Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
This WR Screen out of Shotgun Split Slot Open sends the two receivers to the left into a bubble screen concept, with the slot receiver stalking downfield to set up the block while the outer receiver curls back to catch the quick throw behind a wall of linemen releasing laterally. The three linemen to the play side scoot out to the left to build a blocking convoy in space, while the backside tackle stays home to protect. This is a pure screen play designed to bait aggressive man pressure and blitz calls, with the primary read being an immediate catch and read of the alley created by the pulling linemen, letting the receiver decide whether to bounce outside or cut upfield behind the convoy.
Defensive Reads
Key on cornerback alignment before the snap, since press man on the outside receiver signals the screen has a low ceiling because the corner can jam the release Watch linebacker depth at the snap, since fast flowing linebackers who read screen quickly can blow up the convoy before it forms Identify Cover 0 or Cover 1 blitz looks, since this screen is built specifically to counter aggressive man pressure that vacates the perimeter Look for a user controlled defender sitting in a shallow zone or spying the backfield, as that lurk defender can jump the throw for a big play against the offense Against zone shells with linebackers sitting underneath, this screen loses value fast since defenders can read and react before the blockers get set
Usage Tips
Call this against defenses showing blitz or heavy man pressure pre-snap since the quick screen negates rushers before they reach the quarterback
Watch for corners playing tight press or cheating inside, since that leaves the perimeter wide open for the bubble screen to hit big
Use this play in rotation with Backs Cross or Dbl Slant to condition the defense to expect quick game, then hit them with 46 Y Cross or PA HB Wheel off the same formation for a shot play
Throw this on early downs like first and ten or second and short to keep the defense honest and avoid predictable screen tendencies on third down
If the user controls a defender who flies to the flat immediately, check down to the backside or come off the play at the line with a hot route audible
