RPO Peek WR Screen

Watch the slot defender aligned over the bunch, his depth and leverage tell you whether he is sitting on the screen or spying the run. Zone shells like Cover 3 or Cover 4 that widen a linebacker to the flat can be baited into the run since the screen throw becomes low value. Man coverage with the nickel or corner playing tight technique on the bunch receiver takes away the screen and forces the offense into the zone run. Fast flow linebackers who key the mesh point instead of the screen action get gashed if the ball comes out for the bubble. Disciplined defenders who stay square and read run pass options simultaneously, rather than jumping the flow, are the best way to shut this play down completely.