Wing-T Formation Variations That are Breaking Defenses (Down Series +Tempo)
Description
Joey Montoya, Head Coach, Placer HS, CA
Full video on Glazier Drive: Variations of Buck & Down out of the Wing-T Offense
WING-T DOWN SERIES FORMATION STRATEGY SUMMARY
CORE PHILOSOPHY This Wing-T system focuses on creating defensive conflict through multiple formations while maintaining tempo. The offense operates under a 4-second snap count (typically under 3 seconds) to prevent defenses from recognizing formation tendencies. The goal is maximizing bodies at the point of attack while running bread-and-butter plays from various looks.
TEMPO AND FORMATION APPROACH The team comes out of the huddle and snaps the ball under 4 seconds consistently. This tempo prevents 16-18 year old players from having enough time to recognize formation tendencies and make adjustments. Multiple formations are used effectively because the quick snap doesn't allow defenses to process and react to the visual cues they would normally use.
PRIMARY PLAY PACKAGE The down series serves as one of four core running games (along with lead, belly, and fly sweep). Each formation creates a complete package including:
- Primary run play (down)
- Counter play
- Play action pass
- Screen options
- Various complementary plays that all look identical pre-snap
FORMATION VARIATIONS SHOWN
Strong Set Formation Features a diveback and wingback at the point of attack. Creates 5-6 yard gains consistently. The key coaching point is timing between the diveback and guard - the back should align at 3 yards (not 4) to either beat the guard or scrape right off him.
Flat Motion Package Uses motion with the back to create different looks:
- Traditional down play with jet fake
- Counter play pulling tackle and tight end
Counter crisscross variations All maintain the same pre-snap appearance but attack different gaps.
Wide Set Formation Utilizes wider splits to create 3-on-2 advantages in the passing game through RPO concepts. This formation helps get receivers matched up against safeties rather than corners (who "don't tackle" according to the philosophy).
ANSWERS TO DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS When defenses start spilling guards or kickout blocks, the system includes:
- Log blocks instead of kickout blocks
- Fullback bounce plays to the outside
- Quick motion looks that appear like option but become lead plays
PLAY ACTION CONCEPTS The down series includes play action passes where:
- Guards take one hard step down then peel back
- Receivers run posts and comeback routes
- Formation creates natural picks and crossing patterns
- All actions mirror the run fake perfectly
PHILOSOPHY ON GAINS The system prioritizes consistent 4-yard gains, understanding that with good playmakers, these become 12-yard gains or home runs. The focus is on sustainable, reliable offense rather than just explosive plays.
KEY COACHING POINTS
- Aiming point for runners is outside leg of the guard
- Don't typically account for corners in run fits
- Primary threats to block are inside linebackers and the safety
- Timing and mesh points between backs and linemen require extensive repetition
- Formation adjustments must be practiced extensively to maintain timing under tempo conditions
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Wing-T Formation Variations That are Breaking Defenses (Down Series +Tempo)
Contents
- Total 9 min 25 sec of video