Tight Ends: The "Ins" and "Outs"

For medium range routes, such as an "out" or "in" pattern, there are a couple more elements to keep in mind.

The first thing you need to determine as you release up the field is how the defensive back is playing you. Is he on your inside or outside? You have to understand that you can influence the position of the DB and help yourself get open by angling your route slightly away from the direction of your final cut.

If running an "in" pattern, angle to the outside 5 yards beyond the line of scrimmage. This adjustment to your route will cause the defender to vacate your target location. If inside, the defensive man will come right along with you. If on the outside, he'll move out wider to attempt to remain on the outside.

Once you've got the defender moving, it's important to redirect your pattern straight upfield. This will convince the defender you're going deep, hopefully tricking him into turning and running upfield as well.

After another five yards, you can cut into your final pattern. Don't plant and push - keep your momentum and speed by leaning your upper body to the inside and rolling over your inside foot.

Turn your head to the QB and make the catch.

For an "out", you'll first angle to the inside before sprinting upfield and making a cut to the outside. This pattern is essentially run in opposite to the "in".