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Table of Comparison
| Feature | Option Pitch | Shovel Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Quarterback pitches ball to running back to advance play | Quarterback shovels ball forward to a teammate in close proximity |
| Primary Use | Running play for exploiting defensive edges | Short-yardage play for quick gains or misdirection |
| Typical Distance Gained | 5-15 yards | 0-7 yards |
| Skill Requirement | Quarterback's timing and pitch accuracy | Quick decision-making and precise handoff |
| Risk Level | Medium - risk of fumble on pitch | Low - controlled short pass with lower turnover risk |
| Common Situations | Option offense, spread formations | Goal-line, short-yardage, or option misdirection plays |
Understanding the Option Pitch in Football
The option pitch in football is a strategic play where the quarterback reads the defensive end to decide whether to keep the ball or pitch it to the trailing running back. This run-pass option emphasizes real-time decision-making to exploit defensive weaknesses and can create numerous rushing opportunities. Mastering the option pitch enhances offensive versatility and forces defenders into hesitation, often leading to significant yardage gains.
What is a Shovel Pass?
A shovel pass is a short, underhand forward pass typically thrown near the line of scrimmage, designed to surprise the defense and quickly advance the ball. Unlike an option pitch, which often involves a lateral or backward toss to a running back on the outside, the shovel pass moves the ball forward and can resemble a running play, maximizing close-range yardage. Effective use of a shovel pass requires precise timing and quick decision-making to exploit defensive gaps.
Key Differences: Option Pitch vs Shovel Pass
The key differences between an option pitch and a shovel pass lie in their execution and tactical purpose; an option pitch involves the quarterback laterally or backward pitching the ball to a trailing running back in an option run play, emphasizing speed and misdirection. In contrast, a shovel pass is a quick, short forward or lateral underhand toss from the quarterback to a nearby receiver or running back, designed for a fast, surprise release to exploit defensive weaknesses. While the option pitch aims for a ground-based rushing attack in option offenses, the shovel pass functions as a hybrid between a run and a short pass, blending elements of timing and deception in passing strategy.
Situational Uses: When to Choose Each Play
Option pitch excels in situations requiring quick outside runs against aggressive defenses, particularly on the edges with mobile quarterbacks exploiting defensive overcommitment. Shovel pass is ideal in short-yardage or goal-line scenarios, leveraging deceptive interior runs to catch linebackers off-guard and create openings in congested defensive fronts. Coaches select option pitch for stretching defenses horizontally, while shovel pass thrives when defenses are focused on the line of scrimmage or anticipating traditional runs.
Mechanics of the Option Pitch
The mechanics of the option pitch involve the quarterback reading the defensive end or outside linebacker to decide whether to hand off the ball to the running back or pitch it to a trailing receiver. The quarterback initiates the play with the running back running parallel to the line of scrimmage while maintaining proper spacing to receive a quick pitch. Timing and spatial awareness are critical, as the quarterback must execute a precise lateral pitch under pressure while exploiting defensive aggression.
Execution Techniques for the Shovel Pass
The shovel pass requires precise hand positioning and timing to execute effectively, with the quarterback pushing the ball forward under center or in shotgun formation to an offensive player cutting underneath the defensive line. Proper footwork, including balanced stances and quick pivoting, helps the passer maintain control and disguise intentions, making it difficult for defenders to anticipate the play. Emphasizing subtle wrist flicks and minimal arm movement enhances the speed and accuracy of the shovel pass, optimizing its use as a quick, deceptive option play.
Risks and Rewards: Option Pitch Challenges
Option pitch plays a critical role in stretching the defense with a quarterback and pitch relationship, offering high-reward big-play opportunities. The main risks involve timing precision and defensive recognition, as defenders can quickly disrupt the pitch. Shovel pass challenges center on vulnerability to sacks and turnovers, but it provides a quick, safe-yardage gain when executed properly in short-yardage or goal-line situations.
Shovel Pass: Advantages and Drawbacks
The shovel pass creates quick, unexpected scoring opportunities by enabling a short, underhand lateral throw to a trailing teammate, exploiting gaps in defensive coverage. It minimizes quarterback exposure to sacks and interceptions compared to longer throw options. However, the shovel pass risks turnovers if mishandled and can lose yardage if defenders anticipate the play.
Famous NFL Plays: Option Pitch vs Shovel Pass
The Option pitch and Shovel pass are iconic NFL plays that highlight different strategic approaches to ball distribution in the backfield. The Option pitch features a quarterback reading the defense to decide whether to keep the ball or pitch it to a trailing running back, famously executed by teams like the Miami Dolphins in the 1970s "Wildcat" formation. In contrast, the Shovel pass, popularized by quarterbacks such as Peyton Manning, involves a quick, underhand forward toss to a receiver or running back in close quarters, exemplified in the Indianapolis Colts' deceptive red-zone plays.
Coaching Tips for Implementing Both Plays
Effective coaching for implementing the option pitch emphasizes teaching quarterbacks to read defensive end reactions quickly and deliver a precise pitch to the trailing running back while maintaining ball security. When instructing the shovel pass, focus on timing and spatial awareness, ensuring the quarterback and receiver execute a seamless underhand toss in tight offensive line windows to exploit blitzes and aggressive linebackers. Drills that simulate defensive pressure and practice synchronized footwork improve execution and decision-making in both plays.
Option pitch Infographic
