Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 12 playbooks
Breakdown
HB Slip Screen out of Shotgun Split Slot Open sends three receivers vertical or on breaking routes to clear out the underneath zones while the offensive line shows pass pro before releasing to set a wall in front of the checkdown. The HB slips out to the flat opposite the boundary route as the screen outlet, with linemen climbing to the second level to lead block once the catch is made. This is a screen play designed to bait aggressive pass rushers and blitz-heavy defenses, and the primary read progression is simply getting the ball to the HB in space once the blockers are set, using the vertical routes only as decoys to hold the linebackers and safeties.
Defensive Reads
Watch for defenders staying home on the HB instead of covering the vertical routes, since that is the clearest sign the screen is being sniffed out. Man coverage with a linebacker locked on the HB out of the backfield is the biggest threat to this play, as it removes the space the screen depends on. Zone coverage with linebackers dropping deep and wide is where this play thrives, since it opens up the flat and lets the lead blockers get in front cleanly. If the user takes control of a linebacker and sits in the screen lane instead of rushing, expect the play to get blown up at or near the line of scrimmage. Heavy edge pressure or contain rushers who stay disciplined instead of crashing inside can disrupt the timing of the screen release before blockers get set.
Usage Tips
Call this play against defenses that are bringing pressure or sending extra rushers, since a fast interior rush actually speeds up the screen setup and gets your blockers out in front quicker.
Check pre-snap for man coverage indicators like a linebacker shading toward the HB, and if you see a nano blitz or edge pressure package this is one of the best answers in the set.
Hot route the outside vertical routes into quick hitches or slants if the defense shows a soft zone shell, but leave the screen concept alone since the blocking and timing are already built in.
Pair this with 46 Y Cross or Dbl Slant earlier in a series so the defense starts keying on quick underneath passing, then dial up the HB Slip Screen once they start crashing hard off the edge.
Use this on early downs or after a big defensive stop when the opponent is likely to dial up a blitz to create negative plays, since the screen punishes that aggression directly.
