Understanding NFL play calls requires deciphering a complex language of numbers, letters, and codes. While specific terminology varies by team, some common elements remain consistent. This post will explore sample play calls, explain their components, and delve into the strategic thinking behind them. We'll also address some frequently asked questions surrounding NFL play calling.
What are the basic components of an NFL play call?
A typical NFL play call consists of several key elements:
- Formation: This specifies the arrangement of offensive players before the snap (e.g., shotgun, singleback, empty).
- Protection: This dictates how the offensive line will block, often indicating pass protection schemes (e.g., slide protection, max protect).
- Route Combinations: This outlines the routes each receiver will run (e.g., slant, dig, corner, post).
- Running Play Direction/Pass Concept: This identifies the direction of a running play or the overall concept of a passing play (e.g., play-action pass, quick slant).
- Audios: These are often added to the call, serving as situational adjustments or confirmation of specific personnel groupings.
Sample Play Call Breakdown: "Omaha! 287 Z-Hitch Red Right"
Let's dissect a hypothetical play call: "Omaha! 287 Z-Hitch Red Right". This is a complex play call, incorporating several elements:
- Omaha!: This is a cadence call, a verbal cue used to help the quarterback manage timing and potentially confuse the defense. It's not directly tied to the play's mechanics.
- 287: This number likely represents a specific run or pass play from the team's playbook. The exact meaning depends entirely on the team's offensive system.
- Z-Hitch: This indicates the route run by the "Z" receiver (usually a split end or flanker). A "hitch" route is a short, sharp cut followed by a continuation downfield.
- Red: This could reference a specific route combination for other receivers, or possibly a running play direction within the 287 play. The context is crucial.
- Right: This denotes the direction of the overall play; it could influence the run play direction, pass protection scheme, or receivers' routes.
This call suggests a passing play with at least one receiver running a hitch route, a potentially complex route combination indicated by "Red," and overall right-sided emphasis.
How do audibles affect play calls?
How do audibles affect play calls?
Audibles are changes made by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage based on the defensive alignment. They can involve altering the play entirely, changing a route, adjusting protection, or shifting the point of attack for a run. The quarterback utilizes his pre-snap read of the defense to make informed decisions, crucial for offensive success. The ability to effectively read and adjust to the defense is a hallmark of elite NFL quarterbacks.
What are common offensive formations used in NFL play calls?
What are common offensive formations used in NFL play calls?
Many common formations exist, each with strategic advantages. These include:
- Shotgun: The quarterback lines up several yards behind the center, offering better passing lanes and quicker release times.
- Singleback: A single running back aligns behind the quarterback, providing a versatile option for both running and passing plays.
- Empty: No running backs are in the backfield; all five eligible receivers are lined up wide, emphasizing the passing game.
- I-Formation: The running back aligns directly behind the quarterback, setting up traditional running plays.
What are some common route combinations?
What are some common route combinations?
Route combinations are coordinated sets of routes run by multiple receivers to exploit specific defensive weaknesses. Some common examples include:
- Slants: Inside routes that cut across the middle of the field.
- Digs: Intermediate routes that break across the field between the linebackers and safeties.
- Posts: Deep routes down the middle of the field.
- Corners: Out routes along the sideline.
Understanding NFL play calls is a complex process. Each team employs its unique terminology and offensive system. However, grasping the fundamental components helps unravel the intricate strategies employed on the field.
