MADDEN NFL PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN GUIDE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Author: Rallo
E-mail: Rizzdogg73095@aol.com
Date: 12/26/05
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All NFL teams mentioned, are licensed to the National Football League.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: This faq is may be used by other sites,
only with my permission. Send me your request via the e-mail above.
Please give credit where credit is due.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sites with permission to use this faq:
Gamefaqs (www.gamefaqs.com)
MaddenStars (www.maddenstars.proboards75.com/index.cgi)
Neoseeker (www.neoseeker.com)
Supercheats (www.supercheats.com)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that while these are the actual plays in the
game, the audibles/hot routes added in most of them are MY opinions based on
my actual experiences playing this game. While they may be helpful for most,
it may not work for others do to each person's style of play. The purpose of
this faq, is to give players insight to what each playbook consists of
without having to play an entire game to find out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I will list each formation, along with a few key plays for each (if any),
except GOAL LINE and SPECIAL TEAMS. They are pretty much the same for all
offensive playbooks.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Thanks to:
RamsFanRon11/Sauceman60 (Great topic!)
StubbyTheTrojan
MavericksFan
digdongsegadead
Raining_Vodka
D12o420
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Version History: 1.0 - General playbook breakdown
1.1 - Added a site user section for this faq. I also
fixed the NY Giants summary that had some of Green Bay's info
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abbreviations Key: These are just the abbreviations I used for the player
positions.
QB - Quarterback
HB - Half back/Running back
FB - Fullback
WR - Wide Receiver
TE - Tight End
DB/CB - Defensive back/ Cornerback
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NO YOU CAN NOT USE CREATED PLAYBOOKS IN FRANCHISE!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PLAYBOOK LISTING:
1) Arizona Cardinals
2) Atlanta Falcons
3) Baltimore Ravens
4) Buffalo Bills
5) Carolina Panthers
6) Chicago Bears
7) Cincinnati Bengals
8) Cleveland Browns
9) Dallas Cowboys
10) Denver Broncos
11) Detroit Lions
12) Green Bay Packers
13) Houston Texans
14) Indianapolis Colts
15) Jacksonville Jaguars
16) Kansas City Chiefs
17) Miami Dolphins
18) Minnesota Vikings
19) New England Patriots
20) New Orleans Saints
21) New York Giants
22) New York Jets
23) Oakland Raiders
24) Philadelphia Eagles
25) Pittsburgh Steelers
26) San Diego Chargers
27) San Francisco 49ers
28) Seattle Seahawks
29) St. Louis Rams
30) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
31) Tennessee Titans
32) Washington Redskins
33) Balanced
34) Run Balanced
35) Run Heavy
36) Run-N-Gun
37) Pass Balanced
38) West Coast
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. Brief Defensive Overview
C. Rallo's top 10 Passing Playbooks
D. Rallo's top 10 Running Playbooks
E. Copyright Info
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1) ARIZONA CARDINALS - (Dennis Green)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 1RB, 2TE)
Flea Flicker - Trick play. QB hands off to the HB, HB tosses the ball back to
the QB for the pass. The blitz should come quickly so know who you are going
to throw the ball to. I usually scramble straight to the right, and hit the
WR cutting across the field with you. The right WR streaks.
Ace TE Drag - The left WR streaks. The left TE box cuts right. The right TE
crosses short, so audible him to slant right instead. The right WR slants
deep in. Take your pick.
HB Pass - QB tosses to the HB. The HB can run or throw the ball. The left
WR slants right. The left TE crosses short, so audible him to slant left or
right. The right WR streaks. I usually start to run to the right, then
when the defenders start coming towards me, I throw deep to the streaking
right WR. It's your choice though.
A couple more play actions remain, along with some decent short to medium
range pass plays. HB stretch, power, counter, dive, draw, belly strong, blast.
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
Weak! An option, a weak play action, and a handful of weak short pass plays
are here.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (2WR, 2TE's right, 1HB)
PA FL Stretch - Outside left WR streaks, while the rest of the receivers slant
far right. I usually audible the right TE to slant left, just to confuse the
opposition.
Hitch Corners - Left WR runs a very short curl in. Inside left WR slants left
to the sideline. Inside right TE slants right, towards the sideline. Outside
right TE short curls to the right. Audible the left WR and the Outside TE to
streak. This will open up more of the field.
Nothing else really. Another option pass, and more short pass plays.
SINGLEBACK-BIG 3 TE - (3TE, 1WR, 1HB)
TE Corners - Left TE and inside right TE do slants to the opposite sides of the
field. The WR does a nice slant/drag move deep towards the middle. Hit any
one of these 3. The far right TE does a short box to the inside left. Avoid
him, too much clutter in the middle. Pretty nice play.
An option pass, a play action pass, and a couple of short passes are all that
remain here. HB smash, counter, plunge, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
TE Streak - The left outside WR streaks. The inside left WR slants in. The
right WR screens deep. Your choice.
PA Rollout - Play action. The far left WR and the TE deep slant right. Look
for one of these 2. The inside left WR goes short, so audible him to slant
right. The right WR streaks. Let the QB complete his rollout scramble before
you pass. I didn't a few times, and the play broke down.
A couple of options are here, along with several decent medium range pass
plays. HB slam, draw, sprint, smash, and belly strong are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside left
WR or the TE. Audible the HB to screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
Ins Left - The left WR does a box cut to the inside. The right WR does a fake
curl in, then breaks deep. If the opposing DB's are slow, this guy will burn
'em. The TE does a deep slant to the inside. The TE keeps getting open on the
slant.
A couple more play actions, and a few medium range pass plays remain.
SINGLEBACK-SLOT STRONG (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA All Go - Everyone goes deep, look for the TE slanting across the middle.
Deep Attack - The left WR streaks. The TE deep slants in. The inside right
WR deep slants out. The far right WR goes short, audible him to slant left.
Your choice here.
PA Trap 505 - The left WR crooked posts deep in. The far right WR box cuts
left, towards the middle. The inside right WR screens, then goes deep. Watch
the blitz.
A couple of option passes, a screen, and a couple of medium pass plays remain.
HB blunt dive, toss strong, counter trap, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE and 2 WR bunched right, 1HB)
PA Waggle -The left WR slants far right over the middle. The TE goes short,
so audible him to box cut right. The inside right WR deep slants in. The
outside WR streaks. Take your pick, but watch the blitz.
Fake Reverse HB Pass - Trick play. The QB tosses to the HB running right.
The HB fakes the handoff to the outside right WR, who's running left. The HB
can now run, or pass. Follow the blocking, then sprint if you choose to run.
If it's a pass, the inside right WR slants right. The left WR slant crosses
far right. Your choice between the 2 WR's. Throw the ball away if no one is
open.
An option pass, and some medium range pass plays leftover. HB quick pitch,
slam, draw, counter, and a WR end around (reverse), are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Slot Cross - The far left WR box cuts in. The inside left WR slant crosses far
right. The inside right WR goes short, so audible him to slant left. The far
right WR deep slants in. Your choice.
Flare Pass - Both outside WR's streak. The inside left WR slants right.
The inside right WR goes short. Audible a slant right for him. The HB screens
far right.
WR Breakout - The far left WR runs a comeback route to the outside. The inside
left WR streaks. The inside right WR slants right. Audible the far right WR to
streak or slant left. Take your pick.
A deep option pass, and a few medium range pass plays remain. HB sprint,
pitch, cutback, counter, and dive are the run plays.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should be
able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
Cross In - Short pass play. Look for the right WR hooking in, or screen to the
HB going right.
HB Pass - Trick play. QB tosses right, to the HB. The HB can either run or
pass. If you pass, you only have 2WR at your disposal, since the TE blocks
on this play. Don't make the mistake of audibling the TE for a pass, because
you will get blitzed for not having enough blockers on the line of scrimmage.
Scramble directly a few steps to the right, and hit the receiver coming from
the left, across the field. If the right WR has enough speed, he might burn the
DB, so keep a sharp eye on him too.
A play action, a few short to medium range pass plays. HB toss, lead dive,
counter weak, J.J. draw, slam, and FB dive are the run plays.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA TE Leak - Outside left WR streaks. Inside left WR slants far right over the
middle. The TE short slants right. Audible the HB to screen left. Look for the
receivers on the slant.
Out N Ups - The far left WR and the TE run out-n-up patterns. The inside left
WR medium box cuts in. Audible the HB to screen right just in case.
Max Protect - The far left WR streaks. The inside WR slants right. Audible the
TE to slant left. The HB screens right.
Another play action is here, along with some short pass plays. HB draw,
dive, lead dive, lead toss, slash, counter, and FB dive strong are the run
plays.
I FORM-BIG (2TE, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR right)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking.
TE Post - The left TE deep curls in. The HB screens left. The right TE deep
slants in. The right WR short box cuts in. Hit the right TE.
A play action, and a short pass remain. HB lead dive, counter strong, toss,
and FB dive strong are the runs.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA Rollout - Both left WR and the TE deep slant right. The right WR goes
short, so audible him to slant left. Take your pick, just complete the rollout
move though.
Double Flares - Left WR streaks. Right WR deep slants to the left. The TE box
cuts left to the middle. Take your pick.
FL Drag - The left WR slant crosses far right. The TE slants right. The right
WR crosses left short.
PA Counter Flat - The left WR box drags left. Audible the TE to slant right.
The right WR crooked posts in. Watch the blitz.
A few more short to medium range pass plays remain. FB dive, FB Trap,
HB dive weak, off tackle, quick toss, and counter weak are the run plays.
STRONG I-NORMAL FLEX (same as above, except TE is slot right)
Double Flares - Left WR streaks. Right WR deep slants to the left. Inside
right WR box cuts left to the middle. I'd audible him to slant left or right,
then it's take your pick.
Deep Cross - Left WR runs a sharp slant left. HB screens towards the middle.
Both right side WR's criss cross on a slant. Look for one of them.
A decent option pass, a play action, and a medium range pass. HB counter dive,
draw, dive weak, and FB dive.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
Boring. Just several short to medium range pass plays. HB delay, draw,
FB inside are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL OFFSET WEAK ( 1TE, 3WR, 1HB)
Dig Wheel - The outside left WR box cuts in. The inside left WR screens left,
then breaks deep. The TE crosses short, so audible him to slant right.
The right WR slants deep in. Take your pick.
2 more option passes, and several short to medium pass plays remain.
HB sweep, delay, mid-draw are the runs.
SHOTGUN - SLOT STRONG (1WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 2WR's right)
SE Slant - The TE and far right WR streak. The inside right WR medium curls
in. The left WR diagonally streaks right. Easy play.
Again, more short, medium, and deep passes. HB sweep and draw are the run
plays.
SHOTGUN-SLOT STRONG HB WK (3WR, 1TE, 1`HB)
Strong Overload - The right WR goes short. Audible him to slant left. The rest
of the receivers slant right. The HB screens left. Easy pickings.
SE Drag - Audible the left WR to slant right or streak. The HB screens left.
Audible the TE slant right. Both WR's streak.
A few more medium to deep pass plays. HB delay, sweep, mid-draw.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Hail Mary - All 4 WR's streak
Slot Flags - Both inside WR slant opposite sides. Both outside WR's go short,
so audible them to streak. The HB crooked posts up the middle.
A handful of medium to deep passes remain. HB draw, and delay are the run
plays.
PROS: - Tons of singleback formations
- Nice running plays
- TE's get involved
- A couple of trick plays
CONS: - WR's take too long to get open on some routes
- Vulnerable to the blitz
- No 5WR formations
GRADE: - PASSING - B -
- RUNNING - B+
- OVERALL - B
Lots of nice running. Decent variety. The FB get's a piece of the rock too.
A good offensive line will do wonders here. Tons of singleback formations,
medium passes, and a few trick plays to boot. Needs a 5 WR formation to open
up the field a little more. The TE's get some use - with their own formation.
It's good to have at least two good ones. This playbook won't overwhelm, but
it could quietly surprise...
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2) ATLANTA FALCONS - (Jim Mora Jr.)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 1RB, 2TE)
PA FL Clown - The left WR crooked posts deep in. The TE slants deep right.
The right WR goes short, so audible him to streak or slant to the left.
Audible the HB to screen, then take your pick.
HB Pass - QB tosses to the HB. The HB can run or throw the ball. The left WR
slants right. The left TE crosses short, so audible him to slant left or
right. The right WR streaks. I usually start to run to the right, then when
the defenders start coming towards me, I throw deep to the streaking right WR.
It's your choice though.
PA TE Post - The left WR streaks. The TE slants left inside. The right WR
box cuts left. Audible the HB to screen right. Easy play.
Another play action, a screen play, and an option pass remain. HB off tackle,
draw, stretch, toss strong, counter, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA FL Stretch - Outside left WR streaks, while the rest of the receivers slant
far right. I usually audible the right TE to slant left, just to confuse the
opposition.
Cross Up - The left WR crosses short. Audible him to slant right. The inside
left WR slants left. The left TE streaks, while the right TE crosses short
left. Audible him to slant right, then it's take your pick.
