Bonus Medium Routes!

Yesterday we discussed the "in", "out", and the "hook" routes. Today, we'll touch on a few more routes that, while they may not be run exclusively at medium depth, still fit due to the time it takes for the route to be run and the fact that the QB will take a 5-step drop.

The first of these patterns is the "cross." When running the cross, you'll have to:

1. Sprint up field four yards
2. Angle to the inside just as you would when running a slant
3. Roll over your inside foot and head directly across the field at eight yards
4. Run at full speed so the QB can accurately lead you
5. Swing your head around and focus on the QB
6. Be prepared to catch the ball at any time

When running a cross, try to stay within 8 yards of the line of scrimmage. Don't run so deep that you're heading back into coverage.

The "delay" is run at the same eight-yard depth. At the start of this play, you'll sprint off the line at a slight angle to the outside of the field, selling the defender on the deep ball.

Once you get 7 yards past the line of scrimmage, stop your upfield momentum with your inside foot and spin back to the inside. Once you've stopped and come out of the spin, run the remainder of the route just as you would a cross. You should expect the ball to come to you on your third or fourth step toward the center of the field.

The "quick post" is a pattern that requires no special moves and is heavily reliant on flat-out speed. Come straight off the line with as much speed as possible. Your break will be at eight yards.

Once you're at eight yards, head to the center of the field, continuing UP field at a slight angle to the inside. Make sure your angle keeps you on the outside of the hash marks. The angle MUST be just enough to get you some separation from the DB. After running 5 yards post-break, be alert for the ball to come to you at any time.