Center delay diagram
- 1
Everyone clears out deep. C counts one-Mississippi, then slips out underneath where the defense just left.
When to call Center delay
Call it when the defense forgets about the center, which happens a lot in 5v5. It is also a good answer to man coverage with a rusher, since most teams leave C uncovered.
Avoid calling it three times in a row. Once the defense starts leaving a player near the line for C, go back to the deep routes that this play shows them.
Center delay: each player's job
QB
Look deep first to hold the safeties. Then come down to C on the right at about 4 yards. A soft throw is all it takes.
C
Snap, step forward a yard or two and count one Mississippi. Then slide to the right, about 5 yards over and 4 yards deep, and turn to the QB with your hands ready.
X
From the left, run a post. Go 9 yards and break to the middle. You pull your defender and a safety away from the right side.
Y
From the right slot, run a corner. Go 9 yards and break to the back right corner of the field.
Z
Run a go route straight up the right sideline. Along with Y, you empty out the right side so C has room.
What the quarterback looks at
This is a one-throw play, but the QB has to sell it. Eyes go downfield to X's post for a full count. That keeps the short defenders backing up with the deep routes.
Then find C. If a defender stayed near the line and is waiting on C, hold the throw. Y's corner is usually the best deep option because the short defender on that side has stopped.
How to teach Center delay at practice
- 1
Teach the count first. C snaps to a coach and says one Mississippi out loud before moving.
- 2
Add the QB. C slides right and catches ten throws.
- 3
Add X, Y and Z and have them run hard. Tell them the defense has to believe the ball is going deep.
Common mistakes
- C leaves right away, and the short defenders are still standing there. Count it out loud in practice.
- The deep receivers jog. If they do not run hard, nobody follows them and the short area stays crowded.
- The QB looks at C from the snap. A defender reads the eyes and breaks on the throw.
Center delay FAQ
Can the center catch a pass in flag football?
In most 5v5 leagues, yes. The center is an eligible receiver once the ball is snapped.
Why is the center open so often in 5v5?
With five defenders, one often rushes and one plays deep safety. That leaves three for four receivers, and the center is the one most teams skip.
How long should the center wait?
One Mississippi is right for most teams. Wait longer and the rusher gets to the QB. Leave sooner and the short defenders have not cleared out yet.
More plays: all 5v5 flag football plays, easy plays. Draw your own in the flag football play designer.