A Formation in American football refers to the position players line up in before the start of a play from scrimmage. There are both offensive and defensive formations and there are many formations in both categories. United States simply as football, is a competitive team sport that is both fast-paced and strategic. ... A football play is the activity of the games of Canadian football and American football during which one team tries to advance the ball or to score, and the other team tries to stop them or take the ball away. ...

Offensive formations

The offense almost always sets up first before a play. The rules of the game require an offensive formation to consist of at least seven players on the line of scrimmage, and no more than four players off the line of scrimmage. Officially, only players at the ends of the line and backs may receive passes or advance the ball under normal game circumstances. Additionally, one back MAY be in motion either parallel to or away from the line of scrimmage at the snap (but not towards). This article does not cite its references or sources. ... A snap (colloquially called a hike, snapback, or pass from center) starts each American football and Canadian football play from scrimmage. ...

The T-formation, one of the most basic formations in football

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The above diagram shows the "T" formation, a basic formation. In this diagram, "C", "G", and "T" are the center, guard, and tackle respectively. They are offensive linemen and are ineligible to handle the ball during active play. The QB is the quarterback. The quarterback has 3 options of what to do with the ball. An offensive lineman (football) is one of a group of positions in American football. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ...

• He may keep the ball and run with it
• He may hand the ball to a back (HB or FB), who may run or pass it
• He may throw a forward pass to the ends (TE) or the backs

At the highest level of play in the NFL and NCAA most teams play additional players near (but still off) the line of scrimmage to act as extra pass receivers. The one constant in all formations is the offensive line, consisting of the left and right tackle, left and right guard, and a center. These five positions are often referred to collectively as the "line", and have the primary role of blocking. The two ends, which may be either wide receivers, or tight ends, may catch the ball. Of the four players behind the line, one is always the quarterback (defined as the player who receives the ball from the center) and three other backs. These backs can be half backs, (who primarily carry the ball), fullbacks, (who primarily block), or they can play near (but not on) the line of scrimmage to act as extra tight ends or wide receivers. A tight end that fills the role as the 4th back is often called an "H-Back" and a wide receiver that fills that role is sometimes known as a "flanker" or a "slot" receiver (depending on where he lines up). Most formations have a "strong" side (the side with the tight end, or the side with more players) and a "weak side" (the side opposite the tight end, or the side with fewer players). Below are the most common and historically significant offensive formations, along with descriptions and diagrams to display each. In each case, the diagrams will use the following symbols: NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ... The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA, often said NC-Double-A) is a voluntary association of about 1200 institutions, conferences, organizations and individuals that organizes the athletics programs of many colleges and universities in the United States. ... An offensive lineman (football) is one of a group of positions in American football. ... It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Offensive Tackle. ... The offensive team or offense in American football or Canadian football, is the team that begins a play from scrimmage in possession of the ball. ... The offensive team or offense in American football or Canadian football, is the team that begins a play from scrimmage in possession of the ball. ... The wide receiver (WR) position in American and Canadian football is the pass-catching specialist. ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... A rugby union team is made up of 15 players: eight forwards, numbered from 1 to 8; and seven backs, numbered from 9 to 15. ... In American football, a fullback (FB) is a position in the offensive backfield. ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ... The wide receiver (WR) position in American and Canadian football is the pass-catching specialist. ... An H-Back is an offensive position in American football that is a hybrid between a fullback and a tight end. ...

• QB = quarterback (the player who receives the snap to start the play)
• C = center (always the player who snaps the ball)
• G = guard
• T = tackle
• TE = tight end (also for H-back)
• WR = wide receiver (split end, flanker or slot receiver)
• HB = half back (the primary ball carrier)
• FB = full back (the primary blocking back)

It should be noted that this list is by no means exhaustive; there are literally hundreds of different ways to organize a team's players while still remaining within the "7 on the line 4 in the backfield convention" Still, this list of formations covers enough of the basics that almost every formation can be considered a variant of the ones listed below.

I formation

Main article: I formation

Basic I formation.

This is one of the most common formations used at all levels of football. It consists of two backs lined up behind the quarterback, with the back closest to the quarterback being called the fullback and the back behind the fullback called the running back, tailback, or I-back. The two backs line up either in a line (hence the name of the formation since it looks like a letter I) or with the fullback "offset" to either side. The fourth back is most commonly employed as an extra wide receiver. Here are three diagrams of I-Formation, strong side right (that is, with the tight end lining up to the right, typical for a right-handed quarterback). Notice that the 4th back required by the rules is the set-back wide receiver at the right (called the flanker). Standard I formation The I formation is one of the most common offensive formations in American football. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... In American football, a fullback (FB) is a position in the offensive backfield. ... P.J. Daniels was a star running back for Georgia Tech from 2002-2005. ... Tailback is an offensive backfield position in the sport of American football. ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ...

