Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
HB Slip Screen out of Pistol Wing Flex is a classic screen pass designed to bait the pass rush upfield while the offensive line releases to lead block for the HB in the flat. The diagram shows four vertical routes from the outside receivers and TEs clearing out the second and third level defenders, while the HB slips out of the backfield to the right and runs a shallow route toward the sideline behind the releasing line. The primary read is the HB in the flat, this is a designed screen with no true progression, the QB is looking to get the ball to the back as soon as he settles outside and the blockers get in front of him.
Defensive Reads
If you are on defense, key the offensive line for a slow developing pass set or immediate release upfield, that is the first tell of a screen. Watch the HB after the snap instead of dropping into your zone assignment, if he stays in to chip block momentarily before releasing to the flat that confirms screen action. Spy or user a linebacker instead of blitzing on obvious screen downs, a defender sitting short can jump the throwing lane before the HB gets his blockers set. Cover 3 and Cover 4 shells with disciplined linebackers who do not bite on the vertical route clears will shut this down, since the underneath defenders stay home to sniff out the screen. Man coverage with blitz packages is the most vulnerable shell against this play, if you see man match blitz called back off immediately and play a zone based scheme instead.
Usage Tips
Call this play against aggressive user blitzers or defensive playcalls that show heavy pressure pre-snap, since the vertical routes will hold defenders deep and open up the alley for the HB.
Watch for delayed blitzes or overload pressure from the defense, this play punishes teams that send extra rushers because those defenders are taken out of position to defend the screen.
Use the four vertical routes as a pre-snap disguise, if the defense shows man coverage with press corners those routes can become the actual answer if the defense sniffs out the screen.
Pair this play with Mtn HB Power O and PA Power O earlier in a drive to condition the defense to respect inside run action, then call HB Slip Screen when the defense starts crashing hard to stop the run.
Best used on early downs or after showing tempo with quick passes like Y Stick, since defenses playing fast and aggressive are the easiest to screen.
