How to Run a Slant Route in Football

A slant route is run across the middle of the field.

In American football, a slant route is a short pattern run by a wide receiver that cuts across the middle of the field. If the timing between the receiver and the quarterback is right, the slant can be an effective play, especially when the defensive team decides to blitz. The slant route is designed to run right through the middle of the defensive unit, so the receiver must be quick-footed, sure-handed, and most of all, brave.

Things You'll Need

• Football

Instructions

1. Line up in a two-point stance at the far end of the line of scrimmage. A slant route can be run from either the left or right side of the offensive formation. A two-point stance simply means that the player is standing up without placing a hand (the third point) on the turf. Stand with your inside leg (the leg closest to the other players on your team) forward. This will allow you to make a quick cut once the ball is snapped.

2. Take three or four quick steps forward when the ball is snapped, then cut at an angle toward the center of the field. The object is to get behind the linebackers, who are blitzing or preparing to tackle a running back, and in front of the safeties, who are dropping back to cover receivers running long routes.

3. Open your hands in preparation to catch the ball as soon as you make the cut toward the middle of the field. The quarterback will deliver the pass quickly, especially if he is being blitzed.

4. Catch the pass on the run. If the quarterback delivers the ball properly, it will be thrown in front of you so you can continue to run in full stride. Catch the ball with your hands and cradle it into your arms. Try not to let the ball hit you in the chest or stomach. The slant pass is delivered fast and hard, and it can easily bounce off of your body, especially if you are playing in full pads.

5. Prepare for impact. Because the slant route runs right through the middle of the defensive unit, the receiver can expect to get hit hard by a linebacker, cornerback or safety. Concentrate on securing the ball with two hands as you run through traffic. When the defensive players make contact, they are not just hoping to knock you off your feet. They are also hoping to jar the ball loose and create a fumble.

6. Cut up field or angle toward the sideline. If you can avoid taking a hit from a defender, you want to advance the ball for more yards after the catch. If the safeties are playing deep, cut upfield toward the goal line. The linebackers will have to change direction to catch you. If the safeties have moved up, continue to run toward the sideline. You might be able to pick up a block from one of your linemen or another receiver and advance the ball a few more yards along the sideline.

Tips & Warnings

• If the slant pass is being thrown on third down, be sure to run your pattern beyond the first-down marker. It is hard to gain extra yards after the catch when running a slant route. Ensure that your route allows you to make the first-down conversion at the point of the catch.

References

• The Football Times: Wide Receiver Patterns
• Football Babble: Plays for Football Offenses