American Football Formations Explained: Singleback
A singleback formation, sometimes known as a “single set back”, occurs when a single running back is lined up about five yards behind the QB. There is no fullback to help with blocking, and he is usually replaced with an additional wide receiver or tight end. While you can run out of this formation, it is primarily used in passing plays. The function of this play forces the defense to take a defender away from the line and focus on the additional WR. This opens the field up for passing plays or for a running back to get away with less resistance. This formation was first used by Coach Joe Gibbs in 1981 with the Washington Redskins. He would substitute WRs in to spread the pass or replace the fullback with an additional tight end to aid in blocking Lawrence Taylor, the greatest linebacker to ever play the game.
Single Set Back
