Draw play

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A draw is a type of American football play. The draw appears to be a passing play, but is actually a running play; in this way, it can be considered the opposite of the play action pass. The idea behind a draw play is to attack aggressive, pass-rushing defenses by "drawing" them upfield, leaving more open space to run the ball. Draw plays are often run out of the shotgun formation, but can also be run when the quarterback is under center. These types of draw plays are sometimes referred to as delayed handoffs. During the 2007 season the Kansas City Chiefs became well known for bland play calling and excessive use of the draw play. They were known for running it on 3rd down and with virtually no threat of a pass; it often failed. It was proof time and time again that the draw play can only function if there is a real threat of a pass.

[edit] Offensive movement during a draw play

• The quarterback drops back to pass, just long enough to get the pass rush to come upfield.
• The offensive linemen momentarily show pass block, but also try to push the defenders to the outside, creating a crease in the middle.
• The running back momentarily fakes as if he's staying in to help pass protect, then takes the hand-off from the quarterback and heads upfield through the crease created by the linemen.
• The receivers run clear-out routes downfield in order to take the defensive backs out of the play.

A variation of this play is the quarterback draw, where the quarterback himself runs the ball, instead of handing it off.

Another variation of this play is called the "wraparound draw" and takes longer to develop than a simple draw play.