Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 12 playbooks
Breakdown
RPO Alert Bubble is a run-pass option out of Shotgun Trips HB Wk with 10 personnel. The diagram shows a give read to the HB running to the right behind the line, while the trips side runs a short curl or hitch from the outside receiver paired with a bubble screen alert from the two inside slot receivers. The QB reads the flow of the alley defender or overhang defender to decide between handing off the run and pulling to throw the bubble or curl, making this a zone beater designed to punish light box counts and outside leverage.
Defensive Reads
Watch the alley or overhang defender pre-snap since his run/pass discipline determines whether the QB gives or pulls. Cover 3 and Cover 4 shells with linebackers sitting in zone tend to struggle against the bubble concept because the flat defender has to choose between the run fit and the screen. User-controlled defenders who cheat toward the bubble side early can be exploited by keeping the ball on the HB run since the numbers advantage shifts inside. Blitzes off the edge from the trips side can blow up the RPO timing, so check for stacked or walked-up defenders before the snap. Man coverage on the outside receiver with no help over the top is a green light for pulling and throwing since the curl or hitch route wins quickly against tight coverage.
Usage Tips
Check the box count before the snap and if you see six or fewer in the box, lean toward the give on the RPO read.
If the slot defender crashes down on run flow, pull and fire the bubble screen quickly before the flat defender can react.
Use this on early downs like first or second and short to medium yardage since the run/pass balance keeps defenses honest.
Pair this with Bubble Screen or Read Option from the same set so defenses cannot key on run or pass tendencies from this personnel grouping.
Hot route the outside trips receiver into a quick hitch if you face aggressive man coverage to give the QB an extra high percentage option.
