Every offensive concept requires certain attributes that a coach is looking for in their QB. The Pistol-Flex is no exception. The first thing I want my QB to possess is great leadership ability. Of course, this attribute is needed in all quality QBs but it is my opinion that this trait is even more necessary if your team is running a triple option offense. At times, option football can be a hard sell to your players. However, if you can get your QB on board with your scheme, it will be easier to sell this offense to the rest of the team. After all, the option QB is indeed the ultimate “field general” who controls every aspect of the offense during the game! If he is on board, then there is no longer any excuses for other players to be opposed.
Toughness is the next trait that I look for in an option QB. He must be willing to “take the hit” on occasion for the betterment of his team! When the chips are down, he must be able to rise up and get ready for the next play, knowing full well that he may once again, take a big hit. Another form of toughness is also required…mental toughness! After making a poor read on a play, the Pistol-Flex QB must be ready, willing and able to refocus his mind to the task at hand. He must have a very short memory!
Another trait that an option QB requires is pure speed! When I say “speed”, what I am referring to is both flat out speed (40 yard dash) as well as “quickness”. He needs to be quick getting out to the perimeter. He needs quick feet, quick hands, and a quick mind!
The final attribute that I look for in a QB is confidence. Confidence in the offense that he is running. Confidence in his support players. Confidence in his coaches. Finally, I want the QB to be confident in himself. Confidence in his abilities both athletically and mentally. I need him to “want” to carry that ball. I want him to have the confidence to be “The Man” on that final play of the game when we need a score. If my QB can look me in the eyes, and state that he “wants” the ball in his hands near the end of the game, then I have truly found the ultimate Pistol-Flex QB.