Double pass diagram
- 1
Z drops back behind the quarterback and catches a quick backward pass. Y stops short like a screen is coming.
- 2
The defense runs up to stop Z. Y takes off up the right side and Z throws it over the top. The first pass has to go backward for the second one to be legal.
When to call Double pass
Call it after you have thrown a few short passes to the outside and the safeties have started running up on them.
Check your league's rules before you put it in. Some leagues do not allow backward passes or pitches at all. If the first throw travels forward, the second one is a penalty.
Double pass: each player's job
QB
Throw the first pass to Z quickly and make sure it goes backward. Z has to be deeper than you when you let go, so wait until he is behind you.
C
Snap and run a 5 yard hitch up the middle.
X
Start on the left. Run 4 yards and turn back like you are running a hitch. Once Z has the ball, break toward the middle at about 9 yards to hold the safety.
Y
From the right slot, go 3 yards upfield and stop as if a screen is coming. When your defender steps toward Z, turn and run deep up the right side.
Z
At the snap, drop back and in toward the QB until you are a step or two deeper than he is. Catch the first pass, set your feet and throw deep to Y.
What the quarterback looks at
The QB has no read. The first throw goes to Z every time, and it has to be fast and backward.
Z does the reading. After the catch, Z looks at the defender over Y. If that defender ran up, Y is open deep and Z throws it. If the defender stayed back with Y, Z keeps the ball and runs to the right, as long as you are outside a no-run zone.
How to teach Double pass at practice
- 1
Find out who can throw besides your QB. Have every receiver throw a 15 yard pass and put the best arm at Z.
- 2
Practice the first pass alone. Lay a line of cones even with the QB and make Z catch the ball behind it.
- 3
Practice the second pass alone. Z catches, sets and throws to Y running deep.
Common mistakes
- The first pass goes forward. Z has to be deeper than the QB at the throw.
- Z rushes the throw and it floats. Set the feet first, then step into it.
- The throw is too long for Z. If Z's arm needs help, tell Y to cut the deep route off at 10 yards.
Double pass FAQ
Is a double pass legal in flag football?
It depends on the league. Where it is legal, the first pass has to travel backward and the second pass has to be thrown from behind the line of scrimmage.
Who should throw the second pass?
Your second best arm, lined up at Z. Test the throw to Y in practice first.
What are some other flag football trick plays for 5v5?
The reverse is the other common one. It uses two handoffs where this play uses two passes.
More plays: all 5v5 flag football plays, trick plays. Draw your own in the flag football play designer.