Intro
Below is a list of the most common Quick Pass and Screen concepts and terminology in football. I cover what each concept does while adding some key points along with various play images for reference. These concepts are grouped together because they share the same idea of getting the ball out quickly to players.
The list is in alphabetical order, but I will cover Quick Pass concepts first then Screens after that. I use the latest football games like College Football 26 and Madden NFL 26 as a way to organize concepts so what you see below is from the Quick Pass and Screen Concepts section.
Passing concepts can be mirrored (the same concept on each side) or to just one side. This means you will often see plays with two separate concepts on either side. This is more true than ever which is comes to these specific concepts.
Hitch
Hitch (or “all-hitches”) is a quick-game passing concept designed to exploit soft, off-coverage by defenders, often used to secure easy first downs. Receivers push vertically for 5–7 yards to force defensive backs to turn their hips before abruptly snapping back to the quarterback to catch the ball. This concept is used in various schemes but especailly in the Veer and Shoot offense.
Key Points
- Routes: Outside receivers (X/Z) run 5-yard hitch routes, while inside receivers (slots/tight ends) may run 5-6 yard hitches or short “seam reads”.
- Receiver Technique: Receivers drive off the ball, using vertical stem pressure for 3-5 steps, then use a “trigger step” to stop momentum, turning their eyes and shoulders back to the quarterback.
- Quarterback Read: Usually a pre-snap or quick post-snap read, focusing on the defender’s cushion. If the corner is 4-5+ yards off, the hitch is open.
- Timing: The quarterback throws on a 3-step drop (against middle-of-field closed) or 5-step drop (against middle-of-field open).
- Hitch & Go Variation: To counter aggressive corners, the receiver fakes the hitch and bursts vertically, often termed a “hitch & go” or “stop & go”.
Ohio
Ohio is a staple two-receiver route combination featuring an outside receiver running a vertical fade/go route and an inside receiver running a 5-7 yard out route. Designed to stress flat-zone defenders in Cover 2, it forces them to choose between covering the deep sideline or the intermediate flat, often resulting in high-percentage completions. The concept is a staple for moving the chains, with the out route acting as a primary weapon to gain 10+ yards while the fade keeps the safety high.
Key Points
- Structure: It is a high-low stretch aimed at the corner or flat defender.
- Receiver Routes: The #1 (outside) receiver runs a go/fade, while the #2 (inside/slot) receiver runs an out route (often a 12-14 yard “speed out”).
- Variations: It can be run with a “Smash” variant, where the inside receiver runs a corner route and the outside receiver runs a hitch or short stop-route.
- Effectiveness: It is highly effective against Cover 2 and man-to-man, providing the quarterback with a quick, safe read.
Omaha
Omaha is a quick-game passing concept, often paired with a stick route, designed to get the ball out of the quarterback’s hands immediately. It typically features an outside receiver running a speed-out (or 6-yard out) while the inside receiver runs a stick route, creating a quick horizontal read for the QB.
Key Points
- The Route Combination: It is a high-percentage, quick-game concept where the outside receiver runs a “speed out” (a 6-yard out route), while the inside receiver runs a “stick” route (hook/sit-down route).
- Purpose: It is designed to get the ball out quickly, attacking the flat or the underneath coverage.
- Coverage Adjustment: The concept often includes a “conversion.” Against press-man, cloud corner, or Cover-2, the speed-out route can convert into a go-route.
- Structure: It is commonly run in 2×2 or 3×1 (bunch) formations to create space, sometimes with one side running a “mirror” of the concept.
- Usage: It is a staple in modern quick-game passing, allowing for fast, easy reads for the quarterback.
Scat
Scat refers to a 5 or 6-man pass protection scheme (or sometimes a specific pass concept) designed to protect the quarterback against blitzes by requiring the running back to free-release into a route rather than staying in to block. The main advantage of this concept is that it allows the offense to throw the ball effectively out of any formation while putting defenders in conflict.
Key Points
- Protection Scheme: The offensive line handles 5 defenders, while the running back (RB) is responsible for a 6th defender (often a blitzing linebacker) or, if no one blitzes, immediately runs a route.
- “Hot” Reads: Because the RB is free-releasing, the QB must immediately recognize pressure and throw “hot”—a quick pass to the area vacated by the blitzer.
- Spacing Concept: The passing routes (often called a “Scat” package) are designed to “space” receivers between linebackers, typically 6-8 yards deep, creating high-low reads for the quarterback.
- Flexibility: It is often used in the Air Raid, Wing-T, or spread offenses to get playmakers into open space quickly.
