Attacking Defenses with Deep Vertical Passing Concepts

Below is a look at some deep crossing routes you can utilize in your offense. There are different variations of some deep crossing routes that we will look at that can stretch defenses and stretch defenses on a vertical level. .

The first one is from 2x2. It is a deep crossing concept from condensed by the 2 outside WR. It is a deep exchange by the outside WR at 12-14 yards. Some call it deep mesh as it creates separation at a depth unlike traditional mesh. Very hard on a DB to get vertical then come back and not get picked by the other WR.

Film

The 2nd deep crossing route is a post with a crossing route coming the other way.

The read:

1. is the comeback

2. y cross, release route over the flat defender.

Here is another version by the Chiefs of a deep route. It’s a crossing route off 2 clear thru routes. Same play, 2 different seasons with different ways to dress it up.

Film

The first clip is vs man free

The 2nd clip is vs cover 3 zone as the middle of the field opens. The CB takes the crossing route and the deep safety takes the post route, leaving the middle of the field open.

Split Divide

The split divide is a great concept, especially vs teams that play a ton of split field cover 4 or cover 2 concepts. In this situation the Left WR pulls the safety out of there and you have a split on the deep safety.

Film

The Deep Scissors out is another concept.

It is similar to sail but the #3 WR runs a sail route while #2 runs the post. My other article has information on the 2x2 deep crossing concept with a deep over and shallow cross coming the other direction.

This is a concept that is run from 3x1 and involves a 3 man pattern to the trips side.

This route is unique because it’s run from 3x1 and has the #2 WR is clearing and you also have a read by #1. If it is man pressure he runs a slant. If no pressure he runs a snag route. The snag route allows the high low on the curl/flat defender.

The Deep Scissors concept is great vs all coverages. Whether it’s zone or man you have answers.

Read for the QB

1. Sneak a peak at the Post

2. high low on the flat defender(sail and snag)

3. Vs Man-Sail to backside dig

4. checkdown to the RB