2 option passes, and another weaker play action remain here. HB stretch,
power, counter weak, delay, dive, and pitch are the running plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Slot Cross - Left WR deep slants in. The left inside WR slants right, all the
way across the field. The TE short streaks. The right WR streaks as well. Hit
either left WR on the slant route.
FL Middle - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
screens left then breaks deep along the sideline. If you throw to him, hit him
as soon as he breaks past the first defender. The HB screens left, while the
right WR box cuts short left. Audible him to slant left, or streak.
A few play actions, a couple of option passes, and lots of medium to deep
range pass plays. HB sweep, dive, slam, slash, cutback, stretch, counter trap,
draw, and a WR reverse are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR,1TE, 1HB)
Safety Bait - The left WR box drags left, towards the sideline. The TE screens
right, audible him to slant left instead. The inside right WR slants right.
He's the main target. The outside right WR box drags to the right.
WR Post - The left WR drag posts to the left sideline. Everybody else slant
posts to the left. Accuracy is important on this play. Choose wisely.
PA Cross Up - Left WR deep slants in. The TE runs a medium slant across
the left middle. The inside WR deep slants right, towards the sideline. Far
right WR curls in short. Audible him to slant left, and you'll have plenty of
options, but because this is a play action, watch the blitz.
PA Boot RT - The left WR and the inside right WR slant to the right.
The TE goes short, so audible a slant left for him. The right WR streaks.
Take your pick here.
2 option plays, several short passes, and a medium range pass play remain.
HB draw, slant, counter, toss sweep, dive, and a slot WR reverse, are the
run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS TE (3WR left, 1TE, 1HB)
TE Corner - TE slants right. HB screens right. Left WR crosses short to the
middle. Audible him to streak. The middle left WR slants in right, while the
right WR slants left. You should be able to find someone open.
Deep Attack - Left WR runs deep, then curls back to the sideline. Middle
left WR streaks. Inside left WR slants in right. Look for this guy. The HB
screens right, while the TE breaks straight ahead for a pass.
A play action, and a couple short to medium range pass plays. HB off tackle,
sprint, counter strong, pitch, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK - 4WR FALCON (4WR, 1HB)
PA HB Out - Both outside WR's streak. Both inside WR's slant to the left.
Easy play, watch the blitz.
PA Slot Crosses - The left WR crooked posts deep in. Both inside WR's
criss-cross over the middle. The far right WR streaks. Take your pick.
2 more option plays, a screen, a couple of weak short passes, and a decent
medium range pass remain here. HB dive, draw, pitch, and sprint are the run
plays.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should
be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
Flats - Almost a money play, because you can always get someone open.
Both WR's streak. TE short boxes to the inside middle. Audible him to a slant
to the outside. that will give you another receiver. The HB and FB screen to
opposite sides. Someone will be open, it's just up to you to find them.
PA HB Flat - The left WR slants right. The TE box cuts short left, so audible
him to slant right. The right WR streaks. The HB screens right. Simple enough.
A couple of weak short passes remain, along with a few mediocre options, and
a couple of medium range passes.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA Split - The left outside WR streaks. The inside left WR and the TE slant to
the right. Watch the blitz.
A couple of option passes, and a few short to medium range pass plays remain.
HB off tackle, draw, dive, and lead toss, counter, FB dive strong, and a play
action QB boot are the run plays.
I FORM - TIGHT TWINS (2WR's left, 1TE, 1FB, 1HB)
Nothing big here. 2 decent play actions, a screen, an option pass, and a
medium range pass play. HB lead toss, dive, counter, draw are the runs.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. The TE breaks out
to the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
2 more play actions, 2 option passes, and 2 short passes. No big deal.
HB counter weak, dive weak, draw, sweep, stretch, counter lead, PA QB boot,
and FB dive are the runs.
STRONG I-TWIN WR (2WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
WR Smash - The TE and inside left WR slant in opposite directions.These are
your targets. The FB streaks up the middle. You can also screen pass to
the HB. Okay play.
PA WR Cross - The left outside WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
cross slants. The TE streaks, Audible the HB to screen right. Your choice here.
Another play actions, and a few decent medium range passes. HB sweep,
off tackle, crash, counter weak, FB dive, and PA QB boot are the runs in
this set.
STRONG I-TWIN TE (same as above, except 1WR left, 2TE right)
2 play actions, 2 options passes, and 1 medium range pass play. Nothing big.
HB weak toss, dive, counter lead, stretch, blast, and PA QB boot (again) are
the run plays.
STRONG I - BIG TIGHT (1TE, 2WR's right, 1HB, 1FB)
An option pass, a play action, and 2 short passes here. HB dive weak,
counter weak, sweep, stretch, dive, counter lead, and PA QB weak are the
runs here.
WEAK I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
TE Fade - The left WR deep slants in. The TE streaks diagonally right to the
sideline. The right WR slants left, all the way across the field. The HB
screens left. Try not to lob the ball too much to the TE, because he won't
stay inbounds after the catch.
WR Streaks - The left WR streaks. The TE goes short crosses left, so audible
him to slant left or right. The right WR box cuts right.
Another play action, 2 options, and a couple of medium range pass plays.
HB gut, counter weak, lead, quick pitch, and wham are the run plays.
WEAK I-TWIN WR (same as above, 2WR left)
2 play actions, 1 of them weak, 2 option passes, and a few short passes.
HB inside, trap, toss weak, draw, PA QB boot, and FB power are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL (1TE, 3 WR, 1HB)
Corner Threat - The TE and inside left WR slant deep to opposite sides. Both
outside WR's go short, so audible them to streak.
HB Flare - Both outside WR's streak. The TE short streaks, so audible him to
slant right. The inside left WR slants right as well. The HB screens right.
Your choice.
PA Slot Post - Left WR box cuts right. Inside left WR slants deep in. The TE
sharp screens right. Audible him to slant inside left. Right WR does a
comeback route to the sideline. Watch the blitz
A couple of nice options, a couple of play actions, and several short to
medium range passes. HB direct snap, mid draw, and off tackle are the
run plays.
SHOTGUN - SLOT STRONG (1WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 2WR's right)
Nothing stands out here really. An option, and several medium to deep range
passes. HB draw, and sweep are the runs.
SHOTGUN 5WR - (5WR's)
Hitch Corners - The 2 outside WR's curl short. Audible them to streak.
The 2 inside WR's slant left. The middle right WR slants right. You should be
able to hit any of the WR's on the slant.
Hail Mary - All 5 WR's streak.
3 option passes and some decent short, medium, and deep pass plays remain.
Could have been better.
PROS: - Great running
- Having a speedy QB will benefit this playbook
- 3, 4, and 5 WR formations
- A good offensive line will boost the running success
- Lots of play actions
CONS: - Passing is weak
- The FB is obsolete
- Injury prone playbook
GRADE: - PASSING - C -
- RUNNING - B+
- OVERALL - C
This is a run first, run second, throw tenth playbook. It is a must to have a
speedy QB, otherwise a majority of your running game will diminish.
Unfortunately, with all the run plays for the QB, if you get hit, you risk
considerable injury. My QB got hurt twice, and on the second time, it was
for 10 weeks. If you are skilled at running the ball, you can avoid most of
those big hits, but not everyone has that ability. The HB runs are pretty
good, a decent variety. A good offensive line will play a key role in your
running success. Having Warrick Dunn was good because of his exceptional
speed. I averaged over 150 yards a game with him. The FB was a non-factor
other than blocking, so I was a little disappointed. The passing is pretty
weak. Aside from the good play actions, and the Shotgun WR set, I had a rough
time throwing the ball downfield. I had to audible continuously. This
playbook is too one-sided using the run mainly. Of course one would be wise
to think that considering this playbook was built around Mr. Vick. So if you
have a hard time throwing the ball, and you like to run, this playbook is
for you. If you like to throw, then check out another playbook.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3) BALTIMORE RAVENS - (Brian Billick)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 2TE, 1HB)
Flea Flicker - Trick play. QB hands off to the HB, HB tosses the ball back to
the QB for the pass. The blitz should come quickly so know who you are going
to throw the ball to. I usually scramble straight to the right, and hit the WR
cutting across the field with you. The right WR streaks.
TE Cross - Both TE's criss-cross over the middle. Left WR streaks. Right WR
deep slants in. Look for the right WR on the deep slant. OR scramble to
either side and hit one of the TE's cutting across the field with you.
2 play actions are here, along with a few decent short to medium range pass
plays. HB slant, draw, toss strong, dive, belly weak, counter trap,
blunt dive, and a WR reverse run for skilled runners.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE (2WR, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Nothing major here. A decent option play, 2 weak play actions, and a couple
of weak short pass plays. HB cutback, dive, slant, smash, counter and draw
are pretty good run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (2WR's left, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Hitch Corners - The inside left WR and the inside right TE slant to opposite
sides of the field. The outside left WR and the outside TE go short, so
audible them to slant to the inside for a nice play.
PA FL Stretch - Left WR box cuts right. Inside right TE slants right toward
the sideline, while the outside right TE sharply cuts short to the inside.
Audible the far right TE to slant post over the middle. Be quick and watch
the blitz.
SINGLEBACK-BIG 3 TE - (3TE, 1WR, 1HB)
TE Corners -The left TE and inside right TE do slants to the opposite sides
of the field. The WR does a nice slant/drag move deep towards the middle.
Hit any one of these 3. The far right TE does a short box to the inside left.
Avoid him, too much clutter in the middle. Pretty nice play.
PA FL Stretch - Nice play action pass play. The left TE and outside right TE
do slants to the right. The WR streaks. The inside right TE does a screen to
the right. Lead your slanting receivers, you should be able to hit at least
one of them. If the blitz comes, quickly get the ball to the inside TE on
the screen.
More short pass plays are still here. Nothing big. HB draw, counter weak,
plunge, dive, power and counter are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside
left WR or the TE, whichever audible you chose for him. Audible the HB to
screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
FL Middle - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
screens left then breaks deep along the sideline. If you throw to him, hit
him as soon as he breaks past the first defender. The HB screens left, while
the right WR box cuts short left. Audible him to slant left, or streak.
Flanker Shake - Outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
slant crosses over the middle to the far right. The right WR box cuts right,
towards the sideline. Take your pick.
Another play action awaits, along with a few more decent medium range
pass plays. HB smash, delay, counter trap, plunge, toss sweep and cutback are
the run plays.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA Cross Up - Play action pass play. 2 WR's and the TE run slants, while
the right side receiver runs a short curl. You should be able to get a man
open on this play. Watch out for the blitz.
WR Post - The left WR drag posts to the left sideline. Everybody else slant
posts to the left. Accuracy is important on this play. Choose wisely.
Several more mediocre medium range passes remain. HB blunt dive, slant, draw,
dive and sprint are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE&2WR's bunched right, 1HB)
Clearout SE Opt - The left WR box drags left. The TE slants left inside.
The middle right WR options short. Audible a slant right for him. The far
right WR streaks. Look for the TE or middle right WR.
PA Waggle - The left WR slants far right over the middle. The TE goes short,
so audible him to box cut right. The inside right WR deep slants in.
The outside WR streaks. Take your pick, but watch the blitz.
Mason Option - The left WR crooked posts deep in. TE box cuts right,
over the middle. The middle right WR options short, so audible him to streak.
The far right WR crooked posts deep in as well. Look for him, and the left
WR here.
The rest are weak short pass plays. HB dive, draw, slam, quick pitch,
and sprint are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-4WR SPREAD (4WR, 1HB)
PA Slot Crosses - The left WR crooked posts deep in. Both inside WR's
criss-cross over the middle. The far right WR streaks. Take your pick.
PA Slot Wheels - The left WR crooked posts deep in. Both inside WR's screen
to opposite sides, then break deep. The far right WR box cuts left, over
the middle. Take your pick, and watch the blitz.
Hitch Corners - Both outside WR's go short. Audible them both to streak.
Both inside WR's run deep slants to opposite sides of the field. Hit one of
these guys.
A few more good medium to deep range pass plays available. HB dive, cutback,
draw, and pitch are the run plays.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should
be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
There are a couple of decent play actions here, but the rest are relatively
short pass plays. HB counter, draw, slam, lead toss, stretch, dive, a WR
reverse run, and a play action QB run - for skilled runners.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA TE Leak - Outside left WR streaks. Inside left WR slants far right over
the middle. The TE short slants right. Audible the HB to screen left.
Look for the receivers on the slant.
Nothing else really stands out here. More boring pass plays. HB counter,
toss, blast, FB dive strong, HB slash, and 1 more weak play action.
I FORM-3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
WR Deep Post - The left WR curl drags left. I'd audible him to slant right.
The HB screens to the right. The inside right WR goes short box left.
Audible him to slant left or right. The far right WR deep slants in.
Another nice play.
Flats - Both HB and FB screen to opposite sides. Both outside WR's streak.
Inside right WR short slants in. Audible him to slant further, either to the
left or the right, and he becomes the intended target.
Pump-N-Go - Both outside WR's run in and out routes. The inside right WR
short slants in. Audible him to slant to the left or right, then get him
the ball.
