One back, two backs, three backs?

I would be an I-formation backfield. In my dream world, I would have the ability to move the fullback into different positions.

Coach;

I came out of a program where we had 3 backs. I played in HS in a Power-I offense (we were VERY basic), and coached in a T-Formation type offense (where we could be VERY complicated). In both we were greatly successful.

The 3 back offense allows for alot of misdirection - similar to a Wing-T. I think on the HS level that this is really tough on many LB's and defenses. In my experience it takes great discipline for an average HS player to properly read a key, such as an OG. More often than not he'll be looking in the backfield - and in most 3 back offenses the FB dive/trap is a major player.

The 3 back allows you to have the misdirection AND a lead blocker out of the backfield. I learned from my previous coaching experience that the 3-back offense really breeds a TEAM concept in the backfield. if those right and left Halfbacks don't block for each other - look out.

The only draw back is you do need to have some quality RB's - when we haven't had 3 GOOD runners we weren't as productive int he 3 back set as we were out of a 2 back wing-T/split look or the I.

Now... PERSONALLY... I went last year through a multiple set in the backfield. We had some success at all - but the only real reason we had to play around was personnel.

Next year we will be a 2 back I-formation, moving the FB around quite a bit, and getting into some true 1 Back looks later in the season.

My FB position will be where I'll be putting some former RB's from last season who have developed some attitude issues - IF THEY WANT TO PLAY ON THE TEAM THEY'LL EARN IT BY BLOCKING.

Troy,

As you know I run a 5 wide empty gun spread. But, when we run the ball I always still prefer the pro with the "I" backs and the poewer formations (power "I", stack "I", full house with double tites, etc.) Bill is a one back guy and although we share the same philosophy that he posted above by Sid, when it comes time for short yardage and goal line, I'm going to do my best to have my guys ram it down your throat with at least one and lots of times 2 lead blockers. Just my way.

Coach Easton

Coach Seay,
Good to see you over here!!!

Ted,

Have always enjoyed your posts here on the JCFB forum for the time I have been here (starting my 3rd year May 26th) and have always meant to ask at what level do you coach in Germany? I have sent players to the NFL Europe League, and to the European Football League. Do you coach in either of those?
What team do you coach? Are you the HC? When does your season start and end? Are you an American coaching overseas or a german national? How do you feel your football stacks up against our game here in the States, both on the college and pro levels? Is your team a pro team or amateur? I have always been impressed with your intelligent posts on all facets of the game.

Coach Easton

That's pretty good proof that those extra backs work pretty well, IMO.

Coach Easton

Hey Ted,

Thanks for your reply! US Foreign service, eh? I did 6 years in the Navy as a Radarman air intercept controller. That was enough for me. I loved my job, just couldn't see all the petty baloney we had to put up with, plus the fact that in those days military enlisted personnel made peanuts financially speaking!

What age group players is the VIKINGS made up of? Sorry to hear that you had to leave a good organization, sounds like you made an intelligent decision based on what you had to deal with.

What level football did you coach in Mexico and Australia? I communicate with a QB who plays on the Australian National team and who plays semi-pro ball there.

Coach Easton

Ted,

Sounds like you have quite a varied background and that can only be considered a real plus as you have been exposed to many levels of competition. I have never seen a Mexican team, but I know the sport is really growing there! Will you be coming back to the states after your retirement from the Foreign Service?
Not wanting to tie up the board with personal conversation, hit me at my email: jerryeaston1@aol.com and I would like to chat with you concerning some placement oportunities for some of my players in the European market. I have several contacts in Europe but have found that I can always use more.

Coach Easton

1 is enough if you have a real good one. "FEED THE STUD"!