Bunch switch diagram
- 1
The bunch releases in three directions so defenders run into each other. First look is Y on the quick out.
When to call Bunch switch
Call it against man coverage, especially a team that lines up tight on your receivers. Three defenders cannot all stand close to a bunch, so somebody starts a step behind.
Against zone it still gives you a short throw to the right, but nobody gets rubbed off. If the short defender on that side sits on the out, X's slant comes open behind that player in the middle of the field.
Bunch switch: each player's job
QB
Look right and throw the quick out to Y as soon as Y turns to the sideline. If a defender beats Y there, X is next on the slant.
C
Snap, go up the middle 6 yards and turn back at 5.
X
Line up at the back outside corner of the bunch. Take two steps up and slant inside, crossing behind Z and over the top of Y's out.
Y
Line up at the back inside corner. Go 4 to 5 yards upfield, then break flat to the right sideline.
Z
You are the point of the bunch, on the line. Release straight up for 9 yards and break to the back right corner.
What the quarterback looks at
Before the snap, count the defenders over the bunch and see how deep each one is standing. If they are at different depths, they are probably planning to trade receivers, so be ready for the second look.
After the snap the QB watches Y. The out breaks under Z's release, and in man the defender on Y has to go around two bodies to get there. Throw it as Y turns.
How to teach Bunch switch at practice
- 1
Set three cones for the bunch so the spacing is the same every time. Z is on the line, with X and Y a step behind on either side.
- 2
Walk the releases. Z goes first, then Y breaks out and X slants in behind Z.
- 3
Run it on air with the QB throwing the out five times, then the slant five times.
Common mistakes
- The bunch lines up too wide and turns into a regular trips set. Keep all three within about 4 yards of each other.
- X and Y run into each other. Y goes underneath and X goes over the top.
- A receiver bumps a defender on the way out. Most leagues flag that as an illegal pick, so teach clean releases with no contact.
Bunch switch FAQ
Is a bunch formation legal in flag football?
Lining up in a bunch is legal. What leagues penalize is a receiver who runs into or screens a defender on purpose.
How do I beat man coverage in 5v5 flag football?
Make defenders run through traffic. Bunch switch does that at the line, and mesh does it in the middle of the field.
Why is it called a switch?
X starts outside and ends up inside. Y starts inside and ends up outside.
More plays: all 5v5 flag football plays. Draw your own in the flag football play designer.