Offensive Formations
The seven formations in cover0, how to spot each one from the dots, where they came from and the coaches known for them.
How Formations Are Named
A formation is mostly about the backfield: where the quarterback stands and where the backs line up around him. The same eleven players can run the ball or throw it from almost any of them, but each one tilts the odds and tells the defense something.
Share of plays in 2025
Shotgun FormationThe quarterback stands about five yards behind the center with the running back beside him, giving him extra time to read the defense before he throws.61.5%Singleback FormationThe quarterback stands right behind the center with one running back about seven yards straight behind him, a balanced look for runs and play-action passes.21.7%I-FormationThe quarterback stands right behind the center with a fullback and a running back lined up behind him, forming a straight line built for power running.3.8%Pistol FormationA short Shotgun: the quarterback stands about four yards behind the center with the running back directly behind him instead of beside him.5.2%Empty FormationEmpty means nobody lines up beside or behind the quarterback: he stands alone in the shotgun while five receivers spread across the field.7.4%Jumbo FormationJumbo is the heavy package: extra linemen or three tight ends, no wide receivers and the quarterback under center, built to win the push at the goal line.0.4%Wildcat FormationIn the Wildcat a running back or another non-quarterback takes the snap in the shotgun, while the real quarterback splits out wide or leaves the field.—
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