Play-action and bootleg
Fake the run, throw off it
The QB fakes a handoff to freeze the linebackers and safeties, then throws — on a bootleg he rolls out the backside, usually with a deep over route coming open. Sells only if you actually run it.
When it applies
After establishing the run; off wide-zone flow the bootleg is the money play.
+ StrengthsCreates the biggest windows in football; slows the pass rush.
− Trade-offsWorthless without a run threat; slow developing against a real rush.
Filed under: Pass concepts