Slant–flat
What it is
A slant inside paired with a flat route underneath it, stretching the flat defender horizontally on a quick rhythm.
Why it matters
Slant-flat is the first passing concept most programs install because it answers the two most common looks with the same read: if the flat defender widens, throw the slant behind him; if he squats, throw the flat. It comes out on three steps, which makes it a pressure beater as well as a coverage beater.
Both sides of it
Running it
Three-step drop from the gun. The inside receiver runs the flat and the outside receiver runs the slant at about five yards, flattening once he clears the corner. The quarterback reads the flat defender only: widen means slant, squat means flat. Ball out on the third step, every time.
Stopping it
The flat defender must not chase width. Jam or re-route the slant receiver at the line to break the timing, then squat and take away the quick throw, trusting the corner over the top. Against man, the inside defender plays with inside leverage since the slant is the concept's real weapon and the flat is a checkdown.
Also called
Programs call this slant flat, slant arrow or quick game staple. The Coach answers to any of them.
Related
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