Playbooks
Likely unavailable in the playbook builder
Quick Reference
Not in any team playbook.
Breakdown
RPO Read Bubble is an RPO out of Shotgun Wing Slot Wk that gives the QB a run/pass read based on the alignment and reaction of the flat defender. The diagram shows inside zone blocking up front with the RB running the zone track behind the line while a slot receiver releases outside on a quick bubble screen path with an outside receiver stalk blocking or clearing the corner. The primary read progression is pre-snap numbers to the bubble side, then post-snap key on the alley or flat defender: if he crashes down on the run action, pull and throw the bubble; if he stays wide to cover the bubble, hand off the zone run.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify the flat or curl to flat defender assigned to the bubble side and see if he is walked out or sitting inside the box. If the defense shows a heavy box with the slot corner playing off, expect the offense to throw bubble immediately for an easy pitch and catch. Post-snap, watch for a user-controlled defender flying out to jump the bubble route, this leaves the inside zone run wide open behind him. Fast flowing linebackers who key the RB's zone action will get gashed if they overcommit before confirming the quarterback has pulled it. Cover 2 and Cover 3 zone shells with disciplined flat defenders who stay wide but do not bite on run action are the most effective counters to this concept.
Usage Tips
Check the numbers to the bubble side before the snap, you want a leverage advantage with either a covered slot or an extra alley defender out of position.
Use the hot route menu to confirm whether your slot is running bubble or if you need to adjust him against man coverage that follows him out wide.
Against zone shells with the flat defender sitting wide, trust the run key and hand it off into the inside zone lanes rather than forcing the bubble throw.
Pair this call with Read Option or Power Read from the same set so linebackers cannot key run fits off formation tendency alone.
Best used on early downs or short yardage where a free five to seven yard gain on the bubble or a favorable run box keeps the offense ahead of schedule.