I formation, fullback offset strongside

I Formation, fullback offset weakside

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Two other I formation variations include the Maryland I and the Power I. These formations lack a flanker, and use the maximum 3 running backs rather than the standard 2. They are used primarily as running formations. These may employ either tight ends or split ends (wide receivers) or one of each.^[1]

Maryland I

Power I

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Ace

Main article: Ace formation

Also known as "single back" formation. Consists of 1 running back lined up about five yards behind the quarterback. The other 2 backs can either act as extra tight ends or wide receivers. This formation is good for passing, but can also be good for running, as the extra wide receiver spreads the field and takes a defender out of the box.
This article does not cite any references or sources. ...

Typical Single-back formation

Here is the basic single-back set. Notice the absence of a full back and the addition of the extra flanker. Since he is lined up in the space between the tackle and the split end, he is called the "slot" receiver. This formation may be referred to as "single back, slot left." Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ...

A variation of the ace is known as the spread formation. It utilizes 4 wide receivers and no tight ends. In the NFL, this formation was the basis of the Run-And-Shoot offense that was popular in the 1980s with teams such as the Detroit Lions and the Houston Oilers but has since fallen out of favor as a primary offensive formation.
This article does not cite any references or sources. ... City New Orleans, Louisiana Team colors Old Gold, Black, and White Head Coach Sean Payton Owner Tom Benson General manager Mickey Loomis Mascot Gumbo League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1967–present) Eastern Conference (1967-1969) Capitol Division (1967; 1969) Century Division (1968) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC West...

Spread formation

It is often used as a pass formation, because of the extra wide receivers. It also makes an effective run formation, because it "spreads the field" and forces the defense to respect the pass, thus taking players out of the box. Certain college programs, such as the University of Hawaii and Texas Tech still use it as their primary formation. Brigham Young University also uses the spread offense, although they tend to employ their tight ends more frequently than the University of Hawaii and Texas Tech. Minnesota and TCU are also starting to employ the spread offense. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... This article is about the University of Hawaii system. ... Texas Tech University is a nationally recognized doctoral/research university located in Lubbock, Texas, established in 1923 originally as Texas Technological College. ...

Joe Gibbs's "H-Back" set

Joe Gibbs, twice head coach of the Washington Redskins, devised an ace variation that used a setback, or "flexed" tight end known as an H-back. In this formation, the normal tight-end is almost exclusively a blocker, while the H-back is primarily a pass receiver. This formation is often referred to as a "Two Tight End" set. Some teams (like the Indianapolis Colts under Tony Dungy) use this formation with both tight ends on the line and use two flankers. Many other teams in the NFL, even those that don't use this as a primary formation, still run some plays using a variant of this formation. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Joe Jackson Gibbs (born November 25, 1940) is a Hall of Fame American football coach and NASCAR Championship team owner. ... For other uses, see Redskins (disambiguation). ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ... An H-Back is an offensive position in American football that is a hybrid between a fullback and a tight end. ... City Indianapolis, Indiana Other nicknames The Horseshoes Team colors Speed Blue and White Head Coach Tony Dungy Owner Jim Irsay General manager Bill Polian Mascot Blue League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1953–present) Western Conference (1953-1969) Coastal Division (1967-1969) American Football Conference (1970-present) AFC East (1970... Anthony Kevin Tony Dungy (born October 6, 1955) is a former professional American football player and the current head coach of the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. ...

Split backs

Main article: Pro set

Basic split backs set

Also called the "pro-set," this is similar to the I-formation and has the same variations. The difference is that the two backs are split behind the quarterback instead of being lined up behind him. This formation is most often associated with Bill Walsh's San Francisco 49ers teams of the 1980s and his West Coast Offense. A modern example of the "pro-set" can be seen in the Florida State University Seminoles offense, which favors a Split Backs formation. The Seattle Seahawks also favor this type of formation with the tight end usually being replaced with a third wide receiver The base pro set formation with a split end (SE), a flanker (FL), a quarterback (QB), a fullback (FB), a halfback (HB), a tight end (TE), and five down linemen (OL). ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... William Ernest Walsh (November 30, 1931 – July 30, 2007) was an American head football coach of the San Francisco 49ers and Stanford University, and the inventor of the West Coast Offense. ... City San Francisco, California Other nicknames Niners, The Red And Gold, Bay Bombers Team colors Cardinal red, metallic gold and black Head Coach Mike Nolan Owner Denise DeBartolo York and John York General manager Lal Heneghan Mascot Sourdough Sam League/Conference affiliations All-America Football Conference (1946-1949) Western Division... In American football, West Coast Offense (WCO) is one of two similar but distinct offensive-strategic-systems of play: (A) the Air Coryell system; or (B) more commonly the pass play system popularized by Bill Walsh. ... Florida State Womens & Mens team logos. ... City Seattle, Washington Team colors Pacific Blue, Navy Blue, Neon Green, White Head Coach Mike Holmgren Owner Paul Allen General manager Tim Ruskell Mascot Blitz, and Taima the hawk League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1976–present) American Football Conference (1977-2001) AFC West (1977-2001) National Football Conference (1976...

Single wing

Main article: Single-wing

This archaic formation was popular for most of the first 50 years of modern American football, but it is rare today, except as a novelty. (For instance, the Philadelphia Eagles occasionally used variations of the single wing in the 2006 season with the fullback directly behind the strong side tackle, one or two wingbacks, and halfback Brian Westbrook or quarterback Donovan McNabb receiving the snap. This was used primarily to catch the defense off guard, and therefore force the other team to choose between wasting a time out or defending against a formation they had never faced.) There are many variations of this formation with really the only common thread being that, rather than lining up "under center," the quarterback is lined up a few yards behind with RBs on either side of him (similar to a modern shotgun formation).^[2] In American and Canadian football, a single-wing formation is any offensive formation having exactly one wingback. ... City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Team colors Midnight Green, Black, White, and Silver Head Coach Andy Reid Owner Jeffrey Lurie General manager Tom Heckert (official) Andy Reid (de facto) Fight song Fly, Eagles Fly Mascot Swoop League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1933–present) Eastern Division (1933-1949) American Conference (1950-1952... For the defensive back, see Bryant Westbrook. ... Donovan McNabb (born November 25, 1976 in Chicago, Illinois) is an American football quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League. ... A typical Shotgun formation -- many variables can be implemented, but this is the basic setup many teams use The shotgun formation is a formation used by the offensive team in American and Canadian football. ...

Typical Single Wing set. Note the unbalanced line. "C" will snap the ball, even though he is not strictly in the center. This diagram uses the modern terms. In the original single wing, the QB was called the "tailback" and the FB was called the "quarterback" or "blocking back"

The most famous version of the Single Wing offense would be Knute Rockne's "Notre Dame Box" that he ran with the Four Horsemen. It contained two tight ends, and 4 backs. The quarterback in this formation (called at the time a "single-wing tailback"), like today's shotgun QB, received the snap on the fly. The other 3 backs lined up on the same side of the QB in various arrangements. Also, the formation often featured an unbalanced line where the center (that is, the player who snapped the ball) was not strictly in the center of the line, but close to the weakside. The formation was originally designed as a brute-force running formation, since it had 6 players to one side of the center and only 3 on the other. Rockne's innovations with this formation involved using complicated backfield shifts and motion to confuse defenses, and adapting it as a passing formation. The single wing has recently had a renaissance of sorts with high schools; since it is so rare, its sheer novelty can make it successful. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 8 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 8 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... 1927 Time cover featuring Rockne Knute (pronounced kah-noot) (noot is the anglicized nickname) Kenneth Rockne (March 4, 1888 – March 31, 1931) was an American football player and is regarded by many as the greatest coach in college football history. ... Not to be confused with the University of Notre Dame Australia University of Notre Dame du Lac The University of Notre Dame (standard name; full legal name University of Notre Dame du Lac) is a Roman Catholic institution of higher learning located in Notre Dame, Indiana, USA adjacent to the... The Four Horsemen of Notre Dame comprised a winning group of football players at the University of Notre Dame under coach Knute Rockne. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ...

Shotgun

Main article: Shotgun formation

Typical Shotgun formation

The modern descendant of the Single Wing. The quarterback lines up about five yards behind the center, in order to allow a better view of the defense and more time to get a pass off. The shotgun can distribute its 3 other backs and 2 ends any number of ways, but most commonly employs one running back, lined up next to the QB, one tight end and three wide receivers. This formation is most commonly used for passing but the quarterback can also hand it off to a running back or run himself. Some teams use this as their primary formation, such as the Indianapolis Colts, the University of Hawaii and Purdue University. Most commonly, however, the Shotgun is used in long yardage situations, when the team is playing catch-up or in other obvious passing situations. Historically, the Shotgun was used to great success as a primary formation in the NFL by the Tom Landry-led Dallas Cowboys teams of the 1970s and the 1990s Buffalo Bills teams under Marv Levy, who used a variation known as the K-gun. A typical Shotgun formation -- many variables can be implemented, but this is the basic setup many teams use The shotgun formation is a formation used by the offensive team in American and Canadian football. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... P.J. Daniels was a star running back for Georgia Tech from 2002-2005. ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ... Jerry Rice holds many career records for wide receivers in the National Football League. ... City Indianapolis, Indiana Other nicknames The Horseshoes Team colors Speed Blue and White Head Coach Tony Dungy Owner Jim Irsay General manager Bill Polian Mascot Blue League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1953–present) Western Conference (1953-1969) Coastal Division (1967-1969) American Football Conference (1970-present) AFC East (1970... This article is about the University of Hawaii system. ... Purdue redirects here. ... Thomas Wade Landry (September 11, 1924 – February 12, 2000) was an American football player and coach. ... City Irving, Texas Other nicknames Americas Team, The Boys Team colors Silver, Navy Blue Head Coach Wade Phillips Owner Jerry Jones General manager Jerry Jones League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1960–present) Northern Conference (1960) Eastern Conference (1961-1966) Capitol Division (1967-1969) National Football Conference (1970-present... For other uses, see Buffalo Bills (disambiguation). ... Marvin Daniel Levy (born August 3, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois) is currently the General Manager and Vice President of Football Operations for the Buffalo Bills. ...

Shotgun, Trips left (3 wide receivers on the same side)

Shotgun, Max Protect (Full back in to provide additional protection to quarterback)

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Pistol

This offense was originated by Chris Ault of The University of Nevada Wolf Pack. It is essentially a shotgun variation, with the quarterback lined up closer than in standard shotgun, and a running back lined up behind, rather than next to, the QB. The University of Nevada, Reno (Nevada or UNR) is a university located in Reno, Nevada, USA, and is known for its programs in agricultural research, animal biotechnology, and mining-related engineering and natural sciences. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... P.J. Daniels was a star running back for Georgia Tech from 2002-2005. ...

The Pistol formation adds the dimension of a running game with the halfback being in a singleback position. This has disrupted the timing of some defenses with the way the quarterback hands the ball off to the halfback. The Pistol can also feature the option play. With this offense, the quarterback has the ability to get a better look past the offensive line and at the defense. Pistol formations have gained some popularity in NCAA football.

Chris Ault's "Pistol" formation

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T formation

Main article: T formation

Like the single wing, this formation is no longer in popular use. It is essentially the precursor to most modern formations, in that it places the quarterback directly under center (in contrast to its main competitor of its day, the single wing, which had the quarterback receiving the ball on the fly).
This article does not cite any references or sources. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... The offensive team or offense in American football or Canadian football, is the team that begins a play from scrimmage in possession of the ball. ...

The T formation

It consists of three running backs lined up in a row about five yards behind the quarterback, forming the shape of a T. It may feature two tight ends (known as the Power T) or one tight end and a wide receiver (in this case known as a split end). The latter variation is known as the Split T, created in 1941 by University of Missouri head coach Don Faurot. This is a running formation in which the option is effective. The T formation was made famous by the University of Minnesota in the 1930s and 1940's (winning five national titles). When the Chicago Bears used the T-formation to defeat the Washington Redskins by a score of 73-0 in the 1940 NFL championship game, it marked the end of the Single Wing at nearly all levels of play, as teams, almost overnight, moved to formations with the quarterback "under center" like the T. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x319, 8 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x319, 8 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... The option offense is a system of running plays in American football. ... This article is about the oldest and largest campus of the University of Minnesota. ... City Chicago, Illinois Other nicknames Da Bears, The Monsters of the Midway Team colors Navy Blue and Orange Head Coach Lovie Smith Owner Virginia Halas McCaskey Chairman Michael McCaskey General manager Jerry Angelo Fight song Bear Down, Chicago Bears Mascot Staley Da Bear League/Conference affiliations Independent (1919) National Football... For other uses, see Redskins (disambiguation). ...

One variation of the T-Formation would be where all the runningbacks would be closer than usual, being at fullback depth rather than halfback depth.