More mediocre short to medium passes are still here. HB dive, blast, draw,
toss and dive are the run plays.
I FORM-BIG (2TE, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR right)
Nothing big here. A couple of decent play actions are here. The rest are
weak short pass plays. HB lead toss, counter strong, off tackle, lead, blast,
slam, and FB dive strong, complete this set.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short
over the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks
out to the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz
PA Rollout - Both left WR and the TE deep slant right. The right WR goes
short, so audible him to slant left. Take your pick, just complete the
rollout move though.
A few decent medium range passes leftover. HB blast, stretch, counter trap,
dive, power and FB dive are the run plays.
STRONG I-TWIN WR (2WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA FB Flat - Left WR stutter-steps a slant in. Inside left WR slants right
all the way across the field. TE streaks. FB screens right. Take your pick.
Throw the screen if you get in trouble.
WR Smash - The TE and inside left WR slant in opposite directions. These are
your targets. The FB streaks up the middle. You can also screen pass to
the HB. Okay play.
A few more medium range pass plays left. HB draw, power, counter weak, dive,
lead, FB dive, and another play action QB run.
STRONG I-TWIN TE (same as above, except 1WR left, 2TE right)
nothing big here. Decent play actions, and some medium range pass plays.
FB Dive, HB counter lead, counter weak, dive, toss strong, dive weak and
stretch are the run plays.
WEAK I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA Deep Post - Play action pass. The left WR does a comeback left, towards
the sideline. The TE boxes short. Audible him to slant right. The right WR
deep posts in. I was able to hit the TE at will.
A couple more good play actions, a nice comeback-option play as well.
HB dive counter trap, gut, draw, double counter, FB dive are the run plays.
WEAK I-TWIN TE (same as above, 2TE's right)
PA Boot LT - Left WR streaks. Both TE's slant left across the middle.
FB screens left. Take your pick.
The rest are kind of weak. Some short to medium pass plays leftover.
HB counter trap, draw, power toss, dive and FB dive are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL (1TE, 3 WR, 1HB)
TE Corner - Left WR boxes in. Left inside WR streaks. TE slants deep right
to the sideline. Right WR sharp screens right, audible him to streak. Nice play
This set could be better. Some more mediocre short to medium pass plays.
HB mid-draw. and off tackle are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-SLOT STRONG (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Sprint RT Option - Both outside WR's streak. TE slants to the right sideline.
Inside right WR does a sharp screen right. Audible him to a slant left over the
middle, which will give you another pass option. If you do, someone will get
open. If you have a fast QB, you can run the ball right, since he will be
running in that direction anyway.
There's a decent play action here, but the rest are short to medium pass
plays. HB sweep and draw are the runs.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Hail Mary - All 4 WR's streak
Smash Corner - Both inside WR's slant deep to opposite sides of the field.
Both outside WR go short, audible them to streak. The HB streaks up the
middle too.
Nothing else stands out here. Lots more short to medium range passing here.
There is a deep option pass though. HB mid-draw and sweep are the 2 run plays.
PROS: - Lots of play actions
- The TE's are used often
- Good for faster QB's with the QB play action runs
- Exceptional running plays
CONS: - Too many short pass plays
- A little too conservative on the passes
- Several repeated plays in different sets
- No 5 WR formation
GRADE: - PASSING - C+
- RUNNING - A+
- OVERALL - B -
It seemed to me that Vice President Dick Cheney is the offensive coordinator
or WR coach, because the passing is WAY too conservative. No real big deep
pass plays to stretch the field. The TE's are on hand, and you'll get
plenty of use out of them. The running plays are stellar, plenty of variety.
Up the middle, around the corners, to the sides, it's all there. I gained
200 and 245 yards respectively, in 2 straight games. Just give me a playbook
with running plays like this, and I could care less what else is there.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4) BUFFALO BILLS - (Mike Mularkey)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 1RB, 2TE)
PA Deep In - Play action pass play. Right WR does a 10 yard curl to the
sideline. The left WR does a short box cut to the inside right. The left TE
criss-crosses with the left WR, then breaks deep. The right TE does a slant
towards the middle. Nice play, hit the TE on the slant.
TE Cross - Both TE's criss-cross over the middle. Left WR streaks. Right WR
deep slants in. Look for the right WR on the deep slant. OR scramble to
either side and hit one of the TE's cutting across the field with you.
Ace WR Stretch - Both the left WR and the left TE streak. The right TE goes
short, so audible him to slant right. The right WR slant crosses far left.
Sweet play.
TE Seam Option - Both WR's and the right TE streak. The left TE curls short,
so audible him to slant left or right. Your choice.
2 more option passes, another play action, and a handful of medium passes.
HB draw, counter weak, smash, blunt dive, pitch, stretch, and slam are the
run plays.
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA Rollout - All 3 receivers slant cross right. Easy enough. Watch the blitz.
That's all really. A couple of short to medium passes. HB counter weak, draw,
power, off tackle, stretch, and dive are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE (2WR, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Weak. Several short and medium range passes here. HB counter, sweep, slant,
and dive are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-BIG 3 TE - (3TE, 1WR, 1HB)
TE Corners - Left TE and inside right TE do slants to the opposite sides of
the field. The WR does a nice slant/drag move deep towards the middle. Hit
any one of these 3. The far right TE does a short box to the inside left.
Avoid him, too much clutter in the middle. Pretty nice play.
PA FL Stretch - Nice play action pass play. The left TE and outside right TE
do slants to the right. The WR streaks. The inside right TE does a screen to
the right. Lead your slanting receivers, you should be able to hit at least
one of them. If the blitz comes, quickly get to the inside TE on the screen.
Another play action, and a few short to medium range pass plays remain.
HB dive, counter weak, toss strong, draw, counter, and plunge are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT - (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Slot Cross - Far left WR goes deep slant in. Left WR cuts all the way across
the field to the right. Te blocks then runs downfield. Right WR streaks. If you
have speedy WR's, you can lob to the ones going deep, but I kept getting
blitzed, so scramble a few yards to the right, and lead a pass to the WR
cutting all the way across the middle of the field.
Cross Up - Almost the exact play as the above, except the play is "flipped" to
the opposite side this time. Same rules apply, with the addition of a screen
to the HB.
FL Middle - Both left WR's criss-cross, then go deep. The right WR goes 5
yards then cuts to the middle. gently lob the ball over the defenders if
using him. Otherwise, look for your WR's deep. You can screen to the HB too.
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside
left WR or the TE, whichever audible you chose for him. Audible the HB to
screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
2 more play actions, 2 option passes, and a few medium range passes remain.
HB dive, counter trap, sprint, draw, sweep, stretch.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR,1TE, 1HB)
PA Boot RT - The left WR and the inside right WR slant to the right.
The TE goes short, so audible a slant left for him. The right WR streaks.
Take your pick here.
WR Post - The left WR box slants left. The inside right WR slant crosses
far left. The right WR slants deep in. Your choice here.
A couple of good play actions, a screen, and several decent medium range pass
plays remain. HB counter, stretch, dive, draw, pitch, and smash are the run
plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE and 2 WR bunched right, 1HB)
Clearout SE Opt - The left WR box drags left. The TE slants left inside.
The middle right WR options short. Audible a slant right for him. The far
right WR streaks. Look for the TE or middle right WR.
Nothing else stands out to me here. There are quite a few decent medium range
passes though. HB quick pitch, sprint, dive, Willis draw, counter, and a
bunch WR reverse, are the run plays.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should
be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
PA HB Flat - The left WR slants right. The TE box cuts short left, so
audible him to slant right. The right WR streaks. The HB screens right.
Simple enough...
Flea Flicker - QB fakes the handoff to the HB up the middle, HB tosses back
to the QB for the pass. Audible the right WR to streak, then scramble right.
I would look for the WR cutting across the field on this one.
Deep Cross - The left WR sharply curls short inside, then quickly breaks deep.
The TE slant crosses far left. The right WR slants in, then breaks deep.
The HB screens left. Nice play.
A play action, a screen, and some short to medium range pass plays remain.
HB toss, slam, stretch, dive, draw, and FB dive Fake HB are the run plays
I FORM-CLOSE (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
No big deal here. A couple of play actions, 2 options, and 2 decent medium
pass plays. HB pitch, lead dive, counter, stretch, HB Slam Fake WR, and a
WR end around are the run plays.
I FORM-BIG (2TE, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR right)
Fake Sneak HB Swing - Trick play. The QB fakes a sneak, then quickly drops
back for a pass to the HB, who screens left, then breaks deep. You need a
good offensive line to pull this off. WATCH THE BLITZ!!
2 play actions, an option, and a short pass play remain. HB lead toss,
counter lead, slam, lead, FB dive, and QB sneak are the run plays.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA Counter Flat - The left WR box drags left. Audible the TE to slant right.
The right WR crooked posts in. Watch the blitz.
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks out to
the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
Another play action you've seen before, and an option pass remain. HB dive,
counter lead, power, and stretch.
STRONG I-3WR (3WR, 1FB, 1HB)
A good play action, 2 option passes, a short, and a medium pass play remain.
HB off tackle, draw, dive, and FB dive are the run plays.
STRONG I-JUMBO (2TE, 1FB, 1HB, 1WR)
Nothing major. A couple of play actions, and a medium range pass. HB counter,
lead blast, sweep, weak dive, dive, and FB dive
WEAK I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
A decent comeback option pass, a short option, a screen, and 2 play actions.
Nothing big. HB double counter, gut, draw, off tackle, and FB power.
WEAK I -TWIN WR (same as above, 2WR left)
WR Cross - The Left WR crooked posts deep in. The Inside left WR slants
right, across the middle. The TE short drags right, Audible him to streak or
slant right. Take your pick here.
An option, a screen, a decent play action, and a short pass remain here.
HB counter, inside, toss weak, and FB power are the run plays.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
Slot Cross - Left WR streaks. Inside right WR slants far left across the
field. Right WR box cuts left. Both backs screen to opposite sides. I'd
audible both left WR's to criss-cross, then hit one of them.
2 play actions, and lots of short, medium, and deep pass plays remain.
HB delay and FB inside are the run plays.
SHOTGUN TRIPS BUNCH (1WR LEFT, 1TE, 2WR BUNCHED RIGHT)
Clearout FL In - Left WR starts short, fakes a cut left, then breaks deep.
Lob the ball to him if he gets ahead of the DB. The TE and middle WR streak,
while the far right WR does a short box in. Avoid this guy.
Clearout SE Out - Left and far right WR's streak. The middle right receiver
does a box cut to the sideline. The TE runs a deep slant to the inside.
Take your pick on this one, but the sure fire guy is the TE.
A deep option pass, and several good medium to deep range pass plays remain.
Only 1 run - HB mid draw.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Bills Cross - Far left WR cuts short inside. The inside left WR short slants
out. Inside right WR box cuts to the middle, while the far right WR deep
slants inside. The HB screens to the right.
You can't go wrong on the slants.
Smash Corner - Both inside WR's slant deep to opposite sides of the field.
Both outside WR go short, audible them to streak. The HB streaks up the
middle too.
A handful of medium to deep passes remain. HB mid draw and quick base are
the run plays.
SHOTGUN - TRIPS (3WR's left, 1WR right, 1HB)
Deep Attack - The left outside WR streaks. The middle left WR box cuts right.
The inside left WR slant crosses far right. The right WR deep slants in.
The HB screens right.
SE Under - The inside left WR and the right WR slant to the left. The outside
left WR crosses short, so audible him to streak or run a comeback route.
The inside left WR slants to the left. Easy pickings.
HB Burst - The far left WR streaks. The middle left WR box cuts in. The
inside left WR slants right. The right WR does a comeback route outside.
Audible the HB to screen right.
A couple play actions and several medium passes. HB sweep and draw.
SHOTGUN 5WR
Hitch Corners - The 2 outside WR's curl short. Audible them to streak.
The 2 inside WR's slant left. The middle right WR slants right.You should be
able to hit any of the WR's on the slant.
Hail Mary - All WR's streak deep.
Quite a few more short, medium, and deep pass plays.
PROS: - 3, 4, 5 WR Formations
- Excellent running
- Good play actions
- Nice medium to deep range pass plays
CONS: - The passing doesn't step up until the shotgun formation
- Not much FB use
- Several audibles will be needed
- WR's take too long to get open on some routes
GRADE: - PASSING - B+
- RUNNING - A -
- OVERALL - B+
This playbook starts off slow, but picks up in the end. The running is great,
with lot's of variety. Not just up the middle. The running loses half a
point for not using the FB much. The passing is good, but I found myself
being too predictable, because I spent too much time in the shotgun formation.
If you like to spread the field like me, this is where you'll find these type
of plays. There's some decent play actions, and a trick play or too.
Not bad, not bad at all...
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5) CAROLINA PANTHERS - (John Fox)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 1RB, 2TE)
Ace TE Drag - The left WR streaks. The left TE box cuts right. The right
TE crosses short, so audible him to slant right instead. The right WR slants
deep in. Take your pick.
