32Middle–link
3 · M
Roll
2 · L
The rollball or launch point sits in the seam between a middle and the adjacent link.
Learn · The language of plays
How to read a play call
A numbered call has two parts: the number tells you where the play starts; the next word tells you what movement to run.
← Back to playbook
Start with the positions
1 – 2 – 3 | 3 – 2 – 1
Count from either sideline towards the centre: a wing is 1, a link is 2 and a middle is 3. The numbers then mirror across the other half of the field.
1
WWing
2
LLink
3
MMiddle
3
MMiddle
2
LLink
1
WWing
The number is the address
Where 32 and 33 happen
The two digits name the positions on either side of the rollball or launch point. The same setup can be mirrored to the left or right.
33Middle–middle
3 · M
Roll
3 · M
The rollball or launch point sits in the central seam between the two middles.
The next word is the action
Put the full call together
32+Scoop
Start between middle and link; the half scoops through that channel.
33+Quickie
Start between the two middles; return quickly to the player who rolled.
32+Peel / Rooster
Start between middle and link; then run the team’s Peel pattern.
33+Sweeper
Start in the middle; use the sweeper movement as the finish.
What to listen for
Break the call into two questions
- 1
Where does it start?
32 is the middle–link seam; 33 is the middle–middle seam.
- 2
What movement follows?
Listen for Scoop, Quickie, Peel, Wrap, Sweeper or another action.
- 3
Which team version?
The address stays the same, but exact running lines and options can vary between teams.