With the New Orleans Saints only gaining 55 yards on the ground in Sunday’s loss to the Washington Redskins, perhaps it is time to give opposing teams a new look.
With talented running backs like Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush, Pierre Thomas, Aaron Stecker, and fullback Mike Karney, why not run some new formations? The Saints should use the Wishbone, Flexbone, T-formation, and even Maryland I-formation (see picture) to utilize a backfield that would feature at least three of the backs at the same time.
We have the right blocking tight ends in Jeremy Shockey and Mark Campbell to make these formations successful. The running game would get the help of extra blockers, as well as rest the wide receivers, and keep them fresh throughout the game.
The options would be endless, with running and passing plays available. Different routes could be used, based on particular strengths of each running back. The blocking schemes would help players like Bush and Thomas to bounce to the outside easier.
McAllister, Stecker, and Karney could help block up the middle and between the tackles, as well as power their way through the line when having the ball.
These formations would force the opposing defense to use more linebackers, assuming for the run. That is when quarterback Drew Brees could audible, based on matchups, to a better play.
If Brees were to switch to a pass or to another formation, it could force horrible matchups and possibly force early timeouts by the opposition. The best offense is the one you cannot see coming.
Head Coach Sean Payton is a creative, offensive mind. Using these new formations would open up the offense to new areas even Payton could yet dream of.
3 comments Last one added 9 months ago — Leave a Comment
Blake Lewis 9 months ago
You know I'm a HUGE fan of three back sets!
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Robert Lewis 9 months ago
Payton needs to establish the running game, he comes out throwing, and runs just to break it up. Balance, Balance, Balance.
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Brock Moliere 9 months ago
I agree a three back set would be a welcome change for the Saints offense in a time with a team that cant be afraid to try new tactics if they hope to be the Superbowl contender they have the potential to be. The pieces are there, the trick is now going to be finding new creative ways to use them, as you have demonstrated.
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