Understandingthe Ohio Passing Conceptin Football

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The Ohio passing concept stands as a cornerstone of modern offensive football strategy, blending precision route-running with calculated deception to exploit defensive vulnerabilities. Originating from Ohio State University’s playbook, this concept thrives on its ability to manipulate coverage schemes through a seamless integration of play-action, misdirection, and quick-game execution. Unlike traditional passing plays, the Ohio leverages pre-snap motion, decoy movements, and route combinations—such as the signature "Ohio Stretch"—to create separation while keeping defenders guessing. Its versatility extends across short-yardage scenarios, third-down conversions, and even as a counter to aggressive blitzes, making it a staple in both collegiate and professional playbooks.

Central to its effectiveness is the orchestration of personnel roles, where quarterbacks, receivers, and running backs execute synchronized movements to sell the run before transitioning into the pass. Defensive coordinators often struggle to adjust, as the Ohio’s route designs exploit natural tendencies—such as linebackers overplaying stretch routes or safeties misreading timing cues. By dissecting its mechanics, from pre-snap alignment to post-snap deception, this concept reveals how offensive schemes can systematically dismantle even the most disciplined defensive structures.

what is an ohio pasing concept in football

Definition and Core Mechanics of the Ohio Passing Concept

The Ohio passing concept represents a foundational quick-game play in modern football, designed to exploit defensive overcommitment while maintaining simplicity in execution. Originating as a play-action integrated misdirection scheme, it prioritizes pre-snap motion, timing, and deception to create explosive post-catch opportunities. Unlike traditional slant or out routes, the Ohio emphasizes stretch principles—forcing defenders to choose between tight coverage on the receiver or allowing a wide-open throw downfield. Its versatility makes it a staple in both college and professional playbooks, particularly in West Coast offense systems where precision and rhythm dictate success.

The concept’s core mechanics revolve around three interconnected elements: receiver alignment, pre-snap motion, and post-snap timing. The quarterback (QB) operates as the orchestrator, reading defensive reactions to determine whether to execute the primary pass or exploit secondary reads (e.g., deep shots, underneath throws). Receivers must master route-running efficiency while blockers create windows through aggressive footwork, ensuring the QB has a clear throwing lane. Defenders are manipulated into overplaying the run or biting on misdirection, creating one-on-one matchups or isolated coverage that the offense can exploit.

Primary Objectives of the Ohio Passing Concept

The Ohio concept achieves its goals through structured deception and defensive exploitation, with three overarching objectives:

1. Creating a "Stretch" Mismatch
The Ohio’s defining feature is the "Ohio stretch", where the outside receiver (typically the slot or boundary receiver) runs a quick out route while the inside receiver (often the slot) executes a slant or hitch. This forces the cornerback to overcommit to the out route, leaving the slot receiver open on the slant or hitch. The stretch principle is amplified when paired with play-action, as it masks the true intent of the pass, causing linebackers and safeties to react to the run fake before adjusting.

2. Exploiting Defensive Overcommitment
The concept relies on pre-snap motion (e.g., the slot receiver crossing the formation) to disrupt defensive alignment. This motion can tie up linebackers or force safeties to rotate early, creating separation for the primary receiver. The QB’s read often hinges on whether the middle linebacker (MLB) or safety takes the bait on the run fake, allowing for a hot read to the open receiver.

3. Integrating Play-Action for Misdirection
When executed as a play-action pass, the Ohio becomes a high-percentage misdirection tool. The QB’s initial read is the run game, but the snap and motion of the slot receiver (e.g., a crossing route) signal the pass. Defenders, conditioned to react to the run, often hesitate or misalign, providing the QB with a clean throw to the receiver breaking off the route.

