Center Screen
The center slips right into a short backfield outlet while receivers run upfield. Check center eligibility and whether your rules permit a catch behind the line.
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Who does what
- CCenterSnap, then slip right into the backfield outlet shown. Check where a legal catch may occur.
- QBQBFind C moving right after the snap. Check the rush lane and passing eligibility first; the downfield routes do not guarantee that the screen is uncovered.
- XWRRun a deep route up the left side.
- YWRRun up the right inside lane.
- ZWRPush up the far right, then break toward the sideline.
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How to teach Center Screen
By FlagPlays · Updated . Practical starting points for volunteer coaches. Check your competition’s rules before using a play.
Left and right refer to the diagram. Route depths are illustrations; adjust them to your field and players. Check eligibility, running and rush rules.
- When to try it
- Practice a short outlet to the center when pressure leaves space behind it. The drawing catches the ball behind the line: adapt it if your rules require a catch beyond the line.
- Quarterback's plan
- Find C moving right after the snap. Check the rush lane and passing eligibility first; the downfield routes do not guarantee that the screen is uncovered.
- Teaching cue
- Center: finish the snap before turning to show a target.
- Common mistake
- Other receivers blocking or screening a defender instead of running their own routes.
- pass
- screen
- blitz beater
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