MMOexp CFB 26: Establishing the Run Early

At the heart of this offense is one formation: I-Form Close. This formation is exclusive to the Kansas State offensive playbook, which is why Kansas State is the foundation of CUT 26 Coins the scheme. When executed correctly, it creates angles, numbers advantages, and downhill momentum that defenses struggle to stop-even against top-tier teams like Alabama.

Why Kansas State's Playbook Is Special

Kansas State's playbook is perfectly suited for physical, clock-controlling football. The I-Form Close formation packs the box with blockers while still giving you flexibility to attack both the weak side and strong side of the defense. It forces defenders to commit early, and once they do, the offense dictates the rest of the play.

The goal isn't flashy plays or constant chunk passes. The goal is efficiency. Four to six yards on first down. Consistent second-and-short situations. And when the defense finally overcommits, explosive runs to the edge or straight up the middle.

Establishing the Run Early

From the opening drive, this offense focuses on Power O, stretch runs, and inside runs designed to punish aggressive fronts. Even when the defense shoots a gap correctly, the scheme still produces positive yardage because of its blocking angles and tight spacing.

Against Alabama's speed-heavy defense, this approach is critical. Elite teams rely on athleticism to blow up plays in the backfield. By running downhill and attacking the weak side, you neutralize that speed and force defenders to take on blocks instead of running free.

Five yards on first down doesn't look exciting-but it's devastating over the course of a game.

Mixing in Just Enough Passing

While the run game is the engine, the offense isn't one-dimensional. Short passes, quick throws, and occasional play-action concepts keep the defense honest. These throws aren't forced. If the look isn't there, the ball stays on the ground.

Many of the completions come from clicking on and securing contested catches rather than relying on separation. That's fine. The offense doesn't need explosive passing plays-it just needs the defense to respect them.

Once the defense starts creeping into the box or blitzing aggressively, simple checkdowns and quick dots punish overcommitment.

Beating Aggressive Defenses

One of the biggest strengths of this run scheme is how it handles blitz-heavy defenses like Mid Blitz or Double Mug. Instead of panicking, the offense leans even harder into its identity.

Stretch plays and off-tackle runs exploit blitz angles, while Power O attacks vacated gaps when linebackers crash downhill. Even when a blitz gets through, the offense rarely loses yards. Most runs still fall forward for positive gains.

This constant pressure forces opponents to guess-and guessing against a power run game is how defenses break.

Controlling the Clock and Momentum

The true power of this offense shows up in the time of possession. Once you get a single defensive stop, the game tilts heavily in your favor. Long, methodical drives drain the clock, limit your opponent's possessions, and keep elite offenses stuck on the sideline.

Against Alabama, this approach is especially effective. With their speed and playmakers, giving them fewer opportunities is essential. The run game doesn't just move the ball-it controls the entire pace of the game.

By NCAA Football 26 Coins the second half, defenders begin shedding blocks more slowly, missing tackles, and getting worn down. That's when the big runs start appearing consistently.