LAYERS

In today’s video we explore the layers concept. This is a great concept against man or zone coverage. It puts stress on the linebackers and it’s an easy throw for the QB. The read is low to high. The QB is going to start with his eyes to the right and read the playside flat. If the flat is vacated, he will throw the shallow cross. If there is congestion, the dig route should be open over the top of the backers. If the safety jumps the dig, we can throw the post over top.

I love the layers concept because it so simple for the QB and usually translates to an easy completion. It’s also very similar to the levels concept that we have talked about in the past. To me, the middle of the field is incredibly under utilized in high school football. Layers is a simple route to take advantage of the middle of the field and get the ball to your slot receivers.

A couple of coaching points. First, run the shallow cross at the heels of the defensive lineman. This will get him across the field quickly. If we hit the shallow, we want to hit it quickly and let him run. Second, make sure the alignment of your H is wide enough (on or outside the hash) so that when he breaks his dig, he is in the open window.