A Comprehensive Guide to All 9 Football Routes (The Route Tree)

9 Football Routes: Understanding the variety of football routes is crucial for players and coaches. Each receiver on the field runs a specific route during a play, aiming to exploit different defensive levels and create opportunities. Let’s dive into the basics and explore the “Route Tree.”

What is the “Route Tree”?

The Route Tree is a collection of nine fundamental football routes every pass-catcher needs to know, regardless of position or alignment. When illustrated together, these routes resemble the branches of a tree, hence the name.

Mastering these routes is key to understanding their execution and the strategic situations they address. Here’s a breakdown of all nine routes, organized from the shortest to the deepest.

9 Football Routes

#1 – The Flat Route

The Flat Route is a quick, simple play where the receiver breaks toward the sideline after a few steps forward.

• Who runs it? Slot receivers, tight ends, or running backs.
• Why not outside receivers? There is limited space between their starting position and the sideline.
• Purpose: Gain yards quickly while staying close to the line of scrimmage.

#2 – The Slant Route

The Slant Route is another quick-hitting play. After a few steps forward, the receiver cuts diagonally across the field.

• Objective: Create separation and shield the ball from defenders using the receiver’s body.
• Versatility: Can be run by any position, at any alignment or depth.
• Situations: Often used for short-yardage gains or quick quarterback releases.

#3 – The Comeback Route

The Comeback Route involves the receiver sprinting downfield, then abruptly stopping and angling back toward the sideline.

• Who runs it? Primarily outside receivers.
• Key to success: The receiver uses their body and the sideline to shield defenders from the ball.
• Highlight: Often paired with a back-shoulder throw, a hallmark of modern football.

#4 – The Curl Route

The Curl Route, also called the Stop Route, is similar to the Comeback Route but turns inward instead of toward the sideline.

• Execution: The receiver runs downfield, stops, and curls back toward the middle of the field.
• Positioning: Often run by players inside the field, complementing comeback routes outside.

#5 – The Out Route

The Out Route is a deeper version of the Flat Route, run 10 to 15 yards downfield.

• Who runs it? Typically, non-outside receivers take advantage of the sideline space.
• Challenges: Requires precision from the receiver and arm strength from the quarterback.
• Result: It often ends with the receiver catching the ball near the sideline.

#6 – The In or Dig Route

The In Route or Dig Route is the opposite of the Out Route, with the receiver cutting horizontally toward the field’s center after sprinting 10 to 15 yards forward.

• Execution: Requires precise route-running to create separation without sideline assistance.
• Risk: Exposes the receiver to defenders in the middle of the field.
• Use Case: Effective for intermediate and deep passing plays.

By understanding these routes, players and coaches can better strategize to outsmart defenses and maximize offensive efficiency. Stay tuned as we break down the remaining routes in the tree!

9 Football Routes: Final Routes of the Route Tree Explained

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the deeper routes in the Route Tree, along with combination routes and double moves to help players and coaches maximize their offensive playbook.

#7 – The Corner Route

The Corner Route targets the deep outside corner of the field. It is typically run at a depth of 10 to 15 yards before breaking diagonally toward the sideline.

• How it works: The receiver makes a smooth diagonal cut, maintaining depth rather than sharpness.
• Key goal: Exploit safeties in zone defenses or clear space for shorter routes in the middle of the field.
• Benefit: It opens opportunities for big plays while creating space for other receivers.

#8 – The Post Route

The Post Route mirrors the Corner Route but breaks diagonally toward the middle of the field instead of the sideline.

• Execution: The receiver runs 10 to 15 yards forward before cutting diagonally toward the goalpost.
• Purpose: Attacks deep safeties and creates space for shorter routes.
• Quarterback’s role: Often involves a deep throw to an open area, allowing the receiver to use speed and separation.

#9 – The Fly Route (Go Route)

The Fly Route is the most straightforward play in the Route Tree.

• Description: The receiver runs straight down the field as fast and deep as possible.
• Objective: Force the defender into full retreat, creating separation for a long pass.
• Key challenge: Requires a strong quarterback arm to deliver the ball accurately over 30+ yards.
• Advantage: The receiver can anticipate the ball while the defender reacts.

Read Also: The Running Back in Football: A Comprehensive Guide

Combination Routes

In addition to the nine basic routes, combination routes blend elements of the Route Tree to enhance versatility and confuse defenders.

The Sluggo Route

A blend of the Slant and Go routes:

• Starts as a slant: A quick diagonal cut toward the middle.
• Ends as a go: The receiver halts the slant and accelerates deep.
• Effect: Designed to bait the defender into covering the short route, then exploit the deep field.

The Bubble Route

A screen pass route designed for quick plays:

• Execution: After the snap, the receiver steps back and moves toward the quarterback.
• Purpose: Get the ball to the receiver quickly to capitalize on speed and agility.
• Everyday use: Ideal for wide receivers in screenplays.

The Drag Route

A longer-developing variation of the slant:

• Execution: Instead of a sharp diagonal cut, the receiver rounds out the route and drags across the field.
• Purpose: Gain separation by covering more field width.
• Who runs it: Often used by receivers in motion or crossing patterns.

Double Moves: Adding Complexity

Double moves confuse defenders and create separation by faking one route before transitioning to another.

• The Sluggo Route: One of the most common double moves, combining the slant and go routes.
• The Hitch-and-Go: The receiver begins with a stop (hitch) route before accelerating deep.
• Effect: Forces defenders to commit prematurely, opening up space for big plays.

The Route Tree’s Purpose

The Route Tree isn’t just a visual tool; it’s a strategic framework emphasizing the synergy between all routes. Each play leverages a mix of these routes to:

1. Confuse defenders by attacking multiple field levels.
2. Create open spaces for receivers to exploit.
3. Maximize offensive opportunities with precise route combinations.

Like the branches of a tree, every route is connected to form a cohesive and dynamic system that makes passing plays more unpredictable and compelling. Mastering the Route Tree (9 Football Routes) is key to crafting a high-performing offense.