The Duo Play: A Straightforward Gap Scheme
Mar 14, 2024 4:20 pm
Coach -
Duo is a scheme gaining in popularity across all levels. Initially we saw it’s use at the pro level, but you will find it as a staple now in many high school playbooks as well.
Coach Kaufmann gives us a good breakdown of the Duo play from some of the best who have run it at all levels of play.
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-Coach Grabowski
The Duo Play: A Straightforward Gap Scheme
Football's Duo play isn't just about brute force. It's a calculated chess match, where the OL serves as the master manipulator. The multitude of movements and their patience serve as the key to the play. This then allows the Running Back to read the second level, turning the linebackers into unwitting pawns, creating a fleeting window for a game-changing run. The ability to have natural alley’s in 3 different directions with a neutralized line allows this gap scheme to reign supreme.
Intro to the Duo Play
Leading us off into the discussion this topic is Mississippi State OL Coach Cody Kennedy.
Video: Introduction - The Duo Play
Duo's power lies in its deceptive simplicity. Forget "backside zone" labels, think gap-scheme precision. No pullers here, just patient reads and synchronized double teams. Resist the urge to climb, let the play develop, and unlock the explosive potential hiding within. This is a play that will be built through proper teaching repetition and visualization.
600 lb. vs. 300 lb.
Build upon this information with Coach Kevin Carberry of the Saints expanding upon one of the most ran run plays in the NFL through his look at film.
Video: Duo Runs - Game Footage
Forget "big on big" clashes, Duo redefines the equation. Leaving you with only one of these situations present. Its adaptable personnel sets create a kaleidoscope of options, each boiling down to a few critical matchups that present themselves in your favor: two offensive behemoths, combined weight exceeding 600 pounds, versus a lone 300-pound defender. This is strategic brilliance on paper. And unless the defense throws in a curveball with stunts or blitzes, Duo's orchestrated power play will leave them gasping for air.
Gallop to Win
To build upon the schematics it's best to look into the techniques. Breaking down the gallop technique for you and advancing your mastery of these techniques is Gabe Fertitta and analyst at Florida State. In the past 2 seasons the Seminoles have rushed on average for over 200 yds a game and over 150 yds a game the next season.
Duo strikes a unique balance between power and finesse. Forget "brute force" labels, this play relies on precise double teams executed with a synchronized "gallop" technique. This footwork keeps offensive linemen square, preventing defenders from splitting the double and neutralizing their power. The gallop achieves just that, and while individual strength matters, Duo's success hinges on this intricate dance of coordinated blocks, creating an almost unstoppable force that challenges even the most athletic defenders.
Double Teams
But, at the end of the day the offense's double team has to win and there is no one better to speak on this subject than Jim McNally, an NFL coaching vet. Here is a small clip with him talking about a duo existing within a larger presentation to guide you on your complete guide to teaching double teams.
By now it should be clear, Duo isn't just a backfield bruiser, it's a tactical masterpiece of synchronized blocking and patient reads. From the intricate footwork of the gallop to the vital importance of "gap scheme" thinking, it's clear why this play sees action in both NFL and college, leaving defenses scrambling.
The emphasis on this not being simply backside zone should be clear, and the power of patience and precise double teams should remain on your mind. Remember, it's not just about raw strength; it's about harnessing that power like a well-oiled machine, and that's the true beauty of the Duo.
As Always,
Compete!
Coach Kauffman
P.S. Take a Deeper Dive into Duo…Save on all of these clinics for 40% off here within the next 72 hours to maximize your gap scheme run game.
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