How to Run a Play-Action Pass Play in Football
Football is a not just a game of powerful running and hard tackling. It is also a psychological game that requires anticipation on the part of the defense and deception on the part of the offense. As a quarterback, you can lead your offensive unit in a deceptive strategy called the play-action pass play, which has the potential to gain extensive yardage.
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Instructions
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Prepare to take the snap from under center. You want the defense to think you are setting up a running play. Your offensive line will be in a tight formation, and your running back will be positioned behind you, as if he is preparing to take the handoff.
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Fake the handoff. As soon as the ball is snapped, drop back 2 to 3 steps toward your running back. He will be moving up alongside of you, using the same motion he uses during a regular running play. Hold the ball out for him, and as soon he approaches, pull it back into your grip. Your running back will pretend to be holding the ball. He will then drive straight toward the line, hoping to make all the defenders come after him.
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"Hip" the ball. You don't want the defenders to see that you still have the ball in your hands. Turn your body sideways and hide the ball against your back hip.
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Pass the ball to your open receiver. When the defense commits to stopping the fake running play, the cornerbacks and safeties will quickly move up toward the line of scrimmage. This allows your wide receivers to break free on long passing routes. Launch the ball to the receiver who has gotten separation from the defensive backs.
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References
- Photo Credit Football game image by Sirena Designs from Fotolia.com
