RunBest for: Base down
Load Option Right
Quarterback runs the option with the playside slot loading down on the pitch-key defender.
Concept: Slot blocks the force defender (load) so the quarterback attacks downhill and pitches off the next man.
Base alignment — schematic, not to scale
Every position's job
QB
Read the dive key; on keep, run off the slot's load block for a downhill keep.
FB
Dive on the standard triple track.
Playside Slot
Load-block (kick out) the pitch key defender.
Backside Slot
Trail as an emergency pitch outlet.
Playside OL
Veer release to the linebacker.
Backside OL
Scoop and cutoff.
Center
Reach the playside A-gap.
WR
Stalk the corner.
How to teach it
- 1Load block turns a pitch read into a QB keep lane.
- 2Good call when the pitch key is very aggressive.
- 3QB stays tight off the load block.
Common mistakes to fix
- !Slot loads the wrong defender (fix: identify the pitch key in the huddle).
- !QB bounces too wide past the load block (fix: coach the tight inside cut off the block).
Build this into your call sheet.
Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.