Madden 08 - Shotgun Normal Delay Flat Clear Out

We have shown two concepts already from the Shotgun Normal that get the RB open in the flat. Now it's time to apply those two same concepts to get the TE wide open.

Primary Patterns:

TE (Y) - Delayed Flat Route


Offensive Plays Used:

Defensive Play Used:

How the Concept Works on the Field:

The Shotgun Normal PA QB Choice has the TE running a delayed flat route. It's the only play in the Shotgun Normal where he runs the delayed flat route.

The defense comes out in the Quarter 3 Deep Man Up 3 Deep. The LB covers the RB, while the CB4 covers the TE.

We flip the play. The RB and TE now line up on the left.

The CB4 now covers the RB, while the LB covers the TE.

To get the TE open, we hot route the RB on a streak and ...

... take control of him.

We then motion him out to the left. He now lines up in the slot.

The LB slides out to cover the RB, while the CB4 now covers the TE.

Once the ball is snapped, the TE will act as if he is going to block.

The CB4 will do nothing. He will pause while the TE fakes his pass block.

The TE will then go out on his delayed flat route.

The CB4 will try to get out to cover him, but he has no chance to make a play.

We make the catch in the flat and run towards the sideline. We pick up 9 yards before being tackled.

Key Points:

• Against a smart player, you may only get this concept to work once or twice. Use it when you need that key first down.
• If the TE is not open, look for the WR3 running the crossing route over the middle.
• Another option is the WR1 running the deep in route.