Wishbone

Main article: Wishbone formation

The Wishbone formation

A variation of the T-formation invented at the University of Texas at Austin by Emory Bellard, then offensive coordinator under Darrell Royal. It consists of three running backs: a fullback lined up directly behind the quarterback, and the two halfbacks split behind the fullback. It can be run with two tight ends, one tight end and one wide receiver, or two wide receivers. It is used as a running formation for the most part. The option style of offense (where the Quarterback decides to run, handoff, or pitch the ball after the snap rather than before) is most closely associated with this formation. Notable college teams to run the Wishbone include Darrell Royal's Texas Longhorns of the 1960s, Alabama of the early 1970s, and Oklahoma of the late 1970s and early 1980s. As with any hugely successful formation or philosophy, as teams learned how to defend against it, it became much less successful. By 1990, few major programs were using the wishbone any more. A variant of the wishbone formation with two running backs (RB), two wide receivers (WR), a quarterback (QB), a fullback (FB), and five down linemen (OL). ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x319, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x319, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... University of Texas redirects here. ... Emory Bellard, a member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, was head coach at Texas A&M University from 1972 to 1978. ... An offensive coordinator typically refers to a coach on a football team in the National Football League (or at others levels of American football) who is in charge of the offense. ... Darrell K. Royal (born July 6, 1924 in Hollis, Oklahoma), is a College Football Hall of Fame member, and is the most successful football coach, in terms of wins, in University of Texas Longhorn history. ... The University of Alabama (also known as Alabama, UA or colloquially as Bama) is a public coeducational university located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA. Founded in 1831, UA is the flagship campus of the University of Alabama System. ... University of Oklahoma, abbreviated OU, is a coeducational public research university located in the U.S. state of Oklahoma founded in 1890. ...

Flexbone

Main article: Flexbone formation

The base flexbone formation.

A common formation found in colleges and high schools. In this formation, one back (the fullback) lines up behind the quarterback. Both ends are often split wide as wide receivers, though some variations include one or two tight ends. The two remaining backs, called wingbacks or slotbacks, line up behind the line of scrimmage just outside the tackles. This formation is primarily used to run the option, especially the triple option. Often, one of the wingbacks will go in motion in the direction the play is being run in. United States Air Force Academy and the United States Naval Academy are two college football teams that use this formation. // The Formation The base flexbone formation with two slotbacks (SB), two wide receivers (WR), a quarterback (QB), a fullback (FB), and five down linemen (OL). ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... In American football, a fullback (FB) is a position in the offensive backfield. ... Navy quarterback Aaron Polanco sets up to throw. ... Jerry Rice holds many career records for wide receivers in the National Football League. ... The option offense is a system of running plays in American football. ... The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA or Air Force),[1] located immediately north of Colorado Springs in El Paso County, Colorado, United States, is an institution for the undergraduate education of officers for the United States Air Force. ... The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is an institution for the undergraduate education of officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps and is in Annapolis, Maryland . ... A college football game between Colorado State and Air Force. ...

Wing T

The Delaware Wing T, as developed by David Nelson. In this case, one of the half backs starts in the back field. The other (the wing back) almost always goes in motion towards the QB at the snap

A formation similar to the Flexbone, though much older, is known as the "Delaware Wing-T" was created by longtime University of Delaware coach and NCAA Rules Committee chairman David Nelson, and perfected by his successor Tubby Raymond. It has become a very popular offense with high schools and small colleges. It was designed at the time to be a mix between the single wing and T-formation. It took the motion and run-strength of the single wing, and the QB-under-center from the T. In this variation, there is only one wing back, with the other back lined up next to the fullback on the opposite side from the wing back. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... The University of Delaware (UD) is the largest university in the U.S. state of Delaware. ... The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA, often said NC-Double-A) is a voluntary association of about 1200 institutions, conferences, organizations and individuals that organizes the athletics programs of many colleges and universities in the United States. ... Photo submitted by Franklyncards This article is about the World War I soldier. ... Harold R. Tubby Raymond (born November 14, 1926) was University of Delaware head football coach (1966-2001) and College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2003). ... In American football, a fullback (FB) is a position in the offensive backfield. ...

Empty backfield

Empty backfield, trips left, slot right

Also known simply as "Five-wide", a reference to the five wide receivers. In the empty backfield formation, all of the backs play near the line of scrimmage to act as extra wide receivers or tight ends. This is almost exclusively a passing formation used to spread the field, often to open up short inside routes or screen routes. It can also be run with one or two wing backs like the flexbone formation allowing a running game and the ability to run the option. The quarterback can line up either under center or in the shotgun. This formation is becoming more popular in the NFL and college football, with recent successes at Texas Tech University and by the New England Patriots in their 3 Super Bowl winning seasons. Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... The wide receiver (WR) position in American and Canadian football is the pass-catching specialist. ... The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. ... NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ... A college football game between Colorado State and Air Force. ... Texas Tech University redirects here. ... City Foxborough, Massachusetts Other nicknames The Pats Team colors Nautical Blue, New Century Silver, Red, and White Head Coach Bill Belichick Owner Robert Kraft General manager Bill Belichick (de facto) Mascot Pat Patriot League/Conference affiliations American Football League (1960–69) Eastern Division (1960–69) National Football League (1970–present... The winning Super Bowl team receives the Vince Lombardi Trophy. ...

