Coach ,

Carmen Bricillo and the Las Vas Raiders believe that using a fullback is going to establish toughnes. For them it’s an attitude that develops the identity for not just the offense, but the entire team.

About 15 years ago when you opened a defensive playbook, the base defense was drawn up against Pro-I with a fullback. As we moved into the spread era, the fullback disappeared as did the base alignment being drawn against Pro-I. It was no longer common anymore to play with a fullback or have to defend one. 

The Raiders use the fullback regularly because it does provide an advantage because many teams have to get ready for it in a one week timeframe.

Benefits of Using a Fullback 

Coach Bricillo outlined the benefits in his presentation at the C.O.O.L. Clinic:

-Establish toughness and identity

-Limit the defense - tend to get “base”

-Defenses not accustomed to defending fullbacks

-Able to attack across the width of the field

-Applicable across multiple situations - SY/GL/Early Down

-Opportunities for big plays through play action

It’s not just 3 yards and a cloud of dust when you put the fullback in. Coach Bricillo noted,

“When you're able to roll a fullback in there, you're able to get a loaded box that's going to free up and get you some single coverage out in space and an opportunity to develop space in the defense and by doing so through hard play actions, it's an opportunity for big plays.” 

Characteristics of a Fullback

If you are looking to implement a fullback in your offense, most likely you will find him in another room, maybe even the other side of the ball. Here’s what the Raiders look for:

Physically and mentally tough

Versatile athlete - balanced blend of athleticism

Smart - responsible for multiple schemes and assignments

Video: Las Vegas Raiders Offense

While we are late in the off season with camp beginning aroun the country next week, it may be advantageous to start developing a package with a fullback using the schemes you alread have.  

It’s simply finding a way within what you do to insert the fullback into the scheme. It could be adding a lead or iso element to your inside zone or putting the fullback on force on perimeter plays.  

However you do it, it will be something different for the opponent to plan and prepare for. If you can make it simple for your offense to implement, then you are stealing time from the defense. It may even add a little attitude and identity to what you already do.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. All clinic talks from NFL coaches are 32% off to celebrate the official start of NFL training camp this weekend.