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Alabama RB Trent Richardson still has to work out in front of pro scouts, but there is no questioning his talents when you turn on the tape. A projected Top 10 pick with the skill set that translates to the pro game because of his vision, power and speed. An ideal fit at the NFL level because of his ability to produce in the off tackle power game and work to the second level of the defense.

Today, I want to take a look at two TD runs on video: the Power O and the Lead Open. Base schemes that are installed on the first day of camp in the NFL. Check out the replays and then we will discuss some quick coaching points.

Alabama vs. Ole Miss
Scheme: Power O

- ‘Bama is in an unbalanced formation (backside tackle is eligible). Bring both WRs over to the closed (strong) side of the formation and run the Power O (backside guard pull, FB kick out).

- This should be a tackle for a loss. Ole Miss has a free runner off the edge and a safety playing with a flat foot run/pass read at a depth of 8-9 yards. But when you are working vs. a top talent at RB, sloppy technique in your tackling and poor angles to the ball get you beat every time. You have to wrap up and play with an inside-out angle from the secondary vs. Richardson.

- What do we initially see from Richardson? Lateral ability (and vision) to make the cut back and then the burst to get vertical up the field. A key to transitioning to the pro game, because if you can’t make people miss, you won’t see the field at the RB position.

- Once we see Richardson get to the second level of the defense, his play making ability takes over. We have to wait to see what time of number he posts on the stopwatch in the 40, but he posses enough speed (and creativity) in the open field.

Alabama vs. LSU (BCS Championship)
Scheme: Lead Open

- Tank personnel on the field (1 WR, 2 TE, 2 RB). Run the Lead Open (Lead Weak) with the FB working through the hole on the Mike Backer.

- What I like here is Richardson’s ability to “bounce” the run to the outside. With the OLB ducking inside and losing his contain responsibilities, the Alabama RB can press the edge of the line of scrimmage and break up the field outside of the numbers.

- After looking at the secondary, where is the run support? Check out LSU’s Morris Claiborne (No.17). Because the OLB loses contain and opens up the edge, the CB doesn’t have an entry point on his run fit. Claiborne sticks his eyes inside and now there is a clear path for Richardson to sprint up the sideline (untouched) for a TD.

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