Goal line formation

Typical goal line formation

Also called "jumbo", "heavy", "full house" or other similar names. As the name implies, this formation is used exclusively in short-yardage situations near the goal line. This formation typically has no wide receivers, and often employs 3 tight ends and 2 running backs, or alternately 2 tight ends and 3 running backs. Often, a tight end or full back position is occupied by a player who normally play offensive line or defensive line positions to act as extra blockers. The Chicago Bears of the mid 1980's famously used defensive tackle William "The Refrigerator" Perry as a full back in this formation. In most cases, it is exclusively a running formation, designed to score by brute force. Some teams have successfully used this formation to pass out of, most famously the New England Patriots, who have used linebacker Mike Vrabel as a tight end to catch touchdown passes in both Super Bowl XXXVIII and Super Bowl XXXIX Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 8 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x280, 8 KB) Created by: Jason R Remy (jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... City Chicago, Illinois Other nicknames Da Bears, The Monsters of the Midway Team colors Navy Blue and Orange Head Coach Lovie Smith Owner Virginia Halas McCaskey Chairman Michael McCaskey General manager Jerry Angelo Fight song Bear Down, Chicago Bears Mascot Staley Da Bear League/Conference affiliations Independent (1919) National Football... William Perry (born December 16, 1962 in Aiken, South Carolina) is a former professional football player and brother of former professional football player Michael Dean Perry. ... Michael George Vrabel (born August 14, 1975 in Akron, Ohio) is an American football linebacker for the New England Patriots of the National Football League. ... Date February 1, 2004 Stadium Reliant Stadium City Houston, Texas MVP Tom Brady, Quarterback Favorite Patriots by 7 National anthem Beyoncé Coin toss Earl Campbell, Ollie Matson, Don Maynard, Y.A. Tittle, Mike Singletary, Gene Upshaw Referee Ed Hochuli Halftime show Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Outkast, P. Diddy, Kid Rock... Date February 6, 2005 Stadium ALLTEL Stadium City Jacksonville, Florida MVP Deion Branch, Wide receiver Favorite Patriots by 7 National anthem Combined choirs of the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S...

Double wing

The Double Wing was invented by Don Markham, a high school coach from California. In truth, the double-wing was invented by Pop Warner in 1912. The offense looks a lot like a flexbone, except that the offensive line's splits are narrow, and the fullback is only 1 inch away from the quarterback. The offense is primarily a running offense using misdirection and power plays. Most double wing plays use a motioning wing back at the start of each play. Unlike the Flexbone, this offense rarely uses an option play.

The Burns version of the Double Wing focuses on 3 core plays. These plays are the Toss, Cross Toss, and Wedge. The Toss is the bread and butter play of many Double wing offenses.

Double wing wildcat

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The Wildcat formation is a version of the double wing invented by Hugh Wyatt. The formation uses the same plays as the double wing offense except that it uses a direct snap to either back and allows for more passing.

Defensive formations

Rules regarding defensive formations are not as complex as their offensive counterparts. The only rule regarding defensive formations is that all defensive players must remain on their side of the neutral zone (defined as the width of the ball) before the snap. If they line up on the wrong side of the line, the offending player(s) are offsides. The three basic defensive positions are defensive linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs. Offside, off-side or off side can mean: The offside rule that occurs in a number of field sports including most versions of football (see offside law (football)), ice hockey (see offside (hockey)) and, until recently, in field hockey. ... A defensive lineman is any of the down positions on the defensive side of American football. ... This article relates to sports. ... In American football and Canadian football, defensive backs are the players on the defensive team who take positions somewhat back from the line of scrimmage; they are distinguished from the defensive line players, who take positions directly behind the line of scrimmage. ...

Defensive linemen are either "defensive tackles" (lined up inside) or "defensive ends" (lined up outside). These are "DT" and "DE" in the diagrams

Linebackers are categorized as middle linebackers (often called "Mike"), strongside linebackers (often called "Sam") and weakside linebackers (often called "Will). Strongside linebackers line up on the same side as the tight end, weakside away from the tight end. These are "MLB", "SLB" and "WLB" in the diagrams.

