Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
HB Slip Screen out of Shotgun Slot Left is a designed screen pass built to slow down aggressive pass rushers and blitz-heavy defenses. The three outside receivers push vertical releases to clear out underneath defenders and drag coverage deep, while the offensive line sets up to release and lead block for the HB, who slips out to the flat behind them. This is a classic blitz beater and man beater, and the primary read is simply getting the ball to the HB in the flat as soon as the screen develops, letting the blockers spring him upfield.
Defensive Reads
Man coverage with blitz packages is the biggest vulnerability, since defenders in man are turning their backs to the backfield and rushers are flowing upfield away from the screen. Watch for a spy or a linebacker sitting flat instead of blitzing, this is the play's counter and will blow it up before the blockers get set. Zone coverage with disciplined linebackers who stay square and read the backfield can jump the screen, especially if the defense has quick outside zone drops. Pre-snap, look for safety rotation and corner depth, if corners are pressed and safeties are deep this indicates man coverage that this screen exploits. Post-snap, key on defensive ends and linebackers, if they are selling out on the rush without checking the backfield, the screen lane opens quickly for the HB.
Usage Tips
Call this play when you see linebackers creeping toward the line of scrimmage or safeties showing two-high with corners playing tight man, since the delayed release baits the pass rush upfield.
Use it on early downs or third-and-short to keep defenses honest against your dropback passing game, especially if the CPU or opponent has been bringing extra rushers.
Snap the ball quickly and let the screen develop, resist the urge to look at the vertical routes since they are decoys designed to hold defenders deep.
Pair this play with PA Comeback Seam or X Dig in the same set so opponents cannot sit on the screen tendency after seeing your dropback action.
User your lead blocker (the offensive lineman releasing first) to seal the first defender flowing outside, this rep matters more than the throw itself in tight games.
