Jet sweep diagram
- 1
Y goes in motion across the formation. QB snaps it as Y arrives and hands it off. X and Z run their defenders away from the play.
When to call Jet sweep
Call it when the defense is sitting back in zone and giving up the edges. It is one of the better flag football running plays on first down. Check where you are on the field first, because most leagues have no-run zones in the 5 yards before midfield and the goal line.
In most leagues any defender can cross the line once the ball is handed off, so the run has to get outside in a hurry.
Jet sweep: each player's job
QB
Send Y in motion and call for the snap when Y is two steps away. Catch it, hold the ball out and let Y take it.
C
Snap on the QB's call, then run a 5 yard hitch up the middle.
X
Run a go route up the left sideline.
Y
Start in the right slot. On the QB's signal, run toward the QB and drop back a few yards so you pass right by. Take the handoff with both arms, get outside to the left and turn upfield.
Z
Run a post from the right. It carries your defender and the safety deep and keeps them from chasing the run.
What the quarterback looks at
There is no pass read here. The QB's job is timing.
Y reads the first defender outside. If that player comes straight upfield, cut inside and go straight ahead. If the defender stays wide, run to the sideline and turn the corner.
How to teach Jet sweep at practice
- 1
Start with the QB, C and Y only. Walk the motion and find the step where the QB should call for the snap.
- 2
Run it at full speed until the handoff is clean ten times in a row.
- 3
Put a defender on the left edge and let Y practice the inside cut and the outside cut.
Common mistakes
- The snap is late and Y has to slow down. The motion only helps if Y is at full speed at the handoff.
- Y moves toward the line before the snap. Motion has to go sideways or backward in most leagues, so angle back toward the QB.
- The handoff is fumbled. The QB holds the ball still at belly height and Y closes both arms over it.
Jet sweep FAQ
Is the jet sweep legal in 5v5 flag football?
It is in most leagues, as long as only one player is in motion and that player is not moving toward the line at the snap. Check your league's rules on motion and no-run zones.
How do you time a jet sweep handoff?
Pick a landmark. Most teams snap the ball when the motion player is two steps from the QB.
What plays go well with the jet sweep?
A fake jet sweep with a pass behind it is the first one to add. Once defenders start chasing the motion, fake the handoff and throw to X or Z.
More plays: all 5v5 flag football plays, running plays. Draw your own in the flag football play designer.