Outs - Both TE's slant to opposite sides. Both WR's go short. Audible them
to slant in, forming a "double X” pattern. Or you can just audible them to
streak. Your choice. Look for the TE's first though.
That's it here really. 2 play actions and a few short passes. HB dive, slam,
sprint, blast, belly strong, counter and toss strong are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-BIG WING (2WR, 2TE, 1HB)
HB Swing - Left WR does a comeback inside. The right TE slants left inside.
The right WR does a comeback short. Audible him to streak. The HB screens
right. Look for the right TE here.
PA Boot LT - Left WR streaks. The left TE goes short, so audible him to slant
right. The right TE slants over the middle, to the far left. The right WR
slants left. Watch the blitz here.
Nothing else really. 4 decent play actions, an option pass, and a couple
short to medium range passes. HB counter, slant, and cutback are the only run
plays here.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (2WR's left, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Weak. A play action, and several short pass plays. HB slam, stretch,
counter weak, and counter are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Streaks - All 4 receivers streak. The FB screens right. Simple play.
Slot In Drag - Both outside WR's streak. The inside left WR and the TE box
cut short, so audible them to slant right. Take your pick.
Several more weak pass plays remain, along with a couple of mediocre medium
range plays as well. HB draw, slam, counter trap, stretch, and cutback
are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR,1TE, 1HB)
Boring. A few decent medium range passes, and several weak short passes.
HB belly weak, draw, and slant are the runs.
SINGLEBACK PANTHER TRIPS (1WR left, 2WR's right, 1TE, 1HB)
WR Drag - The left WR box cuts to the right. The TE streaks. The inside
right WR slants to the right. The far right WR goes short, so audible him to
slant left, or run an out-n-up route. The HB screens right. Easy play.
That's it here. There's a decent play action, and an option pass play.
The rest are weak. HB off tackle, counter weak, and wham are the 3 runs.
SINGLEBACK 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Deep Posts - Both outside WR's streak to the inside. The inside left WR deep
posts to the right. He's the target. The inside right WR goes short, so
audible him to slant left for a 2nd option. The HB screens left.
Several more decent medium range pass plays leftover. Nothing huge.
HB draw, sweep, split belly, smash, delay, and pitch are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS WR (4WR, 1HB)
PA FL Stretch - Left WR slants deep in. Both right inside and middle WR's
slant cross over the middle. The far right WR streaks. Audible the inside
right WR to slant right, and you've got yourself a pretty good play.
Nothing else stands out to me here. More mediocre short to medium range
pass plays. HB slam, sprint, and draw are the 3 run plays.
SINGLEBACK EMPTY 5 WR
Smashfork - 2 WR run medium posts to the inside left. 2 other WR's run very
short cuts to the right. Avoid these right side guys. The middle right WR
slant crosses to the right sideline. Cheap play, but effective. You should
have at least 3 options to throw to.
Curl Drag - Both left WR's criss-cross deep inside. The inside right WR
crosses short left. Audible a slant left instead. The middle right WR short
slants in. The far right WR, runs a short comeback in. Audible a streak.
Take your pick.
Hail Mary - Everybody streaks....
Lots of short to medium pass plays leftover.
FULLHOUSE - PHILLY (2WR, 1TE and 1FB in the backfield, 1HB)
Fake Dive Pitch - Trick run play. The QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the
middle, then tosses to the HB running left. Follow the blocking first, then
sprint.
A decent play action remains, along with a screen, and 2 short pass plays.
HB sweep, smash, dive, counter lead, draw, slam, and FB slam are the
running plays.
SPLITBACK- 3WR (3WR, 1HB, 1FB)
WR Corners - Both outside WR's curl drag to the outside opposite corners.
The inside right WR goes short, so audible him to slant to the left. Then he
will be the target. Both backs screen to opposite sides.
The rest are boring short pass plays. FB dive, HB draw and off tackle are
the only running plays here.
SPLITBACKS - BIG (2TE, 1FB, 1HB, 1WR right)
PA TE Corner - Both TE's slant to the right. The WR goes short, so audible
him to streak instead. Hit the TE's on this play.
Only, a couple of short passes remain.
STRONG I-H PRO (2WR, 1TE, 1FB, 1HB)
PA FB Fake - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle. The left WR deep
slants in. The TE slants right. The right WR streaks. The HB screens
far right. Watch the blitz.
Another decent play action awaits, along with a decent option pass, and a
short pass as well. HB counter lead, counter weak, stretch, FB trap, and
FK FB HB counter are the runs.
STRONG I - H TWINS (2WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA FB Flat - Left WR stutter-steps a slant in. Inside left WR slants right
all the way across the field. TE streaks. FB screens right. Take your pick.
Throw the screen if you get in trouble.
WR Smash - The TE and inside left WR slant in opposite directions. These are
your targets. The FB streaks up the middle. You can also screen pass to
the HB. Okay play.
A few more weak short to medium range pass plays. HB power, dive, off tackle,
and counter weak are the run plays.
STRONG I - H TE FLIP (2WR, 1TE, 1FB, 1HB)
Nothing big. 3 play actions, 1 option pass, and 1 short pass. Boring.
HB off tackle, dive weak, counter weak, and blast are the same old run plays.
STRONG I - H TWIN TE 1WR left, 2TE right, 1HB, 1FB)
2 play actions, and 2 medium range passes. That's it here. HB dive weak,
counter weak, blast, FB trap, and FK FB HB counter are the same runs...
WEAK I - H PRO (2WR, 1TE, 1FB, 1HB)
TE Fade - Money Play. HB screens left . Left WR runs deep slant in.
The TE and right WR criss-cross. You can lob to the TE, or bullet pass to
the left WR. How about a lead pass to the right WR going left across
the field? I always get someone open on this play.
Streaks - All 3 receivers streak deep.
More relatively short passes, and a short play action leftover.
HB gut, double counter and lead are the runs.
WEAK I-H TWINS (same as above, 2 WR's left)
PA Waggle - All 3 receivers slant far and deep right. The FB screens right.
Another easy play.
WR Cross - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Inside left WR slants right, across
the middle. TE curls short in, audible him to streak or slant left.
A decent option pass, and 2 more short pass plays are here. HB wham, gut,
counter trap, toss weak, and FB power are your runs.
WEAK I - H WING TE (1WR left, 2TE, 1HB, 1FB)
A decent option pass, a medium range pass, and 2 play actions are here.
HB wham, gut, counter trap, toss weak, and FB power are the same run plays ...
WEAK I - H TWIN TE (same as above, 2TE's right)
2 medium range passes you've seen already. 1 play action, and more short
pass plays.
Running plays? Yep, you guessed it....HB inside, wham, and counter trap. (Again)
SHOTGUN - 4WR SPREAD
Panthers Cross - Far left WR cuts short inside. The inside left WR short
slants out. Inside right WR box cuts to the middle, while the far right WR
deep slants inside. The HB screens to the right.
You can't go wrong on the slants
A decent option pass, another good play action, and the rest are mediocre
short to medium range pass plays. What a waste...HB mid draw and another
draw, are the 2 run plays.
SHOTGUN 5WR TIGHT
Hitch Corners - The 2 outside WR's curl short. Audible them to streak.
The 2 inside WR's slant left. The middle right WR slants right. You should
be able to hit any of the WR's on the slant.
Shallow Drags - Both the inside left and far right WR's slant left. The far
left WR goes short, so audible him to streak. The inside right WR box
cuts left. The middle right WR screens right, then breaks deep.
Take your pick here.
Clear Deep - The inside left, right, and middle right WR's streak.
The far left WR runs a deep comeback route to the outside. The far right WR
box cuts left over the middle. Audible him to slant left instead.
Several more short, medium and deep pass plays remaining. Some are
very similar to each other.
SHOTGUN - EMPTY TE FLIP (4WR, 1TE)
Drag Combo - The inside left and right WR's slant left. The far left and
middle right WR's go short, audible them to streak. The far right WR zig-zags
deep outside. Your choice here.
WR Smash - The far left WR box cuts to the right. The inside left WR crosses
short, so audible him to streak. The TE deep slants inside. The inside right
WR slants right. The far right WR goes short, so audible him to streak, then
take your pick.
WR Post - The far left WR box cuts out. The inside left WR streaks. The TE
slant crosses far left. The inside right WR curls short. Audible him to
slant right The far right WR deep slants in. Again, your choice.
Several more decent short, medium, and deep pass plays remain.
SHOTGUN - EMPTY TREY STACK (5WR - including 2WR stacked right)
Middle Corner Post - The inside left and far right WR's streak. The far left
WR goes short, so audible him to slant to the right. The inside right WR
zig-zags deep in. The middle right WR deep slants in.
Lots more short passing plays here....WHY? Several more medium to deep
plays as well.
PROS: - 3, 4, and 5 WR formations
- FB gets plenty of runs
- Lots of shotgun formations
CONS: - Weak running
- Not enough runs
- Too many short passes
- No run variety
GRADE: - PASSING - C -
- RUNNING - D
- OVERALL - D -
This playbook is garbage IMO. The running is weak. No variety, pretty much
the same run plays in most formations. Most of the runs are up the middle.
There's not enough run plays in several formations that normally have plenty,
to establish the run game. The passing grade would have flunked had it not
been for the multitude of shotgun formations and the 5 WR set. However, with
that being said, it still falls off because there are more short passes than
anything else. The passing is way too conservative, and you'll spend the
majority of your time in the shotgun formations. Do not operate heavy
machinery while using this playbook.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6) CHICAGO BEARS - (Lovie Smith)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2WR, 2TE, 1HB)
Flea Flicker - Trick play. QB hands off to the HB, HB tosses the ball back
to the QB for the pass. The blitz should come quickly so know who you are
going to throw the ball to. I usually scramble straight to the right, and
hit the WR cutting across the field with you. The right WR streaks.
SE Post - Left WR deep slants in. Right WR streaks. Left TE slants left,
while the right TE short box cuts to the middle. Throw to the left WR or the
left TE.
TE Cross - Both TE's criss-cross over the middle. Left WR streaks. Right
WR deep slants in. Look for the right WR on the deep slant. OR scramble
to either side and hit one of the TE's cutting across the field with you.
There are 2 more play action passes left, a few more decent pass plays,
HB pitch, draw, dive, counter trap, and stretch finish this set.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE (2WR, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Clark Option - Left WR starts deep, then does a comeback route towards
the sideline. Right WR deep slants in. He is your target. The inside TE does
a short route, so audible him to slant over the middle. Just make sure you
get the ball over the defender's reach if throwing to him. The outside TE
criss-crosses the left WR and breaks deep along the sideline. If you throw
his way, hit him as soon as he blows by the first defender.
WR Drag - Left WR does the comeback route towards the sideline. Inside TE
box cuts left towards the middle. The outside TE short slants to the right.
He's your man. The right WR does a short cross over the middle. Audible him
to streak.
3 more play action passes are here, only one of them are decent. There's a
couple of short pass plays, HB counter, sweep, draw, dive and stretch.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Clark Option In - Left WR does a box slant left towards the sideline. Inside
left WR does a slant move inside. Be careful if throwing his way, lead your
pass to him. The right WR streaks. The TE goes short, so audible him to
slant right, to give yourself another target.
FL Middle - Left WR stutter-steps a post route deep inside. He takes too long
to get open. Left inside WR crosses the left WR, then breaks deep along the
sideline. Again, get the ball to him as soon as he passes by that first
defender. TE runs a short streak. The left WR short box cuts over the middle.
Slot Cross - Right WR streaks. The TE runs a short streak. Left WR deep
slants in, he's the first option. Left inside WR cuts right all the way across
the middle. If throwing to him scramble right. Watch the blitz.
There are a couple more decent short to medium range pass plays, 2 play
actions, HB dive, cutback, draw, slam, stretch and counter trap.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE and 2 WR bunched right, 1HB)
Muhammad Option - Left WR crooked posts deep in. The TE box cuts to the
middle. Middle right WR goes short. Audible him to streak. Far right WR
crooked posts deep right to the sideline. Watch the blitz, the receivers kind
of take a while to finish their routes.
PA Pin Deep - Left WR does a comeback to the sidelines. TE screens right,
audible him to slant right to the sideline, then he's a good option. Middle
right WR box cuts inside, while the far right WR slants deep in, slightly
inside. You should hit someone, but because this is a play action pass,
watch the blitz.
There's another play action pass, a few more short to medium range pass plays,
HB sprint, pitch, dive, and draw.
SINGLEBACK-4WR SPREAD (4WR, 1HB)
PA HB Out - Play action pass. Both outside WR's streak. Both inside WR's
slant left. Hit the WR's on the slant. Audible the HB to screen, in case
there's trouble.
Strike Post - Left WR slants deep in. Left inside WR boxes right to the
middle. Inside right WR boxes short and left to the middle, while the right
WR boxes deep left to the middle. Basically everyone cuts to the middle at
different ranges. You should get someone, just lead your passes.
Hitch Corners - Both outside WR's go short. Audible them both to streak.
Both inside WR's run deep slants to opposite sides of the field. Hit one of
these guys.
