The 26 Sweep allows the left halfback to showcase his speed and cutting ability, while at the same time relying on some big blocks by his backfield mates. It's a great play to add to teams in the fifth- or sixth-grade range. Players know that they all have to come together as one for the play to be effective. The center on this play will snap the ball and then run into the secondary to make a block.
Here's how it breaks down out of the T formation:
Left tight end: Runs a flag route and blocks the safety to his left side.
Left tackle: Blocks the right defensive tackle to his left side.
Left guard: Blocks the right defensive lineman to his left side.
Center: Shoots out at the snap and runs downfield to block the strong-side safety.
Right guard: Blocks the left defensive lineman to his left side.
Right tackle: Blocks the left defensive tackle to his left side.
Right tight end: Runs a curl route about 10 yards downfield, and blocks any pursuing linebackers. His opening as part of the 6 hole will be for the left halfback.
Quarterback: At the snap, rolls to his right and makes the handoff to the left halfback. Continues running in a curl pattern in the backfield, then heads upfield while carrying out the fake.
Left halfback: Runs at a slight angle toward the right tackle and takes the handoff from the quarterback only a few steps into his run. After he gets behind the right tackle, the left halfback follows the fullback's block and sprints to the 6 hole.
Fullback: Runs at a 45-degree angle to fill the gap opened by the right tight end. Either the defensive end (if he stays at home) or the linebacker (if he's pursuing) will be the main blocking focus of the fullback.
Right halfback: Runs at an angle to the right sideline, blocking any pursuing defenders in the backfield.
Story courtesy of Red Line Editorial, Inc.