Belly / Bubble RPO
Quarterback rides the belly and can throw the bubble off the overhang read.
Concept: Line run-blocks belly while the quarterback reads the flat defender for the give-or-throw key.
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.
- 6UIntroduce: Nail the snap/exchange, aim the right hole, and finish downhill.
- 8UAdd deception: Add the fake/mesh — and a counter off the very same look.
- 10UAdd the pass: Add the play-action throw off this run action.
- 12UMaster it: Run it fast both directions and check into it by defensive look.
Every position's job
Ride the belly and read the flat defender: give the belly or throw the bubble.
Run the belly off tackle off the mesh, reading the seal.
Down-block the first inside defender.
Block back or scoop to protect the backside.
Block back away from the play.
Base-block the defender at the point of attack.
Scoop and cut off backside pursuit.
Down-block inside to widen the seam.
Seal the edge or arc for the belly.
Stalk-block for the bubble side.
Run the bubble as the throw option.
How to teach it
- 1Line run-blocks belly; the QB reads the flat defender for give-or-throw.
- 2Give the belly if the flat defender widens, throw the bubble if he crashes.
- 3Bubble receiver catches on the move and gets vertical.
Common mistakes to fix
- !QB reads too slowly and both options die — speed up the key.
- !Linemen drift downfield on the throw — keep them at the line to stay legal.
Build this into your call sheet.
Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.