Five Things That Can Stop Your Triple Option from Being Successful

The Triple Option, when run correctly, can be a defensive coordinator’s worst nightmare. The Triple Option requires the defense to account for all the moving parts: the quarterback, the fullback, and the halfbacks. To account for each of these players every play can be a headache for any defense. However, like any other type of offense, the Triple Option can be its own worst enemy if not run correctly. In this article, I will address the five most common ‘offensive concerns’ in running the Triple Option. I will start with a focus on the offensive line. My firm belief is the Triple Option goes where the offensive line takes it. There cannot be ANY penetration by the defense on a Triple Option play. The offensive line must block the front seven defenders if the Triple Option is to be successful. On a typical play, no one blocks the two defenders at the point of attack (See Diagram