Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
Choice Special is a trips-based passing concept out of Shotgun Trips Slots Close with a 10 personnel grouping. The backside X runs a solo vertical up the sideline, while the trips side features a choice/option route from the inside slot that breaks flat across the field, a middle slot running a seam that sits down at the top of the numbers, and the outside trips receiver climbing straight upfield on a vertical release into the boundary. The primary read starts with the vertical shot to the single receiver if you get a favorable matchup, then works to the option route underneath and the seam sitting down as the check-down against zone drops.
Defensive Reads
Watch for single high safety looks since that opens up the backside vertical for a big play against man coverage. Identify if the defense is playing zone by seeing if the underneath defenders sink into throwing lanes rather than mirroring receiver releases. Beware of user linebackers spying the option route since a smart human defender can jump the break and undercut the throw. Cover 3 with a hard sitting defender in the seam area is the toughest shell to beat since it takes away both the option route and the seam read. Blitz packages that bring extra rushers off the edge can be countered by getting the ball out quickly to the option route before the pocket collapses.
Usage Tips
Check the single receiver side pre-snap for man coverage without safety help over the top before considering the deep shot.
Use the option route as your rhythm throw against zone defenses since it settles into soft spots between linebackers and underneath defenders.
If the defense shows two-high shells, prioritize the seam sitting down at the top of the numbers since it exploits the gap between the flat defender and deep safety.
Pair this play with 61 X Choice or RNS Hitches in the same set to keep the defense guessing between quick option concepts and vertical shots from identical formation looks.
Best used on second and medium to long yardage situations where the offense can take a shot but still has an underneath answer against pressure.
