Mike Bobo’s Georgia offense ranks 3rd in the FBS in yards per carry, averaging 6.49 YPC. Across the SEC, the Bulldogs lead the conference on Zone runs in EPA/play (+0.37) and success rate (58%).
Their primary weapon is Outside Zone, which they have run 33 times for 276 yards (8.9 YPC) and 4 touchdowns. The concept produces +0.22 EPA/play, a 51.6% success rate, and an explosive play rate of 24%.
Below, we break down how Bobo dials up Outside Zone from under center and pistol looks against six different defensive structures.
Over
Against Tennessee State, running back Nate Frazier took the third offensive snap 48 yards for a touchdown on Outside Zone against an Over front. The Center and Fronstide Guard double up to the Mike Linebacker and Frazier hits the C-gap and then cuts it up inside the combo to the Mike.
Under
Later in the matchup against Tennessee State, UGA checks the run away from the Tight End. Running back Dwight Phillips Jr. reads the Defensive End getting reached on the edge and bounces the play outside for a 15 yard gain.
Heads
On the opening offensive play against Western Kentucky, Bobo dials up Outside Zone out of 12 personnel against a Heads front (two 2-techniques). While the combo block fails to climb cleanly to the Mike, Frazier runs through initial contact to churn out a 16 yard gain.
Boss
Later against Western Kentucky, Bobo returns to 12-personnel outside zone against a Boss front (three DL to one side). UGA attacks the solo DL side, allowing Frazier to read the flow and cut back into the backside A-gap for 5 yards.
Tite
Against Oklahoma, UGA runs Outside Zone against a Tite front. The combo by the Fronstide Guard and Tackle beautifully works up to the Mike and running back Chauncey Bowens would’ve had a bigger gain if the Slot Receiver digs out the Safety.
Mint
Against Arkansas, Georgia attacks a 2-man surface against a Mint structure. By showing Jet Sweep motion the other way, the Bulldogs hold backside pursuit, enabling Frazier to bend the edge and bounce outside for a 19 yard pickup.
Dawgs vs The Tide
On Saturday, October 10th, the No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs head to Tuscaloosa to battle the No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide. Ultimately, this matchup will hinge on who controls the line of scrimmage and establishes the ground game.
Nate Frazier remains the catalyst for Georgia's ground attack. On these Zone runs, Frazier has handled 13 carries, averaging 9.69 yards per rush with 3 touchdowns, a +0.43 EPA/play, and a 53.8% success rate. If the Dawgs can get Frazier rolling early, expect Georgia to walk out of Bryant-Denny Stadium with the win.
All of the play diagrams are drawn with Turbo, the fastest football playbook and script builder. Be on the lookout for its release to the public soon!