Playbooks
Depth-chart slots are shown as they line up in the base package for this set.
| Player | Side | Route |
|---|---|---|
| FB1 | Left | Flat |
| WR1 | Left | Run Block |
| WR2 | Right | Run Block |
| TE1 | Right | Run Block |
RPO Read F Slide is a run-pass option built off inside zone action with the fullback sliding into the flat as the pass alternative. The quarterback reads the play side linebacker or force defender: if that defender steps up to fill the run lane, pull and throw the F slide route to the fullback in the void; if he stays home in coverage, hand off and let the offensive line work the inside zone blocking scheme. This play attacks light boxes and aggressive linebackers, making it a strong answer against both man and zone looks depending on the leverage of the flat defender.
Watch the play side linebacker depth before the snap, if he is stacked tight to the line he is likely reading run fast and vulnerable to the slide route Identify single high versus two high safety shells, single high defenses often crash the box hard making the F slide the better option almost every snap Look for a user controlled linebacker spying the fullback release, this is the biggest threat to shutting down the pass option since he can jump the flat route immediately Man coverage with inside leverage on the fullback out of the backfield takes away the easy pitch and forces you to trust the run fit Zone defenses that widen the flat defender to take away the slide open up cutback lanes for the inside zone run, so respect the run fit if the flat is sat on
Check the box count before the snap, if there are six or fewer defenders in the box you have a green light to hand it off unless a linebacker cheats to the F slide flat immediately
Use this play on early downs (first and second and short to medium) to keep defenses honest and set up explosive plays later in the drive
Hot route the backside receiver on a quick out or slant if you see a defense that likes to rotate a safety down post snap, giving you a third option away from the read
Pair this play with Mtn HB Toss and Outside Zone from the same set so linebackers cannot sit on the interior gap fits without opening themselves up to the F slide read
Against blitz heavy defenses, throw the F slide quickly since the fullback release doubles as a de facto hot route that beats most nano blitzes off the edge