Is The 7 Hole Inside Or Outside

Football can be a bit confusing when you're first learning the terminology, especially when it comes to zone blocking schemes and hole numbering. One of the most common questions people ask is: Is the 7 hole inside or outside? Well, you're not alone if you're scratching your head trying to figure this out. Let's break it down in simple terms without getting too technical.

So, here's the thing — football plays are built around structure, and that includes how offensive linemen and running backs read the field. When a play calls for a specific “hole,” like the 7 hole, it’s telling the running back exactly where to go. But where exactly is that spot on the field? Is it part of an inside zone, or is it an outside run? That’s what we're here to clarify.

And honestly, the answer depends on a few factors like formation, blocking assignments, and where the tight end is lined up. Without getting too deep into the weeds, let’s explore what the 7 hole really means and whether it falls under inside or outside zone running.

What Exactly Are Football Holes?

Before we dive into the specifics of the 7 hole, let’s first understand what football holes are. In simple terms, they’re numbered gaps between offensive linemen that help running backs and linemen coordinate their blocking and running assignments. These holes are labeled from 0 to 9 on each side of the center.

So, the idea is that each number corresponds to a specific area on the field where the ball carrier should aim. The system helps everyone on the offense be on the same page when executing a run play. But here’s the catch — the numbering system isn’t exactly the same across all teams or coaching philosophies. Some might tweak it a bit, but the core idea remains consistent.

How Are Holes Numbered On The Field?

The numbering starts in the middle and works its way outward. Odd numbers are typically on the left side of the center, and even numbers on the right. Each hole is based on the gap between the offensive linemen and can be influenced by where tight ends or fullbacks line up.

0 or 1 hole — straight up the middle
2 or 3 hole — between guard and tackle
4 or 5 hole — outside the tackle
6, 7, 8, 9 — these are the outermost holes, usually involving tight ends

What About Zone Running Schemes?

Zone running involves linemen working in tandem to create lanes rather than blocking specific defenders. The running back reads the blocks and chooses the best path. This approach is more about movement and reading the defense rather than hitting a predetermined hole.

So, when a coach calls a zone play, the running back is expected to find the cutback lane based on how the defense reacts. The hole numbers still matter, but they’re more about guiding the initial direction rather than a fixed point.

Is The 7 Hole Inside Or Outside?

Alright, now we get to the question that brought you here. Is the 7 hole inside or outside? The short answer is: it’s usually considered an outside zone run. But there’s a bit more to it.

The 7 hole is typically located on the outside shoulder of a tight end. So if the tight end is lined up next to the tackle, the 7 hole would be just outside of him. That makes it an outside run, especially when the play is designed to go beyond the numbers — meaning outside the tackles and tight ends.

How Does Formation Affect The 7 Hole?

Formation matters a lot when determining whether the 7 hole is part of an inside or outside play. For example, if a tight end is lined up wide, the 7 hole becomes a clear outside lane. But if there are two tight ends, the 7 and 8 holes both exist and are part of the offensive design.

So, the presence and positioning of tight ends can change how the 7 hole is used. That’s why it’s important to look at the overall structure of the offense before labeling it strictly as an inside or outside zone play.

What If There's No Tight End?

If there's no tight end in the formation, the 7 hole effectively disappears. The offensive line doesn’t extend that far, so there’s no designated gap for a 7 hole. That’s why coaches often use formations with tight ends when they want to utilize those outer lanes.

So, the 7 hole only exists when there’s a tight end to define it. Without that, the play is limited to the 6 hole at the widest point of the offensive line.

Why Does The 7 Hole Confuse People?

Football terminology can get confusing because different teams and coaches often use slightly different numbering systems. Some might call it a 7 hole, while others might label it differently based on their playbook. That’s why it’s easy for newcomers to get lost.

Also, when you hear people talk about inside zone and outside zone, they’re usually referring to general types of runs rather than specific holes. So when someone says “7 hole,” it’s not always immediately clear if they’re talking about an inside or outside run unless you know the formation and blocking assignments.

How Can You Tell If It’s An Inside Or Outside Run?

One of the easiest ways to tell is by looking at where the running back aims. If the play starts outside the tackle or tight end, it’s generally an outside zone run. If it’s between the guards or tackles, it’s more of an inside zone play.

So, with the 7 hole, since it’s on the outside of the tight end, it's usually part of an outside run. But again, the formation and blocking scheme play a big role in how that hole is used.

What About The 8 And 9 Holes?

You might be wondering, what about the 8 and 9 holes? Those are even further out than the 7 hole and are typically used in specific formations with multiple tight ends or wide splits. They’re definitely part of the outside zone and are often used to stretch the defense horizontally.

The 8 hole is usually on the outside of the tight end, and the 9 hole is even further out, sometimes extending into the flat or even the sideline. These holes are more specialized and aren’t used in every play, but they’re important in certain offensive schemes.

So What’s The Final Verdict On The 7 Hole?

Putting it all together, the 7 hole is generally considered part of an outside zone run. It’s located on the outside shoulder of the tight end and is used in formations that include tight ends to create wider lanes for the running back.

However, context is key. Depending on how the offense is structured and where the tight ends are lined up, the 7 hole can play a different role. That’s why understanding the formation and blocking scheme is crucial to knowing whether it's an inside or outside play.

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