Football is a game of strategy and innovation, where coaches and players constantly seek new ways to outsmart their opponents.
One such concept that has gained popularity in recent years is the shallow cross concept.
This offensive play design has proven to be highly effective in creating mismatches and gaining yards through short, quick passes.
Below we look at the details of the shallow cross concept, exploring its origins, execution, variations, and its impact on the game.
The Origins of the Shallow Cross Concept
The shallow cross concept is not a new invention but has evolved over time as coaches adapted to defensive strategies.
It traces its roots back to the West Coast offense, which was popularized by legendary coach Bill Walsh in the 1980s.
The West Coast offense emphasized short, high-percentage passes to move the ball down the field efficiently.
Over the years, coaches have added their own twists to the West Coast offense, leading to the development of various passing concepts.
One such concept is the shallow cross, which involves multiple receivers running crossing routes at different depths.
This creates confusion for the defense and opens up opportunities for receivers to exploit the gaps in coverage.
The Shallow Cross Concept – Air Raid Offense
The Execution of the Shallow Cross Concept
The shallow cross concept typically involves three or more receivers running crossing routes at different depths.
The primary objective is to create mismatches and exploit the gaps in the defense’s coverage.
Let’s break down the execution of the shallow cross concept:
- Route Combinations: The shallow cross concept often incorporates a combination of routes to maximize its effectiveness. Common route combinations include:
- Shallow Cross: A receiver runs a shallow crossing route from one side of the field to the other, typically at a depth of 5-7 yards.
- Drag Route: Another receiver runs a drag route parallel to the line of scrimmage, aiming to create separation from defenders.
- Deep Crossing Route: A third receiver runs a deeper crossing route, stretching the defense vertically and horizontally.
- Timing and Synchronization: The success of the shallow cross concept relies heavily on the timing and synchronization between the quarterback and the receivers. The quarterback must read the defense pre-snap and make quick decisions based on the coverage. The receivers must time their routes to create windows for the quarterback to deliver accurate passes.
- Exploiting Mismatches: The shallow cross concept aims to create mismatches by forcing defenders to cover multiple receivers in a confined area. By crossing routes at different depths, the offense can exploit gaps in the defense’s coverage and create opportunities for receivers to gain yards after the catch.
- Quick Release: The shallow cross concept is designed to be executed quickly, with the quarterback making short, accurate throws to the receivers. This allows the offense to gain yards in a short amount of time and keep the defense off balance.
Xs & Os: Shallow Cross
Variations of the Shallow Cross Concept
Coaches have developed various variations of the shallow cross concept to keep defenses guessing and adapt to different situations.
Here are some notable variations:
- Mesh Concept: The mesh concept is a variation of the shallow cross that involves two receivers crossing paths at a shallow depth. This creates a “mesh” or “rub” effect, making it difficult for defenders to stay with their assigned receivers.
- Levels Concept: The levels concept combines shallow crossing routes with deeper routes, creating multiple levels of receivers. This forces defenders to make difficult decisions and opens up opportunities for big plays.
- Switch Concept: The switch concept involves two receivers switching their crossing routes at the line of scrimmage. This can confuse defenders and create favorable matchups for the offense.
- Play-Action: Incorporating play-action into the shallow cross concept can further deceive the defense and create bigger passing windows. The threat of a run forces defenders to hesitate, giving the offense an advantage.
The Impact of the Shallow Cross Concept
The shallow cross concept has had a significant impact on the game of football, revolutionizing offensive strategies and creating new opportunities for teams to move the ball effectively.
Here are some key reasons why the shallow cross concept has become so popular:
- Exploiting Mismatches: The shallow cross concept is designed to create mismatches and force defenders to cover multiple receivers in a confined area. This puts stress on the defense and opens up opportunities for receivers to exploit gaps in coverage.
- Quick and Efficient: The shallow cross concept allows offenses to gain yards quickly and efficiently. By utilizing short, high-percentage passes, teams can move the ball down the field methodically and keep the defense off balance.
- Yards After the Catch: The shallow cross concept often leads to significant yards after the catch. Receivers running crossing routes at different depths can find open space and use their agility and speed to gain additional yards.
- Adaptability: The shallow cross concept is adaptable to different offensive schemes and personnel. Coaches can incorporate variations and adjustments based on the strengths of their players and the weaknesses of the defense.
Is the Shallow Cross Concept Used in the West Coast Offense, Air Coryell, Air Raid, and Spread Offense?
Yes, the shallow cross concept is commonly used in the West Coast Offense, Air Coryell, Air Raid, and Spread Offense.
The shallow cross is a pass route concept where one or more receivers run shallow crossing routes across the middle of the field at various depths.
It is designed to create horizontal stretching of the defense and provide options for the quarterback to quickly get the ball out to receivers in space.
