Criss-Cross Reverse
Tailback starts a sweep one way and hands to the wingback coming back the opposite direction.
Concept: Backside end and tackle hinge and release to block the pursuit as the wingback reverses field.
Every position's job
Start the sweep one way, then hand to the wingback coming back the opposite direction.
Come back against the flow, take the handoff, and reverse field to the far edge.
Fake the sweep lead one way to sell the initial flow.
Block the perimeter or seal pursuit on the reverse side.
Hinge and release to block the pursuit as the play reverses.
Hinge and release to wall off backside pursuit.
Show sweep flow, then block for the reverse edge.
Show sweep flow to sell the initial direction.
Snap the ball, then block back and cut off inside pursuit.
Show sweep flow, then lead around the reverse edge.
How to teach it
- 1Sell the sweep hard one way so the defense flows before the reverse.
- 2Backside end and tackle hinge and release to wall off pursuit on the reverse.
- 3The criss-cross handoff must be clean and tight.
Common mistakes to fix
- !Backside pursuit chases down the reverse — fix by teaching firm hinge-and-release blocks.
- !Exchange is fumbled — fix by drilling the mesh at game speed.
Build this into your call sheet.
Adopt this system in your coach portal, tag plays by situation, and print call sheets and player wristbands.