To read the first part of this post, click this link: Developing Your Passing Game Part 1
Pattern Calls:
A 3-digit number call plus a Tag, as opposed to 2-digits used in the running game, will always signify a pass. The system uses a 3-digit number with a tag attached to the call. The first digit alert plus the right or left call gives the type of protection for the offensive line and fullback, the second two numbers tells the quarterback the direction he will first look (00 right) or (10 left) and tell the receivers the side the primary routes will start. The tag Curl, Post, etc. references the primary route for the number one receiver to the side alerted (00 Number 1 right, 10 number 1 left). A tag alert after the 3-digit number has been given means we have told the number one receiver his route and all other routes are comps to the tag given to the call.
We will use 100 series alerts for play action passes, 300 – 310 for the short passing game, 500 – 510 for intermediate to deep passing game, 800 – 900 for the sprint out game and basic word names for screens (Screen, Tunnel, Hitch, Convoy and Slip) in our passing game. We can throw to isolated receivers in our combination routes by addition route tags, potential receivers must understand the passing tree. In our screen series, we can screen to any potential running back or receiver by alerting the designated individual player.
To read the first part of this post, click this link: Developing Your Passing Game Part 1
About the Author of this post:
Jerry Campbell has over 30 years of high school and college coaching experience. He has experience as a head coach, offensive coordinator, and various position coaches. He has written numerous football coaching articles in various publications, is the author of over 30 books on coaching football, and has produced 12 coaching video series. Additionally, he is a nationally sought after speaker on the coaching clinic circuit.