Ryan Larsen, Head Coach, Carnegie Mellon University has used RPOs to add more than 3 yards per play call compared to non-RPO run calls. His philosophy is that they are run first.
He teaches quarterbacks to hand the football off if they are in doubt regarding run or pass.
Our video shows 7 RPO drills and an introduction to how they apply to one of their schemes. To see his entire presentation with more drills and more scheme application, visit: QB Fundamentals & Reads for RPO's on Glazier Drive
RPO Philosophy
- Create 1 on 1s in Space
- Eliminate Defense's ability to get an extra hat into the run fit
- Put Individual defenders in both run and pass conflict
- • Two-for-one install (Quick Game + RPO Game)
- Offensive Line friendly. Ask the OLine if they would rather pass set 50+ times or run block 50+ times
- Grind defensive fronts out
Coaching Musts
- Decisiveness at QB
- "When in doubt, hand it off."
- "Like it? Take it!"
- Teach how Defensives want to fit the run! (SAF or OLB)
- Preach everyone is an option!
- Play FAST!
- Post Film: Accept what it is--it won't be perfect
RPO Fundamentals and Drill Work
Practice Progression:
- Pre-Practice: EVERY SINGLE DAY WE DO BALL HANDLING
- Must ensure we are clean in all mesh points (this is ball security!)
- QB Indy = creating good habits with eyes and speeding up our Trigger aka Hand Speed
- We use Drill Work to reinforce a sense of urgency like a game
- All drills are made to improve fundamentals - not fill time
- Group RPO Periods with RBS / TES / RBS = a coach is the read
- Team vs Scouts = We will manipulate the RPO key with our scout team
- Force Reads by our QBs to ensure their eyes are good
- Give varied looks so we are not guessing
- Understand some RPO reads are more area vs man based
