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Table of Comparison
| Feature | Option Pitch | Forward Lateral |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A football play where the quarterback pitches the ball laterally to a running back moving toward the sideline. | A lateral pass thrown forward by a player to another teammate, typically used to gain extra yards. |
| Direction of Pass | Lateral or slightly backward to the side. | Forward lateral (rare and risky). |
| Primary Goal | Create misdirection and exploit defense edges. | Extend the play and evade defenders for extra yards. |
| Risk Factor | Moderate risk of fumble if pitch is mishandled. | High risk of turnover due to illegal forward passes or fumble. |
| Common Usage | Option offenses in football, especially college and pro levels. | Trick plays, desperate game situations, or lateral passes in rugby. |
| Key Players | Quarterback and running back. | Any offensive player receiving and passing laterally. |
Introduction to Option Pitch and Forward Lateral
Option pitch and forward lateral are fundamental football plays designed to exploit defensive weaknesses through rapid ball movement. The option pitch involves the quarterback deciding whether to pitch the ball to a trailing running back based on the defensive end's positioning, enabling dynamic outside runs. Forward lateral, a less common tactic, refers to a lateral pass thrown forward beyond the line of scrimmage under specific rules, creating opportunities for deceptive offensive plays.
Defining Option Pitch in Football
Option pitch in football refers to the quarterback's decision to either keep the ball or pitch it laterally to a running back based on the defensive end's reaction. This play is a key component of the option offense, designed to exploit defensive weaknesses by forcing defenders to choose between tackling the quarterback or the pitch man. In contrast, a forward lateral is an illegal forward pass or lateral thrown beyond the line of scrimmage, resulting in penalties, making option pitch distinct as a strategic and legal lateral play executed behind the line of scrimmage.
Understanding the Forward Lateral Play
The Forward Lateral play in football is a strategic maneuver where the ball is pitched or lateraled forward to a teammate, creating an opportunity for advancing the ball beyond the line of scrimmage while confusing the defense. Unlike a traditional Option pitch, which typically involves a backward or lateral pitch to a running back, the Forward Lateral challenges standard play design by allowing a controlled forward pass behind the line, requiring precise timing and situational awareness. Mastering the Forward Lateral enhances offensive versatility, enabling teams to exploit defensive gaps and execute unpredictable, rapid ball movement.
Key Differences: Option Pitch vs Forward Lateral
Option pitch involves the quarterback pitching the ball to a trailing running back in an option play, emphasizing decision-making and reading defenders to exploit defensive weaknesses. Forward lateral, commonly known as a forward pass, is a legal throw of the ball forward to a receiver, prioritizing speed and precision in passing routes. Key differences lie in the directional movement of the ball and the strategic purpose, with the option pitch focused on ground game flexibility and the forward lateral aimed at advancing the ball through the air.
Rules and Regulations Governing Both Plays
Option pitch and forward lateral plays are governed by specific rules ensuring proper execution within football regulations. Option pitch requires the pitch to be executed sideways or backward behind the line of scrimmage, while any forward pass must be thrown from behind the line to avoid penalties. Forward lateral, often used in trick plays, must be clearly backward to avoid being ruled an illegal forward pass, emphasizing adherence to rules on the direction of the ball relative to the line of scrimmage.
Tactical Advantages of Option Pitch
The Option pitch offers superior tactical advantages compared to the Forward lateral by allowing the quarterback to quickly read the defensive end and decide between keeping the ball or pitching it to the running back, creating uncertainty and hesitation in the defense. This dynamic decision-making process enables more effective exploitation of defensive weaknesses and maximizes yardage potential by forcing defenders to commit prematurely. The Option pitch also reduces the risk of negative plays associated with poorly timed laterals, enhancing overall offensive efficiency in option-based football schemes.
Strategic Uses of Forward Lateral
The forward lateral is strategically used to create misdirection and exploit defensive gaps by enabling quick outside runs or options, forcing linebackers and defensive ends to maintain gap integrity and hesitate. Unlike the option pitch, which primarily targets speed and space on the perimeter, the forward lateral emphasizes ball control and timing to open lanes for running backs or quarterbacks in read-option schemes. Utilizing the forward lateral effectively pressures defenses to defend multiple potential ball carriers simultaneously, enhancing the offense's adaptability and unpredictability.
Common Risks and Mistakes
Option pitch and forward lateral plays often carry the common risks of miscommunication and mistimed exchanges, leading to fumbles and lost yardage. Defensive recognition and quick reactions can exploit hesitation or improper execution, increasing the chances of turnovers or negative plays. Proper timing, clear handoffs, and decisive decision-making are essential to minimizing these mistakes and maximizing the effectiveness of both option pitch and forward lateral techniques.
Notable Examples from Football History
Option pitch and forward lateral plays have been pivotal in football history, with the option pitch famously used by the University of Nebraska in the 1990s to exploit defensive weaknesses through dual-threat quarterbacks. The forward lateral gained iconic status during the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, where Boise State executed a multi-lateral trick play culminating in a game-winning touchdown versus Oklahoma. These strategic maneuvers highlight the tactical diversity and execution precision that define high-stakes football competitions.
Choosing the Right Play: Option Pitch or Forward Lateral
Choosing between an option pitch and a forward lateral depends on the defensive formation and the desired level of risk. The option pitch offers a strategic advantage by forcing defenders to commit, allowing the quarterback to pitch the ball to a trailing back, optimizing outside runs. In contrast, the forward lateral, although riskier due to potential turnover rules, enables quick ball movement across the field to exploit defensive gaps and maintain offensive momentum.
Option pitch Infographic
