During most practices, the Washington Commanders’ quarterbacks, distinguished by their yellow jerseys, gather at the center of the field between stretches and team drills. Their drills often involve run-pass option plays (RPOs). In the shotgun formation, the quarterback receives the snap and extends the ball towards the running back’s midsection. With eyes focused on the defense, the quarterback can decide whether to hand off the ball or pass.
RPOs have been a dominant force in high school and college football for over a decade. They simplify the game for quarterbacks and cause hesitation among defenders. RPOs take advantage of a slight difference between lower levels and the professional level: in college, offensive linemen are allowed to block up to three yards downfield on passing plays, while in the NFL, it’s limited to one yard.
In recent years, as the spread offense has become more prevalent in the NFL, the RPO has made its way into the league. Philadelphia utilized RPOs to secure an upset victory against New England in Super Bowl LII in 2018. Last year, Washington upset Philadelphia by disrupting the Eagles’ RPOs through aggressive defense at the “mesh point” where the quarterback and running back meet, forcing the ball out of the hands of dynamic quarterback Jalen Hurts.
During training camp, it has become evident that RPOs will play a significant role in the West Coast scheme brought by offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy from Kansas City. Bieniemy’s Chiefs frequently employed RPOs with great success, and Sam Howell’s experience with them at North Carolina suggests that the Commanders may heavily rely on them.
Howell, who will start in the preseason opener, is excited to showcase his skills with RPOs. He explains that RPOs were a central aspect of their college offense and that Bieniemy’s system employs similar concepts to what he ran at UNC. Howell feels confident in his ability to manipulate defenses in the run game through RPOs.
Differentiating between an RPO, play action from shotgun, and zone read can be challenging. They may appear similar, but one of the key aspects of an RPO is the incorporation of a run and quick pass, such as a slant. The quarterback must read the key defender, typically a linebacker or end, and decide whether to run or pass. If he chooses to pass, he must release the ball quickly to avoid penalties for ineligible players downfield due to offensive linemen still run blocking.
Center Nick Gates explains that RPOs are familiar to every player due to their prevalence at lower levels. Gates utilized RPOs during his time at Nebraska from 2015 to 2017. Offensive linemen must adjust their blocking technique for RPOs, taking slower and choppier steps towards their defenders. Sometimes, if they are engaged in blocks downfield, referees may not penalize them. The success of RPOs lies in the quarterback’s ability to make decisive choices.
Gates also adds that RPOs are widely used in the NFL as they offer an easy way to gain significant yardage and potentially break for a touchdown. By luring defenders towards the line of scrimmage, RPOs create opportunities for quick slant passes that can result in sizable gains. Gates believes the Commanders have talented wide receivers who can take advantage of these opportunities.
Wide receiver Dyami Brown, who played with Howell in college, finds it fascinating that the RPO components of the offense are easy to grasp due to their familiarity. The terminology used by Eric Bieniemy aligns with what they used at North Carolina, adding to the ease of transition.
During Howell’s first career start against Dallas last year, offensive coordinator Scott Turner did not call many RPOs. However, on one play that resembled an RPO, Howell showcased his ability to make subtle decisions that can benefit the Commanders as they implement RPOs this season. Despite the defensive end reading the play correctly and chasing Howell towards the sideline, he remained composed, keeping his eyes downfield. As all four receivers were covered, Howell chose to throw the ball away instead of forcing a risky play.
This display highlighted Howell’s agility and decision-making. Even if the defense anticipates an RPO, and applies pressure, Howell’s athleticism allows him to evade sacks and make smart choices.
Ultimately, the success of RPOs relies on Howell’s ability to process information quickly and consistently make correct decisions. Bieniemy must also ensure that RPOs are incorporated into the play-calling effectively, enhancing the offensive scheme without becoming predictable or reliant on them. If these elements align, the Commanders can expect improved results and increased confidence.
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