The difference between inside and outside zones is the aiming points of the running back and the footwork of the offensive lineman. Inside zone is meant to be hit between the B and A gaps. In contrast, outside zone will hit in the C, D, or B gaps. The footwork between the two plays is different.

At its core, the Inside Zone Blocking Scheme is designed to create movement and establish control at the line of scrimmage. Unlike other run plays, such as the outside zone or power schemes, the Inside Zone focuses on hitting the gaps between offensive linemen rather than attacking the edges or specific defenders.