Spotlighting the Zone-read inside run option

[StatTiger 3,188]

One of the keys to success for the Auburn offense is the ability to basically run the same play from different formations as well as running various plays from the same formation. Even though Cam Newton was a more gifted athlete than Nick Marshall at the QB position, Marshall has actually taken the Auburn offense to a different level. Many of Newton's run plays during 2010 were designed quarterback runs or scrambles. Auburn is actually running more "true" zone-read plays this season than 2010, which has forced opposing defenses to respect every possible run-option.

On this play Auburn Auburn has the ball at the FAU 8-yard line on a 3rd & 2. Auburn comes out in a 3-WR set with 2 backs in the backfield along with Nick Marshall. At the snap. Nick Marshall will run the zone-read. He will read the DE, who is left unblocked on the play by Greg Robinson, who targets the OLB.

The DE commits to the outside perimeter, so Marshall makes the give to Tre Mason inside. Tre Mason basically follows Robinson and Jay Prosch between the tackles. Greg Robinson drives the LB all the way into the end zone with Mason following behind for the TD run. This is where Nick Marshall has been so vital to the success of the Auburn offense. If he makes the correct read, the play has a high probability of success.

It is the true essence of the triple-option, where the defense must account for the two run-options by the QB or RB and then the pass-option should the play turn into a play-action.