Key Personnel Roles and Responsibilities

The Ohio concept demands specialized roles for each position, with an emphasis on timing, deception, and route-running precision. Below is a breakdown of responsibilities categorized by position, movement, timing, and deception technique:
Position Movement Timing Deception Technique
Quarterback (QB)
  • Pre-snap: Adjusts stance based on defensive alignment (e.g., shifts to protect against blitz).
  • Post-snap: Executes play-action sell if applicable, then reads the MLB/safety reaction.
  • Must deliver the ball 0.8–1.2 seconds after the receiver breaks his route.
  • Timing is critical to avoid overthrowing the quick out route.
  • Uses eye discipline to sell the run fake (e.g., staring at the play-side tackle).
  • Employs audibles if the MLB or safety overplays the run (e.g., deep shot to the slot).
Slot Receiver (Primary)
  • Pre-snap: Aligns 5–6 yards deep, slightly inside the numbers.
  • Post-snap: Runs a quick out route (3–5 yards) with a sharp break at 5 yards.
  • Must time the break to the QB’s throw (typically 0.6–0.8 seconds after snap).
  • Accelerates immediately post-break to avoid being underthrown.
  • Uses hesitation at the break point to sell the out route.
  • If the cornerback bites, stems to create separation for the slant/hitch.
Boundary/Field Receiver (Secondary)
  • Pre-snap: Aligns 10–12 yards deep, outside the slot.
  • Post-snap: Runs a slant or hitch (depending on defensive coverage).
  • Must time the slant/hitch to the QB’s throw (0.9–1.1 seconds).
  • Adjusts route based on cornerback leverage (e.g., in-breaking slant if the CB is aggressive).
  • Uses false starts to sell the slant before breaking to the hitch.
  • If the cornerback plays the out route, stems and releases to the hitch.
Tight End (TE) / H-Back
  • Pre-snap: Aligns tackle-eligible or split out (if used as a decoy).
  • Post-snap: Runs a dig or quick slant to occupy the MLB.
  • Must time the dig route to clog the middle at 4–5 yards.
  • If the MLB bites, releases to the flat for a potential underneath throw.
  • Uses hesitation at the line to sell the dig route.
  • If the MLB overplays, sells the flat to create a pick play opportunity.
Blocking Backs (RB/K)
  • Pre-snap: Aligns tackle-eligible or split out to set edge.
  • Post-snap: Pulls or reaches to seal the edge for the QB.
  • Must time the pull to arrive at the edge at 0.8–1.0 seconds.
  • Adjusts based on defensive flow (e.g., contain vs. blitz).
  • Uses false motion to sell the run before sealing the edge.
  • If the defense blitzes, reaches the QB to buy time.
The Ohio concept’s success hinges on role specialization, where each player’s movement and deception contribute to the collective misdirection. For example, the slot receiver’s sharp out route forces the cornerback to choose between coverage or speed, while the TE’s dig route occupies the MLB, ensuring the QB has a clean throwing lane.

Pre-Snap Alignment and Route Assign

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Route Running Techniques in the Ohio Passing Concept

The Ohio passing concept thrives on precise route execution, where timing, depth, and route design exploit defensive vulnerabilities. Route combinations in the Ohio (e.g., Ohio Stretch, Ohio Wheel, Ohio Corner) are tailored to create mismatches, manipulate coverage, and leverage the running back’s decoy role. Each route variant integrates specific breaks, acceleration points, and timing cues to maximize separation while neutralizing defensive adjustments. Below, route structures, defensive exploitation strategies, and comparative analysis of key Ohio variations are detailed.

Route Combinations and Execution in the Ohio Concept

The Ohio concept employs a mix of shallow, intermediate, and deep routes, often paired with a running back release to disrupt defensive alignment. The running back’s initial movement (e.g., a quick slant or hitch) forces defensive backs to overcommit, creating seams for receivers. Route combinations typically include:
  • Ohio Stretch: A deep post (9–12 yards) paired with a shallow crossing or dig route, with the running back executing a quick slant or hitch.
  • Ohio Wheel: A deep wheel route (10+ yards) combined with a shallow out route, where the running back acts as a decoy on a quick slant.
  • Ohio Corner: A deep corner route (12+ yards) paired with a shallow post or dig, designed to exploit aggressive cornerback press coverage.

    • Key Execution Principles:

  • Timing: Routes must align with the quarterback’s progression, with acceleration points (e.g., 5-yard breaks) synchronized to avoid early cuts.
  • Depth Control: Deep routes (e.g., posts, wheels) rely on precise depth (measured in yards) to avoid underthrowing or overthrowing.
  • Running Back Role: The back’s decoy movement (e.g., a 3-step slant) dictates defensive flow, often drawing linebackers or safeties away from primary targets.

