Off-Tackle 25
Tailback runs off tackle behind the fullback into the six hole.
Concept: Tight end and tackle down-block while the fullback leads up on the force defender.
Grows with your players
Same play, more layers as they age up — teach it once and build on it every season for a consistent program.
- 6UIntroduce: Nail the snap/exchange, aim the right hole, and finish downhill.
- 8UAdd the edge: Add the kickout block and run it to both sides.
- 10UAdd deception: Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look.
- 12UMaster it: Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.
Every position's job
Take the snap, reverse pivot, and hand to the tailback aiming at the six (off-tackle) hole, then fake out.
Aim for the outside hip of the tackle/TE and follow the fullback up on the force defender.
Lead up through the hole and block the force defender at the point of attack.
Down-block the defender inside to help seal the off-tackle seam.
Down-block the first inside defender in combination with the TE.
Base or down-block the interior defender to secure the inside.
Base-block the nose and seal the backside A-gap.
Base-block and cut off backside penetration.
Hinge-block and stop backside pursuit.
Seal or arc the outside so contain can't collapse the hole.
How to teach it
- 1Drill the TE and tackle down-block combo so the off-tackle seam opens cleanly.
- 2Fullback attacks the force defender square and drives him out of the hole.
- 3Tailback presses the tackle's outside hip and reads the fullback's block.
Common mistakes to fix
- !TE and tackle both block the same man — fix by defining exactly who takes the inside down-block.
- !Fullback runs past the force defender — fix by teaching him to find and fit the first outside threat.
Build this into your call sheet.
Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.