Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
Mtn HB Slip Screen is an HB screen out of Shotgun Ace Offset with 12 personnel that uses pre-snap motion to get numbers to one side before the ball is snapped. At the snap the two TEs release vertically then break flat across the field to wall off pursuit, while the HB slips out to the boundary side and settles behind a blocker as the QB looks to dump it quickly. This is a classic screen play designed to beat aggressive man pressure and overloaded blitz packages, with the primary read simply being the HB in the flat once the initial rush is drawn upfield.
Defensive Reads
As the defense, key on HB alignment and any pre-snap motion toward the boundary, since that side is where the slip screen typically develops. Watch for TEs releasing upfield then breaking flat immediately, this is the tell for a screen rather than a standard route concept. Sit a linebacker or slot defender underneath in the flat or use a user-controlled defender to jump the throwing lane if you diagnose the screen quickly. Zone coverage with active linebacker eyes on the backfield will shut this down, especially Cover 3 or Cover 4 shells where flat defenders stay disciplined. Avoid full send blitzes without a spy, since unblocked rushers running straight upfield give the HB a clean release into space.
Usage Tips
Use the pre-snap motion to identify if the defense shifts a linebacker or corner, which confirms man coverage or a blitz look.
Call this play on early downs or in second and long situations when defenses are more likely to bring pressure or play aggressive man coverage.
Let the rush get upfield for a full second before delivering the screen pass to allow your TE blockers time to seal off flow defenders.
Pair this with Inside Zone or Buck Sweep in your play-calling sequence so defenses respect the run fake and bite on run action, opening up the screen lanes.
If you see a delayed blitz or spy on the HB, check to Quick Slants or Curl Flats from the same set to avoid a negative play.