- Common Route Structure:
- Ends/Receivers: Often run “Scat” routes, which are intermediate routes (spacing).
- Wingback/Slot: Runs a “Glance” or skinny post.
- Backs: Run “Flair” or swing routes to the flat.
Slant
Slant is a quick-hitting passing play where a receiver takes three steps upfield, plants their outside foot, and cuts at a 45-degree angle across the middle, designed to exploit man-to-man coverage or soft zone spots. It is a staples of the “quick game” (1-3 step drop) to counter pressure.
Key Points
- Execution: The receiver attacks the outside shoulder of the defender for 3 yards, then breaks sharply inside.
- Timing: It is designed for the quarterback to throw immediately, often before the receiver fully crosses the middle.
- Versatility: The slant can be run by outside receivers or in the slot, often used in short-yardage or goal-line situations.
- Variations:
- Slant/Flat (Slant-Arrow): The outside receiver runs a slant while the slot receiver runs to the flat, putting the cornerback or linebacker in a bind.
- Slant/Wheel: A combination that uses a shallow cross (slant) and a deep route (wheel) to create a “rub” or natural pick against defenders.
- Double Slants: Both receivers run slants to overload one side of the defense.
- Progression: The QB reads the leverage of the linebacker or cornerback (the “apex” defender), throwing behind them if they widen.
Spacing
Spacing is a concept designed to attack zone defenses by placing three receivers in shallow, static areas (typically 4-8 yards deep) to create horizontal stretching and quick, high-percentage completions. It creates a 3-on-2 advantage, forcing defenders to make decisions while allowing quarterbacks to make fast, pre-snap or immediate post-snap reads. The concept is ideal for quick, rhythmic throws, particularly against Cover 4, to exploit underneath zones.
Key Points
- The “Spot” Route (Over the Ball – OTB): A receiver runs to a point directly over the center or in the middle of the field at about 6 yards, settling in the soft spot.
- Spacing Hitch/Snag: An adjacent receiver (often #2 in a bunch) runs a 6-8 yard hitch or “snag” route, sitting in the window between defenders.
- The Flat/Arrow Route: A third receiver (often #3 or a running back) runs to the flat to create a high-low conflict on the corner or outside linebacker.
- Backside Isolation: Frequently, a single receiver runs a route (like a slant or hitch) on the opposite side to handle man coverage or act as a “hot” throw.
- Progression:
- Pre-Snap: The quarterback checks the cornerback’s cushion on the outside receiver (X) for an immediate throw, often called a “Good Look”.
- Progression: Reads often go from outside-in or inside-out, aiming to manipulate linebackers.
Stick
Stick is a 3-step, high-percentage passing play (often used in the red zone) designed to stretch defenders horizontally by combining a 5-yard “stick” (hitch/pivot) route with an outside flat route, typically utilizing a 3×1 formation to isolate a linebacker. It is designed to get the ball out quickly, with the quarterback reading the flat defender to choose between the flat route or the stick route. Stick can be adapted from various formations, including 2×2 or under-center/spread looks.
Key Points
- The Stick Route: The #3 receiver (often a tight end or slot) runs 5 yards, stops, and “sticks” in the zone, or drifts away from defenders in man coverage.
- The Flat Route: A receiver or running back works to the sideline to conflict the flat defender.
- Vertical/Clear-out: The #1 receiver typically runs a vertical route to occupy the corner.
- Backside Options: The opposite side often features slants, hitches, or a “dingo” (vertical/fade) to handle various coverages.
- Reading the Flat Defender: If the defender flies to the flat, the QB throws the stick; if the defender stays inside to cover the stick, the QB throws to the flat.
- Coverage Adjustments: Against zone, the receiver settles in space; against man, they may run away from coverage.
Bubble Screen
Bubble Screen is a high-percentage, perimeter passing play where a receiver (often in the slot) takes a few steps upfield before “bubbling” backward or laterally toward the sideline to catch a quick pass. Designed to exploit soft coverage or gain yards in space, it utilizes perimeter blocking from other receivers to create immediate space, often paired with run-pass options (RPOs) to combat blitzes or heavy boxes.
Key Points
- The Route: The receiver starts by taking a step or two upfield to force the defender to respect a vertical route, then “bubbles” back toward the line of scrimmage, creating separation for a quick pass in the flat.
- The Throw: The quarterback delivers a quick, lateral pass to the receiver, usually before the defense can adjust to the perimeter.
- Blocking: Outside receivers (typically X and Y) act as blockers for the receiver catching the ball, creating a “wall” in the flat.
