Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
Bench X Dig is a Shotgun Deuce Close play-action-free dropback pass built around a three-level stretch on the play side. The outside receiver on the right runs a deep corner route to clear the top of the defense, the inline TE or slot runs a dig that cuts across the middle of the field, and the backside receiver on the left runs a deep comeback while the running back releases into a quick check route out of the backfield. This is primarily a man beater because the dig sits down in the void created by the corner route pulling the deep defender away, but it can also work against zone if you read the flat and hole defenders correctly. The primary read progression starts with the dig on the play side, then works to the check release out of the backfield if the middle is clogged, and finally to the backside comeback as a last resort against soft coverage.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, look at the depth of the middle linebacker and the strong safety since a shaded MLB or robber-style safety can jump the dig route before it crosses the field. Post-snap, key the flow of the deep defender responsible for the corner route; if he stays home instead of running with the corner, the window for the dig will be tight. Watch for user-controlled defenders sitting in the shallow to intermediate middle of the field, as this play is vulnerable to a lurking linebacker or nickel defender who can jump the dig route. This play struggles against Cover 2 or Cover 4 shells with disciplined zone drops because the dig can be squeezed by underneath defenders while the corner route runs into deep help. It performs best against man coverage or blitz-heavy fronts where the corner route occupies deep help and creates a natural rub for the dig route to break open.
Usage Tips
Pre-snap, identify whether the defense is showing man or zone by checking safety depth and corner alignment on the outside receivers.
If you see a single high safety with corners in press, expect man coverage and prioritize the dig route since the corner route will occupy the deep defender.
Against zone shells like Cover 3 or Cover 4, hot route the check release to a flat route or use it as a quick outlet if the dig gets sat on by a linebacker.
This play pairs well with Bench and Bench Swap in the same set since both share similar formation motion and route distribution, letting you disguise your intentions before the snap.
Use this on second or third and medium situations where you have room for the dig to develop but still need a chunk gain, and sequence it after running Inside Zone or Outside Zone to keep defenders honest against the run.
