Midline Pass
Fullback midline fake holds the linebackers while the quarterback throws the seam off play-action.
Concept: Interior sells the give as the slot and end run vertical seams behind the crashing linebackers.
Grows with your players
Same play, more layers as they age up — teach it once and build on it every season for a consistent program.
- 12UIntroduce: Learn the footwork and the primary read; protect first, then complete the easy throw.
- 14UAdd deception: Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look. Add the play-action throw off this run action. Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.
Every position's job
Ride the midline fullback fake to hold the linebackers, then pull up and throw the seam off play-action.
Sell the midline give hard to freeze the linebackers.
Run a vertical seam behind the crashing linebackers.
Run a vertical seam or post to stretch the coverage.
Check-release as a safety valve or run a shallow cross.
Show the skip-release run block, then set to protect.
Sell the give block, then set and protect the A-gaps.
Show run then pass-set the edge.
Set and protect the backside edge.
Leak to the flat as an outlet.
How to teach it
- 1The interior sells the give — linemen show the run block before setting; rep the fake.
- 2Slot and end run seams behind the crashing linebackers; teach them to find the void.
- 3QB's eyes hold the linebackers with the fake, then rise to throw.
Common mistakes to fix
- !Linebackers don't bite because the fake is weak; fix by drilling a full midline ride first.
- !Seam routes run too flat or too fast; fix by teaching the vertical stem and settling in the void.
Build this into your call sheet.
Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.