In the Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post play, the Detroit Lions’ offense lines up in a bunch formation. Jared Goff is the quarterback, with Jamaal Williams (X), Sam LaPorta (A), Amon-Ra St. Brown (RB), and Tim Patrick (B) as the three receivers and tight end. Runningback Jahmyr Gibbs (Y) is positioned in the backfield. This play is designed to exploit defensive coverages with a combination of crossing and post routes. The Mtn Cross Post concept aims to create mismatches and open passing lanes for Goff to target his receivers effectively.
The Mtn Cross Post play is particularly effective against zone defenses. The bunch formation forces defenders to communicate and adjust quickly, which can lead to coverage breakdowns. The motion and crossing routes create natural picks and rubs, making it difficult for defenders to stay with their assignments. This play is a staple in the Lions’ playbook and is also found in the Jaguars’ and Rams’ playbooks.
Receiver Alignment:
In the Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post formation, the receivers are strategically aligned to maximize the play’s effectiveness. Williams (X) lines up on the far left, near the sideline. LaPorta (A) is positioned next to the right tackle, inside the bunch formation. St. Brown (RB) is in the middle of the bunch, slightly behind LaPorta. Patrick (B) is on the right side of the bunch, closest to the sideline. Gibbs (Y) is in the backfield, to the left of Goff. This alignment creates multiple levels of routes, making it challenging for the defense to cover all options.
Play Diagram:
Playbooks Found In:
- Chargers
- Jaguars
- Lions
Default Pass Routes:
- Williams (X): Shallow Crossing Route
- LaPorta (A): Deep Post Route
- St. Brown (RB): Drag Route
- Patrick (B): Wheel Route
- Gibbs (Y): Flat Route
Pass Progression Reads:
- LaPorta (A): 1
- Williams (X): 2
- St. Brown (RB): 3
- Patrick (B): 4
- Gibbs (Y): 5
Passing Concept Breakdown:
The Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post play is designed to create mismatches and exploit defensive coverages. The primary read is LaPorta (A), who runs a deep post route. This route is effective against cover two defenses, where the safeties split wide. LaPorta’s route forces the safeties to make a decision, potentially leaving a gap in the middle of the field. If the safeties stay wide, Goff can target LaPorta in the open space.
Williams (X) runs a shallow crossing route, moving upfield and then breaking towards the right sideline. This route is effective against man coverage if Williams gains a step on the defender. It can also be targeted against zone coverage if there’s a gap between defenders. The shallow crossing route creates a natural pick, making it difficult for defenders to stay with their assignments.
St. Brown (RB) executes a drag route, effectively attacking zone coverage. Defenders often focus on the X receiver, allowing St. Brown to get open underneath. The drag route is a quick-hitting option for Goff, providing a reliable check-down if the deeper routes are covered. This route is particularly effective against zone defenses, where defenders may drop too deep, leaving the underneath routes open.
Patrick (B) motions from left to right before running a wheel route along the left sideline. This route thrives against cover two zones, as flat defenders may not cover deep enough, leading to potential big plays.
The wheel route is a high-risk, high-reward option, providing Goff with a chance to hit a big play down the sideline. The motion also helps to identify the defensive coverage, giving Goff a pre-snap read.
Madden Tips:
- Use motion to identify defensive coverage.
- Look for the deep post route against cover two defenses.
- Utilize the drag route as a quick check-down option.
Video Breakdown:
Final Thoughts:
The Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post play is a versatile and effective passing concept. It creates mismatches and exploits defensive coverages. The combination of crossing and post routes forces defenders to communicate and adjust quickly. This can lead to coverage breakdowns and open passing lanes. The play is particularly effective against zone defenses, where the bunch formation creates natural picks and rubs. Madden gamers can use this play to attack multiple levels of the defense and create big-play opportunities. The motion and alignment make this play a valuable addition to any playbook.
FAQ:
Q: How do I execute the Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post play effectively? A: Focus on mastering the pre-snap motion and understanding each receiver’s route.
Q: Which coverages work best against the Mtn Cross Post play? A: The play is effective against both man and zone coverages, particularly Cover Two.
Q: How can I create mismatches using this play? A: Utilize the unique alignment and motion to confuse the defense and create open passing lanes.
Q: What is the primary route in this play? A: The crossing route run by the X receiver is the primary route.
Q: How can I improve my execution of he Gun Bunch X Nasty – Mtn Cross Post A: Practice timing and understanding each receiver’s role in the passing concept.
