Blast - The blast is a running play that is typically run through the middle of the offensive line. The offensive linemen block the players closest to them and try to push them backwards. A fullback runs in front of the ball carrier and blocks the first person he sees, normally a linebacker. The running back follows the fullback through the open area.



Bootleg - The bootleg is a type of "misdirection" play, or a play designed to look like it is going in one direction when it really is going in the other direction. In a bootleg the quarterback will take a few steps to either the left or right before quickly turning and running in the opposite direction. The fullback and running back serve as lead blockers on this outside running play.



Counter - The counter is a type of "misdirection" play, or a play designed to look like it is going in one direction when it really is going in the other direction. At the start of the play the quarterback will fake a handoff to the fullback. At the same time, the running back will take one step in the same direction as the fullback but then quickly cuts back in the opposite direction, at which time the quarterback hands him the ball. The running back normally runs in the area just left or right of the offensive tackle.



Dive - One of the few plays where the fullback runs the ball. The dive is a running play where the fullback takes a handoff immediately after the snap of the ball and runs straight into the offensive line. This play is normally used when the offense only needs a few yards in order to pick up a first down or score a touchdown.



Draw - The draw is a running play that is designed to look like a passing play in order to fool the defense. At the start of the play, the quarterback runs backwards away from the line of scrimmage and pretends to be searching for open receivers. He then hands the ball to the running back for a running play.



End-Around or Reverse - The end-around or reverse is a type of "misdirection" play, or a play designed to look like it is going in one direction when it really is going in the other direction. At the snap of the ball, the entire offense moves in one direction, making the play look as if it will be a running play to that side of the field. The quarterback then hands off or pitches the ball to the wide receiver that is running in the opposite direction. When executed properly, the majority of the defensive team will be on the wrong side of the field and the receiver will be able to run freely on the other side.



Off-Tackle - The off-tackle play is a specific version of the power play where the running back will run to the area between the tackle and tight end. The fullback normally serves as the lead blocker, running into the designated area first and moving any defender in his way. Once the running back reaches the area between the tackle and tight end (also known as "hitting the hole"), he has the option to either continue running forward or to cut toward the sidelines, hopefully avoiding most of the defenders in the middle of the field.



Pitch - The pitch is a running play that is run outside of the tight end. At the snap of the ball, the running back runs parallel to the line of scrimmage. At the same time the quarterback turns away from the line of scrimmage and softly tosses the football, using an underhanded throw to the running back, who then runs forward through any open space the linemen have created for him. The fullback will often serve as a lead blocker to the outside.



Power - The power is a running play that is typically run just outside of the offensive tackle. The offensive linemen block the players closest to them and try to push them backwards. A fullback runs in front of the ball carrier and blocks the first person he sees, normally a linebacker. The running back follows the fullback through the open area.



Quarterback Sneak - The QB sneak is a play in which the quarterback receives the snap of the ball and immediately runs forward as far as he can until he is tackled. This play is normally used when the offense only needs a few yards in order to pick up a first down or score a touchdown.



Sweep - The sweep is a running play that is run outside of the tight end. The fullback will often serve as the lead blocker but can also run in a different direction in an attempt to trick the defense. The quarterback then hands the ball to the running back. The ball carrier initially runs parallel to the line of scrimmage before running forward (also known as turning up field) through any open space the linemen have created for him.



Trap - The trap is a running play where the offensive line allows a defensive lineman to cross the line of scrimmage without blocking him (designated by the X). The defensive player thinks he is free to tackle the running back because no one is standing in front of him. What he does not see is the guard from the opposite side of the line who is running full speed (or pulling) in his direction. The guard hits the defensive player and forces him out of the area, creating an open space for the running back to run through.



Curl or Hook - The curl or hook route is when the receiver runs straight ahead to a predetermined point (normally between 10 and 15 yards), stops and turns toward the quarterback to receive the pass.



Deep Out - In the deep out, the wide receiver runs 10-15 yards down the field, quickly turns at a 90-degree angle toward the sideline, and attempts to catch the ball.



Flag or Corner - In the flag or corner route, the receiver runs straight ahead to a predetermined point (usually between 7 and 15 yards) before cutting toward the sidelines at a 45-degree angle. It is often used near the goal line when the receiver runs to the "corner" of the end zone and tries to catch the ball for a touchdown.



Hitch - The hitch is a pattern where the receiver runs straight ahead for 4-5 yards before quickly turning back toward the quarterback to receive the pass.



In - The "in route" is when the receiver runs straight ahead to a predetermined point (between 7 and 15 yards) before quickly turning at a 90-degree angle toward the middle of the field to catch the ball.



Post - In the post pattern the receiver runs straight ahead to a predetermined point (usually between 10 and 20 yards), and then cuts toward the center of the field at a 45- or 60-degree angle. It is referred to as a post route because the receiver is typically running his route toward the goal post as he tries to catch the ball.



Quick Out - In the quick out, the wide receiver runs about 5 yards down the field, quickly turns at a 90-degree angle toward the sideline, and attempts to catch the ball.



Screen - The screen pass is a play designed to fool the defensive lineman. At the snap of the ball the offensive lineman allows the defensive lineman to run freely toward the quarterback who is running backwards. The running back then slips past the rushing defensive lineman and catches a short pass with at least two offensive linemen blocking in front of him.



Slant - The slant route is when the receiver takes a few steps forward, cuts sharply at a 45- or 30-degree angle across the middle of the field and attempts to catch the ball.



Streak or Fly - In the streak or fly pattern, the receiver runs straight ahead as fast as he can for as long as the field will allow. The goal of the receiver is to get his body behind the defensive player who is covering him and catch the ball deep down the field.



Blast - The blast is a running play that is typically run through the middle of the offensive line. The offensive linemen block the players closest to them and try to push them backwards. A fullback runs in front of the ball carrier and blocks the first person he sees, normally a linebacker. The running back follows the fullback through the open area.