The Quick Out, Hitch, and the Slant

When running a quick out, it's important that you sell the DB on the idea that you're going deep by driving hard off the line of scrimmage at full speed. At four yards, roll over your outside foot and redirect your momentum toward the sidelines. You will probably run six or seven yards before the pass gets to you.

As you run toward the sideline, be prepared to come back toward the original line of scrimmage to make the catch. You should also expect the pass to be low as this often occurs when the QB is throwing at such a sharp angle to the outside. Keep in mind that you might need to slide or at least have your hands positioned below your waist in order to make the catch. Remember that when catching a ball in this position, you need to have your little fingers together as you form the catching pocket.

The hitch is different from the quick out in that you'll have to completely stop your momentum and come back for the ball. As you release off the line to run a hitch, you again want to sell the defender on a deep route by exploding off the line. At five yards out, you'll have to plant your outside foot in order to halt your forward momentum.

When this happens, sit back slightly and turn your body back to the inside so you're facing the QB. The ball should be there right as you turn, so have your hands up even with your numbers, thumbs together, to make the catch.

On a slant, you'll be redirecting your route instead of cutting to the sideline or stopping your momentum. Once more, you'll want to come off the line at max speed. At four yards, roll over your inside foot and redirect your full speed movement at a 45-degree angle toward the center of the field.

When you run a slant, you should expect the QB to lead you, so you'll probably run up field six or seven yards before the ball reaches you. The slant pass can arrive at any catch height, so you must be ready to adjust your hand position quickly to haul in the reception. Get your head and eyes swung around to the QB the instant you start your move to the inside.

On all three types of short routes we covered, you have to expect to be hit immediately. Concentrate on making the catch and securing the ball above all else. You can think about running after the catch.