How To Set Blocking Schemes Using a Traditional Numbering System
The following information will give you my approach to setting the blocking schemes using a huddle or wristband system of play calling.
My primary method for calling plays using a numerical system is broken down into 5 phases using a 2 digit method and tag for calling plays for example:
The first digit indicates who is getting the ball and the second digit the blocking scheme and then tag for type of play.
Anytime the 1st Digit starts with a (1) it means we are running an option or zone read scheme anytime the first digit starts with (2) it means it becomes a flanker (Z) or a 3 back formation. Anytime the 1st digit starts with (3) the fullback will be getting the ball, and whenever the 1st digit starts with (4) the play becomes a Tailback play.
Whenever the second digit starts with a 0-1 we are running Midline or Trap depending upon the tag.
Anytime the 2nd digit is 2 or 3 it means we take our blocking scheme back and leave the front side 5 technique alone.
When the second digit is a 4 or 5 it means we are running an ISO scheme according to the tag.
When the 2nd digit begins with a 6 or 7 it becomes a stretch scheme leaving the backside 5 alone.
If the 2nd digit is an 8 or 9 it becomes an outside running play in which the offensive brings their blocks around.
Basic Formation and Play Identification
This section will help in identifying how we set formation strength and how we identify our play calling. Our method of determining which backfield set, formation, and what side we want the formation to be set is done in the following ways. The backfield set is called by the formation and the direction we set the tight end. We then follow up with the type of play we want to run and add motion if needed. An example of this would be as follows: Right 13 Inside.
Hole Numbering System / How Plays Are Called
The hole numbering system is based upon even and odd numbers. All even numbered plays are run to the right and all odd numbered plays are run to the left. The following will give you the information needed for understanding how we number our plays.
The hole numbering system is based upon even and odd numbers. All even numbered plays are run to the right and all odd numbered plays are run to the left. The following will give you the information needed for understanding how we number our plays.
Primary Zone Blocking Schemes
About the Author of this post:
Jerry Campbell has over 30 years of high school and college coaching experience. He has experience as a head coach, offensive coordinator, and various position coaches. He has written numerous football coaching articles in various publications, is the author of over 30 books on coaching football, and has produced 12 coaching video series. Additionally, he is a nationally sought after speaker on the coaching clinic circuit.