Play-action post diagram
- 1
QB fakes the handoff to Y, who keeps running to the flat. The defense steps up for the run and Z runs the post behind them.
When to call Play-action post
Call it once your sweep or jet sweep has gained yards and defenders are running up at the first sign of a handoff.
It needs a defense that reacts to the fake. Know your league's rush rule too. Some leagues let every defender cross the line after a fake handoff, so the QB cannot hold the ball long.
Play-action post: each player's job
QB
Turn to Y and put the ball out for the fake, then pull it back and set your feet. Find Z on the post and throw it between the safeties. Y out to the left is the outlet.
C
Snap, run 6 yards up the middle and turn back at 5. Your hitch keeps the middle defender from dropping under the post.
X
Run a go up the left sideline. The safety on your side has to stay with you, which opens the middle for Z.
Y
Line up next to the QB on the right. Cross in front of the QB, fold your arms over the fake like you have the ball and keep running wide to the left flat.
Z
From the right, run 9 yards straight up, then break toward the middle of the field and keep going.
What the quarterback looks at
The QB's first job is the fake. Hold the ball out for a full step, then bring it back to the chest and look up.
Then read the safety on Z's side. If that safety came up for the run or is standing flat-footed, throw the post over the top. If both safeties stayed deep, turn to Y in the flat.
How to teach Play-action post at practice
- 1
Practice the fake with the QB and Y only. Y folds over an empty pocket and runs hard.
- 2
Add Z and throw the post on air. The QB fakes, sets and throws to a spot in the middle of the field.
- 3
Add a defense and mix in real handoffs so they cannot guess.
Common mistakes
- Y slows down after the fake. Keep running full speed so a defender has to chase.
- Z breaks the post too early and runs into the short defenders. Get to 9 yards before the cut.
- You call it before the run has worked. Nobody steps up for a fake of a play that has not gained yards.
Play-action post FAQ
Does play action work in flag football?
Yes, if you have shown the run first. Young defenders chase the ball, so a good fake pulls two or three of them toward the line.
Can the quarterback fake a handoff in flag football?
Most leagues allow it. Be aware that some leagues let all defenders rush after a fake, the same as after a real handoff.
What run should I pair with play-action post?
Pair it with the sweep, which uses the same formation with Y next to the QB. In the diagrams the sweep goes right and this fake goes left.
More plays: all 5v5 flag football plays. Draw your own in the flag football play designer.