Becoming an elite quarterback requires more than physical skills and athleticism. It demands a deep understanding of the game, the ability to read defenses, and a strong partnership with your offensive coordinator. This Quarterback Operating System (QBOS) is designed to help quarterbacks make informed decisions at the line of scrimmage, ensuring they are always in sync with their coaches and ready to execute the game plan effectively.
Pre-Snap Read for Running Plays
When evaluating a running play, the goal is to ensure it has the best chance of success based on the defense’s alignment. Here’s a streamlined checklist to guide your decision-making:
1. Down and Distance Awareness
– Question: What is the down and distance? Is this the right play call for the situation?
– Purpose: Understand the context to determine if a run is appropriate. This is a key element in the game plan discussed with your offensive coordinator.
2. Point of Attack Numbers
– Question: Are we outnumbered at the point of attack?
– Purpose: Ensure you have enough blockers to handle the defenders. This aligns with the strategy developed with your coordinator.
3. Linebacker Depth
– Question: Are the linebackers playing close to the line or at depth?
– Purpose: Assess their positioning to determine if they are likely to fill gaps quickly.
4. Defensive Line Alignment
– Question: Are the defensive linemen in a favorable position for the run play?
– Purpose: Check if the defensive alignment suits the designed run.
5. Audible Decision
– Question: Should I audible out of this play?
– Purpose: Decide if an audible is necessary based on the pre-snap read, keeping in mind the options discussed with your offensive coordinator.
Pre-Snap Read for Passing Plays
Passing plays require a more detailed analysis. The following steps will help you make the right call in alignment with the offensive game plan:
1. Down and Distance Awareness
– Question: Do I need a specific number of yards for a first down? Can I afford to get it on the next play?
– Purpose: Determine the urgency and depth of the pass, based on the situational context.
2. Free Safety Location
– Question: Where is the free safety? Are there one, two, or no free safeties?
– Purpose: Identify potential coverages to understand how the defense might react.
3. Pressure Assessment
– Question: Do I feel pressure from the box?
– Purpose: Anticipate a blitz and plan accordingly.
4. Protection Check
– Question: Do I need to change the protection? Do we have enough blockers to handle the defense?
– Purpose: Ensure the offensive line is set to block the anticipated rush, following the strategy discussed with your coordinator.
5. Defensive End Alignment
– Question: Is there a Defensive End in the B gap or head up on a tackle?
– Purpose: Evaluate if the edge is shortened, affecting the pass rush and blocking assignments.
6. Defensive Back Alignment
– Question: Do I see staircases (corners in off coverage) and cushions (defensive backs giving space)?
– Purpose: Determine if the defense is playing man or zone and where the potential soft spots are.
7. Play Viability
– Question: Will this play work, or should I audible out of it?
– Purpose: Make the final decision on whether to proceed with the play or switch to a more suitable option, as prepped with your offensive coordinator.
Fundamental Principles
To truly excel, quarterbacks must integrate their physical skills with mental acumen. Here are the basic fundamentals every quarterback needs to master:
– Situational Awareness: Always be aware of the down, distance, and game situation.
– Defensive Recognition: Quickly and accurately identify defensive alignments and coverages.
– Decision-Making: Develop the ability to make quick, confident decisions in line with the game plan.
– Leadership: Command the huddle, communicate effectively with teammates, and exude confidence.
– Continuous Learning: Never stop studying film, practicing reads, and improving your football IQ.
Understanding Pre and Post Snap Reads
This Quarterback Operating System is a foundational tool to help quarterbacks elevate their game. By mastering pre-snap and post-snap reads and understanding the fundamentals of situational football, quarterbacks can ensure they are always in sync with their offensive coordinators and ready to execute the game plan. Remember, it’s about becoming a true field general, working seamlessly with your coaches to lead your team to victory.
