screen pass
What Is The Definition Of Screen Pass In Football?
A screen pass in American football is a play where the running back receives a short pass from the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage. This play is designed to confuse the defense by making them believe the quarterback will throw downfield when in fact, the pass is intended for a skill player such as a running back escorted by offensive linemen who serve as blockers.
How Is A Screen Pass Run?
It’s a play designed to look like a downfield pass, predicated by the quarterback dropping back to throw the ball deep. As this happens, the offensive line releases from a pass protection look and allows the defensive line free. The skill player, usually a running back, takes a position behind the offensive lineman and awaits the ball to be thrown to him. Receivers will clear the path by following specific routes, effectively running out defensive backs so they cannot tackle the ball carrier.
What Types Of Screen Passes Are There?
There are a variety of screen passes intended for wide receivers, including:
- Bubble screen
- Middle screen
- Slot screen
- Slip screen
When Is The Screen Pass Used?
A screen pass is typically used on passing downs like third down or when the defense is blitzing the quarterback. Because the defensive backs are trying to sack the quarterback, there are fewer of them to protect the area just beyond the line of scrimmage. Along with cornerbacks who have been deceived into thinking there will be a long pass play, there is an opportunity for the skill player and his blockers to gain the most yards to gain a first down.
What Makes A Screen Pass Successful?
Several variables are required for an offense to make a screen pass work.
The offensive unit, including the linemen, quarterback, and skill player, must have impeccable timing. They also need to sell the play — the quarterback must drop back, scan the field, and then adjust from a deep throw to one behind the line of scrimmage. Offensive linemen must “pretend” that they missed blocks in the hopes defensive linemen will move upfield to defend the pass. In the NFL, the screen pass works well with dynamic, speedy athletes, such as running backs Alvin Kamara and Aaron Jones, who become dual threats that can catch the ball and run in space.
Example Of How Screen Pass Is Used In Commentary
1. The Saints offensive line set a screen for Kamara, which allowed him to cross midfield in open space and go down the field for a 54-yard touchdown.
Sport The Term Is Used in
1. Football
