Why do we keep recruiting power backs in a blocking scheme that doesn’t open big holes and creates a light box for the defense? It seems like a shifty/speedy all purpose back would make more sense wanting to have 1 workhorse is understandable, but this guy is listed as an LB
Light boxes work well for power backs. Would you rather tackle Chubb or Henry with more or less people in the box?
This offense has its origins in the run n shoot. If you watch old highlights of SMU, Baylor, or any of the run n shoot teams you’ll find a ton of 220+ running backs.
The reason is they’re looking for a physical inside zone running back (like Mike Alstott was when he played RB) whose main job is to keep the defense honest by controlling B gap to B gap and allowing the passing game to control the perimeter.
The tempo (not original to run n shoot) makes it even harder to tackle a bigger back. Not only are we forcing you to play nickel all game, but we are gassing your front 7. Especially with how long we have our QBs hold the football on some plays.
So I love the strategy. Thin out the box, wear out the front seven, and force them to tackle a LB at RB