Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 1 playbook
Breakdown
This RPO Read WR Screen out of Shotgun Trio Offset Wk gives the quarterback a true run-pass option read on the backside. The offensive line and TE execute the inside zone run blocking scheme up front while the backside receiver runs a bubble screen with the adjacent slot receiver blocking for him. The QB reads the widened defender (usually the alley defender or overhang) to decide between handing off the zone run or pulling and throwing the quick screen, making this a zone beater against light box counts and overaggressive run fits.
Defensive Reads
Watch the alley defender or slot corner pre-snap, if they are sitting outside with outside leverage they are keying the screen and can jump the throw. Identify if the defense is in a run-heavy front with linebackers crashing downhill, that tells you the QB will likely pull and throw rather than hand off. Post-snap, user the overhang defender or nickel corner to squat on the bubble route and force the QB to commit to the run read instead. Look for defenses that spin a safety down into the box pre-snap, this often signals a run blitz that this RPO is designed to exploit if the QB reads it correctly. Sim or press coverage on the perimeter receiver can disrupt the screen blocker's angle, clogging the edge and taking away the pull read entirely.
Usage Tips
Check the box count before the snap and let the alley defender or slot corner dictate your decision instead of forcing the throw.
If the defense shows six or more in the box with the overhang crashing down hard, pull the screen immediately for an easy gain.
Use hot routes sparingly here since the design already gives you a built-in conflict, but you can motion the bubble receiver to adjust spacing against man coverage.
Pair this play with Outside Zone and Inside Zone from the same set so the defense has to respect the run fit every time you snap the ball, setting up the RPO look later in a series.
Best used on early downs or short yardage third downs where defenses are more likely to sell out against the run, giving the screen window more space.
