The last Arkansas film study discussed a zone read play that OC Kendal Briles likes to call. This next film study will discuss a QB run from a gap scheme.
Arkansas Film Study: Power Toss Read
In a power run scheme, most of offensive line will perform down blocks on the defensive line, away from the play side. This includes the strong side offensive tackle, strong side offensive guard, and the center. The weak side guard will then pull and try to kick out extra defenders coming on the edge. The weak side tackle will try to engage any defenders coming from the left guard’s gap and then push the 5-tech or outside blitzer upfield, away from the play. This is called a gap-hinge block.
Power can be run out of a variety of schemes, including the spread or pro-style. In fact, Stanford likes to run the play with multiple offensive lineman and tight ends in the game. However, Kendal Briles likes to spread the field with wide splits. This means Arkansas most often runs Power with just five offensive lineman and at most one tight end.
The scheme not only consists of power blocking, but also a read from the QB. The QB must make a read on the edge outside of the tackle. If he widens to take the back, the QB will tuck and run. If he stays in his lane to get the QB, the QB should pitch the ball out on the perimeter.
In this particular set up, there are at least seven men in the box and only six blockers. This means Arkansas has to find a way to take an extra defender out of the play. QB KJ Jefferson decides to fake the toss to the running back. The DB on the outside bites on the fake and widens, putting him in a weak position. This allows Jefferson a clear lane to score a TD.
Some might be wondering why Ole Miss was in a nickel formation on the goal line. In this case, Arkansas converted a 3rd & 11 on the previous play. They cleverly used tempo to prevent the Rebels from substituting men in and out. With a nickel front on the goal line, Kendal Briles knew he had the advantage running the football.