Coach,

Football is a game that requires strategic planning, precise execution, and the ability to adapt to different situations on the field. One offensive scheme that has gained popularity in recent years is the wide-zone scheme. 

The Wide Zone is the base scheme behind the NFL’s hottest offense of the Miami Dolphins.  Currently the Dolphins are #1 in rushing yards, #1 in passing yards and #1 in scoring, and all of the success builds off of a single scheme.

Head Coach Mike McDaniel was mentored by SanFrancisco 49ers OL Coach Chris Foerster.  If you watched Coach Foerster’s presentation atthe line clinic, you saw the way the teaching and techniques all work synergistecally to make every run look like wide zone at the beginning of the play.  This drastically slows down the defenses ability to diagnose a play.

Chris Foerster - Run Game Techniques Built Off Base Beliefs

Playing Fast and Hitting Landmarks

The wide-zone scheme places a strong emphasis on playing fast and hitting landmarks. By running off the ball and trying to hit specific points on the field, such as tight ends and receivers gaining their landmarks, the offense can force the defense to react quickly. 

This speed and precision not only help in the running game but also create opportunities for successful passing plays. The faster the offense comes off the ball, the more the defense is forced to defend the run, providing the offense with an advantage when running routes. This aspect of the wide-zone scheme allows the offense to gain an upper hand and keep the defense on their toes.

Sideline-to-Sideline Defense

Another significant benefit of the wide-zone scheme is its ability to make the defense defend the entire field, from sideline to sideline. By stretching the defense horizontally, the offense prevents the defense from simply playing downhill and using their size and strength to overpower them. 

This strategic approach forces the defense to engage in more lateral movement, which can negate their physical advantage. Additionally, making the defense play sideline to sideline opens up opportunities for the offense to exploit gaps and create big plays. The wide-zone scheme's ability to stretch the defense ensures a more balanced and dynamic approach to the game.

Empowering the Quarterback and Running Backs

The wide-zone scheme places great importance on the quarterback position. By participating in the scheme without taking unnecessary hits or having to process every single play, the quarterback can focus on leading doing his job to open opportunities with the pass.

The wide-zone scheme allows the quarterback to effectively manage the run game while also maintaining the threat of a passing play. With the running backs being crucial in finding open gaps and making quick decisions, the scheme relies on their ability to make the right choices on the field. By giving the running backs the freedom to find open gaps, the wide-zone scheme ensures that the offense remains dynamic and adaptable.

Implementing the wide-zone scheme effectively can maximize their team's potential and create a dynamic and exciting style of play. Understanding and utilizing the wide-zone scheme can be a game-changer for any offense team looking to gain a competitive edge on the field. It has certainly made the difference for the Miami Dolphins.

Miami Dolphins assistant Chad Henley gave a thoorrough presentation of the Wide Zone play at Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic. In this clip he explains the benefits of using Wide Zone and illustrates it with game film.

Video: Benefits of Wide Zone/It takes 11

Enjoy all of the games today and best of luck in your preparation for another week of football.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski