Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
Return RPO Flat is a run pass option out of Shotgun Bunch Str Offset that pairs an inside zone run look with a flat route triggered off the bunch alignment, using pre-snap motion to shift the defense before the snap. The RPO read keys the flat defender or overhang linebacker: if he squeezes down on the run action, the quarterback pulls and fires the flat throw for an easy pitch and catch; if he stays wide to cover the flat, the quarterback hands off into the zone run scheme up front. This is primarily a run first RPO with a built in zone beater flat concept, and it can also function as a light man beater against aggressive man defenders who bite on the run fake.
Defensive Reads
Watch the flat defender or overhang linebacker immediately at the snap since his run fit or flat drop is the entire conflict this RPO is designed to exploit Check safety depth and box count pre-snap, a light box with two high safeties invites the run while a stacked box with the safety creeping down signals the flat throw is the better option Man coverage with the flat defender turning his back to run with the receiver at the snap is a green light to pull and throw since the run fit behind him is likely occupied Zone shells like Cover 3 or Cover 4 that keep the flat defender squeezed on the line of scrimmage against the run open up the flat route cleanly for an easy completion User controlled defenders sitting in the flat clogging the throwing lane or a linebacker blitzing off the edge unblocked are the biggest counters, so be ready to hand the ball off into the zone run scheme instead of forcing the throw
Usage Tips
Use the pre-snap motion to identify if the defense adjusts with a linebacker or defensive back, which tells you whether you are facing man or zone before the ball is even snapped
Key the flat defender immediately after the snap since this is a true numbers based RPO, not a play you want to lock into one option before reading the flat area
Call this on early downs in run heavy personnel packages to keep the defense honest, then follow it up with Return RPO Alert Flat or Mtn RPO Alert Swing later in the drive so defenders hesitate on the same flat key
Attack light boxes and defenses that show two high safety shells since the run lane opens up and the flat throw is still available if a linebacker rotates down late
Pair this play with Read Option and Duo in your call sheet sequencing so opposing defenses cannot sit on the flat key without getting gashed by the inside run threats
