Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
TE In is a trips-based passing concept out of Shotgun Trips TE Offset that isolates the backside receiver on a deep vertical while the trips side runs a layered combo. The TE releases outside and works a shallow in route across the middle (drawn in red) as the underneath conflict route, with the two outside trips receivers pushing vertical up the seams and the boundary X running a straight go route. This is a man beater at its core, using the TE in route to sit in the void created by the vertical routes stretching the defense, though it holds up against zone if the underneath defenders bite on the verticals. Primary progression starts with the backside go route on an isolated corner, then works to the TE in route as the middle read, with the vertical seams as the deep alert if the safety cheats down.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify single high versus two high safety looks, single high with no underneath help invites the isolated go route on the backside. Watch the cornerback over the isolated receiver, if he is playing tight man with no safety rotation over the top that is your green light to throw the go route. Post-snap, key the middle linebacker or nickel defender's drop, if he sinks deep to help on the seams the TE in route will have a wide open throwing lane underneath. Beware disguised Cover 3 or Cover 4 shells that show two high pre-snap then rotate a safety over the top of the isolated go route, this eliminates your first read and forces you to progress to the TE in route. Watch for a user-controlled linebacker sitting in a lurk position in the shallow middle zone, he can jump the TE in route if you telegraph the throw, so use pump fakes or eye manipulation to move him off his spot.
Usage Tips
Check the backside cornerback's alignment before the snap, if he is playing off man or shows no safety help over the top, take the shot on the isolated go route immediately.
Use the TE in route as your rhythm throw against man coverage since it crosses the field and creates natural separation off linebackers and nickel defenders trying to stay attached.
Against zone shells like Cover 3 or Cover 4, hold the ball a beat longer and let the two seam verticals from the trips side occupy the deep defenders, then hit the TE in route sitting underneath in the vacated middle window.
Best used on second and medium or third and short to medium since the quick in route gives you a high-percentage completion with the deep shots available if the defense overcommits.
Pair this play with RPO Alert Bubble or RPO Zone Alert Bubble earlier in a drive to condition the defense to bite on quick perimeter throws, then come back to TE In to attack the middle and take the top off once linebackers start creeping up.
