Multiple State Champion Coach Tom Lombardo, HC, St. Edward HS, OH takes us through his version of Power Read. He believes Power Read complements the belly play with similar QB reading principles but uses a horizontal instead of a vertical ride.
The running back handles the alley component while the quarterback takes the interior component.
His entire clinic on St. Edward Gap Schemes out of Multiple Spread Sets: Counter & Power Read with Variations, RPO's, & Play Action
Play Concept: The Power Read complements the belly play with similar QB reading principles but uses a horizontal ride instead of vertical. The running back handles the alley component while the quarterback takes the interior component.
Blocking Techniques:
- Double-team blocks similar to belly plays but targeting the backside linebacker
- For 3-techniques, they use a "Ricochet" or "Rick" block where the tackle knocks the defender into the guard's gap
- Pulling guard should "strike a match off the double team" and stay tight in the alley looking for the plus-one linebacker
Backfield Action:
- Coach prefers tailback's heels on quarterback's toes (rather than behind QB)
- RB must fly across and get wide horizontally to stretch the defensive end
- QB uses 1-1.5 shuffle steps with eyes on the read key
- When in doubt, the QB should keep the ball to minimize big losses
Defensive Adjustments:
- Detailed blocking assignments against 3-technique fronts
- Adjustments for odd fronts (3-4 defense)
- Special consideration for the Mike linebacker ("account for the Mike twice")
- Running to the weak side against 3-over-3 Cover 1 to exploit numbers advantage
Variations for Odd Fronts:
- Multiple approaches explained for handling 3-4 defenses
- Options for down blocking, base blocking, or using a 3-man surface with Y or tackle-over sets