Defensive backs can include cornerbacks (usually 2, indicated by "CB"), a strong safety (lines up on same side as tight end, indicated by "SS") and a free safety (so called because they are "free" to roam where needed, indicated by "FS".)

Two terms often heard in referring to defensive formations are "the box" and "the secondary". The box is defined as the area within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage near the offensive linemen. This area is most commonly occupied by defensive linemen and linebackers. The secondary is the area occupied by defensive backs, and includes the entire field outside of the "box". The two standard NFL defenses, the 4-3 and the 3-4, have "seven in the box"
This article does not cite its references or sources. ... NFL logo For other uses of the abbreviation NFL, see NFL (disambiguation). ...

• A defensive formation with the "box" highlighted:

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These formations assume the offense is lined up strong side right (from the offenses point of view). These diagrams could be matched up to the diagrams above to make a complete 22 player football field.

4-3

This is the base defense for most teams. It consists of four defensive linemen, three linebackers, and four defensive backs (two safeties, two corners). Against two-receiver offensive sets, this formation is effective against the run and the pass. In the 4-3, the linemen tend to line up in the gaps between the offensive line. On passing downs, the Mike is often responsible to cover any running backs, the Sam covers the Tight End, and the Will either covers a back or "blitzes" in an attempt to "sack" the quarterback.

• Basic 4-3:

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• 4-3 over (linebackers shifted to strong-side):

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• 4-3 under (linebackers shifted to weak-side):

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6-1

The 6-1 defense basically has the personnel of the 4-3 defense, but instead of the outside linebackers playing behind the defensive line, they line up along side of the defensive line. The middle linebacker is the only one directly behind the line.

3-4

This is the base defense of some teams. It consists of three defensive linemen, four linebackers, and four defensive backs (two safeties, two corners). The advantage is that while 4 players still usually rush the line, the quarterback can be less sure of which of the 4 linebackers will join the 3 linemen. Sacrifices some size (of linemen) for speed (of linebackers). In this formation, the single tackle usually lines up directly over the "nose" of the ball, and is often called the "nose tackle". In this formation, the linemen often line up directly in front of the offensive line, while the linebackers "shoot the gaps".

• Basic 3-4:

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3-4 Eagle

In this variation of the 3-4, the nose tackle is removed from play and in his place is an extra linebacker, which lines up on the line where the nose tackle would be, sometimes slightly behind where the nose tackle would be. It allows defenses more flexibility in man to man coverages and zone blitzes. It was created by the defensive guru Buddy Ryan.

4-4

Consists of four defensive linemen, four linebackers, and three defensive backs (one safety, two corners). Puts "eight men in the box" to stop the run, but it sacrifices deep coverage against the pass, especially if the opponent's receivers are better athletes than the cornerbacks. The formation is popular in high school football, where many offenses still run the ball far more than they pass it.

• Basic 4-4:

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46 (forty-six)

Main article: 46 defense

This formation was invented by Buddy Ryan, defensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears during the 1980s. Not 4 down linemen & 6 linebackers; it's actually a 4-4 set using 4-3 personnel . This was accomplished by moving a safety up into the "box" instead of a fourth linebacker. The '46' refers not to any lineman/linebacker orientation but was the jersey number of Doug Plank, the player Buddy Ryan first used in this role at Chicago. The other feature of the 46 was the placement of both "outside" linebackers on the same side of the formation, with the defensive line shifted the opposite way. This defense was the philosophical equivalent of the "Notre Dame Box" offense devised by Knute Rockne in the 1930s, in that it used an unbalanced field and complex pre-snap motion to confuse the opposing offense. Chicago rode this defense into a 15-1 season in 1985, culminating in a 46-10 win over New England in Super Bowl XX. This article or section does not adequately cite its references or sources. ... Buddy Ryan (born James David Ryan on February 17, 1934) is a former American football coach. ... City Chicago, Illinois Other nicknames Da Bears, The Monsters of the Midway Team colors Navy Blue and Orange Head Coach Lovie Smith Owner Virginia Halas McCaskey Chairman Michael McCaskey General manager Jerry Angelo Fight song Bear Down, Chicago Bears Mascot Staley Da Bear League/Conference affiliations Independent (1919) National Football... Douglas Walter Plank (born March 4, 1953 in Greensburg, Pennsylvania) is a former American football safety in the NFL. He spent his entire eight year career with the Chicago Bears. ... Buddy Ryan (born James David Ryan on February 17, 1934) is a former American football coach. ... City Foxborough, Massachusetts Other nicknames The Pats Team colors Nautical Blue, New Century Silver, Red, and White Head Coach Bill Belichick Owner Robert Kraft General manager Bill Belichick (de facto) Mascot Pat Patriot League/Conference affiliations American Football League (1960–69) Eastern Division (1960–69) National Football League (1970–present... Date January 26, 1986 Stadium Louisiana Superdome City New Orleans, Louisiana MVP Richard Dent, Defensive end Favorite Bears by 10 National anthem Wynton Marsalis Coin toss Bart Starr representing previous Super Bowl MVPs Referee Red Cashion Halftime show Up with People presents Beat of the Future Attendance 73,818 TV...

