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Matt DeBerry, Offensive Coordinator, College Station HS, TX

Full video available on Glazier Drive: Executing Precision: The Spread Offense and the Art of the Quick Passing Game Including Hitches, Slants, & More 

WINDOWS CONCEPT OVERVIEW

This is a comprehensive breakdown of the "Windows" passing concept, a split-field route combination that gives quarterbacks multiple options based on defensive coverage. The concept features a curl-flat combination to one side with a double slant combination to the backside, creating built-in answers for both zone and man coverage situations.

ROUTE STRUCTURE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Windows concept to the left (called "51") consists of three primary routes on the concept side: the #1 receiver runs a 10-yard stop route angled slightly inward toward the top of the numbers, the #2 receiver executes an "over the ball" (OTB) route at 5 yards, and the tailback runs a traditional shoot route to a landmark 2-3 yards from the sideline. The shoot route requires the back to take a direct path from the backfield rather than running an up-and-out pattern.

On the backside, the concept features a double slant combination with the inside receiver (#2/Y) running a 3-step slant and the outside receiver (#1/Z) running what they call an "under route" - essentially a 3-step slant that should be no deeper than 6 yards when crossing the near hash.

QUARTERBACK COACHING POINTS

The quarterback mechanics emphasize quick ball release with either a catch-set-throw or left-right-ball footwork pattern, depending on the individual quarterback's comfort level. The coach stresses not over-coaching mechanics if the quarterback is having success with their preferred method.

The key teaching point is to split the field based on numbers and leverage, encouraging quarterbacks not to second-guess themselves but to identify the better side pre-snap and know their primary read for that side. This approach has resulted in fewer interceptions over recent seasons.

GAME FILM ANALYSIS

Multiple examples show the concept executed from both 3x1 formations (motioning to 2x2) and static 2x2 formations. The film demonstrates successful reads to both the shoot route when flat defenders are positioned inside, and to the double slant side when coverage allows.

Key coaching corrections highlighted include the importance of the tailback running "flat and fast" on the shoot route, throwing to the back's upfield shoulder to maintain momentum toward the sideline, and getting quicker releases on timing routes.

PHILOSOPHY AND RESULTS

The coach emphasizes that repetitions equal confidence, noting improvement from year to year as players became more comfortable with the concept. The multiple nature of the play design creates situations where both sides of the field can be viable options, giving quarterbacks confidence in their decision-making process.

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