West Coast Playbook: Split Backs Pro Write-up

Here's a mini writeup of the split backs pro formation in the West Coast playbook.  I use the Dual HB package but the normal package might be diserable if you want better run blocking at the FB position.

 

Texas
Vs. Zone
1.  Hot route X and B WRs to out routes depending on what side of the field you are on.
2.  Hot route Y (FB) to left.

Look for any of the hot routed recievers to be open.

Vs. Man

1.  Hot route X WR to drag.

FB will be open for potential long gain.  B Reciever in curl should also be open.



SS Pressure

Vs. Zone

1.  Hot route X and B WRs to out routes depending on what side of the field you are on.

Wide recievers will be open.  The A reciever will also be open.  Warning, try to avoid throwing to the HB running the blue route.  A defender in a hook route is likely to intercept the ball.

Vs. Man

1.  Hot route X reciever to drag.

After the ball is snapped, scramble back slightly with the QB to try to draw in the LB who will be guarding the HB running the blue route.  The HB should be open for a big gain.



HB Draw

Vs. Zone

This play can result in some big gains especially if you are running against a 3-4 defense.  You can even motion the Y back to the right of the screen to help draw one of the defenders from the middle of the field. Sometimes you can also have the HB cut back to the left side to get past the front line.  He should be able to run for a while.

Vs. Man

This play will also give you good gains against man defense.



PA Slide
Vs. Zone & Man
The Tight End (A) is almost always open for a long gain unless the defense uses a purple zone.  Most defensive plays don't have purple zones by default, though.  Against man the HB will be open for a quick pass.



Off Tackle

Vs. Man

I tend to get better results with this play in Man defenses.  Motion Y back to the right.



Curl Combo

Vs. Man

Any of the wideouts running curl routes should be open.  I've learned that timing is important.  If you throw too late the X and B WRs will miss the ball start running toward the line of scrimmage for some reason.  This could result in an interception.  Be careful with this play.



Backs Cross
Vs. Man

The HB should be open.  The FB might be open depending on personell.  The X reciever will also be open.  I'm not sure if it's me or the team I use but drags this year don't seem to be as effective as they were last year. I might start changing drags to IN-routes and see if these work better in getting separation from the defender.

Madden NFL 12