Defending Quarterback Runs

When the QB calls their own number

I probably should have called this one “ATTEMPTING to Defend Quarterback Runs”.

They are tough. The numbers get all messed up.

The Offence has the upper hand here.

Except for one key factor…

Let’s get into it.

The Topic At Hand

We’re not talking about Scrambles here. Or Rollouts. Or even RPOs.

These are called run plays with the Quarterback as the designated ball carrier.

Any blocking scheme will do. Here’s a Gap Run, for example:

The Problem

Are you seeing what I’m seeing?

This play involves the blocking scheme of a Two-Back Run Play, but out of a One Back Formation.

Tough.

Usually, when we see Two-Backs, we are able to add a seventh defender to the Box to handle all the Run Gaps.

This is not the case, however, against QB Runs.

This is a problem.

Solution #1: Subtle Tweaks

This might be your only option if the QB you’re facing is a dual threat.

If they can also hurt you in the passing game, you have your work cut out for you as a Defence.

You could always Two-Gap a certain defender to try and get some numbers back, though this can be tough to execute.

You might also want to think about Spilling the Run Plays so that your Defensive Backs can help in the Run Game.

Other than a few subtle tweaks, however, a true dual threat Quarterback can be tough to defend.

Solution #2: Load the Box

If their Quarterback is one dimensional, you could load the box. This is also true if they substitute a “Running QB” into the game, or use some type of Wildcat formation where the throwing threat is minimal.

Now you can get your numbers back by taking a traditional Pass Defender and adding them to the Box. Here’s one example:

The Defence here has added the Sam Linebacker back into the Box, even though it looks like a One-Back Set.

If the QB becomes the ball carrier here, the Defence will have enough hats to fit the Run.

Obviously the Defence has compromised some Pass Coverage.

“Cover 0” might be the call here since they’re not worried about the QB’s throwing arm.

The Equalizer

So if these plays are so great, why don’t Offences just run them all game?

Have you guessed it yet?

It’s because they don’t want to wear down the most important player in their Offence.

QB Runs equate to QB hits and tackles.

Who wants to live like that?

A well-timed QB run can be a big chunk play for the Offence.

But go to the well too many times, and you might wear down your pivot.

Final Thoughts

If we were playing a video game here, it would be QB Runs all day.

Once the human factor comes into play, however, there are some decisions to be made.

Note: This topic was sent to me from one of our readers. If you have a topic you’d like to see in a future article, contact me any time.

All the best,

Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
IG: @jonsvecx
Twitter: @jonsvecx

To read more check out the Canadian Football Chalk Talk e-books series, which includes: Defensive Basics, Linebacker Toolbox, and Modern Pressures.