Bunch Formation – Shallow Concept
The “Shallow” concept out of the Bunch Formation is a great compliment to the “Double Post” concept that I talked about in the previous blog. The “Shallow” is the answer for when a defense drops 7 or 8 into coverage to take away the “Double Post” or deep throws.
Skill Position Player Rules in Shallow Concept:
QB=3-step drop from Gun, 5-step drop from under center. Reading progression: take a peek downfield in case the defense didn’t drop 7 or 8 to defend the deep throw the three step drop. Hitch up and look for Shallow route coming underneath the coverage. If that’s not there, lay the ball off to the RB or “T” on Swing route.
T=Check protection if applicable. “Arrow” or “Swing” route into the boundary/single WR side.
Z=Either take a hesitation step so as to delay for a second and run a shallow, or push upfield to 5 yards, then break across the field at no deeper than 5 yards on Shallow route looking for ball. Once ball is caught, get upfield!
Y=Must take an inside release on the defender that is pressing him or playing directly over the top (If the Y takes an outside release, the play is dead). Split the safeties vs. 2 high or attack opposite shoulder of free safety if 1 high.
X=Take a direct course to 10 yards deep on the field hash. Stick foot in ground and break a Post Route once landmark is achieved, running to open area or “green grass”.
H=Run Arrow Route, coming underneath the Y and X receivers.Once near the numbers on the field, turn up and get vertical on outside vertical landmark (bottom of field numbers).
With this play and the Double Post Concept from the previous blog, you should now have a “take a shot” play from the +25-20 yard line as well as an easy underneath throw for the QB out of the Bunch formation.