PLAY ACTION CONCEPTS
BOOT SLIDE
A boot concept with a backside crosser or “slide” route coming across the formation late.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Man Coverage
Conflict Defender: Linebackers, Flat Defender
YANKEE
A play-action concept combining a deep post with a crossing route to create an explosive vertical and horizontal stretch.
STRENGTH: Cover 3, Cover 4, Cover 1
Conflict Defender: Free Safety
FLOOD / SAIL
A play-action rollout concept that creates a three-level stretch to one side of the field.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Cover 2
Conflict Defender: Flat Defender
LEAK
A deceptive play-action concept where a blocker releases late into the flat or downfield.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Aggressive Defenses
Conflict Defender: Linebackers, Edge Defender
CROSS COUNTRY
A play-action concept with multiple crossing routes working across the field at different depths.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Cover 4
Conflict Defender: Linebackers, Safeties
POST-WHEEL
A play-action concept pairing a post with a wheel route, creating a vertical stretch inside and outside.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Cover 1
Conflict Defender: Safety, Cornerbacks
THROWBACK
A misdirection play-action concept where the QB rolls one way before throwing back across the field.
STRENGTH: Cover 3 & Over-Pursuing Defenses
Conflict Defender: Safeties, Backside Defenders
SCISSORS
A play-action concept featuring crossing vertical routes designed to stress safeties and create explosive opportunities downfield.
STRENGTH: Cover 2 & Cover 4
Conflict Defender: Safeties