How to Run a Curl Route

The curl route is a medium range pass route that's designed to catch the defender off guard, playing for a deep pass play. This is a very effective route to run in a ball control offense, such as the West Coast offense. Read on to learn how run a curl route.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Line up in any wide-out or end position on the field. The position of the receiver is not important for this pass route.

2. Start the play. The receiver explodes off the line and appears to be running a fly pattern down the field.

3. Turn toward either the middle of the field or toward the sideline. The receiver turns in a "curl" at a set number of yards. This can be done at either 10, 15 or 20 yard routes.

4. Fake the defender into running back into a deep coverage. If he thinks that you're going to be running a deep route, chances are he'll put some extra space, or a cushion, between him and you. Remember, the defender's primary concern is to keep you, the receiver, in front of him. To fake him into thinking deep, look down field past him as you sprint to your curl point.

5. Time the reception with the quarterback. The curl route is a timing pattern that depends on running an accurate route. The quarterback will usually pass the ball before the receiver has made his cut to curl, so anticipate the ball arriving just as you complete the curl.

6. Try a variation by slanting in instead of running straight down the field.

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