In the game of football, offensive personnel packages refer to the specific combinations of players on the field for an offensive team.
These packages are denoted by a personnel code, which consists of two digits representing the number of running backs and tight ends.
For example, a personnel code of 11 signifies one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers.
Understanding offensive personnel packages is important for both coaches and fans alike, as it provides insights into the strategies and formations employed by teams.
Here we look at the various offensive personnel packages commonly used in football, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and examine how they impact the game.
Offensive Personnel Packages
10 Personnel (1 RB, 0 TE, 4 WR)
The 10 personnel package is characterized by having one running back and no tight ends on the field, with four wide receivers.
This package is often used by teams that prioritize a fast-paced, pass-heavy offense.
By spreading the defense with four wide receivers, the offense aims to create mismatches and exploit the speed and agility of their receivers.
Example: The Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, frequently utilize the 10 personnel package to maximize their explosive passing attack.
11 Personnel (1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WR)
The 11 personnel package is one of the most commonly used offensive formations in football.
It consists of one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers.
This package provides a balanced approach to both the running and passing game, as it allows for a versatile set of options on offense.
Example: The New England Patriots, under the leadership of coach Bill Belichick, often employ the 11 personnel package to maintain offensive flexibility and keep the defense guessing.
How are Personnel Groups Numbered?
12 Personnel (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR)
The 12 personnel package features one running back, two tight ends, and two wide receivers.
This formation emphasizes a power running game and provides additional blocking support with the presence of two tight ends.
It also allows for more play-action passing opportunities, as the defense must respect the threat of both the run and pass.
Example: The San Francisco 49ers, commonly known for their strong rushing attack under Kyle Shanahan, frequently utilized the 12 personnel package to create mismatches and control the line of scrimmage.
13 Personnel (1 RB, 3 TE, 1 WR)
The 13 personnel package is a rare formation that includes one running back, three tight ends, and one wide receiver.
This package is primarily used in short-yardage situations or when a team wants to establish a dominant running game.
The presence of three tight ends provides additional blocking strength, making it difficult for the defense to stop the run.
Example: The Baltimore Ravens, under quarterback Lamar Jackson, occasionally employed the 13 personnel package to capitalize on their strong rushing attack and overpower opposing defenses.
20 Personnel (2 RB, 0 TE, 3 WR)
The 20 personnel package features two running backs and no tight ends, with three wide receivers.
This formation is often used to create confusion for the defense, as it provides multiple options for both running and passing plays.
The dual threat of two running backs can keep the defense off balance and open up opportunities for big plays.
Example: The New Orleans Saints, under the dynamic duo of Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray, occasionally employed the 20 personnel package to keep the defense guessing and exploit mismatches.
21 Personnel (2 RB, 1 TE, 2 WR)
The 21 personnel package consists of two running backs, one tight end, and two wide receivers.
This formation is often used in short-yardage situations or when a team wants to establish a strong running game.
The presence of an additional running back provides more options for both power running plays and play-action passes.
Example: The Tennessee Titans, when known for their powerful rushing attack led by running back Derrick Henry, frequently utilized the 21 personnel package to control the line of scrimmage and wear down opposing defenses.
22 Personnel (2 RB, 2 TE, 1 WR)
The 22 personnel package features two running backs, two tight ends, and one wide receiver.
This formation is primarily used in goal-line situations or when a team wants to emphasize a power running game.
The presence of two tight ends provides additional blocking strength, while the two running backs offer versatility in both running and passing plays.
Example: The Minnesota Vikings, when they had their strong running back duo of Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison, occasionally employed the 22 personnel package to overpower the defense near the goal line.
23 Personnel (2 RB, 3 TE, 0 WR)
The 23 personnel package is a rare formation that includes two running backs and three tight ends, with no wide receivers.
This package is typically used in short-yardage or goal-line situations, where the offense aims to overpower the defense with a strong running game.
The presence of three tight ends provides maximum blocking strength.
Example: The New York Giants, occasionally employed the 23 personnel package to create a physical advantage and control the line of scrimmage.
30 Personnel (3 RB, 0 TE, 2 WR)
The 30 personnel package features three running backs and no tight ends, with two wide receivers.
This formation is rarely used in modern football, but it can be effective in certain situations.
The presence of three running backs provides multiple options for running plays, while the two wide receivers offer potential passing targets.
Example: The Pittsburgh Steelers, known for their strong running game, occasionally employed the 30 personnel package to surprise the defense and create mismatches.
31 Personnel (3 RB, 1 TE, 1 WR)
The 31 personnel package consists of three running backs, one tight end, and one wide receiver.
This formation is primarily used in short-yardage or goal-line situations, where the offense aims to overpower the defense with a strong running game.
The presence of an additional running back provides more options for power running plays.
Example: The Seattle Seahawks, when they had their powerful running back trio of Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny, and Carlos Hyde, occasionally employed the 31 personnel package to control the line of scrimmage and wear down opposing defenses.
32 Personnel (3 RB, 2 TE, 0 WR)
The 32 personnel package features three running backs and two tight ends, with no wide receivers.
