Reverse (5v5 flag football play)
The QB hands to a back running right, then the right-side receiver takes a second handoff behind the line and runs left. The play attacks defenders who follow the first run, while a defender staying left can still stop it.
New to these terms? Reverse · Slot receiver · Handoff · Hash · Sideline · full glossary
When to call Reverse
After the defense has seen a couple of runs to the right and starts flowing fast toward the ball.
Who gets the ball
- H takes the first handoff running right, then hands to Z at about the right hash.
- Z takes the ball behind the line and sprints to the left sideline.
- X clears the left side by running deep.
Coaching points
- Z must not leave too early. Start the reverse on the count of two so H has the ball first.
- The second handoff is inside to outside: H holds the ball in the hand farther from the defense.
- Practice the exchange at walking speed before you ever run it live.
Rehearse both exchanges before adding a chase
Run Q to H, then H to Z at walking speed. Freeze between handoffs so H controls the ball before Z arrives. Keep the second exchange behind the line and the runners' paths separate. When that sequence is repeatable, add an outside defender at controlled speed. Stop and reset after a bad exchange rather than trying to save the rep.
Watch the defender on the side Z will attack
Reverse needs space on the destination side, not just movement toward the first handoff. If a defender stays home on the left, expect Z to meet them. After defenders start following Z, Fake Reverse offers a keeper from the same opening. Both are run calls, so check the rules for the ball spot.
Common mistakes
- Z runs too close to the line and gets pulled before reaching the exchange. Aim 4 to 5 yards deep.
- Calling it too early in the game, before the defense has a reason to flow right.
What to call next
Fake Reverse keeps H going right from a related backfield opening. Its published diagram sends C left while this Reverse sends C right, so install those different off-ball jobs explicitly rather than promising an identical opening.
Drills that teach Reverse
Run these in the practice before you install it, so the kids already own the pieces.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Reverse
Content updated