• The 46. Notice the strong safety in the box and the 2 outside linebackers shifted to the same side outside of the defensive end:

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5-2

Consists of five defensive linemen, two linebackers, and four defensive backs (two corners, two safeties). Used to stop the run without sacrificing a safety. This formation is common in high schools and college.

• The 5-2. If the defensive ends drop into pass coverage, this formation becomes functionally equivalent to a 3-4:

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Nickel formation

Any formation that uses 5 defensive backs (from nickel = 5 cent piece) instead of the usual 4. Often used when the offense is using extra wide-receivers, as it matches an extra corner back against the extra wideout. The extra corner is often called a nickelback. Some variations use an extra strong safety instead of an extra corner. Strong safeties are often the most physical of the safeties, often resembling linebackers, so a nickel with the extra safety can be more effective against the run than one with an extra corner. Comes in several varieties: In American football, a nickelback is a cornerback who serves as the fifth defensive back on defense. ...

• The 4-2-5 removes a linebacker from the standard 4-3 to get the extra defensive back. A variation is the 2-4-5 which replaces rush ends with outside linebackers. It is common among teams which normally use a 3-4 set:

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• The 3-3-5 removes a lineman to get the nickelback:

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• The 33 stack uses an extra strong safety, and "stacks" linebackers and safetys directly behind the defensive linemen:

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• The 3-5-3 refers to a defense that has three down linemen (the "3" level), three linebackers and two corners (the "5" level), one free safety and 2 strong safeties (the "3"level). This is similar to a 33 stack, but with players more spread. Also called the "umbrella" defense or "3-deep." In this set, the third safety would be referred to as a "weak safety" (WS) and allows two position safeties at the mid-level with a third safety deep. It is because of this that the secondary safety in a football defense is called a free safety rather than a weak safety:

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Dime formation

Any defense consisting of six defensive backs. The sixth defensive back is known as the dimeback and this defense is also used in passing situations (particularly when the offense is using four wide receivers). One defensiveback more than a nickel, thus one coin higher than a nickel:

• A 4-1-6 (typical dime set-up):

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Quarter formation

Any defense consisting of seven defensive backs. The seventh defensive back is often an extra safety, and this defense is used in extreme passing situations (such as to defend against a Hail Mary pass). It is occasionally referred to as the Prevent defense (as in, preventing a game-winning Hail Mary). A Hail Mary pass or Hail Mary play in American football is a forward pass made in desperation, with only a very small chance of success. ...

• 3-deep quarter formation (3-1-7):

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• Bill Belichick, head coach of the New England Patriots, has used this unusual "Quarter" formation with no linemen (essentially a 0-4-7):

William Stephen Belichick (born April 16, 1952 in Nashville, Tennessee) is the American football head coach for the New England Patriots of the National Football League. ... City Foxborough, Massachusetts Other nicknames The Pats Team colors Nautical Blue, New Century Silver, Red, and White Head Coach Bill Belichick Owner Robert Kraft General manager Bill Belichick (de facto) Mascot Pat Patriot League/Conference affiliations American Football League (1960–69) Eastern Division (1960–69) National Football League (1970–present... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (871x297, 9 KB) Created by Jason R Remy (Jayron32) File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ...

Goal line defense

Defense used on the goal line or in short yardage where the entire defense lines up close to the line of scrimmage in an attempt to stop an expected running play. It is usually used to counter a Goal Line offense. Since there is not more than 10-11 yards of field left, the safeties can be pulled for more linemen or linebackers.

A goal-line defense with "9 in the box":

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References and external links

1. ^ Diagram and description of the Maryland I at dailyutahchronicle.com
2. ^ The single wing formation, at coachwyatt.com

• Diagrams of NFL offensive and defensive formations
• Article on the history of the Split T formation
• Story on the invention of the Wishbone