"Q8" Concept

  For my first post, I figured a nice concept to look at is what I learned as "Q8". Q8 is typically used in goal line situations, and is a great two-point conversion concept.

For Q8, the idea is to have the quarterback roll out expecting to throw the ball to the slot receiver "H" running an out route 1-2 yards deep in the endzone (The ball is spotted on about the 2-yard line on a 2-point conversion), with the outside receiver "X" outside releasing and running towards the middle of the field for a few yards along the back of the endzone before breaking out towards the back corner. If both receivers are covered, the QB can either look for the tight end  running a drag along the back of the endzone behind the flowing defenders or (more likely) tucking the ball in and running for the goal line. If the defense completely does not cover receiver “Z” before the play, the QB can throw a “smoke” screen pass to him to keep the defense honest. The running back "R" seals the edge of the line of scrimmage to allow the QB to roll out.

Diagram  of the Q8 concept.

This concept is meant to force the cornerback to decide which receiver to cover and, if necessary, give the quarterback a chance to run the ball if no one is open.

Why it works: 

Q8 works as a 2-point play because most defenses either play man coverage down near the goal line, which gives (in the offense’s eyes) “H” on a mismatch; or the primary zone defense in that area: Goalline 7 (also called “G7”), which the offense expects the defenders to rally on the out route, leaving the “X” receiver open.

This concept was made famous by Bill Walsh and the San Francisco 49ers after Joe Montana and Dwight Clark's "The Catch" play in the 1981 NFC Championship Game, originally called "Red Right Tight - Sprint Right Option".