PA Sprint HB Flat

Watch the play side linebacker at the snap, since a hard crash on the run fake opens the flat route immediately for an easy completion. Identify single high versus two high safety shells before the snap, as single high defenses are more vulnerable to the deep corner route once the safety commits to the fake. Key the flat defender's initial drop, if he sits at the line or bites on run action the flat is open, if he sinks and stays wide the dig behind him becomes the better throw. Beware disciplined cover 3 or cover 4 shells with a deep half safety who does not bite on play action, since that defender can jump the corner route and cause a turnover. Watch for edge blitzers or a contain rush from the sprint out side, since a fast defensive end who does not respect the run fake can disrupt the QB's timing on the roll.