    • Visual Representation: Ohio Stretch Route

    The Ohio Stretch combines a deep post (run by the outside receiver) with a shallow crossing/dig (run by the slot receiver), while the running back executes a quick slant as a decoy. Below is a text-based illustration of the route paths:

    ```
    Defensive Line ------------------------
    LB/Safety Coverage: X (Deep Half)
    / \
    / \
    / \
    RB ---> [Slant] (Decoy)
    / \
    / \
    / \
    WR1 ---> [Post] (Deep)
    /
    /
    WR2 ---> [Crossing/Dig] (Shallow)
    ```

    Route Breakdown:

  • Running Back (RB): Executes a 3-step slant (5-yard break) at a 45-degree angle, drawing safety/linebacker traffic.
  • Outside Receiver (WR1): Runs a deep post (9–12 yards) with a vertical break at 5 yards, timing acceleration to avoid early turns.
  • Slot Receiver (WR2): Runs a dig/crossing route (5–7 yards deep) with a sharp break at 3 yards, exploiting the seam created by the RB’s decoy.

    • Timing Cues:

  • The RB’s slant must release 0.3–0.5 seconds before the WR1’s post to ensure the quarterback reads the defense post-decoy.
  • WR2’s dig route should cross the face of the defender at the 5-yard line, aligning with the QB’s 3-step drop.

    • Exploiting Defensive Coverage with Route Design

    The Ohio concept manipulates defensive schemes by targeting specific matchups and exploiting defensive tendencies. Routes are structured to:
  • Disrupt Man Coverage: Deep routes (e.g., posts, wheels) force aggressive cornerbacks into no-look throws, while shallow routes (e.g., digs, slants) exploit undercoverage.
  • Attack Zone Coverage: The running back’s decoy draws safeties or linebackers into short-yardage zones, opening deep seams for receivers.
  • Hybrid Coverages: Routes like the Ohio Wheel create seam routes between safeties and linebackers, while the Ohio Stretch exploits flat-to-post read options against aggressive zone blitzes.

    • Defensive Weaknesses Targeted:

  • Safeties: The RB’s decoy often forces safeties to sink into short zones, leaving deep posts open.
  • Linebackers: Shallow routes (e.g., digs) exploit linebackers overplaying the RB’s slant.
  • Cornerbacks: Deep routes (e.g., wheels) test cornerback depth, with timing adjustments based on pre-snap reads (e.g., corner alignment, safety depth).

    • Pre-Snap Reads:

  • Corner Alignment: Press-man corners trigger deeper posts, while off-man corners favor intermediate routes.
  • Safety Depth: Deep safeties (10+ yards) encourage wheel routes, while shallow safeties (5–7 yards) open up dig/crossing combinations.
  • Blitz Look: Zone blitzes (e.g., LB blitz) prompt quicker throws to shallow routes, while man-blitzes favor deep posts.

    • Comparative Analysis: Ohio Stretch vs. Ohio Wheel

    The following table outlines the structural and situational differences between the Ohio Stretch and Ohio Wheel routes:
    FeatureOhio StretchOhio Wheel
    Primary Route CombinationDeep Post + Shallow Crossing/DigDeep Wheel + Shallow Out
    Running Back RoleQuick Slant (Decoy)Quick Slant (Decoy)
    Targeted DefensesMan Coverage, Press-Man CornersZone Coverage, Flat-to-Flat Matchups
    Exploited DefendersAggressive Safeties, LB OverplayDeep Safeties, Corner Depth
    Situational AdvantagesShort-Yardage (Draws LB traffic)3rd-and-Long (Stretches defense)
    QB Progression3-Step Drop, Read RB Decoy5-Step Drop, Read Wheel Timing
    Receiver SeparationSeam between LB/SafetySeam between Corner/Safety
    Example Playcall"Ohio Stretch Right""Ohio Wheel Left"
    Key Differentiators:
  • The Ohio Stretch prioritizes quick throws to shallow routes post-decoy, ideal for short-yardage or goal-line scenarios.
  • The Ohio Wheel emphasizes deep shots to the wheel route, designed for 3rd-and-long or play-action situations where stretching the defense is critical.
  • Both concepts rely on the RB’s decoy, but the Wheel demands stricter timing due to the deeper route combination.

    • what is an ohio pasing concept in football - Ilustrasi 3

    Play-Action and Misdirection in the Ohio Passing Concept

    The Ohio passing concept leverages deception as a core principle, integrating play-action elements to neutralize aggressive defenses and exploit defensive vulnerabilities. By combining quarterback fakes, running back motions, and offensive line blocking schemes, the Ohio creates a dynamic false-front scenario that forces linebackers and safeties to react prematurely. This subtopic examines how the concept employs misdirection—through delayed handoffs, receiver double-moves, and coordinated offensive line adjustments—to manipulate defensive alignments and generate explosive passing opportunities.

