Passing Concepts

Where two receivers run shallow crossing routes across the middle of the field often with a running back releasing to the flat and a receiver running a corner or wheel to clear space

mesh

Multiple receivers run in-breaking routes at different depths across the field, creating high-low reads that stress zone coverage and force defenders to choose

levels

Concept that overloads one side of the field by sending three receivers at different depths to stress zone coverage and force defenders to choose

flood

Concept where an outside receiver runs a short hitch while an inside receiver runs a corner route creating a high-low read on the flat defender

smash

Concept where the tight end runs a deep crossing route across the field, usually from one side to the other, designed to stress linebackers and safeties horizontally while other routes (a post, dig, or flat) create vertical and underneath conflicts in coverage

y cross

Concept where an inside slot receiver runs a short 5-yard out route while an outside receiver runs a vert or fade and a running back releases to the flat

stick

A horizontal stretch passing concept where one receiver runs a shallow cross underneath while another runs a deep cross behind it and add a deep post to create levels

drive

Vertical passing concepts where an inside receiver runs a post to remove the deep defender while an outside receiver runs a deep dig into the space vacated, giving the quarterback a high-low read

dagger

Quick game passing concept where an outside receiver runs a slant to attack the middle, while an inside receiver runs a flat route to the sideline

slant flat

Concept where both outside receivers run 5-yard in routes while an inside tight end runs a vertical out-route to stretch coverage

double china

Concept where one receiver runs a cross at around 3-5 yards while the other receivers run verticals, digs, or outs to clear space.

shallow cross (air raid style)