Slant Route: The Ultimate Football Play Guide
Hey guys! Ever wondered about that super quick, inside route that wide receivers sometimes run? That's the slant route, and it's a fundamental play in football. Let's dive deep into what makes the slant route so effective, how it works, and why coaches love to use it. So buckle up, football fans, and let's get started!
What is a Slant Route?
The slant route is a short, diagonal route run by a wide receiver. Instead of running straight downfield, the receiver takes a few steps forward and then cuts sharply inside towards the middle of the field. This quick inside move is what makes the slant so effective. It’s designed to get the receiver open quickly for a short, easy completion. Think of it as the receiver making a sharp, angled dash across the defense.
Key Characteristics of a Slant Route
- Quickness: The essence of the slant lies in its speed. The receiver needs to make that inside cut rapidly, catching the defense off guard.
- Sharp Angle: The angle of the cut is crucial. Too wide, and it’s not a true slant; too shallow, and it loses its effectiveness. The receiver aims for a sharp, decisive angle.
- Short Distance: Typically, slants are short-yardage routes. They're not designed for huge gains but for quick completions and moving the chains.
- Inside Cut: The cut always goes inside, toward the quarterback. This positioning allows for a quick, direct throw.
Why is the Slant Route so Popular?
The slant route's popularity stems from its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a high-percentage play that can be used in various situations. Here’s why coaches love it:
- Quick Completion: The slant route is designed for a fast, easy throw. This helps the quarterback get the ball out of his hands quickly, reducing the risk of sacks.
- Versatility: It can be run from various formations and with different receiver alignments.
- Gaining Yardage: While it’s a short route, a well-executed slant can pick up significant yardage, especially if the receiver can make a move after the catch.
- Beating Man Coverage: The quick inside cut can be tough for defenders to cover in man-to-man situations.
- Zone Coverage: Against zone defenses, the receiver can find a soft spot between defenders, making it an effective way to exploit gaps.
How the Slant Route Works
The magic of the slant route lies in its execution. It’s not just about running a diagonal line; it’s about timing, precision, and understanding the defense. Here’s a breakdown of how it works, step by step:
Pre-Snap Read
Before the play even starts, the receiver needs to assess the defensive alignment. Is it man coverage or zone? Where are the defenders lined up? This pre-snap read helps the receiver anticipate what to expect and adjust their route accordingly.
The Release
The release is the receiver's initial move off the line of scrimmage. A good release can set the tone for the entire route. Receivers might use a quick stutter step, a head fake, or a burst of speed to create separation from the defender.
The Cut
This is where the slant route truly takes shape. After a few steps (typically 2-3), the receiver makes a sharp, decisive cut inside. The angle of the cut should be precise, aiming for a spot that allows the quarterback to deliver the ball quickly. The receiver should plant their outside foot and explode in the opposite direction, creating separation from the defender.
The Catch
As the receiver makes the cut, they should simultaneously look for the ball. The quarterback needs to deliver the pass on time and on target. The receiver should catch the ball cleanly and immediately prepare to turn upfield to gain additional yards.
After the Catch
Once the receiver has the ball, it’s all about maximizing yardage. This might involve making a quick move to evade a defender, lowering the shoulder to gain extra yards, or simply running towards the sideline to avoid contact. A good receiver knows how to turn a short completion into a significant gain.
Variations of the Slant Route
While the basic slant route is a staple, coaches have developed several variations to keep defenses guessing. These variations add complexity and can exploit specific defensive weaknesses. Let’s check out some of the most common ones:
Flat-Slant Combination
In this variation, one receiver runs a slant while another runs a flat route (a route that goes parallel to the line of scrimmage). This combination creates a two-on-one situation for the defense, forcing them to choose which receiver to cover. It’s a great way to create easy opportunities for short gains.
Slant-Flat Combination
Similar to the flat-slant, the slant-flat involves one receiver running a slant and another running a flat route, but often from opposite sides of the field. This stretches the defense horizontally and can open up running lanes as well.
Double Slant
The double slant involves two receivers on the same side of the field running slant routes. This can overload one side of the defense and create confusion. The quarterback reads which defender the defenders are open.
Fade-Slant Combination
This variation involves one receiver running a fade route (a deep route down the sideline) while another runs a slant. The fade route occupies the cornerback, while the slant exploits the space underneath. This is particularly effective against defenses that like to play press coverage.
Slant-Option Route
In this variation, the receiver has the option to run a slant or another route based on the defensive coverage. For example, if the defender is playing tight, the receiver might run a slant. If the defender is playing off, the receiver might run a different route. This requires a high level of understanding between the quarterback and receiver.
Common Mistakes When Running a Slant Route
Even though the slant route seems simple, there are several common mistakes that can derail its effectiveness. Avoiding these mistakes is crucial for consistent execution. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Telegraphing the Route
One of the biggest mistakes is telegraphing the route. If the receiver’s body language gives away the direction of the cut, the defender will be ready for it. Receivers need to be deceptive and make their movements look the same regardless of the route they’re running.
