Play Diagram:
Playbooks Found In:
- Ravens
Default Pass Routes:
- Flowers (X): Deep Cross
- Andrews (A): Shallow Cross
- Ricard (Y): Shallow Cross
- Henry (RB): Pass Block After Play Fake
- Likely (B): Flat
Passing Concept Breakdown:
The Gun Split Wing Nasty – Mtn PA Y-Cross uses spacing and timing to challenge defenders at all levels of the field.. Zay Flowers attacks deep coverage with his crossing route, pulling defenders away from the shorter passing lanes. Mark Andrews provides a reliable mid-level option with his shallow cross, creating mismatches against linebackers or safeties. Meanwhile, Isaiah Likely runs a parallel shallow cross to balance the horizontal stretch, giving Lamar Jackson multiple quick options if the defense collapses. The running back, Derrick Henry, stays into pass block after the play fake.
This play thrives by exploiting defensive reads. If defenders drop deep to cover Flowers, the shallow options to Andrews or Ricard become viable. The horizontal spacing forces defenders to communicate and make quick adjustments. Patrick Ricard flat route adds another wrinkle, often catching defenders out of position if the focus shifts to Andrews or Ricard. Transitioning from run to pass quickly is crucial in maintaining its unpredictability.
With Jackson’s mobility, the Gun Split Wing Nasty – Mtn PA Y-Cross becomes even harder to defend. If coverage holds, he can roll out and create an improvised run or pass. The versatility in options ensures that no single defender can dictate the play. By attacking horizontally and vertically, this concept remains effective against various defensive alignments.
Video Breakdown:
Final Thoughts:
This play is an excellent addition to the Ravens playbook for the 2024-2025 season. It leverages Lamar Jackson’s mobility and decision-making to keep defenses guessing. With multiple receiving options and Derrick Henry’s pass protection, this play balances power and finesse. Transitioning between pass and run keeps defenders off-balance. However, timing and precision are critical for its success. By mixing run-pass concepts and attacking both horizontal and vertical spaces, players can create game-breaking opportunities.
FAQ:
Q: How do I execute the Gun Split Wing Nasty – Mtn PA Y-Cross effectively?
A: Focus on reading the defense post-snap and deciding between pass or run based on coverage and pressure.
Q: What makes this play versatile in Madden?
A: The combination of quick passes, deep routes, and the option to run adds unpredictability.
Q: How do I counter defensive pressure with this play?
A: Use quick passes to Andrews or Ricard and keep Henry in pass protection when blitzes are likely.
Q: Which defenses struggle the most against this play?
A: Zone-heavy defenses often leave gaps for shallow routes and struggle against Jackson’s mobility.
Q: Can I modify routes for a more aggressive strategy?
A: Yes, hot-route Flowers for a streak or Andrews for a corner route to stretch the field vertically.
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