I-Formation (flag)

In 5v5 the center, quarterback, and all three eligibles form one single-file column: C on the line, QB in shotgun, then X, Y, and Z stacked behind at staggered depths. The column hides releases and creates natural traffic for paired out routes, crossing routes, misdirection, and quick run fakes. Larger flag variants keep a two-player I-stack with additional eligibles split wide so the roster still has usable width. Distinct from tackle Pro I, which puts an under-center quarterback in front of a fullback and tailback, and from I Back (flag), which splits X and Z on the line around one centered back.

Concepts that use this formation: I Formation Play 2