    The Ohio’s play-action integration differs from traditional run-pass options by prioritizing timing over traditional handoff execution. Unlike plays like the QB Draw or Bootleg, where deception hinges on the quarterback’s lateral movement, the Ohio’s deception is rooted in the illusion of a handoff before transitioning to a vertical or intermediate passing game. This approach requires precise footwork, arm mechanics, and offensive line discipline to sell the run while maintaining the quarterback’s ability to quickly reset for the pass.

    Integration of Play-Action Elements

    The Ohio concept incorporates play-action through three primary mechanisms: quarterback fakes, running back motions, and offensive line blocking schemes. These elements work in unison to create a credible run threat, forcing defenses to overcommit to stopping the run while the quarterback pivots to the pass.

    - Quarterback Fakes: The quarterback initiates the play by executing a handoff motion (or the appearance of one), selling the run with a forward step and arm motion that mimics a handoff. This fake is critical in selling the play to linebackers and safeties, who are trained to react to run fits.

  • Running Back Motions: The running back may perform a pre-snap motion (e.g., a jet sweep or a quick out) to further confuse the defense about the true playcall. This motion can draw additional defenders toward the perimeter, opening up vertical lanes for receivers.
  • Offensive Line Blocking Schemes: The offensive line executes a power or counter scheme with a puller, creating the illusion of a run play. The puller’s movement, combined with the quarterback’s fake, reinforces the deception, making it difficult for linebackers to diagnose the play quickly.

    • The Ohio’s play-action effectiveness relies on the offensive line’s ability to sell the run while the quarterback resets. If the line breaks down or the quarterback’s pivot is telegraphed, the deception collapses, leaving the quarterback exposed to a blitz or the defense in man coverage.

    Ohio Fake Technique and Coaching Cues

    The "Ohio Fake" refers to the quarterback’s execution of a handoff motion before pivoting to the pass. This technique is designed to mimic a handoff while maintaining the quarterback’s ability to quickly transition to a passing rhythm. Key coaching cues emphasize footwork, arm mechanics, and timing to ensure the fake is believable.
    *The Ohio Fake requires the quarterback to:
    1. Take a three-step drop (or adjust based on play design) while maintaining a low center of gravity.
    2. Sell the handoff with a forward step and a slight dip of the shoulders, as if preparing to hand the ball.
    3. Pivot on the fourth step (or after the handoff motion) using a quick, explosive step to reset for the pass.
    4. Use arm mechanics to disguise the pass: the non-throwing arm should mimic a handoff motion (e.g., a slight upward flick), while the throwing arm remains relaxed until the pivot.
    5. Maintain eye discipline: The quarterback must keep eyes downfield to avoid tipping the pass to safeties or linebackers.*
    Critical Coaching Cues for QB Footwork and Arm Mechanics:
  • Footwork:
  • The quarterback’s first step should be short and controlled, simulating the start of a handoff.
  • The pivot step must be explosive but not telegraph the pass—avoid overstriding or lifting the toes.
  • Use a "drop step" (if designed into the play) to sell the run before resetting.
  • Arm Mechanics:
  • The non-throwing arm should flick upward as if releasing the ball, while the throwing arm remains in a natural pocket position.
  • Avoid excessive arm movement that could alert defenders to the pass.
  • Timing:
  • The fake should last 1.5–2 seconds—long enough to sell the run but short enough to allow the quarterback to reset for the pass.
  • The offensive line must execute their blocks immediately after the fake to prevent linebackers from reacting late.

    • Example of a Successful Ohio Fake:
    In a 2021 Ohio State vs. Michigan game, quarterback Justin Fields used the Ohio Fake against Michigan’s aggressive 4-3 defense. Fields took a three-step drop, sold a handoff motion with a forward step, and pivoted to throw a deep post to a streaking receiver. The Michigan linebackers overpursued the run, leaving the receiver wide open for a 40-yard gain.

