Runs and Passes
RUNS AND PASSES:
Runs have lower average yardage results but also have more outcomes with positive yardage compared to passes. Each offense personnel has four plays as follows...
- Conservative Pass (left side of the offense)
- Aggressive Pass (right side of the offense)
- Conservative Run (right side of the offense)
- Aggressive Run (left side of the offense)
RUNS:
You can think of conservative runs as the running back keeping both arms wrapped around the ball with his head down while checking behind him for tacklers trying to strip the ball. This eliminates the risk of a fumble but also gives up the opportunity to break a long touchdown run.
Aggressive runs can be considered the back running open with one hand on the ball while looking downfield for a gap. Some runs may go all the way for a touchdown while others will end in a fumble.
Download Running Chart
This chart illustrates the pattern of outcomes for each run play.
PASSES:
Think of aggressive passes as when the quarterback risks trying to fit passes into a tight window between defenders. Some passes go for a touchdown and some get intercepted. Conservative passes would be when the quarterback is more careful with his throws in order to eliminate the risk of an interception while giving up the opportunity for a long touchdown pass.
Pass plays are not modeled in this game as a single pre-defined route to a pre-determined spot. Each pass play mimics a route-tree in which the receiver has the option to run several route variations based on the break he gets off the line, how the defensive backs are playing in front of him, and if the defense is blitzing the quarterback. In some cases the route may be broken-off short for a small gain and in some cases the route may go long for a big gain.
Download Passing Chart
This chart illustrates the pattern of outcomes for each pass play.
