Finding balance

CARLSBAD – Carlsbad’s triple option offense has been a methodical two-step process so far.

The first step in 2015 entailed learning the ins and outs of the system, and there were some bumps along the way.

Now that the Cavemen have a better understanding of the triple option offense, the second step entering 2016 is creating a greater balance between the running and passing games.

“The offense is definitely looking better,” senior quarterback Jonah Leyva said. “We were really one dimensional last year. This year, everyone’s starting to understand it a little better. We’re getting a better hold of what’s going on.”

Although the Cavemen (1-9 last year) had their moments scoring on extended drives, they were primarily a run-heavy team.

By going more airborne in 2016, the idea is that it’ll enable Carlsbad to expand the playbook a little more and be more creative with it.

“We can switch up formations. We can run, we can pass. We can do everything now,” senior running back Tyler Gonzales said.

Carlsbad’s loaded backfield is also entirely healthy entering this season, and they look to continue getting multiple running backs involved.

Key returners include Gonzales and senior Mark Sonora, as well as junior Jaykan Willis. Seniors Dominic Rodriguez and Colton Montano are also back, so the Cavemen have plenty of weapons handy.

Gonzales said he’d like to see the running backs take advantage of the open gaps more often, go up-field as much as possible and help out with run-blocking whenever Leyva decides to take off himself.

Sonora said Carlsbad’s run game must produce from the start so that Leyva can be more comfortable throwing the ball. Sonora also said it’ll help Carlsbad be more efficient in play-action scenarios.

“If we get an opportunity to make a big play, we need to take it,” Sonora said. “We need to have all our blocks. Eventually, a big play is going to come.”

Sonora said both elements go hand-in-hand and Carlsbad must be able to carry its own weight in both the run and pass.

Sonora said it helps that Leyva is a dual-threat quarterback because the offense can switch up run and pass plays even more.

“He can make big plays because he’s mobile,” Sonora said.

As a way to ease the burden in and get more out of both areas, it’s all about finding balance.