Playbooks
Quick Reference
Breakdown
PA Deep Out uses play action from Singleback Doubles Y Off Close to hold the linebackers before attacking the boundary. The backside receiver runs a deep out breaking hard to the sideline, while the two receivers on the strong side execute a drag and flat combo underneath, and the TE releases into a wide open route to the opposite sideline. This is a play-action zone beater designed to work off run fits, with the primary read starting on the deep out route against zone leverage, then working down to the underneath drag or checking to the TE flat route if the deep shot is not there.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap, identify single high shells like Cover 3 or Cover 1, since the deep out exploits the flat defender's conflict between the drag and the sideline route. Watch linebacker depth at the snap: if they crash hard on the play fake, the underneath crossers will be wide open immediately. Post-snap, key the cornerback on the deep out side. If he sinks into a deep third instead of squatting on the route, look to the underneath drag or flat instead. Cover 2 with a deep half safety over the top can take away the deep out, so be ready to check down quickly against two high looks. User-controlled defenders sitting in a lurk position near the drag route can jump the underneath read, so double check the TE flat route as a release valve.
Usage Tips
Use this play on early downs when the defense shows run support with linebackers stepping up, since the play action freezes them and opens the deep out window.
Check the cornerback depth pre-snap: if he is playing soft zone or off man, the deep out has room to sit down for a big gain.
Hot route the TE into a deeper route if you see a robber or lurking linebacker sitting underneath the drag concept.
Pair this call with Stick or Dragon Spacing earlier in a series to sell the same run action look before hitting the deep out for explosive yardage.
Best deployed on second and medium or first down to punish defenses selling out on early down run support.
