Breaking down the key plays from New Orleans Saints vs Indianapolis Colts

Play 3

The Saints use 21 personnel, which are two running backs, two wide receivers, and one tight end. They fake an iso run.

An iso run is a gap-scheme run which uses double teams from the tackle and guard on the strong side and from the center and guard on the weak side, blocks on the defensive ends from the tackle on the weak side and the tight end on the strong side, and a fullback that is ‘isolated’ on the linebacker- which is why it’s called iso.

It’s also referred to as ‘BOB’ as there is a back-on-backer block (fullback on linebacker). Iso is generally run in short-yardage or goal-line situations, and thus seems likely given the formation and field position.

The three LBs and the cornerback on the play side all play the run strongly. Josh Hill, the TE on this play, fakes a block on Justin Houston, the DE on this play. As the LBs and CB play the run strongly, there is a ton of space for Hill to exploit, giving Brees another wide-open throw.

This was another great play design and call given the situation from Payton, and in my opinion, he was undoubtedly the MVP of the game.