Playbooks
Fake Punt FB Flat is a trick play out of the Special Punt formation that disguises a quick pass to the fullback releasing into the flat off the fake snap. The punter (acting as the passer) sells the punt fake momentarily before getting the ball out quickly to the fullback, who is the lone primary target on this concept. This is a man beater against overaggressive punt-return units since the flat route attacks any defender who bites on the punt fake or misreads the formation, and the primary read progression is simply the fullback in the flat with no secondary options, so the throw needs to come out fast once the fake sells.
Watch for defenders crashing hard off the edge toward the punter pre-snap, this confirms the defense is in a punt-block or all-out rush package that this play exploits. If the defense stays disciplined in a standard punt-safe alignment with contain defenders holding their positions, the flat throw to the fullback will likely be covered immediately. Key on any linebacker or gunner who stays home and shuffles toward the flat, since a disciplined defender sitting on the flat route shuts this play down instantly. Look for user-controlled defenders spying the punter, if the human user reads the fake and stays put, the fullback will not have room to operate. Check safety depth, if the deep safeties are already retreating for a return instead of staying near the box, that signals the defense fully respects the punt and this play has a lower chance of blowing wide open.
Only call this play when the defense has shown a tendency to sell out on punt return rushes or crash hard off the edge to block the kick.
Check pre-snap alignment for a punt-return look with defenders sprinting upfield immediately at the snap, since that confirms they are not respecting the fake.
Get the ball out to the fullback as quickly as possible after the fake, this is not a play designed for a long developing progression.
Mix this play into your fake punt sequencing alongside Fake Punt FB Pass and Fake Punt Off Tackle to keep the defense guessing between pass and run fakes.
Save this call for favorable field position and situations where a blown fake will not be catastrophic, such as midfield on 4th and long.