The I Formation (pronounced "eye" formation) have the backs stacked in the backfield. Typically it is used as a running formation but you can pass out of it too. Many teams that use the I Formation often call the "deep back" a tailback rather than a halfback. This offense needs a strong runner in that position as it is featured in this formation. You will see it used extensively at the college level. The pros use it- sometimes on short yardage situations like 3 and 3 to give the defense a pass or run look so they can't concentrate on one or the other.

The Shotgun Formation was made famous by Tom Landry during the glory years of the Dallas Cowboys under Roger Staubach and Danny White. The shotgun is a passing oriented offense which puts as many receivers out in patterns as possible and keeps a running back in to block or as outlet receiver. Depending on who is running it, the QB will be lined up 5 to 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage. The center makes a long snap to the QB. This snap is very important as it can spell disaster if it goes over the QB's head or he had trouble handling it. Note that in this formation, there are five eligible receivers which puts quite a bit of pressure on the defense to cover them all.

The One-Back or Spread formation is merely a variation on the Shotgun. It's advantage is that it has a direct snap to the QB so there is less chance for error. The disadvantage is that the QB starts behind center rather than 5 yards back, is vulnerable to the rush or blitz and his view of the field may be obstructed by linemen slugging it out directly in front of him.