It is Kobra here at MaddenGuides.com, and for this video breakdown, we are going to look at the Double Slant Spot concept out of the Gun Double Z Close formation. If you want a rhythm throw concept that rewards quick reads and precise timing, this is your go-to play to pick up 5 to 10 yards consistently. The name of the play that we use for this video breakdown is the Gun Double Z Close Double Slant Spot. This play is primarily designed to beat zone coverage, but it also gives us answers versus man-against-man coverage.

• Cowboys
• Patriots
• Gun Mix

As you look at your screen, the protection scheme is set to 5-Man Protection with the empty protection adjustment set to default. We are in 11 Personnel, meaning we have three wide receivers, one tight end, and one running back. The setup is simple because the route combination does the work for you. You want to identify your primary reads based on the defensive shell you see right there.

This play excels because the slant routes allow receivers to gain inside leverage immediately. Against Cover 2, the Spot route settles into the soft area between the flat defender and the hook zone, giving the quarterback a reliable outlet if the slants are taken away. The horizontal spacing forces the linebackers to declare their intentions early. Against Cover 3, the concept is especially effective as defenders are taught to expand with vertical threats, leaving space underneath. The Spot route exploits the void left by the curl flat defender, providing an easy completion against Cover 4. The rhythm throw nature of the concept rewards quick reads and smart zone manipulation.

1. Pre-Snap: Analyze the leverage of the defenders. If you see off-coverage, the Gun Double Z Close Double Slant Spot slants will be highly effective. Identify if it is Cover 2 or Cover 3.
2. The Snap: Your progression starts with George Pickens on the primary slant route to the left. This is your first look.
3. Secondary Read: If the defense collapses on him, look for Jake Ferguson on the corner route to the right.
4. Third Read: Your third read brings you back to CeeDee Lamb on the secondary slant.
5. Check-downs: If he is covered, check down to Ryan Flournoy on the spot route. Finally, if everything is covered, dump it off to Javonte Williams on the swing route.

• Identify the Coverage Early: Knowing if it is Cover 2 or Cover 3 determines your primary target immediately.
• Throw with Timing: The slants require you to throw the ball before the receiver breaks to avoid the lurking linebacker.
• Utilize the Spot Route: Do not ignore the check-down; the spot route is often wide open against aggressive zone blitzes.
• Watch for User Defenders: If the opponent is user-controlling a linebacker, look for them to overcommit to the first slant, opening the second one.
• Manage Pocket Presence: Since this is a quick game concept, step up into the pocket to deliver a crisp pass rather than drifting backward.

• QB Short Accuracy: Essential for delivering the ball precisely on the slant routes without leading the receiver into a big hit.
• WR Short Route Running: High ratings here help the receivers gain instant separation off the line of scrimmage.
• WR Release: Critical for beating press coverage if the defense decides to play tight man-to-man.
• TE Catch in Traffic: The tight end or slot receiver on the spot route often has to make catches with defenders closing in nearby.
• RB Receiving: Good hands for the running back ensure the swing route is a viable safety valve.

Q: Can Gun Double Z Close Double Slant Spot beat Man Coverage?

A: Yes, the slant routes are naturally effective against man coverage, especially if your receivers have good route-running stats.

Q: What is the best hash mark to run this from?

A: It can be run from either hash, but having the wide side of the field available for the corner route can provide more spacing.

Q: How do I handle a heavy blitz?

A: If they send heat, look immediately to the “hot” read, which is usually the quick slant or the spot route replacing the blitzer.

Q: Can I hot route the Running Back?

A: Yes, changing the swing route to a Texas route can add another element over the middle if the flats are covered.

Q: What if the defense plays hard flats?

A: If they play hard flats, the corner route or the deeper slant should open up behind the aggressive flat defenders.

Gun Double Z Close Double Slant Spot is a rhythm throw concept that rewards quick reads, precise timing, and smart zone manipulation. It allows you to move the chains steadily and frustrates opponents who sit in soft zones. By mastering the progression, you can dissect various coverages with ease.

Master the Double Slant Spot concept to dominate zone defenses today!