Offensive Hole Designations

This drill introduces the basic hole designations used in offensive play calling.

• • For simplicity coaches are encouraged to start with the basic straight T offensive formation shown below. 

  • As time and the players' experience progresses variations may be introduced. 

  • But it is important to keep things simple when young players are still trying to master fundamental techniques.

• None

• Hole Numbering--The spaces between each offensive linemen.

  • Even Hole numbers are on the right side of the offensive line, the  Odd numbered holes are on the left.

  • The hole closest to the Center and between the Center and the Right Guard is hole #2, the hole between the Right Guard and the Right Tackle is hole #4 and so on as shown below. Similarly the holes on the left side are odd starting with hole #1 between the center and the Left Guard, and so on.

  • The four backs are identified as follows--the quarterback is #1 the left half back is #2, the full back is #3 and the right half back is #4. The back keep these numbers no matter where they line up.

• Spacing (or splits) is the distance between the offensive linemen

• The Split between the Guard and the Center is 1.5 feet.

• The Split between the Guard and the Tackle is 3 feet.

• The Split between the Tackle and the End is 3.5 feet.

• Coaches should ensure that proper splits are maintained. Players tend to bunch up close together.

• Backs

  • In the straight “T” formation, the running backs line up “one-arm length” apart with the Fullback directly behind the quarterback.  In “Spread” or “Power” formations, the Halfback may line up in spread positions as follows:

    • The “Notch” Back lines up between the Tackle and the End, and 1-yard in the backfield.

    • The “Flanker” back lines up 1-yard outside the End and 1-yard in the backfield