2023 Kansas Wide Zone Read Option

How Kansas used option schemes with Wide Zone Blocking.

The original Wide Zone was built within a pro-style system, meaning the quarterback wasn’t thought to be a runner. As the Wide Zone has started to mix with the spread systems, teams have started to use duel-threat quarterbacks to read the backside end.

Kansas used their quarterbacks frequently in the running game, with Wide Zone being their #1 blocking scheme. This is a great way to stretch the defense the full width of the field.

Pistol vs Sidecar

Many debate whether Wide Zone is as effective out of the sidecar alignment. (aligned next to the quarterback) Some don’t call it Wide Zone, they call it Mid Zone.

I’ve done a fair share of both, and have had 2,000-yard backs using both systems. To me, it comes down to trade-offs and your personnel.

Pistol

Advantages

• Downhill quicker

• Easier cutbacks (most backs can learn the reads because their shoulders are already square to the line of scrimmage)

• Can run the play in either direction

Disadvantages

• Can’t read the backside end (Must rely on called keepers and other methods)

• Harder to get the back out on passing routes.

• A gap pressure on drop back passes

Sidecar

Advantages

• Utilize a running quarterback by reading the backside end.

• RPOs (Article coming soon…)

• Better for 6 man pass protection.

• Can get out into routes quicker.

Disadvantages

• The running back’s cut is much more difficult because their shoulders are parallel with the sideline. Not every back can do this.

• Can only run the play away from the back. (or add same side toss)

• Takes longer to get downhill, and because of the excess horizontal stretch, the backside cutback lane is missed.

Kansas is a great study on how to mesh both successfully. We’ve seen how they execute their pistol variations, now let’s dive into their sidecar.

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