OUR VERSION OF the old “hook-and-lateral” play is not only one of our players favorite plays, but it still produces big plays. By establishing a solid, quick 3-step game, it forces the corner coverage to jump the hitch route.
We like to release the No. 2 backside receiver (TE) on a middle read route to draw safety coverage. This leaves only LBs to trail the pitch back out of the backfield.
As simple as this play looks, timing is critical since the play relies on a smooth transition of throw-catch-pitch. Receiver X always has the option of not making the pitch.
PLAYER ASSIGNMENTS:
Offensive Linemen: Use base 3-step protection.
Fullback: Track wheel route path 3 to 5 yards outside the alignment of receiver X.
Running Back: Backside pass protection to the end man on the line of scrimmage.
Receiver X: Runs a 4-step hitch route. Catches and completes a pitch to the FB. If a defender threatens the pitch, tuck the ball away.
Receiver Y: Middle read route to control the safety movement.
Receiver Z: 4-step hitch route.
Quarterback: Completes a hitch to receiver X if at all possible. If receiver X isn’t open, his second option is to throw a hitch to receiver Z on the backside. A pre-snap scan of the coverage should dictate the QB’s throw. He always has the option to throw the middle read to the TE vs. a 0-safety coverage.
—Mike Mizer, Head Coach
Spring Hill High School, Columbia, Tenn.