    Misdirection Tactics in the Ohio Concept

    The Ohio concept employs multi-layered misdirection to confuse defenses about the true playcall. These tactics exploit defensive tendencies, particularly the instinct to react to run fits and perimeter threats. Key misdirection techniques include:

    - Delayed Handoffs: The quarterback may hold the ball for an extra half-second before initiating the fake, forcing linebackers to hesitate and overcommit to the run.

  • Receiver Double-Moves: A receiver (often the outside receiver) may execute a quick out route before breaking deep, creating the illusion of a run-pass option while actually setting up a vertical threat.
  • Offset Blocking Schemes: The offensive line may use offset blocking (e.g., a tight end or H-back blocking downfield) to misdirect linebackers about the play’s direction.
  • Running Back Misdirection: The running back may perform a fake jet motion (e.g., a quick out before cutting back) to draw a linebacker away from the quarterback’s pivot point.

    • These misdirection tactics are most effective when defenses are overplaying the run or overcommitting to perimeter coverage. For example, if a defense sends extra help to the run, the Ohio’s double-moves can exploit the resulting coverage holes in the deep third.

    Comparison of Ohio Misdirection to Other Play-Action Passes

    The Ohio’s misdirection tactics differ from those in traditional play-action passes (e.g., Bootleg, QB Draw) in timing, deception points, and defensive vulnerabilities exploited. Below is a comparative analysis in a structured format:
    Misdirection Tactic Ohio Concept Bootleg QB Draw
    Primary Deception Point Illusion of a handoff followed by a pivot to the pass. Quarterback’s lateral movement after a fake handoff. Quarterback’s deep drop and delayed throw.
    Timing of Deception Deception occurs at the start of the play (pre-snap motion + handoff fake). Deception occurs mid-play (after the QB sells the run and steps laterally). Deception occurs post-snap (QB holds the ball before throwing deep).
    Defensive Vulnerabilities Exploited
    • Linebackers overcommitting to run fits.
    • Safeties playing deep due to perceived run threat.
    • Defenses overplaying the outside receiver’s double-moves.
    • Linebackers reacting to the QB’s lateral movement.
    • Safeties playing shallow due to perceived run threat.
    • Defenses underplaying the deep post/corner routes.
    • Linebackers slow to diagnose the deep throw.
    • Safeties playing deep but slow to recover.
    • Defenses overcommitting to stopping the QB’s deep drop.
    Offensive Line Role Must sell the run with immediate pull/blocking schemes.

    Defensive Adjustments and Countering the Ohio Passing Concept

    The Ohio passing concept thrives on exploiting defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in structured coverages and aggressive blitz schemes. Offenses leverage its route combinations—such as the Ohio stretch (a deep post paired with an underneath dig) and Ohio corner (a shallow cross)—to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties. Defenses must recognize pre-snap tendencies (e.g., QB eyes, motion) and post-snap reads (e.g., route depth, leverage) to neutralize its effectiveness. Below, the focus shifts to identifying susceptible defensive schemes, procedural adjustments for coordinators, and tactical disruptions by linebackers and safeties.

    Defensive Schemes Most Susceptible to the Ohio

    The Ohio concept exploits zone coverage schemes where safeties and linebackers carry heavy responsibilities over the flat or deep thirds. Cover 2 and Cover 3 are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on deep half-field help, allowing the Ohio stretch to force safeties into conflict with deep routes. Aggressive blitz packages (e.g., 5-man blitzes or edge-walking blitzes) further strain the defense by removing a safety or linebacker, leaving the remaining defenders in poor leverage against the Ohio’s route combinations.
    Key Weaknesses Exploited:
  • Cover 2: Safeties play deep half-field, leaving the flat unprotected against the Ohio corner route.
  • Cover 3: Middle hook zone is often understaffed, allowing the Ohio stretch to pull the middle linebacker deep.
  • Blitz-Heavy Schemes: Reduced numbers in the secondary create one-on-one mismatches against the Ohio’s route runners.