There's a couple more good medium to deep pass plays. 2 more play actions,
HB dive, cutback, draw, pitch, slash, and stretch. Good plays to keep
'em guessing.
SINGLEBACK -TREY OPEN (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Drive - Left WR curls in. You'd have to hit him immediately. TE box cuts to
the middle. Inside WR goes short left. Audible him to slant right, and he
would be the primary receiver. The right WR streaks.
Nothing else here really stands out, but the plays are okay. 2 play actions,
a screen play, and 2 option passes. HB draw, slam and counter finish this set.
SINGLEBACK-EMPTY 5WR
Smash Fork - Left WR goes short. Audible him to slant right. The inside right
WR goes short too. Audible him to slant left. The other 2 WR's on the right
criss-cross. You should have no problems getting the ball downfield.
Hail Mary - Let's go STREAKING!!! Uh...Everyone Streaks downfield.
Cross Up - Left WR runs diagonally right towards the middle. Inside left WR
starts left to the sideline, then breaks deep. The inside right WR goes short.
Audible him to right slant. Middle right WR deep slants in to the left. He's
a good target. Far right WR streaks. Someone's gotta be open.
There are quite a few more plays, but most of them or short passes. A lot of
audibles might be needed. There are a few medium range pass plays as well.
Be careful and watch the blitz on some of them, because the receivers take
too long on their routes.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB who's running left. Follow the blocking before you
sprint. I always seem to get decent yards every time I run this play.
WR Reverse - QB hands off to the HB, who then hands off to the right WR
running left. DO NOT USE THE SPRINT UNTIL YOU GET PAST THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE,
or your in trouble. Also, don't abuse this play. No more than twice a game.
The computer catches on fast.
2 more play actions here, along with several short pass plays. HB Toss, slam,
stretch and misdirection running plays. There's even a QB running play to the
right, but your QB has to be fast.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, 2 WR's left)
This set is kind of weak. 2 play actions, several short to medium range pass
plays, HB slash, counter, toss, blast and FB dive remain.
I FORM-BIG (same as above, 1WR right)
See above, kind of weak too.
I FORM-3WR (same as above, 3WR)
Flats - Both HB and FB screen to opposite sides. Both outside WR's streak.
Inside right WR short slants in. Audible him to slant further, either to the
left or the right, and he becomes the intended target.
WR Deep Post - Left WR box slants left to the sideline. HB screens right.
Inside right WR short boxes left to the middle. Right WR deep slants
slightly left. He's the man, or screen play if the coverage is to tight.
Not really much more here. Some short pass plays, a pump and go play that
you'd have to lob the ball deep over the WR's heads. There's a decent play
action, HB dive, blast, draw, toss and FB dive.
SPLITBACKS-NORMAL (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA WR Shake - Left WR posts deep in. HB crooked posts left towards the
sideline. TE slants right, get it to him. Right WR stutter-steps short.
Audible him, or avoid him. This play is up in the air because it's a play
action, and that means there's a good chance of the blitz.
TE Post - Left WR slants in, then out to the sideline. Right WR streaks.
TE deep slants left over the middle. FB screens right. Hit the TE.
A couple of option passes, and some short to medium range pass plays.
HB inside, toss, swee, draw, and FB belly finish this set off.
SPLITBACKS 3 WR (same as above, 3WR)
HB Option - Audible the HB to screen left. FB screens right. Both outside
WR's streak, while the inside right WR deep slants. Look for him.
Slot Cross - HB screens left. Right WR boxes medium left. Inside right WR
slants left all the way across the field. Left WR deep slants in. This is
your target.
Not too much more. The rest of the pass plays are fairly short. HB toss,
draw, blast and FB blast end this set.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks out to
the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
That's about it. 2 More play actions, and some short range passes as well.
HB counter, blast, FB dive and another QB running play.
STRONG I-3WR (same as above, 3WR)
Double Flares - Left WR streaks. Right WR deep slants to the left. Inside
right WR box cuts left to the middle. I"D audible him to slant left or right,
then it's take your pick.
Deep Cross - Left WR runs a sharp slant left. HB screens towards the middle.
Both right side WR's criss-cross on a slant. Look for one of them.
2 more decent play actions remain, and a couple more short to medium range
pass plays. HB dive, off-tackle, counter dive, and FB Dive are the run plays.
STRONG I - JUMBO (2TE, 1WR, 1HB, 1FB)
Use this mainly for the running plays. The couple of pass plays here are short
range. It's like an extra "goal line" formation.
WEAK I- NORMAL (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
Nothing huge stands out here. Conservative formation. 2 play action passes,
a screen, and a couple okay pass plays as well. HB inside, lead, draw, gut,
and FB power complete this one.
WEAK I-TWIN WR (same as above, 2WR left)
PA Boot Slide - QB fakes handoff to HB. Left WR slant deep right. Inside left
WR slants short inside. FB screens right. This is a sweet play if done
correctly. Take your pick on who to throw to.
WR Cross - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Inside left WR slants right, across
the middle. TE curls short in, Audible him to streak or slant left.
PA QB Boot - QB fakes handoff to HB up the middle, then scrambles to the
right. It's up to your skills to make this play work. Follow the blocking
first, then sprint. Slow QB's? Don't even try it.
There is another nice play action pass, a screen, and a mediocre WR option
pass. HB dive, draw, power toss, trap, stretch, and FB dive complete this set.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
WR Post Corner - Both outside WR's run deep, then sharply slant out to
opposite sides of the field. Inside right WR deep slants in. HB slants out
then sharp cuts inside the middle. FB screens right. Accuracy is a must for
the outside WR's. Play it safe and hit the WR on the slant.
Slot Cross - Left WR streaks. Inside right WR slants far left across the
field. Right WR box cuts left. Both backs screen to opposite sides.
I'd audible both left WR's to criss-cross, then hit one of them.
There are a few more medium range pass plays, a nice play action, HB draw
and FB inside.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL (1TE, 3 WR, 1HB)
TE Corner - Left WR boxes in. Left inside WR streaks. TE slants deep right
to the sideline. Right WR sharp screens right, audible him to streak.
Nice play
PA Slot Post - Left WR box cuts right. Inside left WR slants deep in.
TE sharp screens right. Audible him to slant inside left. Right WR does a
comeback route to the sideline. Watch the blitz.
2 more good play actions, a couple of screens, and a few medium range
pass plays. HB mid draw, and off-tackle are here too. Not bad.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Circle - Left WR medium crosses far right over the middle. Left inside WR
crosses over left, then breaks deep along the sideline. Inside right WR
streaks. Far right WR goes short. Audible him to a comeback curl...
Just in case.
Smash Corner - Both inside WR's slant deep to opposite sides of the field.
Both outside WR go short, audible them to streak. The HB streaks up the
middle too.
Benson Option - Left WR goes short. Audible him to slant right. Inside left,
and inside right WR's streak. Outside right WR goes deep then box cuts inside.
HB does a short comeback. Audible him or avoid. Don't tell me you can't find
anyone open...
A few more decent short to medium range pass plays, HB delay and sweep.
PROS: - Good passing plays
- Good running plays too.
- TE's are thrown into the mix
- 3, 4, 5 WR formations
- Good for intermediate players
CONS: - A lot of the runs are up the middle.
- Not good for slower QB's
- I'd like to see more FB running plays
GRADE: - PASSING - A -
- RUNNING - B+
- OVERALL - A
Even I was surprised at this playbook. No drinking excessively, smashing
things, or temper tantrums. It's actually pretty good. The plays aren't too
difficult, and everyone gets involved. Your offensive line needs to be good
though, because of the nice runs and play actions. I gained lots of first
downs, which in turned boosted my time of possession. Conservative, but
effective. Veterans will be able to kick some serious Boo-Tay! It's a good
playbook to practice your skills with.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7) CINCINNATI BENGALS - (Marvin Lewis)
SINGLEBACK-BIG WING (2WR, 2TE, 1HB)
TE Cross - Both TE's criss-cross over the middle. Left WR streaks. Right WR
deep slants in. Look for the right WR on the deep slant. OR scramble to
either side and hit one of the TE's cutting across the field with you.
PA FL Clown - The left WR crooked posts deep in. The TE slants deep right.
The right WR goes short, so audible him to streak or slant to the left.
Audible the HB to screen, then take your pick.
A couple play actions, a couple option passes, and a short range pass remain.
HB stretch, counter, pitch, draw, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE (2WR, 1HB, 2TE's right)
WR Drag - Left WR does the comeback route towards the sideline. Inside TE
box cuts left towards the middle. The outside TE short slants to the right.
He's your man. The right WR does a short cross over the middle. Audible him
to streak.
Nothing else stands out to me here. A screen, 2 play actions, and 2 option
passes. HB dive, draw, counter, power, and slant are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
TE Post - the left WR crosses short right, so audible him to streak.
The right WR streaks. The inside left WR and the TE slant to the left.
Look for one of these two.
Safety Attack - Both outside WR's streak. The inside left WR slants to the
right. The TE box cuts to the right. Easy play.
WR Reverse Pass - Trick play. The QB tosses to the HB running left.
The HB then hands off to the outside left WR, who's running to the right.
Quickly press "X" to bring up the icons for a pass. Audible the left
(formerly the inside left) WR to slant right. The right WR slants in, then
out towards the sideline. Sweet play if done correctly.
TE Shallow - Both the inside left and right side WR's streak. The outside
left WR runs a comeback route to the outside. The TE slant crosses short,
and far left. Your choice.
A nice play action, and a few short to medium range passes remain. HB slant,
sprint, sweep, draw, dive, and a WR reverse are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-SLOT STRONG (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA Cross Up - Left WR deep slants in. The TE runs a medium slant across the
left middle. The inside WR deep slants right, towards the sideline.
Far right WR curls in short. Audible him to slant left, and you'll have
plenty of options, but because this is a play action, watch the blitz
Another play action, a couple options, 1 short, and 1 medium range pass
remain. HB draw, pitch, dive, draw, and slash are the runs.
SINGLEBACK - TIGHT SLOTS (4WR, 1HB)
WR Corners - Both outside WR's slant to opposite sides. The inside left WR
curls short. Audible him to crooked post right. The inside right WR curls
short too, so audible him to streak. Take your pick here.
Drag Cross Ups - Both outside WR's cross slant to the inside. The HB slants
out, then deep inside. Both inside WR's screen to opposite sides, then
break deep. Your choice here.
An option, a play action, and a good medium range pass play remain.
HB pitch, dive, cutback, and draw are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-4WR FLEX (4WR, 1HB)
Hitch Corners - Both outside WR's go short. Audible them both to streak.
Both inside WR's run deep slants to opposite sides of the field. Hit one of
these guys
PA Slot Crosses - The left WR crooked posts deep in. Both inside WR's
criss-cross over the middle. The far right WR streaks. Take your pick.
PA Slot Wheels - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left
WR and the inside right WR screen to opposite sides, then break deep.
The outside right WR medium box cuts left over the middle. Your choice,
just watch the blitz.
A couple of option passes, a screen, a decent medium range pass, and a short
pass play remain. HB dive, cutback, draw, and pitch are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS WR (4WR, 1HB)
PA FL Stretch - Left WR slants deep in. Both right inside and middle WR's
slant cross over the middle. The far right WR streaks. Audible the inside
right WR to slant right, and you've got yourself a pretty good play.
Comebacks - Both outside WR's streak downfield then sharply curl to the
sidelines. Inside right WR runs a short slant to the left. Accuracy is
important on this play.
WR Hook Out - The left WR box slants left. The inside right WR slants to
the left. The middle right WR screens right. The outside right WR curls
short. Audible him to streak if you like.
An option, a screen, and a couple short to medium range pass plays await.
HB slam, sprint, trap and draw are the run plays.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, and then
quickly tosses left to the HB, whose running left. Follow the blocking.
You should be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
HB Pass - Trick play. QB tosses right, to the HB. The HB can either run
or pass. If you pass, you only have 2WR at your disposal, since the TE blocks
on this play. Don't make the mistake of audibling the TE for a pass, because
you will get blitzed for not having enough blockers on the line of scrimmage.
Scramble directly a few steps to the right, and hit the receiver coming from
the left across the field. If the right WR has enough speed, he might burn
the DB, so keep a sharp eye on him too.
Flea Flicker - QB fakes the handoff to the HB up the middle, HB tosses back to
the QB for the pass. Audible the rights WR to streak, then scramble right. I
would look for the WR cutting across the field on this one.
PA HB Flat - The left WR slants right. The TE box cuts short left, so
audible him to slant right. The right WR streaks. The HB screens right.
Simple enough...
Another play action, a couple of option passes, a screen, and a couple short
pass plays remain. HB stretch, misdirection, dive, counter, draw, lead toss,
slam, and a WR reverse are the run plays.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA TE Leak - Outside left WR streaks. Inside left WR slants far right over
the middle. The TE short slants right. Audible the HB to screen left.
Look for the receivers on the slant.
Another play action, a couple of options, and a couple of medium range pass
plays are here. HB slash, counter, blast, toss, and FB dive strong are the
runs in this set.