- Formation: It is frequently run from a 3×1 or spread formation to maximize space on one side of the field.
- Usage: Effective against zone defenses (specifically 3-deep) or soft man-to-man coverage, it can also be used as a “bailout” play on the back side of an RPO if the defense overloads the box.
- Common Variations
- Bubble & Go: The receiver fakes the bubble motion and then cuts vertically for a deep pass.
- Trips Bubble: A three-receiver set designed to overwhelm defenders on one side.
- RPO/Bundle Read: The quarterback reads a defender (like a linebacker) to decide between a handoff or throwing the bubble.
FL/SE Screen
FL/SE (Flanker/Split End) screen is a horizontal passing play designed to get the ball quickly to outside receivers in space, utilizing 2-3 receivers to block for a 3-on-2 or 3-on-3 advantage on the perimeter. Common variations include the “now” screen (direct throw to the receiver) or bubble screen, often run with 3 receivers to create superior blocking angles against aggressive defenses. This concept is effective against soft coverage or when the defense is overloading the box, forcing them to defend the entire width of the field.
Key Points
- The “Now” Screen: The outside receiver (SE/FL) takes one step upfield and turns back for a quick, direct pass from the quarterback.
- Blocking Assignments: The inside receiver (or Slot) blocks the most dangerous defender (usually the cornerback or linebacker), while the other receivers act as blockers to seal the edge.
- Execution: Receivers are taught to block first, focusing on creating lanes, with drills focused on technique.
- Read: The QB reads the leverage of the defenders; if the defender is playing deep or inside, the ball is thrown quickly, allowing for a 5-6 yard gain.
- Variations: Often paired with a T-screen (Tailback) or used in RPO (Run-Pass Option) packages.
- Timing: The ball is typically thrown before the defense can react, stretching them horizontally.
HB Slip Screen
HB Slip Screen is an explosive, high-risk, high-reward, designed passing play intended to exploit aggressive pass rushes or man-free coverage by allowing defensive linemen upfield before “slipping” a quick pass to a running back, who is escorted by pulling offensive linemen. It typically features fake run action to lure defenders away, often with a tackle pulling to lead block, making it ideal for beating blitzes and picking up big yards.
Key Points
- Objective: To get a playmaker (RB) into open space quickly, utilizing the momentum of rushing defenders against them.
- Mechanism: The quarterback takes a short drop and often fakes a run or pass in the opposite direction to draw defenders away.
- Linemen Action: Linemen initially pass-block, letting defenders pass, before “slipping” off to block downfield. Often, a guard or tackle pulls to lead the way.
- RB Action: The running back (HB) often fakes a pass block (or a “check-and-release” route) before slipping behind the advancing defensive line to catch a short, soft pass.
- “Rat Killing”: A key component where a backside offensive lineman is responsible for catching defenders who turn around to chase the screen.
- Best Usage and Tactics
- Versus the Blitz: Highly effective against heavy pressure, as the defense overcommits, leaving space behind them.
- Against Man Coverage: Excellent for exploiting man coverage, where defenders follow other routes, leaving the RB uncovered.
- Long Down and Distance: A great play-call for 2nd or 3rd and long situations.
- Key Techniques: The quarterback must be patient and throw the ball over the charging defensive line, while the running back must avoid getting stuck on their own offensive linemen.
WR Mid Screen
Wide Receiver (WR) Mid Screen is a pass-play concept designed to counter aggressive defensive pass rushes by throwing to a receiver in the middle of the field. The receiver takes a step upfield before cutting back behind the line of scrimmage, catching the ball behind offensive line blocks that release early to the center. It is effective against blitzes.
Key Points
- Formation: Commonly used in spread formations (e.g., Gun Spread Y Slot).
- Receiver Route: The primary WR takes one or two hard vertical steps to freeze defenders, then cuts sharply back to the middle of the field (or just behind the LOS) to receive the ball.
- Blocking Scheme: Linemen (usually Guards and Center) pass set briefly (1–2 seconds) to draw defenders upfield, then release downfield to block linebackers or safeties.
- Quarterback Action: The QB takes a short drop, waits for the defensive rush to get deep, and delivers a quick pass to the receiver in the vacated middle space.
- Misdirection: Often paired with a running back running a sweep/swing route in the opposite direction to draw defenders away.
- Benefits & Usage:
- Aggressive Defenses: Ideal against teams that blitz linebackers or rushers with high energy.
- Space Creation: Turns an inside rush against the defense, utilizing the vacated middle field.
- Situational Football: Often used on 3rd-and-long to gain positive yardage or, at minimum, a safer completion.
