Verticals Y Option

Pre-snap, check safety depth and width, if both safeties are shaded to one side of the field the verticals on the opposite side will have a numbers advantage. Watch linebacker depth at the snap, if they sink hard on the option route that opens up easy throwing lanes for the verticals up the seam. Identify user controlled defenders lurking in the middle of the field, since a deep spy or lurk defender can jump the seam route and turn it into a pick six if you force the throw late. This play struggles against Cover 4 or quarters coverage where corners can play the verticals with outside help underneath, so be ready to check down to the option route or the running back check release. Man coverage with no safety help over the top gets exposed quickly if your outside receivers can win off the line, but disguised zone blitzes that drop a defensive lineman into a shallow zone can jump the option route if you throw it on time without checking the flat.