Inconsistent Angle
The angle of the cut is critical. If the angle is too wide or too shallow, the timing of the route will be off. Receivers need to practice their cuts repeatedly to ensure they’re consistent.
Poor Release
A weak release off the line of scrimmage can disrupt the entire route. Receivers need to be aggressive and use their hands and feet to create separation from the defender right from the start.
Dropping the Ball
This one seems obvious, but dropped passes are drive killers. Receivers need to concentrate on catching the ball cleanly, especially when running a quick route like the slant.
Not Adjusting to Coverage
Receivers need to be able to read the defense and adjust their route accordingly. If the defender is playing inside, the receiver might need to adjust the angle of their cut or even change the route altogether.
Drills to Improve Slant Route Technique
Perfecting the slant route requires dedicated practice. Here are a few drills that can help receivers improve their technique:
Cone Drills
Set up cones in a line, spaced a few yards apart. The receiver practices making sharp cuts around the cones, simulating the angle of the slant route. This helps improve footwork and agility.
Release Drills
Work on different release techniques against a defender or coach. Practice using various moves to create separation off the line of scrimmage. This improves explosiveness and deception.
Catching Drills
Use a quarterback or coach to throw passes while the receiver runs slant routes. Focus on catching the ball cleanly and transitioning quickly to running upfield. This improves hand-eye coordination and concentration.
Route Running Drills
Practice running the slant route against air or with a defender. Focus on maintaining a consistent angle, timing the cut correctly, and adjusting to different coverages. This improves overall route technique.
Quarterback's Role in the Slant Route
The quarterback's role is just as critical as the receiver's in executing a slant route successfully. It's all about timing, accuracy, and making quick decisions. Let’s break down what the quarterback needs to do to make this play work like a charm:
Pre-Snap Read
Before the snap, the quarterback needs to read the defense. Are they showing blitz? Is it man or zone coverage? This read dictates whether the slant is a viable option. If the defense is blitzing, a quick slant can be a great way to get the ball out fast and avoid pressure.
Quick Decision Making
The slant is a timing route, meaning the quarterback needs to decide quickly whether to throw the ball. Hesitation can lead to a sack or an incomplete pass. The quarterback must trust the receiver to make the right cut and be ready to deliver the ball on time.
Accurate Throw
Accuracy is paramount. The quarterback needs to throw the ball slightly in front of the receiver, leading them into the route. The pass should be thrown with enough velocity to get there quickly but not so hard that the receiver can’t catch it comfortably. A well-placed ball allows the receiver to catch it in stride and turn upfield for extra yards.
Timing
The timing between the quarterback and receiver must be impeccable. The quarterback needs to anticipate the receiver’s cut and release the ball just as the receiver is making their move. This requires practice and a good understanding between the two players.
Adjusting to Coverage
If the defense changes its coverage at the last moment, the quarterback needs to be able to adjust. For example, if the defense switches from zone to man coverage, the quarterback might need to look for a different receiver or change the play altogether.
Examples of Successful Slant Routes in Games
To truly appreciate the effectiveness of the slant route, let's look at some examples from real games. These plays highlight how the slant can be a game-changer when executed perfectly.
Wes Welker and Tom Brady
During their time with the New England Patriots, Wes Welker and Tom Brady perfected the slant route. Welker’s quickness and Brady’s accuracy made them a nightmare for defenses. They consistently used the slant to pick up first downs and keep drives alive.
Julian Edelman and Tom Brady
Another example from the Patriots, Julian Edelman, also excelled at running slant routes with Brady. Edelman’s toughness and ability to make contested catches made him a reliable target on slants, especially in crucial moments.
Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford
More recently, Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams have showcased the effectiveness of the slant route. Kupp’s precise route running and Stafford’s arm talent have made them one of the most dangerous duos in the league. Their ability to execute the slant has been a key part of the Rams’ offensive success.
The Future of the Slant Route
So, what does the future hold for the slant route? Despite the ever-evolving strategies in football, the slant remains a fundamental play. Its simplicity and effectiveness ensure that it will continue to be a staple in offensive playbooks.
As defenses become more sophisticated, offenses will likely find new ways to innovate around the slant. This might involve new variations, different receiver alignments, or creative play-calling. The key will be to keep defenses guessing and exploit any weaknesses.
Ultimately, the slant route is a testament to the enduring principles of football. It’s a play that rewards precision, timing, and execution. As long as these qualities remain important, the slant route will continue to be a valuable tool for quarterbacks and receivers alike.
Alright guys, that’s everything you need to know about the slant route in football! Whether you’re a player, coach, or just a die-hard fan, understanding the nuances of this play can give you a whole new appreciation for the game. Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep enjoying the thrill of football!
