How to Change an Audible
In American football, an audible takes place when a team comes to the line of scrimmage, only to have the quarterback change the play at the line of scrimmage, either of his own volition or because the coach ordered it from the sidelines. There are also ways to change an audible once it has been called, whether because of a change in defensive formation or some other reason.
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Instructions
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Design an audible code word. This word comes into play at the line of scrimmage. Often times, a quarterback will bark out a range of words and commands, many of which mean nothing. However, a "code" word symbolizes that an audible is forthcoming. Once an initial audible is called, to change that audible, repeat the code word, thus signalling that a new audible call is on the way.
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Call--and know--the play. The toughest part of calling an audible is ensuring that all 11 players on offense are on the same page. This helps decrease the opportunity of false start penalties and other miscommunication that can derail a play. Assign numbers and "code" words to certain audible calls, thereby ensuring players know if an audible is a run or pass, and to which direction it is going. Make sure the code words for calling an audible are different than the code word that triggers an audible, as this is bound to cause confusion on the field.
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Scheme against the defensive formation. For instance, if nine defensive players are stacked in "the box"--the area typically occupied by linebackers and defensive lineman, opting for a pass play might be a good bet. However, if the defense counters by shifting into the Nickel or Dime defense--in which it drops more players into pass coverage--changing back to a run (but doing so in a subtle manner) is the best best. Don't audible into the strength of the opposing defense.
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References
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