Play of the Day: Smash Long

Last Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals ran a concept that I call “smash long”. Similar to the traditional smash concept, the corner back is placed in a high low read. A further explanation of the smash concept can be found at a previous article.

http://theofficialpetersreport.blogspot.com/2014/10/curl-flat-variations-part-2-adjusting.html

The first figure shows the Cardinals using this concept out of a 3x1 bunch alignment.

NFL.com

Because of the bunch alignment and the middle vertical route, this play can be used against a single-high safety look or a two-high safety look. Against a cover 3, the releases out of the bunch formation create a one on one matchup with the flat defender and the receiver running the out route. Against cover 2, the middle vertical route keeps the left safety in the middle of the field, isolating the CB.

NFL.com

The second figure shows the routes developing. The left safety stays high and inside due to the multitude of vertical threats. The left corner becomes the read for the quarterback. In the figure above, he is still in his back pedal as the outside receiver runs behind him. The last figure shows how open the corner route is, as the ball is in the air.

NFL.com

This adjustment to the smash concept can create big plays. My next article will focus on an adjustment off of this play to create an even more explosive play, used in the same game.