SPLITBACK-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA WR Shake - The left WR runs a deep post in. The HB slants from the
backfield towards the left sideline. The TE posts to the right sideline.
The right WR does the short stutter-step move. Audible this guy and you will
have 4 options to pass to.
Mid Split - The left WR does a comeback route to the outside. The TE goes
short, so audible him to slant right. The right WR deep slants in. Both
backs screen to opposite sides.
A couple of options, and a couple of medium range pass plays leftover.
HB counter, sweep, inside, quick toss, and draw are the run plays.
SPLITBACKS 3 WR (same as above, 3WR)
Slot Post - The left WR slants in, then cuts outside. The inside right WR
slants left. The far right WR streaks. The HB circle screens short.
The FB screens right.
Several option passes, a screen, and a few short to medium range pass plays
remain. HB blast, draw, quick toss, and FB dive are the run plays.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA Rollout - Both left WR and the TE deep slant right. The right WR goes
short, so audible him to slant left. Take your pick; just complete the rollout
move though.
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks out to
the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
A couple more play actions, and a couple of option passes remain. HB
counter weak, quick toss, blast, draw, fake FB HB counter, and FB trap are
the run plays.
STRONG I-TWIN WR (2WR left, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA FB Flat - Left WR stutter-steps a slant in. Inside left WR slants right
all the way across the field. TE streaks. FB screens right. Take your pick.
Throw the screen if you get in trouble.
WR Smash - The TE and inside left WR slant in opposite directions.
These are your targets. The FB streaks up the middle. You can also screen
pass to the HB. Okay play.
A couple play actions, and a couple of short to medium range pass plays
remain. HB lead blast, power, draw, counter weak, and FB dive are the
run plays.
STRONG I-3WR (3WR, 1FB, 1HB)
Deep Cross - Both right WR's criss-cross into slant patterns. Look to throw
to one of them. The HB does a sharp cut to the middle. The left WR does
an in and out cut to the sideline. If you throw to him, throw it fast,
otherwise the defender will jump in front of the ball.
Double Flares - Either throw deep, or screen pass to the HB and FB. Avoid the
inside right WR. He cuts into traffic up the middle.
An option play, a screen, 2 play actions, and a short pass play remain.
HB counter dive, quick toss, crash, draw, and FB dive are the run plays.
WEAK I - CLOSE (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
Nothing big here. 2 play actions, an option play, and a couple of medium
range passes. HB gut, counter trap, lead, and quick pitch are the run plays.
WEAK I -TWIN WR (2WR's left, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
A couple of play actions, an option pass, a screen, a short pass, and a
medium range pass are in this set. Nothing to wow you though. HB dive,
draw, trap, strong stretch, toss weak, and FB dive are the run plays here.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
WR Post - The left WR medium box cuts left. The inside right WR slant crosses
far left. The outside right WR deep slants in. The FB screens. Your
choice here.
Plenty of short, medium, and deep range passes, but none really stood out
to me. Decent though. HB draw and FB inside are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL (1TE, 3 WR, 1HB)
PA FL Fly - Inside left WR and the TE slant left. The right WR streaks.
The outside left WR goes short, so audible him to slant right or streak.
Hail Mary - All WR's streak deep. Easy enough.
A few deep option passes, a couple of screens, and another play action
remain. HB mid draw, off tackle, and direct snap are the run plays.
SHOTGUN -TRIPS (3WR's left, 1WR right, 1HB)
Deep Attack - The left outside WR streaks. The middle left WR box cuts right.
The inside left WR slant crosses far right. The right WR deep slants in.
The HB screens right.
SE Under - The inside left WR and the right WR slant to the left. The outside
left WR crosses short, so audible him to streak or run a comeback route.
The inside left WR slants to the left. Easy pickings.
HB Burst - The far left WR streaks. The middle left WR box cuts in. The
inside left WR slants right. The right WR does a comeback route outside.
Audible the HB to screen right.
A couple of play actions, a screen, an option, and some short to medium range
pass plays remain. HB draw and sweep are the run plays.
PROS: - Good running
- Decent passing
- Lots of singleback formations
- A couple of trick plays thrown in the mix
CONS: - The FB is non-existent
- No 5 WR formations
- Lots of short weak passes
GRADE: - PASSING - B
- RUNNING - A -
- OVERALL - B+
Looks like the Bengals are back, and from the looks of this playbook, they'll
keep on getting better. The passing is pretty good. Decent medium to deep
range pass plays are here. The play actions aren't bad either. I didn't find
myself using the TE's much though. The passing isn't really built around
them, just the WR's. The running was great. Lots of variety, left, right,
and up the middle. You'll barely even realize that you have a FB, because
this playbook pretty much ignores him. This caused the grade to drop just a
tad bit. It's still good though. You shouldn't be too disappointed with this
playbook. It might actually be a nice way to sneak attack your friends,
because they'll probably laugh that you're using the Bengal’s playbook.
It's okay though, let them find out the hard
way.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8) CLEVELAND BROWNS - (Romeo Crennel)
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (2WR's left, 2TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA FL Stretch - Outside left WR streaks, while the rest of the receivers slant
far right. I usually audible the right TE to slant left, just to confuse
the opposition.
Cross Up - The left WR crosses short. Audible him to slant right. The inside
left WR slants left. The left TE streaks, while the right TE crosses short
left. Audible him to slant right, then it's take your pick.
That's about it. A couple screens, a couple of option passes, and a weak
play action remain. HB counter, draw, toss strong, dive and stretch are the
run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (2WR, 2TE's right, 1HB)
Hitch Corners - Left WR runs a very short curl in. Inside left WR slants left
to the sideline. Inside right TE slants right, towards the sideline. Outside
right TE short curls to the right. Audible the left WR and the outside TE
to streak. This will open up more of the field.
A decent play action, and 2 options pass plays remain. No big deal here.
HB dive, counter, delay, pitch, and stretch are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside
left WR or the TE, whichever audible you chose for him. Audible the HB to
screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
Slot Cross - Far left WR goes deep slant in. Left WR cuts all the way across
the field to the right. TE blocks then runs downfield. Right WR streaks. If
you have speedy WR's, you can lob to the ones going deep, but I kept getting
blitzed, so scramble a few yards to the right, and lead a pass to the WR
cutting all the way across the middle of the field.
FL Middle - Both left WR's criss-cross, then go deep. The right WR goes 5
yards then cuts to the middle. gently lob the ball over the defenders if using
him. Otherwise, look for your WR's deep. You can screen to the HB too.
PA Deep In - The outside left WR medium box cuts right. The inside left WR
and the right WR streak deep. The TE slants left. Look for him first.
Watch the blitz on this play.
Several option pass plays remain, along with another decent play action pass.
HB dive, cutback, draw, stretch, counter trap, and toss strong are the runs.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR,1TE, 1HB)
PA Cross Up - Left WR deep slants in. The TE runs a medium slant across the
left middle. The inside WR deep slants right, towards the sideline. Far
right WR curls in short. Audible him to slant left, and you'll have plenty of
options, but because this is a play action, watch the blitz.
Corners - Both outside WR's slant in, then sharply cuts outside. The TE
streaks, while the inside right WR slants in. The HB box cuts to the left.
Your choice. Accuracy is needed on the outside WR's.
A couple of options passes, a screen, and a decent medium range pass plays.
HB sweep, belly weak, blunt dive, and dive are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE and 2 WR bunched right, 1HB)
Clearout SE Opt - The left WR box drags left. The TE slants left inside.
The middle right WR options short. Audible a slant right for him. The far
right WR streaks. Look for the TE or middle right WR.
Davis Option - The left WR crooked posts deep in. TE box cuts right, over
the middle. The middle right WR options short, so audible him to streak.
The far right WR crooked posts deep in as well. Look for him, and the left
WR here.
HB Flea Flick - Trick play. The QB hands off to the HB up the middle.
The HB then tosses back to the QB for the pass. The left WR boxes short, so
audible him to crooked post in, or slant right. The TE screens right so
audible him to slant right. The right WR deep slants in.
3 play actions, and 2 short passes are leftover. HB sprint, draw, slam,
counter, slash, quick pitch, and a WR end around are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-4WR FLEX (4WR, 1HB)
PA Slot Wheels - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left
WR and the inside right WR screen to opposite sides, then break deep. The
outside right WR medium box cuts left over the middle. Your choice, just
watch the blitz.
Hitch Corners - Both outside WR's go short. Audible them both to streak.
Both inside WR's run deep slants to opposite sides of the field. Hit one of
these guys
PA Slot Crosses - The left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
slant crosses far right. The inside right WR short crosses far left. The far
right WR streaks. Take your pick.
2 more option passes - 1 deep, 1 short, a screen and a couple of short pass
plays remain. HB pitch, dive, draw, and cutback are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-TREY OPEN (4WR, 1HB)
Drive - The left WR does a comeback move to the inside. The inside right
WR box cuts left over the middle. The middle right WR goes short, so audible
him to slant right. He's the target. The far right WR streaks. The HB
screens to the right.
Inside Shake - Both outside WR's streak. The inside right and middle right
WR's cut slant to the inside left. Hit one of these guys.
A play action, a screen , and a couple of option passes await. HB draw,
slam and counter are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK EMPTY 5 WR
Curl Drag - Both left WR's criss-cross deep inside. The inside right WR
crosses short left. Audible a slant left instead. The middle right WR short
slants in. The far right WR, runs a short comeback in. Audible a streak.
Take your pick.
Smashfork - 2 WR run medium posts to the inside left. 2 other WR's run very
short cuts to the right. Avoid these right side guys. The middle right WR
slant crosses to the right sideline. Cheap play, but effective. You should
have at least 3 options to throw to.
Slot Angle Post - 2 WR's run slants to the left. the other 3 WR's run shorter
screens to the left. Look for the inside WR to break deep.
Cross Ups - The outside left WR diagonally streaks right. The inside left WR
screens left, then breaks, deep. The inside right WR short crosses left,
so audible him to slant right. The middle right WR deep slants in. The
outside right WR streaks. Your choice.
Slot Flats - Both outside WR's streak. Both inside WR's screen to opposite
sides. The middle right WR slants inside. Again, your choice here.
There's still several, medium to deep passes available.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should
be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
Flea Flicker - QB fakes the handoff to the HB up the middle, HB tosses back
to the QB for the pass. Audible the right WR to streak, then scramble right.
I would look for the WR cutting across the field on this one.
PA HB Flat - The left WR slants right. The TE box cuts short left, so
audible him to slant right. The right WR streaks. The HB screens right.
Simple enough...
SE Post Flag - The left WR slants in, then cuts to the outside. The TE
slants in. The right WR box slants right. The HB screens left.
PA TE Dig - The left WR box slants to the left sideline. The TE box cuts
left over the middle. The right WR deep slants inside. Watch the blitz.
Another nice play action, a screen, and a couple nice option passes remain.
HB slam, sweep, counter, misdirection, draw, stretch, dive, and FB
dive fake HB are the run plays.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except both WR's left)
PA TE Leak - Outside left WR streaks. Inside left WR slants far right over
the middle. The TE short slants right. Audible the HB to screen left. Look
for the receivers on the slant.
That's it. Only a few weak short pass plays. HB misdirection, draw, dive,
and a PA QB boot run remain.
I FORM-CLOSE (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA TE Leak - Left WR streaks. The right WR crosses deep over the middle.
The TE slants right. The FB screens right. This is a nice play action play.
Take your pick, and watch the blitz.
PA Boot Flow - Both WR's slant far left. The TE goes short, so audible him
to slant right. The FB screens left. Take your pick, just watch the blitz.
A couple of options passes, and a good medium range pass remain. HB lead
dive, counter weak, stretch, and a WR end around are the run plays.
FULLHOUSE - NORMAL WIDE (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA Middle - Both TE and FB screen to opposite sides, then breaks deep.
The left WR box cuts right. The right WR crooked posts, deep in. He's the man.
That's it. 2 more weaker pass plays left. HB counter lead, smash, draw,
slam, sweep, and FB slam are the run plays.
SPLITBACKS - 3WR (3WR, 1HB, 1FB)
Slot Cross - HB screens left. Right WR boxes medium left. Inside right WR
slants left all the way across the field. Left WR deep slants in. This is
your target.
Middle Split - Left WR does a comeback route to the outside. The inside right
WR short cuts in. Audible a slant left. The far right WR deep slants in.
Look for him. Both backs screen to opposite sides
HB Out - The left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside right WR streaks.
The outside right WR slants in, then cuts out towards the sideline.
HB screens right.
A couple of option passes, a few short passes, and a screen play remain.
HB off tackle, blast, draw, and FB dive are the run plays.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks out
to the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
PA FB Flat - Play action pass play. Right WR streaks. Left WR stutter-steps
inside. The TE does a medium cut to the middle left. Accuracy is a must.
You could screen pass to the FB also. Nice play.
Comet Pass - Both the left WR and the TE deep slant to the right. These are
the initial targets. The right WR goes short, so audible him to slant left
or streak. The FB screens right. The HB circles around to the middle.
