Description
This misnamed play (the flanker is isolated not the split end, the flanker just looks like a split end because of where he lines up) is the most devastating goal line play I've devised to date. This is interesting, both because it is one of my oldest plays and because it wasn't designed with the red zone in mind. It was only recently that I discovered that the running backs, especially the left back, seem to break free in the end zone almost at will, and against any difficulty setting.
The primary targets are usually the backs and the right SE. Away from the end zone the flanker has the best big play ability, especially if he gets around tight bump-and-run coverage. If the corner plays off be careful with this route; in this case the move to the outside, designed to force the corner to look away from the pass and chase the WR, may actually allow a better angle for an interception. The left SE works best to draw coverage away from the backs, but also can provide a relatively safe target when you need to get rid of the ball, especially against a blitz.
Player Assignments
| Position | Action |
|---|---|
| O-Line | Pass Block |
| QB | Receive Shotgun Snap |
| Left RB | 10yd Corner |
| Right RB | 5yd Post |
| Left SE | N1W3 (curl left) |
| Right SE | 10yd Post |
| Right Flanker | N2E1-N8 (open) |
See the Madden Playbook Guide for a description of these symbols.
Read Progression
- Left SE out curl
- Right RB before cut
- Left RB before cut
- Right SE before cut
- Flanker after turning upfield
This progression may be slightly different in goal line situations. When passing at the goal line reading the defense before the snap of the ball is more important than ever. You may want to call a hot read for isolated WR, such as a quick out if the corner is playing off or cheating inside to break up a quick slant. In these cases you may want to read this route first. Also, you can usually ignore the left SE curl when close to the goal line, it does a good job drawing coverage but if the defense is stacked close to the line it becomes a dangerous throw, and it's hard to get more than a couple of yards out of it unless the coverage is blown.
Analysis
Pros:
- Left RB breaks wide open in the end zone in goal line situations at least half of the time
- Flanker's isolation makes for great hot reads
- 3 or 4 "primary" targets makes play easy to learn
Cons:
- No blocking backs means that high snap + blitz around end = sack
- RBs can get jammed if the defense crowds the line, leading to a possible sack or throw away
- Right SE post pattern is hard to hit in bounds when the ball is snapped within a few yards of the goal line
Contact Arkaein with any comments or questions regarding the Monstrous Madden Playbook.