    • Step-by-Step Defensive Adjustments Against the Ohio

    Defensive coordinators must implement pre-snap and post-snap adjustments to counter the Ohio’s route structure. The process begins with pre-snap reads (e.g., QB eyes, motion) and progresses to post-snap leverage, where defenders must recognize the "Ohio stretch" early and react accordingly.
    1. Pre-Snap Looks and Tendencies
      The Ohio concept often employs RB motion (e.g., jet motion or mesh motion) to set the edge and force the defense to account for a potential run. Defensive coordinators should:
      • Identify QB eyes: If the QB’s eyes are in the backfield, assume a play-action or misdirection scheme. If eyes are in the flat, prepare for a quick-pass concept.
      • Track RB motion: Jet motion to the strong side often indicates an Ohio stretch to that side, while mesh motion may signal a Ohio corner route.
      • Check for pre-snap motion: If the slot receiver or H-back moves pre-snap, the Ohio stretch is likely to that side.
    2. Post-Snap Reads and Leverage
      Defenders must execute key reads to disrupt the Ohio’s timing and leverage:
      • Safeties: Play with inside leverage on the Ohio stretch route, forcing the receiver to break outside early. In Cover 2, the free safety should cheat deep on the stretch side while the strong safety takes the flat.
      • Linebackers: The middle linebacker must play with outside leverage on the Ohio corner route, ensuring the receiver cannot stem inside. In Cover 3, the Mike should walk the middle hook zone to prevent the stretch from pulling him deep.
      • Cornerbacks: On the stretch side, the corner should play tight to the numbers to prevent the deep post from developing. On the corner side, the CB must cheat inside to eliminate the shallow cross.
    3. Key Adjustments Based on Formation
      • 2x2 Sets: Bring an extra defender (e.g., Robber Safety) over the top to eliminate the Ohio stretch.
      • 3x1 or 2x1 Sets: Use switch coverages (e.g., Cover 1 on the stretch side) to force the QB to hold the ball longer.
      • Blitz Packages: If blitzing, ensure the remaining defenders rotate quickly to cover the Ohio’s underneath routes.

    Linebacker and Safety Techniques to Disrupt the Ohio

    Linebackers and safeties can neutralize the Ohio by cheating routes, adjusting leverage, and recognizing the "Ohio stretch" pattern early. The following techniques exploit the concept’s timing and route structure:
    1. Safety Techniques
      • Cheating the Ohio Stretch:
        In Cover 2 or Cover 3, safeties should play with inside leverage on the stretch route, forcing the receiver to break outside early. This disrupts the timing of the underneath dig route.
        Example: The free safety (FS) on the stretch side should walk up the seam and play the deep post like a cornerback, eliminating the deep threat.
      • Playing the Flat in Cover 2:
        The strong safety (SS) must take the flat in Cover 2, as the Ohio corner route is designed to exploit the flat’s vulnerability. The SS should play with outside leverage to prevent the receiver from stemming inside.
      • Recognizing the "Ohio Stretch" Early:
        If the slot receiver or H-back runs a deep post, the safety should immediately play it like a cornerback, eliminating the deep threat and forcing the QB to throw underneath.
    2. Linebacker Techniques
      • Middle Linebacker (Mike) Adjustments:
        In Cover 3, the Mike must walk the middle hook zone to prevent the Ohio stretch from pulling him deep. If the stretch route is run, the Mike should cheat deep to eliminate the underneath dig.
      • Outside Linebacker (OLB) Leverage:
        The OLB on the stretch side should play with outside leverage to prevent the deep post from developing. On the corner side, the OLB must cheat inside to eliminate the shallow cross.
      • Blitz Timing and Coverage:
        If blitzing, the remaining linebacker must rotate quickly to cover the Ohio’s underneath routes. Delayed blitzes can force the QB to hold the ball longer, increasing the risk of an incomplete pass.

    Defensive Counters to the Ohio Concept

    Defenses can employ coverage adjustments, blitz variations, and designed run plays to counter the Ohio’s route structure. Below is a table outlining effective counters, including switch coverages, extra help over the top, and Ohio bait plays:
    Defensive Counter Purpose Key Execution Points Example Usage
    Switch Coverages (Cover 1 or Cover 0) Eliminate deep threats by forcing the QB to hold the ball.
    • Assign a cornerback to the stretch side in Cover 1 to eliminate the deep post.
    • Use Cover 0 (man coverage) on the stretch side if the defense has a mismatch advantage.
    		 vs. 2x2 sets with a strong CB on the stretch side.
    Robber Safety (Extra Help Over the Top) Eliminate the Ohio stretch by adding a defender deep.
    • Bring the free safety deep to the stretch side in Cover 2 Robber or Cover 3 Robber.
    • Ensure the robber has a clear lane to the ball.
    		 vs. aggressive offenses with multiple deep threats.
    Ohio Bait Play (Designed Run) Force the defense to pass by selling a run action.