Mtn PA Verticals

Pre-snap, identify single high versus two high safety alignment, since single high tells you the defense is vulnerable to verticals down the sideline. Watch cornerback press versus off coverage at the line, press man leaves receivers exposed to double moves but off coverage means you need to win with timing on the vertical stem. Post-snap, track linebacker reaction to the play-action fake, if they crash hard on the run fake it opens the intermediate seam and shallow crossers. Look for a user-controlled defender dropping into a deep lurk or spy position, since that signals the defense expects the shot play and will jump the vertical route. This play struggles against a disciplined Cover 3 with a deep middle safety who does not bite on the fake, so if you see that shell holding its ground, consider checking down or resetting the play at the line.