It is very important for triple option coaches who are working with the B-Backs in the triple option scheme to teach them how to read the “action” key defender. The action key is defined as the “first defensive lineman inside of the dive key defender”…in the diagram below, the action key is shown in the octagon while the dive key is shown in the square box. Once the B-Back knows that he is being given the ball by the QB on the dive option part of the triple, the B-Back must then “read” the actions of that action key defender. By doing so, the B-Back can make the proper cut (either a bounce to the outside or a bend to the inside). By doing so, the B-Back will always make the offensive linemen “right” in how they are blocking that action key defender. In fact, the B-Back can also get a good pre-snap read on the action key defender by looking at his alignment. Depending on how the action key plays the triple option scheme, the B-Back can then (after securing the ball), get his post snap read on the action key to determine his own track in an effort to gain more yards.
Many coaches either do not know about this “action key” defender, or prefer not to coach their B-Backs on how to read them. I feel that this robs the B-Back of some very valuable yardage. Just like with any aspect of the triple option philosophy, teaching the B-Back to read this action key takes time. It also takes many repetitions. However, once he knows what to look for in the actions of this action key defender, the B-Back can look forward to extra yardage on the dive phase of the triple option!
