I love a creative run scheme. With only so many schemes out there, you have to add in new wrinkles to keep defense’s on their toes. It’s why I love, on paper, the Pittsburgh Steelers “crunch” scheme. Introduced two years ago, it’s been in their playbook ever since.
Most often used against 4-3 fronts, it’s supposed to be a quick-hitting, double-wham block. Dual down blocks on the d-line, often with a fullback or tight end ear-holing an unsuspecting defensive tackle. When it works, it can pop off a big run.
Pittsburgh’s run it throughout 2024. Unfortunately, the results haven’t been there.