How are pass plays numbered in youth football?

Answer 1

Not knowing what level of experience you have in coaching I will start basic: QB = 1 back Running Back/Wide Receiver = 2 back Fullback = 3 back Halfback = 4 back Additional targets we also use are the tight ends on either end of the formation. The running holes starting from the center to the right are evenly numbered as "2 hole" between the ctr and guard, "4 hole" between guard and tackle excetera until you get to the outside or sideline being the "8 hole". The same is true on the opposite side of the center just odd numbered starting with 1. In Little League, passing over the middle is generally very difficult. Screens, misdirection or halfback options are generally more successful as the players key on the ball and react hard to the run. So with passes generally being to the outside It would be called either a pass to the 6, 8, 5 or 7 hole. One of our typical play calls would look like this: Split right, 47 pass. Split right sets the formation, 4 indicates the target (the 4 back) and 7 indicates the area of the field to be thrown to. Another would be "I" Right 48 halfback pass. Again "I" Right sets the formation but this time 48 indicates a handoff to the 4 back going to the 8 hole. This draws in the defense and often times the defensive back covering the 2 back split out wide. The halfback (4) then throws downfield to the 2 back. I will almost always make sure the 4 back has a lead blocker on this play to give him/her a little protection and time to throw. If the pass is not open he/she is free to run.