Playbooks
Quick Reference
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Breakdown
RPO Read FL Screen is a run-pass option out of Shotgun Normal Y Off with 11 personnel that pairs an inside zone run look with a bubble/flat screen to the flanker. The diagram shows the QB reading the alley defender: if that defender crashes down on the run action, the QB pulls and throws the quick screen to the WR running the shallow arc route to the boundary, while the backside X runs a go route to hold the corner deep. Underneath, the TE releases into a short curl/settle as a checkdown, and the offensive line blocks the run scheme regardless of the RPO decision. This is a numbers-based RPO built to beat aggressive run fits and overloaded boxes rather than a strict man or zone beater, with the primary read being the flat/alley defender before working to the TE checkdown if the screen lane is taken away.
Defensive Reads
Watch the slot defender or overhang player immediately after the snap since his reaction to run action determines whether the QB hands off or throws the screen. A blitzing SAM or nickel defender who ignores the screen fake and shoots upfield will blow this play up before it develops, so user him if you suspect the RPO. Press coverage on the flanker with the screen removes the leverage advantage and forces the QB to check to the run or the TE checkdown instead. Two-high safety shells with soft zone corners are vulnerable since the screen blocker gets a clean angle on the alley defender in space. If the defense shows man coverage with the corner playing off, expect the QB to throw the screen quickly since the blocking angle upfield is favorable against trailing defenders.
Usage Tips
Use pre-snap motion or a quick glance at the box count to confirm this is a light box before snapping so the run element stays viable if you pull it back.
Key the alley defender (usually a slot corner, SAM backer, or overhang safety) immediately after the snap since his run/pass conflict is the entire premise of this RPO.
If the defense shows two-high shells with soft corners, favor the screen throw since the numbers on the perimeter usually favor the offense.
Pair this play with Read Option or Midline Read Option earlier in a series so the defense respects the run fit, making the alley defender hesitate on this rep and opening the screen.
On third and short, this is a great changeup after running Inside Zone or HB Counter since defenders will be primed to crash down, making the bubble screen an easy conversion.