Audible him to screen left.
A couple more good play actions, a screen, and a few option passes are
leftover. HB draw, counter weak, power, dive, counter lead, FB trap, and
Fake FB HB counter are the running plays.
STRONG I - TWIN TE (2TE Right, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR)
3 play actions, a nice option pass, and a medium range pass are here.
HB toss strong, counter weak, draw, counter lead, dive weak, and FB dive
are the runs.
WEAK I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
2 play actions, a deep option pass, and a bunch of short passes are in
this set. HB power toss, dive, double counter, draw, zone weak, lead, and
FB power are the running plays.
WEAK I-3WR (3WR, 1HB, 1FB)
Corners - The left WR box slants left. The inside right WR slants right.
The outside WR slants deep in. The HB screens right, while the FB circle
screens left.
A couple option passes, a screen, a play action pass, and some short pass
plays are left. No big deal. HB draw, double counter, off tackle, lead, and
FB dive are the run plays.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
WR Post Corner - Both outside WR's run deep, then sharply slant out to
opposite sides of the field. Inside right WR deep slants in. HB slants out
then sharp cuts inside the middle. FB screens right. Accuracy is a must
for the outside WR's. Play it safe and hit the WR on the slant.
Slot Cross - Left WR streaks. Inside right WR slants far left across the
field. Right WR box cuts left. Both backs screen to opposite sides. I'd
audible both left WR's to criss-cross, then hit one of them.
Slot Post - Both outside WR's run comeback routes to the outside.
The inside right WR slants in. He's the first target. The HB circles in.
Audible the FB to screen.
Corner - Threat - The left WR box slants to the left sideline. The inside
right WR slants right. He's the first target. The outside right WR goes
short, so audible him to streak. The HB streaks, and the FB runs a comeback
screen up the e short middle.
A screen, a couple play actions, and some short to medium pass plays remain.
HB draw and FB inside are the 2 run plays.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Hail Mary - All 4 WR's streak
Slot Flags - Both inside WR slant opposite sides. Both outside WR's go short,
so audible them to streak. The HB crooked posts up the middle.
Browns Cross - Far left WR cuts short inside. The inside left WR short
slants out. Inside right WR box cuts to the middle, while the far right WR
deep slants inside. The HB screens to the right. Your choice.
Slot Outs - Both outside WR's streak. Both inside WR's box cut to opposite
sides. The HB cuts a short, and sharply to the left. Audible him to screen
instead.
Circle - The outside left WR slant crosses far right. The inside left WR
slants left, then breaks deep along the sideline. The inside right WR
streaks, while the outside right WR box cuts right. The HB circle screens
right, and around to the left.
WR Post - The left outside WR streaks. The inside left WR goes short, so
audible a slant right or left. The inside right WR box cuts left. The
outside right WR deep slants in. The HB screens right. Take your pick.
A handful of short to medium passes remain. HB sweep and draw are the 2
run plays.
PROS: - Good running plays
- A good mixture of pass plays
- 3, 4, and 5 WR formations
- A trick play or two are included
CONS: - A little too conservative
- Vulnerable to the blitz
- Not much on the FB runs
- The 5 WR set is in the "Singleback" formation only
GRADE: - PASSING - B
- RUNNING - A -
- OVERALL - B+
I was a little surprised with this playbook. I thought it would be useless..
Kind of like their playoff hopes have been for the last umpteen years. (Ouch!)
Anyway, I was proven wrong on this one. The passing is decent. Lots of nice
short to medium range passes are here. If you feel like living dangerously,
there's a good assortment of deep passes too. Just in case. Having a top
notch offensive line is crucial for this playbook, because all of the
formations built for the run game. You know, Strong I, Weak I, things like
that. The running was great, decent variety. Misdirections, slams, sprints,
tosses, it's all here. It's a pretty good balance. There's a couple of FB
runs, but you will barely come across those, or even use them for that matter.
Either way, I had fun with this, or I'm sure you will too. This is a great
playbook for beginners, because it gives you a little of everything, from
easy plays, to difficult ones.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9) DALLAS COWBOYS - Bill Parcells
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE (2TE's right, 2WR, 1HB)
Witten Option - Left WR does a comeback to the sideline. The inside TE short
options. Audible him to slant left. The outside TE screens right, then
breaks deep along the sidelines. Right WR deep slants in. Your choice.
Nothing else stands out here. There are a few decent play actions here.
The rest are short passes. HB smash, sweep, counter, draw and plunge
are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Slot Cross - The left WR deep slants in. The left inside WR slant crosses
over the middle to the far right. The TE short streaks, while the right WR
streaks deep. Take your pick here.
FL Middle - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left
WR screens left then breaks deep along the sideline. If you throw to him,
hit him as soon as he breaks past the first defender. The HB screens left,
while the right WR box cuts short left. Audible him to slant left, or streak.
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside
left WR or the TE, whichever audible you chose for him. Audible the HB
to screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
A couple more play actions left, and a couple of short to medium passes. HB
counter, stretch, dive, toss strong, and draw are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK SLOT STRONG - (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
PA Cross Up - Play action pass play. The left WR slants deep in. The TE
slant crosses far left. The inside right WR slants right. The outside right
WR curls short. The HB screens up the middle and to the left. Watch out for
the blitz.
Corners - Both outside WR's slant in, then sharply cuts outside. The TE
streaks, while the inside right WR slants in. The HB box cuts to the left.
Your choice. Accuracy is needed on the outside WR's.
A couple more decent medium range passes, and another play action await.
A good option pass play too. HB toss strong, belly weak, dive, sweep, and
blunt dive are the runs.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 1TE&2WR's bunched right, 1HB)
Clearout SE Opt - The left WR box drags left. The TE slants left inside.
The middle right WR options short. Audible a slant right for him. The far
right WR streaks. Look for the TE or middle right WR.
Johnson Option - Both outside WR's crooked post deep right. The TE medium
box cuts inside. The middle right WR options short. Audible him to streak,
then it's take your pick.
Nothing major left over. 2 short play actions, a WR end around-for skilled
runners, and a few short pass plays. HB quick pick, slam, draw, counter,
and slash are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK-4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Hitch Corners - Both outside WR's go short. Audible them both to streak. Both
inside WR's run deep slants to opposite sides of the field. Hit one of these
guys.
Slots Attack - Both inside WR's slant deep left. The outside left WR goes
short, so audible him to streak or slant right. The outside right WR short
slants to the left. The HB screens right, take your pick.
A good deep option pass is available, and several short passes too. This set
could've been better. HB dive, sprint, draw, sweep, stretch, and slash are
some nice runs though.
SINGLEBACK-TREY OPEN (4WR, 1HB)
Inside shake - Both outside WR's streak. The inside right and middle right
WR's cut slant to the inside left. Hit one of these guys.
Drive - The left WR does a comeback move to the inside. The inside right WR
box cuts left over the middle. The middle right WR goes short, so audible
him to slant right. He's the target. The far right WR streaks. The HB
screens to the right.
A few more medium to deep passes are left here. HB counter, draw, and slam
are the run plays.
SINGLEBACK EMPTY 5 WR
Smashfork - 2 WR run medium posts to the inside left. 2 other WR's run
very short cuts to the right. Avoid these right side guys. The middle right
WR slant crosses to the right sideline. Cheap play, but effective. You should
have at least 3 options to throw to.
Curl Drag - Both left WR's criss-cross deep inside. The inside right WR
crosses short left. Audible a slant left instead. The middle right WR short
slants in. The far right WR, runs a short comeback in. Audible a streak.
Take your pick.
Several good medium to deep pass plays remain. Pretty good set.
I FORM-NORMAL (2WR, 1HB, 1FB, 1TE)
FB Fake HB Toss - QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, then quickly
tosses left to the HB, who's running left. Follow the blocking. You should
be able to get at least 5 yards or more every time.
Flea Flicker - Trick play. The QB hands off to the HB up the middle. The HB
then tosses back to the QB for the pass. The left WR crooked posts deep in.
The TE short streaks, so audible him to slant right. The right WR box cuts
left, so audible him to streak. Take your pick, but be quick and watch the
blitz.
A couple of good play actions, a couple of nice option passes too. Decent set.
HB draw, misdirection, stretch, dive, slam, sweep, FB dive fake HB, and
counter. Variety indeed.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, 2WR's left)
Nothing major. Some short passes. A cool QB play action run is here too.
HB misdirection, draw, and dive are the runs.
I FORM-CLOSE (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA TE Leak - Left WR streaks. The right WR crosses deep over the middle.
The TE slants right. The FB screens right. This is a nice play action play.
Take your pick, and watch the blitz.
A few more relatively short passes remain, nothing big. There's a WR end
around for the skilled runners, along with HB stretch, counter weak and lead
dive.
I FORM-BIG (2TE, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR right)
A couple of decent familiar play actions, the FB fake HB toss is also here
again. That's about it. More weak short pass plays. HB lead dive, counter
lead, misdirection, and FB dive strong are the runs.
FULLHOUSE - NORMAL WIDE (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
PA Middle - Both TE and FB screen to opposite sides, and then breaks deep.
The left WR box cuts right. The right WR crooked posts, deep in.
He's the man.
2 more short pass plays left. HB smash, draw, counter lead, sweep, slam, and
FB slam are some nice run plays.
SPLITBACKS-3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
Slot Cross - The left WR slants deep in. The inside right WR slants far left
over the middle. The outside right WR box cuts left. The HB screens left.
Hit the outside left WR.
Middle Split - Left WR does a comeback route to the outside. The inside
right WR short cuts in. Audible a slant left. The far right WR deep
slants in. Look for him. Both backs screen to opposite sides.
Several more decent medium passes are here. HB draw, blast, off tackle,
FB dive.
STRONG I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
PA FL Middle - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Right WR box cuts short over
the middle. Audible him to slant left if throwing his way. TE breaks out
to the right, and goes deep. Watch the blitz.
PA FB Flat - Play action pass play. Right WR streaks. Left WR stutter-steps
inside. The TE does a medium cut to the middle left. Accuracy is a must. You
could screen pass to the FB also. Nice play.
Comet Pass - Both the left WR and the TE deep slant to the right. These are
the initial targets. The right WR goes short, so audible him to slant left
or streak. The FB screens right. The HB circles around to the middle. Audible
him to screen left.
A couple of decent medium range pass plays are leftover. HB dive, draw,
counter, and power are some pretty nice runs for this set.
STRONG I-H TWIN TE (2TE Right, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR)
Nothing big here. A few good medium play actions....a couple you've seen
already. There's a couple of decent medium range pass plays as well. HB dive
weak, counter weak, toss strong, draw, FB dive, and another QB play action
run.
WEAK I-NORMAL
No big deal here either. Mostly short passes. There is a nice deep option
pass play though. HB power toss, double counter, dive, draw, zone weak,
lead and FB power are the nice running plays available in this set.
WEAK I-TWIN WR (same as above, 2WR left)
Cross Under - Left WR runs a crooked post deep inside. The inside left WR
criss-crosses the left WR, then breaks deep along the left sideline. The HB
screens far right. The TE runs short left over the middle. Audible him to
slant right, and he will be the first option.
WR Cross - Left WR crooked posts deep in. Inside left WR slants right, across
the middle. TE short drags right, Audible him to streak or slant right.
Take your pick here.
A couple of nice play actions are still available. There are some weak short
passes too. HB inside, draw, trap, dive, and FB power are the run plays.
SHOTGUN 2RB 3WR (1HB, 1FB, 3WR)
Slot Cross - Left WR streaks. Inside right WR slants far left across the field.
Right WR box cuts left. Both backs screen to opposite sides. I'd audible
both left WR's to criss-cross, then hit one of them.
WR Post Corner - Both outside WR's run deep, then sharply slant out to
opposite sides of the field. Inside right WR deep slants in. HB slants out
then sharp cuts inside the middle. FB screens right. Accuracy is a must for
the outside WR's. Play it safe and hit the WR on the slant.
Slot Post - Both outside WR's run comeback routes to the outside. The inside
right WR slants in. He's the first target. The HB circles in. Audible the
FB to screen.
That's about all worth looking at here. HB draw and inside are the 2 run
plays.
SHOTGUN 4WR (4WR, 1HB)
Hail Mary - All 4 WR's streak.
Cowboy Cross - Far left WR cuts short inside. The inside left WR short slants
out. Inside right WR box cuts to the middle, while the far right WR deep
slants inside. The HB screens to the right.
You can't go wrong on the slants.
Several more decent short to deep pass plays left. HB draw and sweep are the
run plays.
