Sack Beaters: Combat pressure with multi-purpose route stems…

​The idea of a “Pressure Beater” is nothing new in the passing game; coaches have been using the term for decades.   However, it is often tied simply to the idea of a quick breaking route (many use the term “HOT”) to defeat a pressure look by the defense.  This scenario is simple enough, and passing teams are well-versed in this concept.

​Congruently, the offense wants to provide outlets then the first and second options are taken away by the defense.  Though this takes some teaching, this too, can be mastered – even at younger levels. 

also​Looking back to my experience in working with quarterbacks at various levels, I have learned that perhaps the hardest thing for a QB to adjust to is when his outlets disappear to become part of the protection.  The reason is simple: through all the classroom sessions, 7 on 7 drills, the outlet system is intact.  However, there are many times in a game where the outlets disappear.  It then becomes incumbent on the coach to develop situations in which the outlet is always available.  Hence, the idea of a multi-purpose route stem – one that is possibly available early or late for the QB.  With this, protectors can be used to help in the protection without the QB losing an outlet.  We will call these "Sack Beaters."

An example of this principle could be in this common crossing combination.   The UNDER route on the right could give the QB a quick stop route vs a strong zone blitz, while also providing a late outlet.

The diagram below gives an application of what we call RUSH (Rub Under Switch).   The X receiver’s route is available as a quick throw; the throw later becomes an outlet if the look dictates working the right side of the formation first.

​Another example of a multi-purpose stem is the “6” route.  In our route tree the “6” is described as running “a 4, then a 2.”  The result is a possible quick throw on the front side (giving the QB multiple quick-breakers) which will evolve to a late outlet.  Possible reception points are highlighted

​Here is another illustration of the same route, this time adjacent to a slant:

Further, these kinds of dual purpose routes can provide more versatility in downfield passing.  More and more, double moves become necessary in generating explosive plays in the dropback game, and the early/ late timing possibilities off of these stems (we also utilize slant/seam stems with outside receivers) increases the likelihood of a defensive reaction.  

This is yet another example of how all aspects (ex. protection schemes, route concepts, route stems) of the passing game are to be looked at in a holistic manner in protecting the passer.