2-Back Snag Vs. Two-High/One-High Coverage Structures

Sep 25, 2017 | Offense, Pass Game, Quick Game Pass Concepts

By Mike Kuchar
Senior Research Manager
X&O Labs
Twitter: @MikeKKuchar

Introduction

The following research was conducted as part of XandOLabs.com special report on “Spread Passing Study: Snap Concept.”

Run-Action Variations

Snag off Two-Back Isolation and Power

When the yardage shrinks inside the red zone, so does the probability of man coverage, which is why man coaches are employing some form of run-action to their snag concept in the red zone. Kyle Lowman at Bandys High School (NC) chooses to package his Snag concept out of two-back formations with various run actions including isolation and power. He will tighten his receiver splits and slide the fullback into the flat as the arrow component to the concept.

Lowman details this two-back Snag play-actions below against various coverages:

We wanted to combine the efficiency and potential of the snag concept with what we were best at – the I-formation and offset I-formation running game, namely the Isolation and Power plays. It also allowed us to make more use of the fullback in the flats, combined with a Smash concept in one play. Our bread n’ butter play has always been the Isolation, so we played on the needs of the defense to stop that to create open opportunities for receiving targets.

Coaching Points by Route:

  • Snag Route
    • Align no more than 6 to 8 yards outside Corner route.
    • If aligned on the LOS, squat for one count to let Corner route clear.
    • Run at 7 yd deep mark into the path of the Corner route.
    • If you pass a defender, sit down in window just inside him.
    • If next LB is buzzing hard and low, step around him to inside. If he is coming above you, pivot and work back out.
  • Corner Route
    • Hard and fast vertical release through OLB’s outside shoulder.
    • If he buzzes out hard, cut under him and get back on path upfield.
    • At 8 to 10 yards deep, stick inside foot, & accelerate away.
    • Take deep angle to sideline, looking over outside shoulder.
  • Flat Route
    • #1 goal is to WIN WIDE! Gain width fast, looking over low shoulder after clearing the traffic.
    • Be ready for quick throw if there is pressure or QB sees you with running room.

Coaching the Receivers