Description

Derek Leonard, Rochester HS (IL), Head Coach

Full video on Glazier Drive: Hitch Naked Pass

HITCH NAKED PLAY CONCEPT BREAKDOWN

This offensive concept combines a pump fake to a hitch receiver with a rollout action, creating a deceptive play that gives quarterbacks more time and options than traditional rollouts.

OFFENSIVE LINE RESPONSIBILITIES

The offensive line executes zone blocking to the hitch side (typically the short side of the field), despite the team normally running gap schemes. Linemen step and protect their gaps while leaving the end man on the line of scrimmage unblocked on the rollout side. This creates effective blitz pickup when facing heavy pressure packages.

HITCH RECEIVER EXECUTION

The single-side receiver runs a hitch route, positioning himself 3-4 yards from the sideline when possible. The quarterback typically knows pre-snap whether he'll throw the hitch based on down and distance - it's available on first/second down and third-and-medium or less, but discouraged on third-and-long unless it's the only open option.

BACKFIELD PROTECTION SCHEME

In 10 personnel, the running back is responsible for the end man on the line of scrimmage. He allows the defender to commit before attacking, taking advantage of the quarterback's pump fake to draw the defender downhill. When using a fullback, he takes the defensive end while the running back handles any scraping linebacker or edge rusher, creating seven-man protection instead of six.

QUARTERBACK MECHANICS AND READS

The quarterback uses a deliberate, exaggerated pump fake - not a subtle one - to show the ball to the defense and create movement. After the two-step drop and pump, he either hits the hitch or rolls out with proper depth (7-8 yards), similar to standard rollout technique but with more time to develop routes.

ROUTE CONCEPTS AND FLEXIBILITY

The play works effectively in both 2x2 and 3x1 formations, often developing into flood concepts with flat, middle, and deep routes. Players have flexibility in route depths based on their speed - faster receivers can get deeper on comebacks and out routes. The concept allows for routes that are difficult to execute in traditional rollouts, including 15-16 yard comebacks and 12-yard speed outs from the number two receiver.

STRATEGIC ADVANTAGES

This concept provides more time than traditional rollouts while maintaining deception through the pump fake. It's particularly effective for third-and-long situations and allows the offense to execute deeper, more complex route combinations that would be challenging with immediate rollout action.

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