Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
Levels Dig from Shotgun Bunch Wide stacks two in routes at different depths on the play side while the backside X runs a deep dig across the field, and the bunch also releases a shallow drag underneath to occupy linebackers. The lone backfield RB checks for blitz then leaks out to the flat as a checkdown, giving the quarterback a full field-stretch concept off the levels action. This is a classic Cover 2 beater built to attack the seams between the corner and safety, with the primary read progression starting on the deep dig, working down to the underneath levels crossers, and finishing with the flat check-down.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, check safety depth and spacing, if both safeties are deep and split evenly you are looking at Cover 2 which this play is built to beat. Watch the flat defender and curl-to-flat linebacker, if they widen with the underneath crosser it opens a throwing lane for the deep dig behind them. Post-snap, key the corner on the play side, a hard sink into the deep zone signals Cover 3 or Cover 4 and you should check down to the shallow crosser instead of forcing the dig. User-controlled safeties sitting in the middle of the field can jump the dig route, so have a plan to hit the flat back if that defender bites. This concept struggles against a robber or Tampa 2 look with a linebacker spying the middle hole, since that defender can undercut both levels routes.
Usage Tips
Pre-snap, identify if the defense is showing two deep safeties, this play is designed to exploit that soft spot on the sideline against Cover 2. Use motion or a hot route on the flat back to bait a linebacker before the snap if you see man coverage on the bunch. Against zone shells, work the levels concept high to low: read the deep dig first, then progress to the shorter in route underneath if the corner sinks. Pair this play with Curl Flat or Spacing from the same set to keep defenses guessing between horizontal stretch concepts and the vertical dig shot. Best used on second or third and medium when you need a explosive gain over the middle but still have a safety checkdown if the coverage jumps the route.
