By Mike Kuchar
Senior Research Manager
X&O Labs
Twitter: @MikekKuchar
Introduction:
In order to make the delay screen proficient, the timing of the offensive linemen and skill players must correlate. The wide receivers must be in sync with the offensive linemen, the offensive linemen must be in sync with the running back and the quarterback must be in sync with everyone on the field. So, in this case we studied how our contributors were “meshing” up the screen game with their skill players to develop a rhythm. Since the quarterback is the centerpiece of the operation, we’ll start our research there.
QB Timing in the Delay Screen Game:
At Dartmouth, offensive coordinator Keith Clark teaches his quarterback to use a three-step rhythm in the slip screen concept. “We’ll tell him to drop three steps, pause and retreat to find a throwing lane to the running back,” said Coach Clark. “There is an art to that. Some kids are better than others.” Since Coach Clark combines his slip screen with a field-side passing concept such as stick, it’s essential that he keep his rhythm. “It’s three steps, hesitate, look at the stick and then come back to the open path to the running back,” said Coach Clark. “He needs to keep his feet moving. Players get their feet glued in when the rush comes. We need to bring the rush to us and drop it over their head.”
To study cutups of this concept, click on the video below: