack

Pressure QB every pass play Force the offense to adjust in run and pass. Force the offense to use unfamiliar schemes Blitz at will without subbing personnel Cover all possible pass patterns Dictate the flow of the game Free second lever players to run to the football. Takes advantage of the K.I.L.L thought approach o o o o Keep IT Likeable Learnable

FRONTS VS FORMATION
46 VS. Slot

46 VS. Trips

46 VS. Pro set

46VS. 3 wide

43 adjustment from 46 Sam

Will Mike

Same Alignment as 46 go opposite the LB Call Will and Mike play true LB Sam has 2 read responsibility SS plays as second true safety

Defensive line play

Right Right Call

Left Left Call

The Basics of the D lineman in the 46 bear. The defensive line has to win the battle on the Line of Scrimmage for this defense to be effective. We do not want penetration from the D line however. The D line must stale mate and shut down the blockers progression and let the defensive secondary fly around and make tackles. We want D lineman to make tackles if they can but the first job is to stop the push of the Offensive line fighting through men and working the hips into the gaps they are responsible for. The Nose and Tackles have a 4 rule guideline: 1.) Must never get reached a. If the Offensive lineman is attempting to reach the Tackles or the Nose the D lineman must work his hips against the pressure. 2.) Must disrupt and never allow a jump through (scoop block) a. Must throw the hands between the numbers and the belt to stun and halt the guards progression b. After the shot to the stomach inside hand pulls jersey toward him and rips with outside arm 3.) Defeat double teams at the Line of Scrimmage a. Same rules as the Reach block throw the hips into the double team and create a pile b. Never try to split the double team! 4.) Defeat pulling guards

a. The guard pulls the D lineman must fire into the whole that is left and lateral run with the pull b. If facing the pull the Tackle must spill the trap by hitting with the outside shoulder never the inside. The Defensive End: There will only be one playing the 9 tech. This D end has 3 responsibilities 1.) Bootleg a. Must contain the QB from having an easy rollout 2.) Counter a. Must be able to see the Developing counter by seeing the back side guard or tackle pull. b. When attacking the lead pull on the counter the D end must spill the block by hitting with the outside shoulder. 3.) Reverse a. When the Play goes away he must keep an eye out for a RB or a receiver coming behind the run play at this point an outside angle should be taken to contain the reverse.

Nose Tackle: Control both A Gaps Pressure through the center o o o D Tackle 4 point stance Control outside shoulder of guard into B Gap Inside Hand needs to be in chest of the guard with a direct push forward and inside 2 gap responsibility Allowed to chose which A gap to jump Must work hips against pressure

D End 3 point stance cocked in 1 yard outside the last man on the line of scrimmage Attack through the outside shoulder of the last man on the Line of scrimmage Must Contain AT ALL TIMES!

The defensive line needs to listen to the strength call and shift opposite the shift call. This will remain whether we be in a 43 over or the bear.

Linebacker and strong safety Play Maintain Left Left Call

Right Right Call

Strong safety: On the line of scrimmage, inside foot on TE outside foot and up, outside foot back Push through the TE outside shoulder and contain the out side Always has Number two toward the strength call o Sam LB On the Line of scrimmage Head up on TE o Feet square, Inside leverage or 7 tech If Number is a RB SS will rush unless the RB Releases then SS has the RB.

TE is your key 1st step jam the TE 2nd step read flow IF play action turn and run to find TE

Against 3 receiver set Line up on number 3 to run strength Key off of near back

Mike LB : 4 yard off the line in a 4 tech to the call Key is Near back Attack Flow In pass Cover 1st back out of the back field to your side

Will LB: Line up 4 yards off the line in a 4 tech away from the call Read Flow VS. the pass 1st back out of back field to your side VS. Slot o o In normal position Make sure # 2 in the slot is covered by a corner

VS. Spread (double slot) o Take # 2 to the opposite the call

Defensive back Play Every down coverage is 3 call diagramed in the beginning is how each D Back will get into cover 3 dependant on formation. On a 1 man blitz Blitz the coverage is 2 call where Both Corners are now splitting the field in half each having deep halfs. On a 2 man blitz we are in OPIE which is man coverage you are locked on your man run is the second priority.

Right or left call

Cornerback: Line up Slightly inside the receiver or # 1 outside the tackle box Pass First Run second 3 steps back ward then read Your key is the receiver VS. Single Slot o Corner away from slot comes over to take on # 2

If Trio is called you have deep 1/3rd

Free Safety: Quarterback the defensive backfield (corners, LBs, SS) 12 Yards Deep in a 4 tech away from strong safety Run Toward: Alley Force Player o Inside the outside force man

o o

Outside the inside foreman Run through the alley

Run away: Cutback Player o Keeping the runner on the outside shoulder protecting the comeback.

VS. Single Slot o Make sure Both corners are on the same side covering the Slot

VS. Trips o Line up in a 9 tech 12 yards deep bring your deep 3r zone over top the trips

VS. all other formations o o o o o Deep middle 3rd pass responsibility No one must get behind you When Dropping, favor and bring the zone to the flow side 3 steps then read Vs the run to your side o Set the outside Fence If play action turn and run into the deep 3rd

VS. Run Away Cut back player

If no direct deep threat look to help Dback closest to you with coverage staying over top. This means any LB, SS, or Corner