West Coast Offense
In the West Coast Offense, the shallow cross is often used as a quick, high-percentage passing option to attack underneath zones and gain yards after the catch.
It is typically combined with other route combinations to create multiple reads for the quarterback.
Air Coryell
In the Air Coryell system, which emphasizes vertical passing routes, the shallow cross can be used to complement deep routes and stretch the defense horizontally.
It provides an intermediate crossing option for the quarterback if the deep routes are covered.
Air Raid
The Air Raid offense, developed by coaches such as the late Mike Leach, also incorporates the shallow cross concept as part of its pass-heavy approach.
The shallow crossing routes are designed to exploit mismatches and create opportunities for receivers to catch the ball in space and generate yards after the catch.
Spread Offense
Lastly, the Spread Offense, which focuses on spreading the defense out and creating one-on-one matchups, often utilizes the shallow cross concept to attack the middle of the field.
It can be combined with other spread concepts such as mesh or option routes to provide multiple receiving options for the quarterback.
Overall, the shallow cross concept is a versatile and widely used route combination that can be found in various offensive systems, including the West Coast Offense, Air Coryell, Air Raid, and Spread Offense.
FAQs – Shallow Cross Concept in Football
1. What is the purpose of the shallow cross concept?
The shallow cross concept aims to create mismatches and exploit gaps in the defense’s coverage by forcing defenders to cover multiple receivers in a confined area.
2. How does the shallow cross concept work?
The shallow cross concept involves multiple receivers running crossing routes at different depths.
This creates confusion for the defense and opens up opportunities for receivers to exploit gaps in coverage.
3. Who popularized the shallow cross concept?
The shallow cross concept evolved from the West Coast offense, popularized by coach Bill Walsh in the 1980s.
4. What are some common route combinations in the shallow cross concept?
Common route combinations in the shallow cross concept include the shallow cross, drag route, and deep crossing route.
5. How important is timing in executing the shallow cross concept?
Timing is crucial in executing the shallow cross concept.
The quarterback must read the defense pre-snap and make quick decisions, while the receivers must time their routes to create windows for accurate passes.
6. Are there any variations of the shallow cross concept?
Yes, there are several variations of the shallow cross concept, including the mesh concept, levels concept, switch concept, and incorporating play-action.
7. What impact has the shallow cross concept had on the game?
The shallow cross concept has revolutionized offensive strategies, allowing teams to move the ball effectively and efficiently.
It has become popular due to its ability to exploit mismatches, gain yards after the catch, and adapt to different offensive schemes.
8. Can the shallow cross concept be used in youth football?
Yes, the shallow cross concept can be adapted for use in youth football.
Coaches can simplify the route combinations and focus on teaching the fundamentals of timing and execution.
9. How can defenses defend against the shallow cross concept?
Defenses can defend against the shallow cross concept by using zone coverage, assigning defenders to specific areas of the field, and communicating effectively to pass off receivers in their zones.
10. Is the shallow cross concept effective in the red zone?
The shallow cross concept can be effective in the red zone, as it creates opportunities for receivers to find open space and exploit gaps in the defense’s coverage.
However, defenses often tighten up in the red zone, making it more challenging to execute.
11. Can the shallow cross concept be used in running situations?
While the shallow cross concept is primarily a passing concept, it can be incorporated into running situations through play-action.
The threat of a run can freeze defenders and create bigger passing windows.
12. How can teams practice and perfect the shallow cross concept?
Teams can practice the shallow cross concept through drills that focus on timing, route running, and quarterback-receiver synchronization.
Film study and analysis of successful plays can also help teams understand the nuances of the concept.
13. Are there any risks associated with the shallow cross concept?
Like any offensive play design, there are risks associated with the shallow cross concept.
If the timing is off or the quarterback makes inaccurate throws, it can result in interceptions or incompletions.
Additionally, defenses that effectively communicate and pass off receivers in zone coverage can limit the effectiveness of the concept.
14. Can the shallow cross concept be used in conjunction with other offensive concepts?
Absolutely! The shallow cross concept can be combined with other offensive concepts to create more complex and unpredictable play designs.
Coaches often incorporate it into their overall offensive strategy to keep defenses guessing.
15. How has the shallow cross concept evolved over time?
The shallow cross concept has evolved as coaches adapt to defensive strategies.
New variations and adjustments have been introduced to counteract defensive tactics, making it a dynamic and ever-evolving offensive concept.
Summary
The shallow cross concept has become a staple in modern football, offering teams an effective way to move the ball through short, quick passes.
Its origins in the West Coast offense have paved the way for various route combinations and variations that create mismatches and exploit gaps in the defense’s coverage.
The shallow cross concept’s impact on the game is undeniable, revolutionizing offensive strategies and providing teams with a reliable tool to gain yards efficiently.
By understanding the intricacies of the shallow cross concept, teams can enhance their offensive arsenal and keep their opponents on their toes.
