Medium Routes for Receivers

Learning and mastering the proper techniques needed to run medium routes is essential for any good wide receiver.

There are three basic medium routes we'll go over that you can get started with - the "hook", "in", and "out." All three routes should have a 10- to 12-yard breaking point. The QB on all these plays will be using a five-step drop to move away from the line of scrimmage. If you run at full speed, the two of you should be able to time things perfectly.

When running the hook, the major idea you'll want to sell to the defensive back is that you'll be running deep upfield. You want him to turn and begin running at full speed toward his own goal line.

In order to sell the play, you'll need to come off the line at a full sprint. As you near the 12-yard mark:

1. Lower your hips slightly
2. Prepare to stop your momentum with a step by your outside foot
3. Quickly turn your body to the inside and face the quarterback when your outside foot hits the ground.

The ball may be on the way as you turn to the inside so be ready to catch it immediately. If the QB is late, be prepared to come back for the ball. If playing on a wet or slick surface, you should stop your sprint momentum with three quick steps, keeping your feet under your hips at all times.

The out and in patterns are similar to each other. The main difference between the two is that the in runs toward the center of the field while the out is run toward the sidelines. Both patterns start with a hard drive up the field. Watch where the defender is located in relation to where you want to go.

If the defender is where you want to be, angle in the opposite direction to take him out of your destination. If he's opposite your desired path, drive at an angle directly toward him and make him move further away from your destination. After you've relocated the defender, sprint upfield to sell the deep ball. As you near the 12-yard mark, prepare to make the final cut into your pattern.

Both of these routes need to be run at full speed. Be prepared to roll over the foot in the direction you want to go and don't stop your momentum. Once you've made your cut, you'll want to come back slightly toward the line of scrimmage for greater initial separation from your defender.