Split Back Run Plays

Coach,

Take any I formation playbook, and split the two backs. This poses advantages and disadvantages. If you have two halfback types instead of a true fullback / tailback combo split backs are a definite advantage. If your playaction game is strong, split backs are a benefit. The one disadvantage is the fullback key - in split backs some teams always place the fullback to the strongside. You can counter this key by using misdirection and quick toss to the weakside. Lots of Wing-T plays can be adapted to true split back action. It takes time, practice, and patience.

Further resources might be the Wing-T and/or West Coast websites.

www.bucksweep.com > Wing-T

www.westcoastoffense.com > West Coast Offense

Hope this helps you out.

Coach G

We've run a great deal of split backs over the years with a good deal of success. Our best running plays from that set are:

1. "Belly" or "Double Dive"- (We call it a Belly) Dive the near back off the guard, while the far back takes a lateral step to the same side and heads to the off-tackle hole. The QB can give to the first back and fake the second back, fake to the first back and give to the second back, or fake to both backs and run the keeper. You can predetermine the ballcarrier or have it as an option.

2. "Lead" - same as an I formation Iso.

3. "Cross" - fakes the flow of the lead, but counters back against with the backside back. QB reverses to 180 degrees and fakes the lead to the RB. The FB takes a first step as if he is coming forward to lead block, then he drives off that foot to the opposite side hole. We can trap block it also with a "Cross Trap" call.

4. "Jet" - A quick pitch to either side with the playside tackle pulling.

These are our best plays out of the split back set. We actually don't even run the Veer (although we are thinkigng about it!)

We like to have the halfbacks with their feet just inside the feet of the guards(back are 4 to4 1/2 yards deep and 4 feet from the midline) - the guards have 2 foot splits. you can still get them out into the passing game, and this alignment is really beneficial for the inside veer, outside veer, and the rest of the run game.