A Wisconsin-Inspired Running Play

 

One of the country’s strongest two-back rushing attacks is that of the University of Wisconsin. The run several different power-type running plays featuring multiple pullers to gain an advantage at the point of attack. We have incorporated a few ideas from the Badgers in the past and currently run something that we call “IsoVeer.”
It’s a two-back running play that features a trap block with a lead blocker through the point of attack and adds in some misdirection as well.
The idea behind the play is that the backfield action makes it look like Iso to the weak side. The offensive line will block down and we’ll pull the backside guard to block EMOL (the end man on the line of scrimmage). The FB, after his fake, will then veer back through the hole and lead block. The HB, after the fake, will veer back, receive the handoff from the QB, and get through the hole.
In the first diagram, we see the IsoVeer versus a 50 defense that is checked down to the weak side. From the TE on down, the entire line blocks down. We try and get someone off of the double teams to pick off the LBs. The FB and HB step left to make it look like the Iso is going that way, and then they pivot and come back to the strong side. The QB reverse pivots as if he is getting ready to deliver the Iso handoff. He still completes the handoff but the HB will veer back to the strong side.

The second diagram shows the play versus a 4-3. Once again, the rules don’t change and we’ll block down with everyone from the TE on down the line. With the action going away at the snap, the TE releasing inside to get the SAM is much easier. We still want to double the 3-technique and then get either the OG or OT to slide off and get the MIKE. The backside guard executes his pull and trap and the backfield action is exactly the same.

The IsoVeer is a great any down running play. It offers you misdirection and a trap. It’s a sneaky type of play but it is also a powerful run. You gain an advantage with five blockers to the strong side of the offense. Mixed with the FB Trap, the Iso, and the Power (and don’t forget your play action pass), the IsoVeer rounds out a complete two-back running attack.

 

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