The key here is that the pattern structures that are built on principles:
- Every route has a defined timing
- Every concept will outnumber the defense at the "point of attack"
- There will be built in outlets as well as blitz/ uncovered beater on the backside.
Here is a relatively common combination with a curl, flag, and flat (we call this 471)...note that the backside pattern not only has a THIRD FIX element, but a built in blitz-beater as well:
Here, we see 2 things at work in this system with a youth player that are relatively complex:
- First, the use of wide motion from the backfield to affect the defense and make them "show their hand"
- Second, the quick breaker becoming available...and the QB delivering!
What's even more important is this: COACHES SHOULD TEACH SKILLS THAT WILL HELP PLAYERS MOVING FORWARD.
Just as important as WHEN to throw is teaching the principle of WHEN NOT to throw; in the clip below, the option route runner in a pattern using the RAM (Read Away from Mike) Advantage Principle slips out of the break: