The Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals play is a deep-passing concept designed to attack defenses vertically. This formation stacks two receivers on each side of the line of scrimmage, creating natural spacing advantages against zone and man coverage. The goal is to stretch the field, forcing safeties and linebackers into tough coverage decisions.
Quarterback Jayden Daniels leads the offense, scanning for mismatches while using the deep routes to create big-play opportunities. Wide receivers Noah Brown (X) and Terry McLaurin (B) are positioned outside to stretch the defense deep. Meanwhile, Zach Ertz (A) and Dyami Brown (Y) run vertical routes from the inside to stress safeties. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. (RB) provides a delay option, acting as a checkdown.
This play is effective against Cover 3 and Cover 2 defenses, as it exploits open seams in deep coverage. However, defenses using Cover 4 or man coverage with athletic safeties can challenge it.
Play Diagram:
Playbooks Found In:
- Air Raid
- Commanders
- Spread
Receiver Alignment:
In Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals, the offense lines up in a balanced formation with two receivers stacked on each side of the field.
- N. Brown (X) lines up on the far left, positioned on the outside.
- D. Brown (Y) is stacked in front of the X receiver on the left , on the line of scrimmage.
- Ertz (A) is stacked in front of the B receiver on the right, on the line of scrimmage.
- McLaurin (B) aligns off the line of scrimmage stacked behind the B receiver in the right-side stack, near the numbers.
- Robinson Jr. (RB) is positioned to the right and next to the quarterback in the backfield.
This stacked alignment makes it difficult for defenders to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage.
Default Pass Routes:
- N. Brown (X): Fade
- D. Brown (Y): Seam
- Ertz (A): Seam
- McLaurin (B): Fade
- Robinson Jr. (RB): Delay Option
Pass Progression Reads:
- Brown (X): 1
- Dyami Brown (Y): 2
- Ertz (A): 3
- McLaurin (B): 4
- Robinson Jr. (RB): 5
Passing Concept Breakdown:
The Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals concept thrives on stretching the defense both horizontally and vertically. Each receiver runs a vertical route, with slight adjustments to attack soft spots in coverage. The key to this play is recognizing defensive weaknesses and adjusting accordingly.
Against Cover 3 defenses, the seams are the primary targets. The inside receivers (A and Y) force safeties to make tough decisions. If the safeties stay deep, the quarterback can hit the running back underneath. If the safeties collapse, the deep outside fades (X and B) become prime options.
Cover 2 defenses struggle against this play because safeties are forced to cover too much ground. The outside receivers (X and B) can get behind the cornerbacks, while the inside receivers (A and Y) attack the middle between the safeties. If linebackers drop too deep, the running back becomes an easy checkdown option.
Against man coverage, speed is the key. The stacked formation makes it difficult for defenders to jam receivers. Quick cuts and route adjustments allow the quarterback to find favorable matchups. If the defense sends extra pressure, throwing to the running back as a safety valve can keep the chains moving.
While the play works well against most coverages, defenses using Cover 4 or well-timed user adjustments can limit its effectiveness. Safeties in Cover 4 can cover the deep routes, forcing shorter throws. In this situation, using motion or hot routes can create openings.
Key Strengths:
One of the main strengths of Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals is its ability to attack all levels of the field simultaneously. Defenses have to account for multiple deep threats, which opens up space underneath.
The stacked receiver formation makes it difficult for defenders to press at the line of scrimmage. This allows receivers to get into their routes cleanly and reach top speed quickly. Additionally, the play works well against zone defenses, forcing defenders into difficult coverage decisions.
Another advantage is how well this play adapts to different coverages. Whether the defense plays Cover 2, Cover 3, or man, there are options available to exploit weaknesses. The quarterback has multiple reads, ensuring flexibility in attacking the defense.
Key Weaknesses:
The Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals play has weaknesses that defenses can exploit. One issue is its reliance on time in the pocket. If the offensive line struggles, the quarterback may not have enough time to make deep throws.
Another weakness is against Cover 4 defenses, where safeties are positioned deep to take away vertical routes. This forces shorter throws, limiting big-play potential. Additionally, man coverage with athletic defensive backs can neutralize receivers if they lack speed or separation ability.
A final challenge is the predictability of the play. Since all routes are vertical, a smart defender can anticipate and adjust. Using motion or hot routes can help disguise the play and keep the defense guessing.
Situational Usage:
The Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals play is best used in passing situations where a deep shot is needed. Third-and-long scenarios benefit from this concept, as it creates opportunities for chunk plays downfield.
This play is also effective against zone defenses, particularly Cover 3 and Cover 2. The vertical routes stretch the safeties and force linebackers into difficult positions. If a defense consistently drops into zone, this play can expose soft spots.
Additionally, this play can be effective in two-minute drill situations. The quick tempo forces defenses to react, and deep routes give the quarterback opportunities for explosive plays. However, it requires good protection and the ability to read defensive coverages quickly.
Video Breakdown:
Madden Tips:
- Use pre-snap motion to disguise the play and create mismatches.
- Identify safeties’ movement before the snap to determine whether it’s zone or man coverage.
- Check the running back (RB) as a safety valve if deep routes are covered.
- Hot route an inside receiver to a drag or slant to create an underneath option.
- Step up in the pocket to buy extra time for deep throws.
Final Thoughts:
The Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals play is a high-risk, high-reward concept in Madden. It works best against zone defenses, stretching coverage and creating explosive plays. However, defenses with strong pass rushers or deep safeties can challenge this approach.
To maximize its effectiveness, players should make quick reads and adjust based on defensive coverage. Pre-snap motion and hot routes can add unpredictability to the play. Additionally, having a quarterback with good throw power and accuracy helps in making deep passes.
Overall, this play is an essential tool in any pass-heavy scheme. Whether looking for a deep bomb or a checkdown option, it offers flexibility and big-play potential. With good execution, it can be a game-changing play in crucial moments.
FAQ:
Q: What coverage does Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals work best against?
A: It is most effective against Cover 3 and Cover 2, as it stretches safeties and exploits soft spots in zone defenses.
Q: How do I counter man coverage with this play?
A: Look for matchups with speed advantages. If necessary, use motion or hot routes to create separation.
Q: What is the best way to use the running back in this play?
A: He serves as a checkdown option if deep routes are covered. Look for quick passes underneath.
Q: Can I use Gun Double Stack – Four Verticals in a two-minute drill?
A: Yes, it works well in hurry-up situations since it forces defenses to react quickly to deep threats.
Q: What adjustments can I make against Cover 4 defenses?
A: Try hot routing an inside receiver to a crossing route or slant to attack the middle of the field.
