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Derek Leonard, Head Coach, Rochester High School (IL)

Full video on Glazier Drive: Power Run in the Spread Offense System

POWER SCHEME PHILOSOPHY AND EVOLUTION

The coach discusses implementing a fast-paced power and counter scheme starting in 2006, emphasizing no-huddle tempo without quarterback checks. The system was designed to maximize speed while maintaining consistent blocking rules that kept offensive linemen executing the same techniques regardless of the specific play call.

CORE BLOCKING PRINCIPLES

From center to playside tight end, the blocking remains identical for both power and counter plays. This consistency is built around gap scheme fundamentals with down blocking being the foundation. The scheme prioritizes getting a double team at the point of attack, which was crucial for smaller offensive line groups that couldn't always win one-on-one matchups like zone schemes often require.

STRATEGIC ADVANTAGES

The power scheme offered several benefits over the popular zone concepts of that era. It allowed for flexibility in personnel - they could operate with four true linemen by placing a smaller wrestler-type player at center who would block back or receive help on double teams. The scheme also provided multiple formation options including 10 personnel, fullback sets, tight end/fullback combinations, and even two-fullback looks.

TECHNICAL EXECUTION AGAINST EVEN FRONTS

Against 4-2 defenses, the backside tackle and guard create a vertical double team to the backside A gap with four eyes on the target. The center blocks back on defensive linemen in various techniques. The fullback executes the kickout block on the defensive end, aiming for the inside shoulder (V of the neck) and driving vertically. The pulling tackle hugs the double team and works inside-out to the playside linebacker. The running back aims for the inside leg of the guard, following the pulling guard from B to C gap with the option to cut back.

ADJUSTMENTS AGAINST ODD FRONTS

In 3-3 alignments, the double team shifts to the center and guard on the nose tackle. The backside tackle hinges to control the backside B gap to Mike linebacker without needing to read the first level. The fullback tightens his path to kick out the defensive end.

34 DEFENSE VARIATIONS

Against 3-4 defenses, the scheme incorporates influence blocking on the backside tackle. If there's no B gap pressure pre-snap, the tackle will arc release to the outside linebacker, which can create excellent blocking angles for the fullback on defensive ends that try to mirror or get hands on tackles. If B gap pressure appears, the tackle erases the influence and blocks down. All other assignments remain consistent with the core power scheme rules.

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