This could easily be posted in the college or high school threads, too...because I seem to see it at all levels. But, could somebody please explain it to my why coaches and offensive coordinators who have a running game that's working just fine when they have 2-4 receivers out on the field, suddenly feel like they have to bring in extra offensive linemen and tight ends just to get 1 or 2 yards?

 

This has become a pet peeve of mine when watching football lately. I mean, the only thing they accomplish is bringing more defenders into the box, which to me, means there's more defenders there that can make a play. Why not keep the defenders further away from the ball in the first place?

It gives defenses extra gaps to account for in the running game. It is effective in definite run situations because defenses are going to load the box in that situation anyway. Jumbo formations just give more blockers.

 

Also, it is a great way to run play-action passing game.

No benefit of going jumbo, plenty of teams stay completely spread in short yardage. You have far more options if you stay in the spread, nothing says in football that you have to run the ball to gain those short yard situations, and I hate the idea of coaches who always opt for jumbo in those situations.

Extra gaps is big. Also, going jumbo and not getting it doesn't look as bad as staying in 4 Wide and not getting it. Probably plays a part in it.

 

For teams that spread out and have a heavy package (even if out of the gun), it's not like they don't work on it or practice it. They have a package of plays they like in that situation.