Thursday, December 30 Virginia Tech: Lead 26 Power-O
By John Mackovic Special to ESPN.com
Lead 26 Power-O is Virginia Tech's No. 1 running play. From a size standpoint, I think the Hokies feel they will match up well with Florida State and run this play successfully. "Power" refers to the double-team block by the guard and tackle. "O" means the off-side guard is pulling. "Lead 26" indicates that the run will go to the "2" back -- Shyrone Stith (38) -- to the "6" hole. The Hokies line up in the traditional I-formation, with Stith at tailback and Michael Vick (7) at quarterback, against Florida State's 4-3 defense.
The offensive line tries to get good angle blocks at the point of attack. The right guard and tackle double-team the defensive tackle, and the tight end engages the defensive end. The fullback moves into position to kick out a man, most likely the outside linebacker. The off-side guard starts pulling across the line of scrimmage and then up through the hole. Stith takes a wide, three-step course outside before Vick can get there for the handoff.
After double-teaming the defensive tackle, the right tackle scrapes off the block to pick up the middle linebacker. The fullback takes on the outside linebacker to help clear a path for Stith, while the guard pulls through the hole to seal the opening for Stith, taking on the strong safety, who comes up to stuff the run. Stith takes the handoff from Vick and hits the hole directly over the tackle and tight end area with as much speed and power as he can. He wants to hit the line of scrimmage with his shoulders square to the line. He doesn't want to be at an angle because it isn't designed to be a cutback or bounce-out play.
Lead 26 Power-O is a solid play because the Hokies get double-team blocking at the point of attack and good angles for their blockers. It's also excellent for picking up any blitzes. If Florida State tries to blitz its linebackers, the Hokies have favorable blocking angles.
The Hokies will use this play on any down for sure yardage. If it's first-and-10, and Virginia Tech wants to run, this is the play they will use most of the time. They will definitely use it in short-yardage situations and near the goal line.
