Systems/Spread (Shotgun)/Inside Zone Right
RunBest for: Base down6U+ · Basic

Inside Zone Right

Running back takes the handoff and reads the first down lineman for a cutback lane.

Concept: Offensive line zone-steps playside, combo-blocking to the linebackers off double teams.

Age version
TGCGTWRSSWRQBRB
Ball carrierBlock / pullMotionRoute / pass
10UMaster it: Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.
Play movement — schematic, not to scale

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.

  1. 6UIntroduce: Nail the snap/exchange, aim the right hole, and finish downhill.
  2. 8UAdd deception: Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look.
  3. 10UMaster it: Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.

Every position's job

QB

Take the snap, mesh with the back, and hand off on the inside zone (or ride and read depending on call).

RB

Take the handoff aiming at the playside guard/tackle, read the first down lineman, and cut back if he's sealed (bang-bend-bounce).

Playside Guard

Zone-step playside and combo the down lineman up to the linebacker.

Backside Guard

Zone-step playside and combo backside, climbing to the linebacker.

Center

Zone-step playside, combo the nose, then climb to the second level.

Playside Tackle

Zone-step playside and combo the down lineman to the linebacker.

Backside Tackle

Zone-step and cut off/scoop the backside defender.

TE

Zone-block playside or climb to the second level.

Playside WR

Stalk-block the cornerback to your side.

Backside WR

Run off or cut off backside coverage.

How to teach it

  • 1Everyone takes a playside zone step and works combo blocks to the linebackers.
  • 2Back reads the first down lineman: bang it, bend it back, or bounce it.
  • 3Combo blocks: two linemen take the down lineman, one climbs to the backer.

Common mistakes to fix

  • !Back is impatient and cuts too early — teach him to press the line and read the block.
  • !Linemen come off the double too soon — stay on the down lineman until the backer commits.

Build this into your call sheet.

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