Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
Exit RPO Alert Screen is an RPO built off the Shotgun Normal Y Off set in 11 personnel, giving the QB a run/pass conflict read at the snap. The read side shows an alert screen to the boundary receiver, who releases outside then breaks back toward the QB as the offensive line sets up a screen wall, while the inside receiver runs a shallow drag underneath to occupy the second level defender. On the backside, the running back and tight end combo work an option route out of the backfield, giving the QB a run key versus a bubble screen key depending on how the flat defender and force player react. The primary progression is: read the box count and flat defender first for the screen, then check the backside RB/TE option route if the perimeter is taken away.
Defensive Reads
Watch the flat defender at the snap, if he squats on the shallow drag the screen will have a clean lane outside. Key the play side linebacker's first step, aggressive downhill run fits are exactly what this RPO is designed to punish with the screen. Man coverage on the perimeter receiver is a green light for the alert screen since the blockers will have a clean angle on a trailing defender. Zone coverage with a hard flat drop can sit on the screen, so be ready to check to the backside RB/TE option route against Cover 3 or Cover 4 shells. Beware user-controlled defenders spying the screen or lurking underneath, a smart user player baiting the run fit can jump the throwback route for a big hit.
Usage Tips
Check the numbers in the box before the snap, if the defense is loaded up front with six or more defenders this is your green light to throw the screen instead of handing it off.
Identify the flat defender and force player pre-snap, if they are sitting too deep or crashing hard on run action the alert screen behind them will hit for a big gain.
Use your hot routes to convert the shallow drag into a quick out if you are seeing a lot of underneath zone traffic clogging the middle.
This play pairs well with Read Option and Midline Read Option in the same set since the RPO conflict read forces linebackers to hesitate on run fits over the course of a series.
Best called on early downs or short yardage third downs where defenses are more likely to sell out against the run and leave the screen wide open.
