Description

Gerry Yonchiuk, Head Coach, Central York HS, PA

View the full video: Running Mesh: The Staple of the Air Raid

SUMMARY

This video covers a comprehensive quarterback mesh drill system designed to simplify reads for high school quarterbacks against both man and zone coverage.

QUARTERBACK DROP TECHNIQUE The coach teaches a quick three-step drop using either traditional footwork or the "Romo drop" (also called Brady drop), which involves shuffling out. This technique was adopted from NFL coaching to counter how defensive backs read quarterback drops.

READ PROGRESSION SYSTEM The system uses a simplified three-read progression that all quarterbacks must memorize:

1. High Read First - Always read the deep route (corner, post, wheel) regardless of coverage
2. Playside Mesh - Second read focuses on the crossing route on the side where mesh is run
3. OTB (Over The Ball) - Third read targets the hook route, typically run by the tight end

This progression is credited to Lincoln Riley's offensive concepts and helps even backup quarterbacks understand their responsibilities.

RED ZONE ADJUSTMENTS Inside the 10-yard line, quarterbacks take a rocker step and focus primarily on the first read, assuming man coverage or zone with pressure. All throws must be elevated to avoid defensive linemen getting hands on the ball.

DRILL EXECUTION The drill uses five quarterbacks lined up who call out their reads in sequence. Each quarterback practices a different read in the progression, with footballs coming out in order. This allows multiple repetitions and reinforces the read concepts for all players simultaneously.

MAN VS ZONE DIFFERENCES Against zone coverage, mesh runners don't look back until they post up in their zone. Against man coverage, the split widens and receivers running mesh routes maintain eye contact with the quarterback throughout their routes. The coach emphasizes the importance of "climbing" the route to avoid undercutting by safeties.

ADDITIONAL COACHING POINTS The system includes specific rules for scramble situations, where the OTB route runner works back toward the direction the quarterback scrambles. The coach rarely sees quarterbacks get to a fourth or fifth read, making this three-read system practical for high school level play.

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