The Wildcat offense is when the center snaps (hikes) the ball directly to the runner, usually the running back or wide receiver.
In some situations, the Wildcat is effective, at least in college. NFL teams should use it 6-10 times per game.
It’s kind of the same as the option play. Get the ball into the playmaker’s hands.
It works, sometimes, because defenses are expecting a handoff or a pass, not an immediate run.
Players Who Could Make the Wildcat Work
The team that drafts Kyler Murray is getting a really good passer and a great runner. That team could call themselves a Wildcat team. Running with your designated quarterback is better than using your running back or receiver. That alerts the defense that you’re doing something different.
Cam Newton is a good QB because defenses don’t know if he will run or pass. Same with Russell Wilson.
Aaron Rodgers is okay at running and Lamar Jackson is, too. Lots of other mobile quarterbacks are out or backups: RGIII, Tim Tebow and Brett Favre used to be really good at it and let’s not forget the best: Michael Vick.
If you found the next Michael Vick, which I think Kyler Murray could be, but better at passing.
But if you have LeSean McCoy or Derrick Henry, or any good playmaker, snap the ball to him quickly and have him get some good yardage.
Image: Chiefs running back Larry Johnson lines up on offense as the quarterback in a Wildcat formation. November 16, 2008. New Orleans Saints at Kansas City Chiefs, Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. By Conman33 – Own work, CC BY 3.0