PROS: - Good play actions
- Excellent run plays
- FB are used often
- TE's have a little fun
- 3, 4, 5 WR formations
CONS: - Too many repeated plays
- Too many short passes
- Several audibles will be needed for most of the short
passes
GRADE - PASSING - B -
RUNNING - A
OVERALL - B
This playbook has a nice variety of run plays. The play action passes work
well too. There are only 2 shotgun formations however, and these have a lot
of short passes. You will notice quite often, some repeated plays. I had to
audible/hot route the TE's often as well. Don't get it twisted; this is a
good playbook - If you love the run. I just feel the passing is a little
bit too conservative for my taste. Kudos for the 5 WR formation, it just
needed to be placed in the shotgun formation rather than the singleback one.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10) DENVER BRONCOS - (Mike Shanahan)
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2TE, 2WR, 1HB)
Sneak Outs - Both outside WR's streak. Both inside WR's slant to opposite
sidelines, then break deep. Take your pick on this nice play.
PA Bronco Boot - The left WR streaks. The right WR deep slants left. The left
TE goes short, audible him to slant to the left. The right TE runs short left
over the middle, so audible him to slant right. The choice is yours here.
Watch the blitz.
A few more short to medium range pass plays are leftover. 2 decent play
actions, HB counter, belly weak, blast and strong stretch finish this set.
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (same as above, except 2 WR's left)
Out N Ups - Both TE's run out-n-up routes deep. The outside left WR medium
box cuts to the right. The inside left WR short cuts to the left. I like
the outside left WR on this one.
Nothing else major here. The rest of the plays are relatively short. HB belly
strong, strong stretch, power and pitch are the running plays.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (same as above, except 2TE's right)
Posts - The left WR and the inside right TE both slant to the right. These
are the targets. The inside left WR does a cut to the inside, then to the
outside towards the left. The outside TE goes short, so audible him to
slant left.
Hitch Corners - Both inside the inside left WR and the inside TE slant deep
to opposite sides. The left outside WR runs a short curl in, so audible him
to streak. The outside TE goes short too, so audible him to slant to the left.
Then take your pick.
Nothing else big here. The rest are short plays. HB counter, belly strong,
dive, power and pitch.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Overload - Both left and right outside WR's slant in. The TE runs deep then
cuts right. The inside left WR box cuts short right. Audible him to slant
left, for an easy play.
Bell Option - Both the inside left WR and the TE streak. The left outside
WR runs short left. Audible him to slant right. The right WR deep box
cuts left. Audible the HB to screen. Look for the left outside WR here.
Backside Drag - The left outside WR goes short right. Audible him to streak.
Both the left inside WR and the TE deep slant to the right. The right WR goes
short, so audible him to slant to the left. Someone should get open.
3 more play actions are here, along with a couple of screens and medium range
passes. HB sprint, dive and slam finish up this set.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Slot Cross - The left WR deep slants in. The left inside WR slant crosses
over the middle to the far right. The TE short streaks, while the right WR
streaks deep. Take your pick here.
Ins Left - The left WR medium box cuts right. The inside left WR does the
same, just shorter. Audible him to streak or slant left. The TE slants
deep in. The right WR does a sharp curl in, and then breaks deep. Again,
your choice.
FL Middle - The outside left WR crooked posts deep in. The inside left WR
screens left then breaks deep along the sideline. If you throw to him, hit
him as soon as he breaks past the first defender. The HB screens left, while
the right WR box cuts short left. Audible him to slant left, or streak.
A few more short passes are here, along with 2 decent play actions. HB
cutback, draw, blunt dive, counter and strong stretch are the running plays.
SINGLEBACK- BASE FLEX (1TE, 1FB, 2WR, 1HB)
(The FB is lined up as a WR in this set.)
WR In - The TE and right WR streak deep. The FB short boxes in. I'd audible
him to an out-n-up route, or a comeback move. The inside left WR medium box
cuts inside. You are on your own here.
Flanker Curl - The FB streaks. The inside left WR streaks diagonally
slightly to the right. The TE does a short comeback. Audible him to slant
to the right. The right WR does a shorter comeback route, so audible him
to slant left. Someone's open...
A couple more medium range passes are here, 1 okay play action, HB draw,
dive, and strong stretch are her as well.
SINGLEBACK-EMPTY TREY (4WR, 1TE)
Whip Unders - The outside left WR deep posts in. The inside left WR goes
short. Audible him to slant right. The TE goes short too, so audible him to
slant right as well. The inside right WR deep slants in, while the far right
WR streaks. Take your pick
Under Seams - The far left WR short boxes right. Have him slant right
instead. The inside right WR short crosses left over the middle, so audible
him to slant right too. Everyone else streaks. Hit one of the receivers on
the slant.
WR Smash - The far left WR box cuts right. The inside right WR goes short,
so audible him to slant to the right. The far right WR does a comeback inside.
The inside left WR and the TE streak. Your choice.
A few more short to deep passing plays remain.
I FORM-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
FB Fake HB Toss - The QB fakes the handoff to the FB up the middle, and then
quickly tosses to the HB running left. Sweet play. You should almost always
gain positive yards on this running play.
WR Post - The left WR short cuts to the right. Audible him to slant right
instead. The TE goes short, so audible him to slant to the right too. The
right WR deep posts in, while both backs screen to opposite sides. Easy
play here.
There are a couple more decent short to medium range pass plays left. 6 good
play actions are here, along with HB counter weak, strong stretch, counter,
blast, slam and FB dive strong. Pretty good plays in this set.
I FORM-TWIN WR (same as above, except 2WR's left)
Nothing stands out to me here. There are 4 decent play actions, and a couple
of short to medium range pass plays. HB blast, counter, strong stretch,
lead toss and dive are the running plays.
I FORM-CLOSE (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
See Above. There's a WR end around here for skilled Madden players good with
the run. HB slam, strong stretch and lead dive.
I FORM-BIG (2TE, 1HB, 1FB, 1WR right)
TE Flag - Both TE's slant deep right. The WR streaks. The HB screens to the
right. Hit the TE's on this one.
A few short passes are left here, along with quite a few okay play actions.
HB lead dive, lead toss, sweep, misdirection, blast and lead are here
as well.
STRONG I-NORMAL (2WR, 1TE, 1HB, 1FB)
WR Streak - Both WR's streak. The TE goes short, so audible him to slant left,
and he's the primary receiver. The HB screens left.
Twin Posts - The left WR and the TE medium posts to the inside. The right
WR crosses short left, audible him to streak or do a comeback route.
Your choice. The HB screens left.
The rest are short to medium range passes. 3 okay play actions, HB strong
stretch, power, counter weak, dive, and dive weak remain.
STRONG I-TWIN WR (same as above, except 2WR's left)
WR Smash - Inside left WR and the TE slant to opposite sides. The FB streaks
deep. The HB screens. The outside left WR goes short, so audible him to
streak. Take your pick.
Double Flares - Outside left WR short curls in. Audible him to streak, or an
out-n-up route. The other 2 receivers slant to the right. Hit one of them.
Both backs screen to opposite sides.
More short to medium range passing remain, along with 4 more decent play
actions. HB power, strong stretch, counter weak, dive, lead blast and FB
dive are here too.
STRONG I-BIG TIGHT (2TE, 1WR, 1HB, 1FB)
WEAK. HB sweep, dive, counter lead, dive weak and FB dive are all that's
worth looking at here.
WEAK I-NORMAL (1HB, 1FB, 1TE, 2WR)
Corny short to medium pass plays. Mostly short. 3 mediocre play actions,
HB strong stretch, off-tackle and FB power are here.
WEAK I-TWIN WR (same as above, except 2WR's left)
See above. I can see the developer's laziness kicking in...HB gut, dive,
strong stretch, counter, toss weak and HB trap are some good runs though.
WEAK I-CLOSE (1TE, 2WR, 1HB, 1FB)
TE Fade - The left WR deep slants in. The TE diagonally streaks right. The
right WR slant crosses to the far left. The HB screens left. Take your pick
on this one.
A couple more medium range pass plays you've seen already are left. 3 more
okay play actions, HB strong stretch, gut and counter trap are the run plays.
WEAK I-TIGHT TWINS (same as above, except 2 WR's left)
Weak indeed. Short pass plays, 2 weak play actions you've seen before.
HB wham, dive and counter are the run plays.
SHOTGUN-EMPTY TREY (1TE, 4WR)
Hook&Vents - All 4 WR's streak. The TE goes short, so audible him to slant
left. He's the first option. Easy enough.
Comeback Left - The outside left WR does a medium comeback. The inside left
and far right WR's streak. The TE box cuts right, towards the sideline. The
inside right WR short crosses left. Audible him to slant left again. Take
your pick here.
You'll notice several of the same plays from the "SINGLEBACK-EMPTY TREY"
formation from earlier. A decent mix of short to deep pass plays though.
SHOTGUN-5WR
Hitch Corners - The far left and right WR's go short. Audible them both to
streak. The inside left and right WR's slant to the left, while the middle
right WR slants right. Don't tell me you can't find someone open on this play.
Believe it or not, but nothing else stands out here. There's way too many
short passes for this formation. There are a few medium to deep passes as
well, but this could have been a lot better.
SHOTGUN-NORMAL SLOT - (1TE, 3WR, 1HB)
Deep In - The left outside WR does a medium comeback to the outside.
The inside left WR diagonally streaks deep right. The TE goes short, so
audible him to slant right. The HB screens right, while the right WR deep
box cuts left. Your choice here.
This could have been better too. The medium range pass plays are decent,
and the 2 other play actions are okay as well, but again, I expected more.
HB mid - draw and off-tackle are the run plays
PROS: - Lots of good play actions
- Good medium range pass plays
- 3, 4, and 5 WR formations
- Good power running football
CONS: - Too many of the same plays..."Strong Stretch" anyone?
- Lots of runs up the middle
- Several of the same plays repeated in different sets
- Lots of audibles/hot routes will be needed
- Several wasted formations
GRADE: - PASSING - C+
- RUNNING - B -
- OVERALL - C+
This playbook confused me. There were some points when I thought this
playbook would be great, only to be let down with the developer's laziness.
There are some great play actions, and I had lots of success with them because
of the offensive line. The 5 WR formations I love, because I like to throw
deep, but the lack of good routes plagued it for me. The medium range passing
saved this playbook from getting an even lower passing grade. The running
plays are smashmouth. Mostly up the middle, but with a good offensive line,
I wore down the defense and boosted my time possession. I prefer to have
lots of different runs to throw off the opponents. The several wasted
formations frustrated me even more. This playbook isn't horrible, but it
isn't great either. You might want to check out another playbook.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11) DETROIT LIONS - Steve Mariucci
SINGLEBACK-BIG (2TE, 2WR, 1HB)
TE Cross - Both TE's criss-cross over the middle, and slant to opposite
sidelines. The left WR streaks, while the right WR deep slants in. Take
your pick here.
FL Drag Clearout - Both TE's streak. The left WR sharp slants right, then
to the left sideline. The right WR short crosses left. Audible him to slant
left instead. Easy play.
Nothing else to brag about here. Several short passing plays, a screen pass,
and a mediocre play action. HB dive, belly strong, power, draw and counter
finish this set.
SINGLEBACK-BIG TWIN WR (2TE, 2WR's left, 1HB)
Cross Up - The left WR crosses short. Audible him to slant right. The inside
left WR slants left. The left TE streaks, while the right TE crosses short
left. Audible him to slant right, then it's take your pick.
That's it....2 more weak play actions remain, along with 2 short pass plays.
HB dive, draw, counter weak, and slant.
SINGLEBACK-TWIN TE WR (1HB, 2WR left, 2TE right)
Garbage! There's 1 so-so play action pass, and the rest are weak short
passing plays. You will need constant audibles and hot routes for this setup.
HB counter weak, dive, draw and stretch are available though.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
Post Corners - The left and right outside WR's run cut slants deep to opposite
sidelines. The inside left WR streaks, while the TE slants left over the
middle. Look for the TE on this play.
TE Post - the left WR crosses short right, so audible him to streak. The
right WR streaks. The inside left WR and the TE slant to the left. Look
for one of these two.
Nothing else stands out to me here. There are 2 decent play actions, a
screen, and several medium range pass plays. There are some nice runs though.
HB plunge, slam, sprint, quick pitch, toss strong and smash.
SINGLEBACK-NORMAL SLOT (3WR, 1TE, 1HB)
FL Middle - The left WR does a crooked post deep in. The inside left WR
slants short left, towards the sideline, then breaks deep. The TE short
streaks, while the right WR box cuts left over the middle. Look for the left
WR on the crooked post.
PA HB Look - Play action pass. Left WR streaks. The inside left WR crooked
posts deep in. The TE goes short, so audible him to streak or do a comeback
route. The right WR box drags to the right sideline. Look for the inside
left WR or the TE, whichever audible you chose for him. Audible the HB to
screen left or right. Watch the blitz.
PA Rollout - Play action. The far left WR and the TE deep slant right. Look
for one of these 2. The inside left WR goes short, so audible him to slant
right. The right WR streaks. Let the QB complete his rollout scramble before
you pass. I didn't a few times, and the play broke down.
The rest are short to medium range pass plays. One more weak play action,
HB slam, stretch, draw, cutback, dive and counter sweep.
SINGLEBACK-TRIPS BUNCH (1WR left, 2WR's+1TE bunched right)
Bunch Reverse - USE WITH CAUTION! If you don't have good running skills,
you will lose yards almost every time. The QB hands off to the HB, who