Description

Derek Leonard, Head Coach, Rochester High School (IL)

Full video on Glazier Drive: Quick Screens Off Run & Reads

QUICK SCREEN PHILOSOPHY AND STRATEGY

This coaching clinic focuses on incorporating quick screens into an offensive scheme as an alternative to traditional RPOs (Run-Pass Options). The system was developed starting in 2005-2006 with the goal of spreading the field horizontally and preventing all 11 defenders from pursuing the ball. The coach emphasizes that quick screens are easier to execute than downfield RPOs because many reads can be made pre-snap, though they can also function post-snap or as triple options (similar to the old veer pitch, but throwing instead).

BLOCKING FUNDAMENTALS

The system keeps blocking schemes simple and consistent. Receivers follow a "most dangerous" blocking rule - the outside receiver takes the corner, and the #2 receiver takes the next most dangerous defender. There's minimal cross-blocking or cracking. The coach stresses that receivers must be unselfish blockers like offensive linemen to earn playing time and targets. The team dedicates at least 10 minutes daily to blocking practice during the regular season.

BACKPEDAL TECHNIQUE

A core principle is having receivers backpedal rather than turn and run. This allows the quarterback to see the receiver's chest and throw to the upfield shoulder more easily. Backpedaling also gives receivers flexibility to speed up or slow down based on timing and maintains visual contact with the quarterback throughout the play.

BUBBLE SCREENS

The bubble screen is described as the "#1 play since day one." It works off gap scheme run plays (power, counter) with the quarterback reading first and second-level defenders. The QB can throw pre-snap, post-snap, or execute a triple option read. When throwing pre-snap, receivers should get 5-6 yards deep. The system works from various formations including frontside power read, pistol, and yo-yo concepts.

NOW SCREENS

Now screens target the outside receiver instead of the slot. The team runs this play primarily with three-receiver sets (80% of the time). The #2 receiver still blocks the most dangerous defender inside the corner, while the #3 receiver gets flat then vertical to give the outside receiver a two-way go option. The coach notes they tend to call now screens when they have an elite outside receiver, while bubbles are favored with great slot receivers.

CANADA CONCEPT (15-YARD ALIGNMENT)

Starting in 2018-2019, the team began placing a receiver 15 yards deep in the backfield. This evolved from a gimmick play to a core part of the quick screen and RPO system. Benefits include: the ball arrives quicker (like a punt return), receivers get into blocks faster and more physically, and it's a one-cut run for the best athlete.

The catch point is at the 5-yard line, with the QB releasing anywhere from 3-5 yards deep. The receiver runs at 70-75% speed until the ball arrives, then explodes. This can be run to one or both sides and works with the team's power and counter schemes, functioning as both pre-snap and post-snap options.

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