I understand the zone read option concept, somewhat.
it's a numbers game to make the defense account for the QB threat to run when they would not in other systems. The extra player assigned to the QB allows for favorable blocking match ups & even brief double teams to open holes.
My question is - why don't defenses counter by changing assignments / rush patterns?
I figure a 50% chance of whacking the QB via 4 different attack patterns by the DE.
1- DE is going for RB 100% = 0% chance QB is hit by him; however, same side CB blitz w/ safety & LB covering zones ups the QB hit % - just not by the DE.
2- DE patterns towards the RB, but has the QB in contain. He must sell his sellout for the run without selling out & giving up contain. QB hit 100%.
3- DE patterns towards the QB, but has the RB, so he must break and back leg tackle at the last moment.
4-DE has the QB, tackle him no matter what.
D-linemen need to either hold or chop block to keep the LB's free on this call.
i know 4 is a penalty, but it's never called - thus my question.
How does the zone read even work?
