Four Verticals (7v7 flag football play)
All four receivers run straight downfield, stretching the defense deep across the whole width of the field. With seven defenders spread thin, one seam usually opens behind the underneath defenders. The back swings out to the left as the check-down if everyone is covered.
When to call Four Verticals
Against a single deep safety, after the defense has crept up to stop short passes, or when you need a big play.
Who gets the ball
- Y on the left seam: throw it if the deep safety drifts toward H.
- H on the right seam: throw it if the safety stays on Y's side.
- R on the swing to the left flat when both seams are covered.
Coaching points
- Outside receivers X and Z stay about two yards from the sideline so the seams have room.
- Slots Y and H bend slightly toward the middle, then run straight. They must not drift into the outside receivers.
- The QB watches the deep safety, not the receivers. The safety's first step decides the throw.
- C sits over the ball after a short release as an extra outlet when the rush comes fast.
Common mistakes
- Receivers slow down when they look back for the ball. Run full speed until the ball is in the air.
- The QB throws to the covered seam because it was the plan. Throw away from the safety.
- R releases late. The swing is the answer to a fast rush, so it has to be there right away.
What to call next
When the deep defenders start bailing early, call Double In to hit the space they leave underneath.