As any football fan knows, the quarterback is one of the most important positions on the field. The quarterback is responsible for calling plays, reading the defense, and making split-second decisions based on what he sees on the field.
One key aspect of the quarterback’s job is knowing when to audible – that is, changing the play at the line of scrimmage based on what he sees from the defense. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how a high school quarterback should audible on a run play. We’ll cover the key considerations, communication methods, and techniques that can help a young quarterback make the most of this important aspect of the game. Whether you’re a young quarterback looking to improve your skills or a fan interested in learning more about the game, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of high school football.
Tips on How Audible on the Run Game
Here are some general bullet points on how a young high school quarterback could audible on a run play:
- Read the defense: Before the snap, the quarterback should assess the defensive alignment and look for any potential gaps or weaknesses in the defense that could be exploited.
- Communicate with the offensive line: The quarterback should call out the blocking assignments for the offensive line, making sure everyone knows who they need to block on the play.
- Change the play: If the quarterback sees a better opportunity for a different run play than the one originally called, he should communicate the change to the rest of the offense. This is known as an audible.
- Use code words: Audibles are typically communicated using code words that the offense has previously agreed upon. For example, a quarterback might use the code word “red” to signal that the play is being changed.
- Identify the “Mike” linebacker: The “Mike” linebacker is the defensive player who is the primary key to identifying the blocking scheme for the offense. The quarterback should identify which defender is the “Mike” and communicate that to the rest of the offense.
- Use hand signals: In addition to code words, quarterbacks may also use hand signals to communicate audibles to the rest of the offense. This can be helpful when there is noise on the field or the quarterback wants to communicate the audible without alerting the defense.
- Be decisive: Once the decision to audible has been made, the quarterback should be decisive in communicating the change to the rest of the offense and executing the new play. Hesitation or confusion can lead to mistakes and missed opportunities.
As we’ve seen in this article, the ability to read a defense and make audibles is a crucial skill for any high school quarterback. By being able to assess the defensive alignment and identify potential weaknesses, a quarterback can make quick, effective decisions that can turn a play from good to great. The ability to change a play on the fly can catch the defense off guard and lead to big gains on the ground.
But there’s more to it than that. When a coach trusts a quarterback to make audibles, it sends a powerful message to the rest of the team. It shows that the quarterback is not just a player, but a leader who can think on his feet and make the tough calls when it matters most. This kind of trust can help build team morale and lead to greater success on the field.
Of course, this kind of skill doesn’t come overnight. It takes practice, dedication, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. But for young quarterbacks who are willing to put in the work, the rewards can be significant. By mastering the art of the audible, a quarterback can become a force to be reckoned with on the field and set himself up for success both in high school and beyond.
In the end, being a quarterback is about more than just throwing the ball or running down the field. It’s about being a leader, a decision-maker, and a strategist. By mastering the art of the audible, young quarterbacks can take their game to the next level and set themselves up for a successful career both on and off the field.
