Toss/Sweep
Both guards pull to lead-block the perimeter
The Toss/Sweep is the classic outside gap-scheme play — the running back receives a toss from the QB and attacks the perimeter behind two pulling guards. Both guards pull to the playside to serve as lead blockers, creating a convoy that outnumbers the defense at the point of attack. The RB reads the tight end's block on the edge defender: if the defender is sealed inside, the RB bounces outside; if the defender fights to the outside, the RB cuts inside the TE's block. The play demands athleticism from the guards and speed from the running back.
Blocking Assignments
Both guards pull to the playside. The first pulling guard (playside guard) turns up through the first available gap or kicks out the edge defender. The second pulling guard (backside guard) wraps around and leads on the most dangerous defender — typically the playside linebacker or safety. The center, playside tackle, and any tight end execute reach blocks to seal the interior. The backside tackle hinge-blocks to protect against backside pursuit. The tight end on the playside is responsible for the edge defender — sealing him inside or driving him wide to create the running lane.
Running Back Read
Catch the toss and attack the playside edge at full speed. Read the TE's block on the edge defender: if the defender goes outside (trying to contain), cut inside the TE behind the pulling guards. If the defender squeezes inside, bounce to the outside with the pulling guards as lead blockers. Stay on the pulling guards' heels — they are your convoy to the end zone.
Why It Works
The Toss/Sweep creates a numbers advantage on the edge by pulling two guards to the perimeter — that is two extra blockers the defense did not plan for in their edge-contain scheme. The speed of the toss and the convoy of pullers outflank slower defenses, and the TE's seal on the edge defender creates a defined running lane. Defenses must choose between containing the edge (opening inside cutback lanes) and pursuing from the inside (giving up the perimeter).