Inside Sting

Description

Scimitar has no fullback to act as a lead blocker on running plays, but that doesn't mean that it cannot be an effective running formation. A simple, quick handoff can be effective if called when the defense is not prepared for it, especially if runs from the formation can be targeted in multiple directions successfully. While other Scimitar running plays make use of the tight ends and wide receivers positioned in close to make blocks to quick runs to the outside, my most utilized running play is this one, a direct burst straight-ahead into the line of scrimmage. The running back's shallow depth means that the back often has positive yardage before the linebackers and secondary have had a chance to react.

Obviously, Inside Sting is not a play to repeatedly pound away at defensive fronts with. I try to pass at least 2/3 of the time from Scimitar so that when I do run it's not really expected. Because it won't overpower defenses I usually use it on early downs, maybe on 2nd and short, so that defenses cannot key the run. One of the best situational uses for Inside Sting might be to use it against opponents that really try to harass your quarterback through outside blitzes. While an outside blitz around the left tackle has a chance of catching the back for a loss, most outside blitzes will completely overrun the back and take themselves out of position to make any kind of play. While not really star material, used intelligently like this Inside Sting can be an important role player in your playbook.

Player Assignments

See the Madden Playbook Guide for a description of these symbols.

Blocking Assessment

This play does not have much in the way of sophistication once the ball is snapped, but setting it up does require careful thought. The lack of blocking power does mean that to be successful with Inside Sting you need craftiness. Defenses playing man coverage will usually bring defenders in tight, so this play is one of the rare cases in which I will motion a TE or WR on the running (left) side of the formation away from the action, the goal being to get the covering LB or CB to follow, opening up more room to maneuver. When playing zones I often use the opposite tactic, motioning the right side WR over and snapping the ball just as he clears the QB, both providing an extra blocker right at the point of attack as well as not giving the defense much time to make adjustments. Only when the front seven shifts over the right side on their own do I tend to leave things along, so as not to give away my intentions.

Analysis

Pros:

• Can be used to attack either man or zone defenses effectively using motion
• Quick execution may catch defense by surprise

Cons:

• Cannot be used repeatedly or when the defense is expecting a run, making it unsuitable for most short yardage situations
• Requires good timing in play calling and careful setup using motion for much chance of success
• Will not break for many long gains because it goes right through the heart of the defense