The CheckerBoard

I spent saturday watching every college game that I could. Many, many quality teams run the Pistol formation and often as their primary set - just like the NFL. The great majority of those teams ran the ball very well. here is what I have decided.

The so-called run formation of the Iallows the back to get to the line sooner after the snap to a pre-selected gap. thus, man blocking is typically used. The hand-off happens at the line, just before hitting the line.

The Pistol gets the ball into the back's hand more quickly, but farther from the line. This allows for a more secure hand-off, resulting in fewer fumbles. The RB also has a broader field of vision coming to the line and picking holes. Therefore, you see more zone blocking. And this will tend to be more effective against the 3-4 sets.

This is every bit as much of a running formation as the, but the I is probably better for third/fourth and short.

In passing plays, the Pistol lets the QB get a better field of vision for the routes. It also gives the RB a better field of vision for picking up blitzes. If no blitz, he goes to the flat to be the safety valve.

Look at what they are doing on Sundays. It looks like Chaney's offense, which will help in recruiting plus win games.