Halfback option play

The halfback option play gives a running back a chance to throw the pass to any eligible receiver on the field before the scrimmage line crossing. However, it resembles the normal running play. This fouls the defense, primarily the defensive backs. The linebackers understand that the offense continues running and pursue the running while the eligible receiver gets a safe route to score the touchdown.

Most defenses ignore the quarterback as it usually is an observer. These players usually wear jerseys with eligible numbers, so the running back may use it as a target when it leaves the backfield like in a sweep play. The defense doesn’t expect this fact. So the offensive leader successfully scores some points.