Double Back Dive (5v5 flag football play)
A simple short-yardage run for young teams. The QB hands the ball to the left back, who crosses behind the QB and runs just to the right of the center. The right back runs to the flat as a decoy, and the receiver runs deep to clear space.
New to these terms? Dive · Split backs · Short yardage · Flat · Decoy · Go · No-run zone · Handoff · full glossary
When to call Double Back Dive
On short yardage outside the no-run zones, and as a first play for teams that are new to handoffs.
Who gets the ball
- H takes the handoff and runs just to the right of the center.
- R sprints toward the right flat to pull a defender with them.
- Z runs deep to take a defender away from the run.
Coaching points
- The QB turns and hands off with both hands on the ball.
- C releases to the left flat right away, which pulls the middle defender away from the run lane.
- H keeps the ball tight and runs straight ahead once past the center. No dancing.
Build the run from the handoff outward
Rehearse Q and H until H can secure the ball without stopping. Add C's release, then R's flat and Z's deep route. Freeze just after the handoff to see whether the runner has space to go forward. The center is an eligible receiver, not a blocker; a release cannot become a stationary screen in front of a chasing defender.
Short yardage still needs a clean lane
A short gain is the aim, not a guarantee. If defenders crowd the handoff point, work on the exchange or choose a quick pass instead of asking H to run through contact. Check the no-run-zone rules before using Dive near a line to gain. Sweep gives the same young team a run that attacks more width.
Common mistakes
- H runs sideways looking for a hole. Pick the lane and go.
- The QB pulls the ball back at the last second. Commit to the handoff.
What to call next
Pair it with Crossbuck, which starts from the same look.
Drills that teach Double Back Dive
Run these in the practice before you install it, so the kids already own the pieces.
- Handoff Exchange Drill (8 min): The QB turns and places the ball into the runner's pocket, and the runner squeezes it through a cone gate.
- Cone Weave and Juke Drill (8 min): The ball carrier weaves through a row of cones, then has to beat a live defender with one sharp juke before reaching a scoring gate.
- Center-QB Snap Drill (7 min): Pairs practice the snap, then the center runs a short route and catches a pass.
Practice gear: league-compatible Flag belts and the league's specified youth size football. Optional wristband cards help players find a numbered call. These are Amazon search links; as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Plays that pair with Double Back Dive
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