The Gun Doubles Z Close Wk formation is a versatile setup that blends efficiency and flexibility. This formation places two wide receivers on the left, a tight end on the line to the right, and an additional wide receiver split wide to the far right. With the quarterback in the shotgun position and the running back directly behind him, the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk formation offers a balanced approach. It provides quick passing options and solid running potential.
Moreover, this setup allows users to target both short and deep routes while maintaining a strong running game. The Gun Doubles Z Close Wk is often effective against zone defenses due to its spacing. Additionally, the tight end placement enhances blocking and quick route opportunities. Consequently, players can gain advantages by exploiting mismatches in both passing and running plays.
Formation Diagram:
Formation:
- Gun Doubles Z Close Wk
Set:
- Gun Doubles
Formation Type:
- Gun
Formation Alignment:
- Balanced with strong right alignment
Player Personnel Group:
- 11 Personnel
Player Personnel:
- 1 Running Back, 1 Tight End, 3 Wide Receivers
Formation Packages:
- Backup QB
- Backup HB
- Power HB
- 3rd Down HB
- Fullback at HB
- Backup TE
- Tight End Slot
- WR Swap
- WR1 Slot
- WR2 Slot
Playbooks Found In:
- Bills
- Giants
- Raiders
Player Alignment:
The Gun Doubles Z Close Wk places the quarterback in a shotgun position for quick passes and better vision. Meanwhile, the running back aligns directly behind the quarterback, creating strong versatility for runs and screens. Two wide receivers line up on the left, one closer to the tight end and the other split wider. The tight end is positioned on the right side, providing added blocking and route-running potential. Finally, the last wide receiver aligns tight on the right, compressing the formation.
This alignment encourages dynamic play-calling as the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk balances run and pass plays effectively. The running back’s placement ensures quick accessibility for handoffs or screens. With the wide receivers’ spacing, defenses are forced to adjust. The tight end’s close alignment allows for seamless transitions into blocking or passing situations. Accordingly, this player distribution supports multiple strategic opportunities.
Key Strengths:
- Balanced offensive approach for both passing and running plays.
- Strong spacing to exploit zone coverages effectively.
- Tight end enhances blocking while offering quick passing options.
Key Weaknesses:
- Predictable alignments if used repeatedly.
- Limited deep vertical options compared to spread formations.
- Potential struggles against heavy blitz packages.
Formation Plays:
| Play | Type | Concept |
|---|---|---|
| Dagger Z Comeback | Pass | Deep Route Combination |
| Deep Post Switch | Pass | Vertical Concepts |
| Double Post | Pass | Post Route Combo |
| HB Base | Run | Inside Run |
| HB Slip Screen | Pass | Screen Play |
| Inside Zone | Run | Inside Run |
| MTN Curl Combo | Pass | Curl Route Combo |
| MTN FK Screen Wheel | Pass | Play Action |
| MTN Inside Zone | Run | Inside Run |
| MTN PA X Spot | Pass | Play Action |
| MTN Switch Wheel | Pass | Deep Passing Combo |
| MTN Z Spot | Pass | Short Pass Combo |
| PA Jailbreak Screen | Pass | Play Action Screen |
| Redzone Fork | Pass | Red Zone Attack |
| RPO Read Bubble | Run/Pass | RPO Concept |
Five Favorite Plays:
The Gun Doubles Z Close Wk formation features a versatile set of plays designed to keep the D-fense guessing while creating mismatches in coverage. Each play utilizes unique player motions, rout concepts, and options to attack different areas of the field effectively. Here is a list of our favorite five plays.
Double Post is a downfield passing play designed to challenge D-fensive backs with two post routs. These routs cross each other at intermediate depths, forcing defenders into difficult coverage decisions and creating openings for deep completions.
MTN FK Screen Wheel leverages pre-snap motion from the right-side wide receiver, who moves left before the snap. The slot and outside receivers run a switch concept, which confuses defenders and opens passing lanes. This play is ideal for attacking zone coverages or taking advantage of mismatches.
MTN Z Spot features quick passes to beat zone D-fenses. The Z receiver spots up underneath the zone coverage, allowing the quarterback to throw a bullet pass for an easy pickup. On the left side is the smash concept, which gives the quarterback a high-low read.
MTN Switch Wheel adds motion to the running back, who moves to the right pre-snap and then runs a wheel rout down the sideline. This play stretches the D-fense horizontally and vertically, creating opportunities for big plays if the running back gets behind coverage.
RPO Read Bubble gives the quarterback the flexibility to react based on the D-fensive setup. The quarterback can hand off to the running back for a straightforward run or quickly throw a bubble screen to the slot receiver if the D-fense overcommits to the run. This dual-threat play keeps the D-fense on its heels and exploits overaggressive tendencies.
These plays capitalize on player motion, precise timing, and strategic rout combinations, making the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk formation a potent tool in any Madden playbook.
Situational Usage:
- First Down: Use balanced plays like Inside Zone or quick screens.
- Third Down (Short Yardage): Execute power runs or quick tight end routes.
- Third Down (Long Yardage): Opt for vertical route concepts like Double Post.
- Red Zone: Play-action concepts like MTN PA X Spot.
Adjustments and Audibles:
- Against Zone Defenses: Focus on short routes and screen plays.
- Against Man-to-Man Defenses: Utilize crossing routes and rub concepts.
- Against Blitz: Quick screens and max protect formations.
Five Tips for Success:
- Mix up play-calling to prevent predictability.
- Exploit mismatches using the tight end in passing situations.
- Use audibles to adjust based on defensive alignments.
- Keep a balance between running and passing plays.
- Target zone weaknesses with quick passes.
Formation Overview Video Breakdown:
Final Thoughts:
The Gun Doubles Z Close Wk is a highly effective formation for players seeking versatility. Its balanced alignment enables both passing and running plays, ensuring flexibility. With proper play selection, this formation can exploit defensive weaknesses in both zone and man-to-man coverages. However, players should vary their play-calling to avoid predictability and prepare adjustments against blitz-heavy defenses. Mastering the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk formation adds an invaluable weapon to any Madden strategy.
FAQ:
Q: What is the main strength of the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk?
A: The formation’s balance allows for both efficient passing and effective running plays.
Q: How should I counter blitz-heavy defenses with this formation?
A: Use quick screens, audibles, or max protection to neutralize blitz pressure.
Q: Is the Gun Doubles Z Close Wk available in multiple playbooks?
A: Yes, it is found in Bills, Giants, and Raiders playbooks.
Q: What personnel grouping is used in this formation?
A: It utilizes an 11 personnel grouping with 1 RB, 1 TE, and 3 WRs.
Q: Can this formation be used in the red zone?
A: Yes, it offers effective play-action and tight route concepts ideal for red-zone scenarios.
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