Systems/Spread (Shotgun)/Inside Zone Left
RunBest for: Base down

Inside Zone Left

Running back runs inside zone with a bang-bend-bounce read.

Concept: Linemen take playside zone steps and climb to the second level after securing the down linemen.

TGCGTWRSSWRQBRB
Base alignment — schematic, not to scale

Every position's job

QB

Ride the mesh, read the backside end, hand or keep.

RB

Aim at the playside guard and cut off the block read.

Playside OL

Zone step left and combo to the linebacker.

Backside OL

Zone step and cut off backside pursuit.

Center

Zone step and combo to the linebacker.

WR

Stalk block the cornerback.

Slot

Block the overhang defender.

TE

Zone block the playside end man.

How to teach it

  • 1Mirror the inside zone reps to the left.
  • 2Coach consistent mesh footwork.
  • 3Teach the RB to stay downhill on the cut.

Common mistakes to fix

  • !RB bounces everything outside; fix by teaching bend and bang reads.
  • !Backside end runs down the play; fix by having the QB read and pull when needed.

Build this into your call sheet.

Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.