Chalk Talk: How OSU Can Use the Cowboy Back (Part 2)

Yesterday we looked at how the cowboy back can be used more effectively in the run-pass option game. Today, we’re going to look at how the cowboy back can be used in the run game. There are many teams that use a fullback or tight end in their modern spread offense. Ole Miss is one of the best examples of how to run the two-back spread. So today, we will be looking at how the Rebels use their tight ends and fullbacks in their spread run game.

Split Zone

In the power play, the cowboy back is relied upon to make a crucial block on the defensive end. There are ways to still use the cowboy back in a blocking scheme without having to rely on his block as much. The split zone, also called the wham or zone slice, is a perfect example of how to use a fullback or tight end in a simple blocking scheme, even if he doesn’t excel at blocking. The line blocks as if it is a regular inside zone, but the fullback/tight end blocks the end man on the opposite side of the play. This block creates a seal so that the back-side pursuit is minimized.

Here’s how the Rebels run the split zone out of their 21 personnel (two backs, one tight end, two wide receivers).

As you can see, the play-side fullback blocks down on the end man on the line of scrimmage (EMLOS) to seal the back side of the play.

The slice is not only effective, but can be complemented with a waggle or bootleg. In it, the fullback bluffs the seal block and releases out into the flat; it gives the quarterback a hi-lo read between the flat man and the breaking receiver.

Lead Zone

The lead zone is also an effective downhill run play. In it, the lineman block inside zone with the fullback leading through the point of attack to block the play-side linebacker.

The Rebels predominately use the lead zone in 20 personnel. Just like the split zone, they use a play action pass with an identical action to keep the defense off-balanced.

While the lead zone isn’t as flexible as the split zone when it comes to point of attack, it’s a good inside run play for a team with a good blocking fullback.

Stretch

We already analyzed the stretch play in a previous Chalk Talk but not from a two-back formation. Ole Miss uses the stretch in 20 personnel.

In the two-back outside zone, the fullback plays the role of searcher, blocking whomever is the first threat on the outside. If the defensive line is already shaded to the play-side, the fullback can double team the EMLOS and climb to the linebacker or cut him off the line. In the example below, there isn’t a threat on the line of scrimmage so he can immediately go to the first second-level threat.

Now, it is important to realize that the ability of Ole Miss’ line is superior to OSU’s, but the schemes are too good to disregard. These plays would be easily translatable to OSU’s offense, and all three have been used by the Cowboys at one time or another. In part three, we will discuss more of how the cowboy back can be used as a weapon in the passing game.

How do you think the cowboy back should be used in the run game? Leave your opinions in the comments below!