This formation is rarely used in modern football, but it can be effective in short-yardage or goal-line situations.
The presence of three running backs and two tight ends provides maximum blocking strength and power.
Example: The San Francisco 49ers, known for their strong rushing attack, occasionally used the 32 personnel package to overpower the defense near the goal line.
00 Personnel (0 RB, 0 TE, 5 WR)
The 00 personnel package is a unique formation that features no running backs or tight ends, with five wide receivers.
This package is primarily used in obvious passing situations, where the offense aims to spread the defense and create mismatches with their wide receivers.
It puts a heavy emphasis on the passing game.
Example: The Arizona Cardinals, when under coach Kliff Kingsbury, often used the 00 personnel package to maximize their passing attack and take advantage of their talented wide receiver corps.
01 Personnel (0 RB, 1 TE, 4 WR)
The 01 personnel package consists of no running backs, one tight end, and four wide receivers.
This formation is primarily used in obvious passing situations, where the offense aims to spread the defense and create mismatches with their wide receivers.
The presence of one tight end provides additional blocking support.
Example: The Kansas City Chiefs, with their explosive passing attack led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, occasionally used the 01 personnel package to maximize their offensive firepower – TE Travis Kelce + their speedy receivers.
02 Personnel (0 RB, 2 TE, 3 WR)
The 02 personnel package features no running backs, two tight ends, and three wide receivers.
This formation is primarily used in obvious passing situations or when a team wants to create mismatches with their tight ends.
The presence of two tight ends provides additional blocking strength and potential receiving targets.
Example: The Philadelphia Eagles, under coach Nick Sirianni, occasionally used the 02 personnel package to create mismatches and maximize their offensive options.
FAQs – Offensive Personnel Packages & Codes
1. What is the purpose of offensive personnel packages in football?
Offensive personnel packages are used to create specific formations and combinations of players on the field, allowing teams to tailor their strategies to exploit the strengths and weaknesses of the defense.
These packages provide flexibility, balance, and the ability to create mismatches.
2. How do offensive personnel packages impact the game?
Offensive personnel packages impact the game by influencing the style of play, the types of plays that can be run, and the matchups against the defense.
Different packages prioritize different aspects of the game, such as running, passing, or creating mismatches, and can dictate the tempo and strategy of the offense.
3. Which offensive personnel package is most commonly used in football?
The 11 personnel package, consisting of one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers, is the most commonly used offensive personnel package in football.
It provides a balanced approach to both the running and passing game, offering versatility and flexibility for the offense.
4. When would a team use a power running personnel package?
A team would use a power running personnel package, such as the 12 or 22 personnel, when they want to emphasize a strong running game and control the line of scrimmage.
These packages provide additional blocking strength with the presence of multiple tight ends and aim to overpower the defense with a physical rushing attack.
5. Why would a team use a pass-heavy personnel package?
A team would use a pass-heavy personnel package, such as the 10 or 00 personnel, when they want to prioritize a fast-paced, explosive passing attack.
These packages aim to spread the defense with multiple wide receivers and create mismatches with their speed and agility.
6. Can teams switch between different offensive personnel packages during a game?
Yes, teams can switch between different offensive personnel packages during a game to adapt to the situation, exploit matchups, or keep the defense guessing.
Coaches often make adjustments based on the flow of the game, the strengths and weaknesses of the opposing defense, and the desired offensive strategy.
7. Are there any disadvantages to using certain offensive personnel packages?
While offensive personnel packages offer various advantages, they also have potential disadvantages.
For example, using a pass-heavy package may make the offense predictable and vulnerable to strong pass rushes.
On the other hand, using a power running package may limit the options for passing plays and make it easier for the defense to stack the box.
8. How do offensive personnel packages impact player roles and substitutions?
Offensive personnel packages dictate the roles and substitutions of players on the field.
Different packages require specific skill sets from players, such as blocking ability for tight ends or route-running skills for wide receivers.
Coaches often make substitutions to ensure they have the right players for each package and to create favorable matchups against the defense.
9. Can defensive teams adjust their strategies based on offensive personnel packages?
Yes, defensive teams often adjust their strategies based on the offensive personnel packages.
They may make substitutions to match up against specific packages or change their defensive formations and coverages to counter the strengths of the offense.
Understanding the offensive personnel packages allows the defense to anticipate the types of plays and adjust their game plan accordingly.
10. How can fans identify which offensive personnel package a team is using?
Fans can identify which offensive personnel package a team is using by observing the number of running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers on the field.
The personnel code is often communicated by broadcasters or displayed on the screen during the game.
Additionally, fans can analyze the formations and alignments of the players to determine the package being used.
11. What are the most popular personnel packages in footbal?
11, 12, and 21 personnel are most commonly used due to the balance they provide.
Summary
Offensive personnel packages play a crucial role in football, allowing teams to tailor their strategies and formations to exploit the strengths and weaknesses of the defense.
From pass-heavy packages like the 10 personnel to power running packages like the 22 personnel, each package offers unique advantages and impacts the style of play.
Understanding these packages provides valuable insights into the game and enhances the appreciation of the strategic elements at play on the field.
