What is 26 Off-Tackle (Wishbone)?

26 Off-Tackle (Wishbone) is a youth football play from the Wishbone Formation built as a run play concept. FantasyHQ rates it Easy for youth, peewee, and Pop Warner installs, featuring the Running Back.

• 26 Off-Tackle (Wishbone) belongs in a youth football playbook as a easy install.
• Primary look: Run Play.
• Formation family: Wishbone Formation.
• Export the graphic for parents, assistants, and mid-week install reminders.

Play overview

How to install 26 Off-Tackle (Wishbone)

Use this teaching progression for youth football practice — walk-through first, then live reps.

1. Walk the Wishbone alignment on air — every player finds their landmark before the snap.
2. Teach the Running Back assignment first from the diagram, then layer the rest of the call.
3. Rehearse the mesh or handoff at walk-through tempo until timing is automatic.
4. Add a scout look (or cones) that matches when you want to call this play in a game.
5. Script 4–6 live reps, then export the diagram for your staff chat or install sheet.

When to call this play

Therefore, teach your Running Back to carry a wide line towards the outside of the Offensive Tackle, while looking for any opportunity to stick their foot in the ground and cut hard back against the grain when space opens up.

Coaching tips for youth teams

• This is an easy youth football play — install it early in camp before adding hard concepts.
• Keep language identical on the practice field and in the huddle — one name, one job.
• Film the first live reps; pause on the landmark, not just the ball.
• Pair this with a complementary play from the same formation so defenses cannot key one look.
• If outside contain is soft, keep a sweep or toss in the same personnel as a change-up.

Formation variants

Same play name, different alignments — keep language consistent across your youth football playbook.

• 26 Off-Tackle (Wing-T)
• 26 Off-Tackle (Wishbone)
• 26 Off-Tackle (Ace)
• 26 Off-Tackle (Pro)
• 26 Off-Tackle (I)