The Shotgun Formation
What is the Shotgun Formation?
The Shotgun Formation is a classic offensive alignment where the quarterback lines up about 5–7 yards behind the center at the snap. This setup gives the quarterback more time to see the defense and make quick decisions, especially for passing plays. Originally popularized in professional football in the 1960s by coaches like Tom Landry of the Dallas Cowboys, the shotgun has become a staple at all levels of football due to its flexibility and effectiveness in the passing game.
The Diagram shows where positions are lined up in a traditional shotgun formation.
The annotated game image shows an in-game example. Notice the HB is beside the QB, who is in shotgun behind the center.
Key Features of the Shotgun Formation
- Quarterback Depth: The QB stands farther back (5–7 yards) allowing for more time to process the defense and set up passing plays.
- Emphasis on Passing: The shotgun is primarily used to aid the passing game by giving the QB a clear view of the defense.
- Running Game Options: Despite its reputation, teams can still run the ball effectively out of the shotgun with draws, RPOs, and zone-read plays.
- Wide Formations: Often paired with multiple wide receivers to stretch the defense horizontally and create mismatches.
Shotgun Variations
The Shotgun Formation has a couple variations that are tracked by the scout app, they are the traditional look shown above and Shotgun Max, which is when the QB has an RB on both of his sides. This is often done to provide extra pass protection on passing plays or create more deception by adding another player the QB could hand the ball off to on running plays.
Why Teams Use the Shotgun
The Shotgun Formation gives offenses a major advantage by improving the quarterback’s ability to read the defense and react quickly. With the QB already set deeper, the offense can:
- Attack defenses with quick, short passes
- Stretch the field both horizontally and vertically
- Improve protection against blitzes and pressure
- Utilize the quarterback as a running threat on draws and read-options
Common Plays from the Shotgun
- Quick Slant Routes: Fast, timing-based passes that exploit soft zones and blitzes.
- Zone Read Runs: Allow the QB to read the defensive end and either hand the ball off or keep it himself.
- Four Verticals: A vertical passing attack designed to stretch defenses deep downfield.
Final Thoughts
The Shotgun Formation has revolutionized modern football by emphasizing speed, spacing, and flexibility. Whether attacking with quick passes, deep shots, or creative runs, the shotgun allows offenses to stay aggressive and adapt to nearly any defensive look.
By understanding the shotgun, fans and players alike can better appreciate the strategies and adjustments happening before the snap every week.