How the 49ers Use “Look-Alike” Plays to Confuse Defenses
May 05, 2025 2:08 pm
Coach -
We continue our countdown to the C.O.O.L. Clinic (May 15-17)...
Today we focus on the power of making play look and feel the same to a defense, and illustrating this perfectly is Chris Foerster.
At the 2023 C.O.O.L. Clinic, San Francisco 49ers OL Coach Chris Foerster broke down how the foundation of their offense starts with one scheme: outside zone. From that starting point, every other play is built to look and feel the same to the defense.
By teaching all schemes with similar angles, footwork, and techniques, Foerster ensures defenders can’t quickly diagnose what’s coming. This “same as” approach allows players to rep techniques repeatedly—improving execution—while keeping the defense guessing.
Even on plays like Power and Counter, the 49ers maintain the outside zone feel. For example, instead of driving a deuce block vertically like many teach on Power, they keep it on the same track as outside zone.
Foerster’s teaching creates an offense rooted in illusion—where every play could be something else, and defenders are always one step behind.
Video: Chris Foerster COOL Clinic Highlights
The creativity of the 49ers offense isn’t about constant change—it’s about making everything look the same, starting with outside zone.
What can you build everything off of in your offense?
Find your core scheme and make everything else mirror it.
Get it from the chalkboard to the grass!
The C.O.O.L. Clinic Team
P.S.
Drills, Details, and Adjustments You Can Use Right Away
The coaches presenting at this year’s C.O.O.L. Clinic aren’t just theorists—they’re technicians. You’ll walk away with:
- Run game drills you can plug into your next offseason session
- Fundamentals that translate across levels and talent pools
- Adaptable concepts to fit your scheme, personnel, and practice time
- Proven strategies for developing a physical, consistent offensive line
🎟️ Register now for the C.O.O.L. Clinic – May 15–17
Your ticket includes 30-day replay access so you can rewatch and refine.
Learn from the best. Build the run game your team needs.