Undercuts

Description

A radically designed passing play that features all five eligible receivers running patterns undercutting each other. These routes compliment each other to pull defenders out of position, forcing them to chase across the field. Against man coverage the defense can be torn apart as receivers run away from their man, using the other patterns as screens. If the defense is in a zone, the deeper routes will draw the primary coverage, leaving the underneath routes open for a quick strike.

The primary targets are the left SE and flanker and the RB. The SE's drag is usually open if you throw quick, and if not the coverage may be drawn away from the left sideline, where the flanker sweeps into. Hitting either of these receivers quickly should net an easy 6-10 yards. The RB is an easy completion, though if a LB gets into coverage quickly he may be stopped for minimal gain. Otherwise expect 5-15 yards here. It's best to try to hit this pass close to the line of scrimmage. Both the left flanker and RB patterns can also get big yardage down the sidelines late if they can get around their coverage. The right SE's skinny post has the best big play capability but is a dangerous pass due to the large distance from the QB's deep position. The right flanker can make for a nasty surprise if you have the time to let him work around behind the O-line, but it's usually better to take an earlier read when possible.

Player Assignments

See the Madden Playbook Guide for a description of these symbols.

Read Progression

1. Left SE short drag
2. Left flanker under SE
3. RB in flats
4. Right SE skinny post
5. Left flanker down sideline
6. RB down right sideline
7. Right flanker around left side of O-line

Analysis

Pros:

• Left SE, flanker combo almost impossible to defend completely without sacrificing other areas
• RB is hard to defend due to wide swing pattern, if he is covered then the left SE over the middle will probably break free, and the RB can often outrun the LB coverage down the sideline
• Skinny post gives big play opportunity if defense plays close to line, makes play excellent for hurry up offense when time is short
• Well balanced, effective against aggressive blitzes as well as safe coverages

Cons:

• Skinny post can be a dangerous throw due to the deep drop of the QB; a receiver may look like he has the corner beat but the pass may hang in the air long enough for the safety to step in front of the WR for an interception
• Right flanker route takes a while to develop, catch can be difficult because the pass is aimed at the receiver's back
• Semi-vulnerable to bad shotgun snaps, mainly by screwing up quick throws to the receivers on the left side