Playbooks
Quick Reference
In 2 playbooks
Breakdown
Smash Corners is a double smash concept out of Singleback Spread with 10 personnel, running the classic smash combo to both sides of the field. On each side, the outside receiver runs a hard corner route while the inside slot runs a quick flag/pivot underneath, creating a high low stretch on the cornerback. The HB releases up the middle on a checkdown or seam option out of the backfield with no run blocking shown, confirming this is a drop back pass designed to attack Cover 2 and other two deep safety shells by putting the corner in conflict between the flag and the corner route.
Defensive Reads
Pre-snap check safety depth and width, if both safeties are backpedaling to depth before the snap you are likely seeing Cover 2 or Cover 4 which this play is designed to exploit Watch the cornerback at the snap, if he sinks with the corner route the flag route underneath should come open for an easy pitch and catch Look for user controlled safeties sliding over the top late, that lurk threat can jump the corner route so have your flag route as the quick alternative Blitz heavy man coverage with a single high safety can take away the corner routes since the corner beater relies on the two deep shell conflict, check the flag routes as man beaters in that look If linebackers show late blitz depth and disguise Cover 3, the HB release up the middle becomes the checkdown against the extra rusher
Usage Tips
Pre-snap identify two deep safety shells since this play is built specifically to punish Cover 2 and Cover 4 by stressing the flat defender or cornerback with a high low read
If the corner sits on the underneath flag route, throw the corner route behind him for an explosive gain
Use the HB check release as your outlet against blitz heavy calls when both outside verticals are covered
Hot route the backside flag to a quick out or spot if you are getting jumped by an underneath zone defender sitting at five to seven yards
Pair this play with Curl Flats or Pivot Slants in your play calling sequence to keep the defense honest against both zone drops and man leverage before dialing up Smash Corners for the explosive shot
