All About the Triple Option Offense in Football

What is the Triple Option Offense?

The Triple Option is a run-heavy offense that gets its name from the three potential ball carriers on any given play. The quarterback, the fullback, and the tailback are all options to receive the ball. The offense uses a variety of formations and motions to confuse the defense and create running lanes for the ball carriers.

How to Run the Triple Option

To run the Triple Option, the offense must first establish a strong running game. The offensive line must be able to create holes for the running backs, and the running backs must be able to find the holes and gain yards. The quarterback must also be able to make good decisions and execute the plays effectively. The Triple Option is a complex offense that takes time and practice to master. However, when executed properly, it can be a very effective way to move the ball down the field and score points.

The Dive Option

The Dive Option is the most basic play in the Triple Option. The quarterback hands the ball off to the fullback, who runs straight ahead into the line of scrimmage. The offensive line blocks for the fullback, and the running backs block for the quarterback. The Dive Option is a good way to gain yards against a tough defense.

The Pitch Option

The Pitch Option is similar to the Dive Option, but the quarterback hands the ball off to the tailback instead of the fullback. The tailback then runs outside the tackle box and looks to find a hole in the defense. The Pitch Option is a good way to gain yards against a defense that is overplaying the Dive Option.

The Keeper Option

The Keeper Option is the third option in the Triple Option. If the quarterback does not hand the ball off to the fullback or the tailback, he can keep the ball and run it himself. The Keeper Option is a good way to gain yards against a defense that is expecting the Dive Option or the Pitch Option.

Defending the Triple Option

Defending the Triple Option can be difficult, but there are a few things that a defense can do to make it more difficult for the offense to execute the play.

Force the Offense to Pitch or Keep the Ball

The first thing that a defense can do is to force the offense to pitch or keep the ball. This can be done by overplaying the Dive Option and the Pitch Option. If the offense is forced to pitch or keep the ball, it will be more difficult for them to gain yards.

Account for All Three Ball Carriers

The second thing that a defense can do is to account for all three ball carriers. This means that the defense must be aware of where the quarterback, the fullback, and the tailback are at all times. If the defense can account for all three ball carriers, it will be more difficult for the offense to execute the Triple Option.

Be Physical

The third thing that a defense can do is to be physical. The Triple Option is a physical offense, and the defense must be able to match the offense's physicality. If the defense can be physical, it will be more difficult for the offense to move the ball down the field.