Playbooks

WR Screen

Shotgun·Empty Base·11
Screen PassWr ScreenPass PlayBubble ScreenCorner
Play diagram for WR Screen from Shotgun Empty Base in Madden 27

Quick Reference

FormationShotgun

In 7 playbooks

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Breakdown

WR Screen out of Empty Base Shotgun sends the backside receiver on a quick swing to the far boundary while the outside receiver on that side stalk blocks to spring him. The play design pulls the offensive line laterally to set up lead blockers in front of the ball carrier, while the frontside receivers run token vertical stems to hold their defenders. This is a screen play built to beat aggressive man pressure and blitz packages, with the primary read being the swing man as soon as he catches the ball in space.

Defensive Reads

Watch for cornerbacks pressed hard on the perimeter receivers, this indicates man coverage and a lane for the blocker to seal. Identify linebacker blitz packages presnap, since a hard edge rush or interior blitz plays directly into the screen's design. Post snap, key the flat or curl zone defender, if he sits and reads the quarterback instead of crashing, he can blow up the screen before it develops. User controlled defenders who stay home in zone coverage or diagnose the screen quickly by reading the offensive line's lateral movement will shut this play down. Cover 2 or Cover 3 zone shells with disciplined linebackers who do not overpursue are the toughest matchups for this concept.

Usage Tips

Call this against defenses showing blitz or press man presnap since the quick throw negates rush time and exploits vacated underneath zones.

Check the flat defender and slot corner depth before the snap, if they are crashing hard off the edge this screen hits for a big gain almost every time.

Use the stalk blocking receiver to your advantage by letting the play develop fully before pulling the trigger, do not rush the throw.

Pair this with Curl Flats or Stick in your play calling sequence so defenses that key on screen tendencies get punished by similar formations running different concepts.

Best used on early downs or in obvious blitz downs like third and short, where defenders are more likely to sell out for pressure.

Other Plays in Empty Base