Playbooks
Depth-chart slots are shown as they line up in the base package for this set.
| Player | Side | Route |
|---|---|---|
| FB1 | Middle | Option Route |
| HB2 | Left | Pass Block |
| WR1 | Left | Post |
| WR2 | Right | Post |
| HB1 | Right | Wheel |
PA HB Dive out of the Flexbone Normal set sells the FB Dive fake from the same personnel group before releasing routes off the play-action shell, making it a devastating tool against overly aggressive run defenses. The quarterback carries out the dive fake to the halfback, then works a vertical or crossing shot off the boot action while the flexbone blockers hold their run blocking assignments to sell the fake. This is a play-action pass built primarily as a man beater against linebackers and safeties who bite on the run action, with the primary read progressing from the deep shot route first, then working down to any underneath crosser or checkdown release out of the backfield.
Pre-snap, identify single-high safety shells (like Cover 3 or Cover 1) since these are the most vulnerable to the play-action dive fake because the linebackers and safety are focused on run fits. Watch linebacker depth at the snap, if they crash hard on the dive fake, that confirms the play-action window is open for the deep shot route. Post-snap, key the flow of the second-level defenders, if they stay disciplined and hang in their zone drops instead of biting on the fake, this play loses its explosive value and you should check down immediately. Cover 2 and Cover 4 shells with two deep safeties are the toughest matchup for this play since they keep help over the top and are not baited by the run fake as easily. Beware of user-controlled linebackers or safeties spying the play-action fake, since a smart defender sitting in the throwing lane can jump the deep route if you telegraph the pass too early.
Run this play early in a series after you have established Midline Triple, Inside Veer Triple Opt, or FB Dive so the defense is conditioned to bite on run action before you hit them with the pass.
Check the linebacker depth pre-snap, if they are sitting shallow expecting run fits, this is your green light to fire the play-action shot.
Use hot routes to convert the underneath option into a quick out or drag if you diagnose zone coverage, since this gives you a built-in answer against defenders who sink into zone drops rather than following the run fake.
Best called on early downs (1st and 10 or 2nd and short) when defensive tendencies favor stacking the box against the flexbone run game.
Sequence this play right after Wb Dive or Load Option in your play-calling script so the defense keys run and gets punished by the play-action window.