I-formation

The I-formation is a vertical grouping of players into the line with another player at the top. That makes it seem with an English letter I.

The date of its creation is unclear. Some sources refer to Charles Hollister, a famous coach of the 19th century end, while others consider Bob Zuppke as this formation inventor.

The I formation is used in various situations. Its structure includes five offensive linemen (tacklers, guards and a center, the quarterback close to the center and two backs behind it. Some coaches use wide receivers on I formation edges. Such approach is called the Big I.

If the viewers see the third back instead of the receiver, they meet the Power I variation. The Jumbo or goal-line formations exclude wide receivers in favor of extra tight end or tackle. It helps to gain some yardage. To emphasise the pass plays, the coach forms three-wide I formation.