So when opposing teams see Wilbon on the field, they know we are gonna run. So what.
Second, how many different run plays are there?
It depends. Are you counting different blocking schemes (usually referred to as 'adjustments') for the same run as different run plays, or is a run play going through the same gap just one run play regardless of the blocking schemes?
Because if the latter is true, there are only 12-16 run plays. Between C and G to either side (usually called a dive) between G and T to either side (usually called a blast) off tackle to either side (most commonly called Power O), stretch play to the sidelines trying to turn the corner and get up field, again to either side. That makes 8 so far.
Then there's the FB trap, a veer or read option off of any other run play, an inverted veer (which is an inside QB run off of an RB stretch play. It's a read option where the QB runs inside and the HB runs outside instead of vice versa) a triple option (which is usually a veer off of a fullback trap or an inside HB run with a pitch route to the sidelines) a pitch to either side, and a zone run to either side (in which there's usually no set running lane, the RB just takes whatever holes open up).
Now add to that a different blocking scheme for each and every run play depending on how the D lines up (are they in a 4-3, 3-4, 4-2-5, 3-3-5, 4-1-6, 3-2-6, and so on). With all the different ways a defense lines up, you need to adjust the blocking scheme to account for that, and also to account for blitzes (are the LBs doing an A-gap blitz? Is it a corner blitz? Blocking schemes need to be adjusted to account for all of that or you're going to get TFL). So, depending on how you look at it, the run game is either very simple or very complex.
And that doesn't even account for special adjustments, like having a WR Crack block a LB or S to help open the running lane.
In truth, there are literally hundreds of runs, if you assume that each and every run variation is its own play. Thankfully, it's possible to study the opponents film and adjust your blocking schemes in the week leading up to practice. But still, each of those adjustments needs to be practiced beforehand, and it's actually very impressive to see a team make an adjustment on the fly in the middle of a game without having practiced them beforehand. Wisconsin and Alabama are particularly good at making in game adjustments.
And it's not just the blockers that need to be able to handle the adjustments. The RBs need to understand who is blocking, where, and when, so they can hit the hole at the right time. If they get there too soon or too late, it's a blown play. That's why announcers always complement the best runners on their patience. They are waiting for the blocks to get into position.
So, there is more to Wilbon being out than just pass pro and pass catching.
