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Quick Reference
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Breakdown
RPO Read GT Screen out of Shotgun Normal Flex Snug is a run pass option built around a guard and tackle pull screen to the backfield. The diagram shows the inside receiver on the left running a quick out to the flat while the running back releases underneath toward a screen route developing behind the pulling linemen, with the right side receiver running a stop route back toward the quarterback. The offensive line shows zone run blocking with the guard and tackle pulling out to lead block for the screen. The primary read progression is quarterback keys the box count and second level flow first for the run through the middle, then works the screen to the running back as the pulling linemen get out in front, with the backside stop route as a quick answer if defenders crash hard toward the line of scrimmage.
Defensive Reads
Watch linebacker depth at the snap, if they crash hard toward the line on run action, the screen behind the pulling guard and tackle will have a lane. Key the flat defender on the left side, since a defender sitting in that flat zone can jump the quick out route and cut off an easy RPO read. Look for a linebacker or slot defender staying home with eyes on the backfield, this is the biggest screen killer since he can blow up the pulling linemen or tackle the back for a loss. Man coverage on the backside stop route with a corner playing tight leaves little room, so expect the quarterback to pull it down or throw the flat route instead. Zone coverage shells with safeties staying deep and linebackers reading run first are most vulnerable, since the screen exploits the natural downhill flow of a run stopping defense.
Usage Tips
Use pre-snap motion or a hard count to see if linebackers commit to the run fit before the snap, since this play depends on defenders flowing hard downhill. Check the box count on the play call screen, if there are six or fewer defenders in the box, lean run, if there are seven or more stacked in the box, lean screen. Hot route the backside stop route into a quick slant against man coverage if the corner is playing off to give yourself a rhythm throw outside the screen read. This play pairs well with Inside Zone and HB Draw in the same set since all three sell the same downhill run action, which keeps linebackers hesitant and sets up the screen for bigger yardage later in a series. Best used on early downs or second and short when defenses are geared to stop the run, since the screen exploits linebackers who bite on the zone blocking action.
