Playbooks

Mtn RPO Read Swing

Shotgun·Split Slot Offset·20
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Quick Reference

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Breakdown

Mtn RPO Read Swing is a run-pass option out of the Shotgun Split Slot Offset formation that pairs an inside zone run with a swing route as the pass alert. The quarterback reads a designated second level defender, usually a linebacker flowing to the mesh point, to decide between handing off on the zone track or pulling and firing the swing to the flat. This is a true RPO, not a straight dropback or play-action concept, and it functions as a light box beater against teams that crash linebackers down on run action.

Defensive Reads

Pre-snap, identify whether the defense is in a light box with only five or six defenders in the tackle box, which signals the run portion of this RPO should hit for positive yardage. Watch the flat defender or curl to flat linebacker at the snap since his leverage on the swing route tells you if the pass option is live. If the defense shows a two high safety shell with linebackers staying disciplined on their run fits, expect the zone hand off to be the higher value read since the swing will be covered by numbers. Man coverage on the running back out of the backfield is the biggest tell that the swing option is dead, since a defender aligned tight to the running back pre-snap can jump the route instantly. Aggressive blitz packages that send extra rushers off the edge can be exploited by the swing since it gets the ball out fast and attacks the perimeter before the rush arrives, but be wary of a sim pressure look with a spy on the running back.

Usage Tips

Check the box count before the snap and count defenders inside the tackles to confirm you have a numbers advantage for the zone run.

If the linebacker you are keying sits flat footed or bails to cover the swing, pull the ball immediately and get it to the flat before the flow defenders can redirect.

Use hot routes sparingly here since the concept is designed to stay simple, but you can adjust the backside receiver into a quick slant to punish teams that roll a safety down to take away the swing.

This play works best on early downs and in run heavy personnel situations where defenses are stacking the box, since the swing naturally punishes overaggressive linebacker fits.

Sequence this with Mtn RPO Peek Swing and RPO Zone Bubble in the same set so the defense cannot key on one specific flat threat, then mix in HB Sweep to keep the same run action look with a different ball carrier path.

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