Could someone who played hooker or knows about being a dummy half please help me understand why Api has taken to using an 'NFL QB-like' drop back from dummy half?
My guess is it's only done right at the line to stop the defence from swatting at the ball or his arms, but does this throw off say, a Royce Hunt's bulldozing run over for a try?
A couple of times this year it has looked (to me anyway) like he drops back and there's no one to pass to?
Appreciate the help, and also interested to read peoples' opinion on it.
I’ve noticed that too, but don’t have a clue either. It’s interesting? maybe a precaution to avoid arm grabbers?
It must be coming from coach? Others are also doing it. Those couple of steps from the ruck may also provide time to see options? I’ve seen Api clear the ruck like that and then do a 180 and run through the D line. Is it a tactic to confuse the D? Is a player less likely to commit to the tackle if the ball carrier is looking less threatening by running away from your try line?
lol, I’ll be watching it more closely next game.
Great questions. This is a not so subtle, but increasingly common tactic in the NRL, especially when attacking at close range.
When teams are attacking very close to the try line (e.g., from about 1-metre out), taking a step or two away from the line opens up options that aren't available using the old pass off the deck technique used for the last hundred years; with the only real variation being to burrow over. Teams are quite effective at countering the drive from dummy half by staying in place until after the ball leaves the hands.
The simple reason for the trend is to combat defensive pressure and avoid contact in the ruck area. However, the more crafty hookers (Api/Grant etc) have taken it a step further and by creating time and space (as you guys have already identified) and in doing so it allows for a greater number of options close to the line. It keeps the immediate defence focused on the ball carrier (dummy half), which provides opportunity to shape the play or for deception.
It is the first step in "shaping the defence". By stepping back the immediate defenders at the ruck remain engaged and planted. If they don't they are susceptible to the turn and burrow. It also forces the markers to make a decision and that takes time and creates opportunity. In addition, it improves passing angles for the crash play or long shift (look long pass short and vice versa)
Stepping back can allow for flatter and/or wider passes to players hitting holes (especially good for a Hunt style unders line off the first receiver back into the planted defenders). It also improves the chance of hitting the lead runner at pace and on target.
Api, in particular, uses it to create angles for his look long pass short crash play. TDS also uses it; but it is more for time and space for him. The deception in his use of it has yet to come; but he is learning from a master. I can see, with his speed off the mark, the turn and burrow being an effective weapon.
For the NFL fans out there, think of it like a quarterback taking a couple of steps back after the snap; it gives better vision, more time, and improves passing options.
