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How to Set and Call a Formation
Passing Tree
Receiver Route Definitions
Running Back Routes Definitions/Secondary Routes
How to Call a Play
Plays Examples – 1
Play Examples – 2
Advanced Play Calling
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How to Set and Call a Formation
In NFL FLAG we work with the understanding that there are three basic formation calls: Split T, Twins and Trips. Variations and adjustments to the formation may be made.
In our first series of plays we run out of the most basic formation, the Split T, where one receiver is on either side of the ball, split out approximately 10-12 yards from the center, with a single running back set behind the quarterback. This is a balanced formation in NFL FLAG with no strong side, therefore we will not have a call side (no right or left). The forma tion when set looks like the letter “T.” The first call made when setting a play will be the formation. Passing Tree
The Passing Tree is a numbered system used for the passing routes. The passing tree system is designed so that all even-numbered routes (2,4,6,8) are run towards the middle of the field and all odd-numbered routes (1,3,5,7,9) are be run towards the sideline. These routes are used for all positions on the field. The running back has extra routes that are always be referred to by name. Since the ball is always placed in the middle of the field, the center faces the dilemma, and all of the center’s routes should be based on the play design.
Receiver Route Definitions
Quick Out:
This is a 5-8 yard route forward then the receiver cuts out towards the sideline then looks for the ball.
Slant:
This is a 3-5 yard route forward then the receiver breaks towards the middle of the filed on a 45 degree angle and looks for the ball.
Deep Out:
This is a 10-15 yard route. It should be run exactly like the quick out only deeper.
Drag/In:
This is a 5-8 yard route forward then the receiver breaks into the middle of the filed on a 90 degree angle and looks for the ball.
Flag:
This is a 10-15 yard route forward then the receiver breaks at a 45 degree angle towards the sideline and looks for the ball.
Curl:
This is a 5-8 yard route forward then the receiver stops and turns to the ball.
Post Corner:
This is a 12-20 yard route forward then the receiver cuts on a 45 degree angle to the middle of the field for a few steps then the receiver cuts on a 45 degree angle towards the sideline and then looks for the ball.
Post:
This is a 12-20 yard route forward then the receiver breaks on a 45 degree angle towards the middle of the field and looks for the ball.
Fly:
This route is run straight up the field with the receiver looking for the ball after he gets past about 15 yards.
* For younger participants the passing routes can be reduced by half.
Running Back Route Definitions/Secondary Routes
While your backs may run any of the assigned routes on the primary passing tree, these routes have been designed as a high-percentage second option to complete a pass.
These routes will not be numbered. You will always refer to them by name. Replace:
This is a 8-15 yard route where the running back angles forward on a 45 de gree angle and then goes straight up the field and looks for the ball. Arrow:
This route the running back drives on a 45 degree angle towards the sideline and looks back for the ball. Circle:
This route starts toward the sideline and then circles back to in front of the QB. Out/In:
This route starts straight up the field then the running back breaks “out” or “in” depending on the play. Secondary Routes
Replace:
Exactly what the route is called. Your secondary or safety receiver should drive to and replace the area where your receivers were aligned. Works well in the case when receivers clear out one side of the field. Arrow:
A route in which the receiver drives on a 45 degree angle, always toward the side line. The receiver should always look over the outside shoulder for the pass. Stop:
Look for open space. Turn to the quarterback with your back to the defender. This should be a pass to the chest. Flare:
Rounded off pattern in the backfield with the completion coming near or at the line of scrimmage. Usually executed by a running back being used as a second or third option. A pass option for a quarterback when his main options have been shut down. How to Call a Play
Now that you’ve read your passing tree and understand the pass routes available, there are two options you have in play calling. The simple option is to use positions attached to route names. The more advanced option is to use the passing tree numeric system.
There will be a few constants when calling plays. - You will always call the formation first, including the alignment (left or right, if necessary). You’ll call an alignment in an unbalanced formation (anything but a Split T. See examples below).
- You will always call your receiver pass routes from left to right (then your Halfback (H) route, followed by the Center route)
Plays Examples -1
See printer friendly version for details. Plays Examples -2
See printer friendly version for details. Advanced Play Calling
If you want a more advanced system to call plays, you can use the actual numbers attached to the routes on the passing tree to call your receiver routes (refer to passing tree for routes and the numbers associated with them). You are still calling your receiver routes from left to right. Instead of designating the receiver and the route he/ she will run, you call out a sequence of numbers that tells the receiver which route to run. Now this play would be called:
Trips Right – 999 – Center Arrow Instead of: Trips Right – Left Fly – Middle Fly – Right Fly – Center Arrow
The key to using this numeric system is to ensure that each receiver knows their position within the formation. • The first number is the left receiver
• The second number is the middle receiver
• The third number is the right receiver
Important Reminders: You will continue to call the routes (without using numbers) for the running back (when necessary), and the center. If you are using a two-receiver formation, then the play call should only be two digits rather than three. back to top
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