Double Pass (5v5 flag football play)
The QB throws a quick pass sideways and slightly backward to Z, who has stepped back behind the line. The defense sees a short throw and runs up to pull Z's flag. Z sets both feet behind the line and throws the second pass deep to Y, who jogged at the snap and then sprinted up the field.
New to these terms? Twins · Post · Pass clock · full glossary
When to call Double Pass
After the defense has seen a few quick throws to the right side and is jumping up fast to stop them. It works best on first down, when defenses are not expecting a deep shot.
Who gets the ball
- Q throws right away to Z, who has stepped back behind the QB. The ball must travel sideways or backward, never forward.
- Z catches it, sets both feet behind the line and throws deep to Y, who started slowly and then sprinted up the right side.
- If Y is covered, Z throws to X on the deep post, or to C sitting in the middle as the safe throw.
Coaching points
- Pick a Z who can really throw. Test every receiver in practice; the best arm on the team is sometimes not the QB.
- NFL FLAG rules allow unlimited backward passes behind the line, and after one, every defender may rush and the 7-second clock no longer applies (nflflag.com). Z has to throw quickly, so teach catch, set, throw.
- Q aims the first throw at Z's chest and a little behind. A throw that drifts forward counts as the one forward pass, and then Z is not allowed to throw again.
- Y's slow start is the trick. Y jogs two steps and watches Z like a spectator, then sprints.
- Check your league's rule on a dropped backward pass before you call it. NFL FLAG has no fumbles, so a drop ends the play.
Common mistakes
- Z catches the first pass standing on the line, or in front of it. Z steps back first, so the catch is clearly behind the QB.
- Z throws on the run and the deep ball floats. Stop, set both feet, then throw.
- Calling it too often. Once a game is plenty.
What to call next
If the defense stays deep and ignores the first throw, let Z tuck it and run up the right side behind Y. Next time, go back to Flood or Smash to that side.