Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
PA Slot Cross runs a play-action fake out of Shotgun Trey Y-Flex Str to hold the linebackers before releasing five eligible receivers into a full route tree. The two receivers on the left both run vertical stems (a corner route up top and a shorter seam), the inner slot runs the namesake deep crosser working from left to right across the field, and the flanker on the right runs a quick out to the boundary. The primary read starts with the crosser working across the middle for a big chunk gain versus zone drops, then works to the out route as a quick zone beater or checkdown against man coverage that follows the crosser across the formation.
Defensive Reads
Watch linebacker depth at the snap since undisciplined defenders biting on the play fake create the passing window for the crosser. Key the middle linebacker's drop, if he sits in the throwing lane of the crosser the quarterback should progress immediately to the boundary out route. Check safety rotation before the snap, two high shells with deep help can squeeze the corner route and limit the crosser's yardage after the catch. Look for man coverage indicators like receivers being followed in motion, since this concept stresses man defenders who trail the crosser across traffic. Beware disguised blitzes off the edge since the play-action fake slows the quarterback's initial read and can leave him exposed if protection is not sound.
Usage Tips
Use the play-action fake aggressively on early downs or in run-heavy personnel situations to freeze linebackers and open passing lanes for the crosser.
Identify single high safety shells before the snap since the deep corner route on the left can house a big play if the corner bites on the run fake.
If you see man coverage with no safety help over the crosser, throw with anticipation as soon as the receiver clears the opposite hash for a explosive gain.
Hot route the flanker's out route into a quick hitch or comeback against press man to give yourself a faster answer versus blitz looks.
Pair this play with Inside Zone and HB Draw from the same set to keep defenses honest on early downs before hitting them with this deep shot.
