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Gap Runs 101: The Sheer Force of the Power Run Scheme

On3 imageby:Ian Boyd•about 17 hours•

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Texas running back CJ Baxter (4) carries the ball as Iowa State defensive back Beau Freyler (17) prepares to make the tackle in the second half of the Texas Longhorns' game against the Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa, Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023. Texas won the game 26-16.

The power run is a downhill, gap-based rushing play designed to create a clear lane for the running back by using a lead blocker and pulling an offensive lineman—usually the backside guard—to overwhelm a specific gap in the defense. But there’s more to it than that. Learn about gap schemes with Inside Texas

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The video introduces power gap running schemes as a direct, physical type of run aimed at exploiting specific gaps in the defensive line. It typically uses a pulling guard and a lead blocker to overpower the defense at the point of attack.

Variants include A-gap power, D-gap power, and Power O, each targeting different positions on the field. The concept remains the same: create dominance at a chosen point using physicality and timing.

Offensive linemen, especially guards, must be strong and mobile, capable of identifying and reaching the right target on the move. Tight ends must be physically dominant, often having to face defensive linemen head-on.

Many modern spread offenses lack tight ends or fullbacks suited for power schemes. Teams prefer counter plays, which are similar but easier for tight ends to execute. Texas used more power plays during Andrew Beck’s tenure.

Ideal backs are not only physically robust but also capable of cutbacks and outside threats, adding home-run potential to the otherwise straightforward play.

A visual diagram using Microsoft Paint illustrates the typical power run setup. Texas’ implementation, including specific player movements and blocking assignments, is broken down. Gunnar Helm, Cole Hutson, and Tre Wisner are spotlighted for their roles in executing the play.

A successful play against Mississippi State showcases a real-world application of the scheme, demonstrating how the guard pulls, the tight end blocks, and the running back exploits the defensive shift to gain yards.

The video closes with a discussion about the future of power schemes in the Arch Manning era, speculating that other gap schemes may be more prevalent due to personnel limitations at the tight end and fullback positions.

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