How to Design a Football Offensive Game Plan

They say defense wins championships, but an explosive offense that exploits the opposition's weaknesses helps. Great offenses are vigorously coached with well-designed game plans that are executed to perfection. Although individual game plans differ, keep in mind some simple guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Game film of opponents
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Instructions

  1. Building an Offensive Game Plan

    • 1

      Watch game film of your opponents. It gives you insight into their defensive packages and tendencies, helping you design your counter-attack.

    • 2

      Attack their weaknesses. If the opposing team has a weak run defense, pound the ball on the ground. If their pass coverage is weak, don't be afraid to take shots down the field.

    • 3

      Exploit their tendencies. If a team loves to blitz the quarterback, counter with delayed screens and other passes to running backs. If the opponent prefers to drop players into pass coverage to protect against the deep ball, you can frustrate them with "dink and dunk" passes to your running backs and tight ends. This also will tire the opposing defense, setting the stage for big plays.

    • 4

      Learn the opponent's personnel. If the other team is starting someone who usually sits on the bench, attack him early and often.

    • 5

      Don't abandon your strengths. Don't allow the opposing defense to dictate the game. If its strengths counteract your strengths (such as great pass defense vs. great pass offense), stand firm and prove that your offense is superior to their defense.

    • 6

      Have a backup plan. Your initial plan could blow up in your face, so have some options ready.