Posted by columbusbuck on 7/20/2017 5:15:00 AM (view original):
I've heard talk about how impressive it is for people to win titles with the Shotgun and, to a lesser extent, Trips. That using a running formation (Notre Dame Box and Wishbone) to win a title is unusual. That just about everyone uses the Pro-Set because it's easiest.
My question is Why?
Why is the Pro-Set easiest? What are the advantages?
Is it the Fullback used as a blocking back? Is it two running backs as receivers being harder to account for? Wouldn't those make Wishbone and the Box easier?
What are the disadvantages of the others? Do they get sacked more?
I think Pro Set is the most popular (I wouldn't say easiest) because it is a balanced offense that favors the pass a little better than I Form. The game engine treats the pass game nicely. Pro Set offers balance compared to the Shotgun and NDB. I personally rely on balance to play different human opponents each season. I have an all-pass game plan, heavy pass game plan, balanced, and heavy rush game plan that are all proven against elite coaches. I can't have that balanced effectiveness in several other formations.
My shotgun and NDB playbooks have significant limitations. When I was game planning versus certain coaches I knew I was at a significant disadvantage with my formation/game plans. If my shotgun gets held to a low pass percentage I struggle. There is no RB to pass to to increase my pass percentage.
If my NDB can't break a couple runs for TDs or I fumble a couple times I lose. Some games I would win on the stat sheet with NDB having 300-350 yards rushing, but I would fumble 3 times that basically gave points to a great opponent. Having an effective passing game could have helped cut down on those fumbles.
That is why I am impressed when I see a coach use an unbalanced formation or game plan and have success. The opponent knows what they will do but still can't stop it. To beat several great coaches with using one approach is pretty impressive.