What Is a Skinny Post in Football?
Football is a game of strategies and intricate plays. One such play that has gained popularity over the years is the skinny post. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of what a skinny post is, how it is executed, and its role in the game.
A skinny post, also known as a “slant-and-go” or “stutter-and-go,” is a route run a wide receiver in American football. It is designed to deceive the opposing defense and create space for the receiver to catch a pass. The route involves initially running diagonally towards the center of the field, imitating a slant route, and then abruptly changing direction to head vertically towards the end zone.
To execute a skinny post, the wide receiver must possess precise timing, agility, and speed. The receiver starts taking a few steps towards the inside of the field, giving the impression of running a slant route. This movement often causes the cornerback to shift their weight towards the inside, creating an opening for the receiver to quickly change direction and sprint towards the end zone.
The quarterback plays a vital role in the success of a skinny post. Timing and accuracy are crucial for the pass to be completed. The quarterback must anticipate the receiver’s break towards the goal line and deliver the ball with precision. If executed correctly, the skinny post can result in a touchdown or a significant gain of yards.
Now, let’s dive into some common questions regarding the skinny post.
1. Why is it called a skinny post?
The term “skinny” refers to the receiver’s initial movement towards the inside of the field, making it appear as if they are running a slant route.
2. What is the purpose of a skinny post?
The skinny post aims to deceive the defense imitating a slant route and then quickly changing direction to head vertically towards the end zone. This creates separation between the receiver and the defender, allowing for a potential big play.
3. Who typically runs the skinny post route?
Wide receivers, especially those with good speed, agility, and route-running ability, are often assigned to run the skinny post route.
4. Can a tight end run a skinny post?
Yes, tight ends can also run the skinny post route, although it is less common than for wide receivers.
5. Are there any risks associated with the skinny post?
Like any play in football, there are risks involved. If the timing between the quarterback and the receiver is off, it can lead to an interception. It also requires a skilled receiver who can quickly change direction without losing balance or speed.
6. Are there any variations of the skinny post?
Yes, there are variations of the skinny post, such as the double move, where the receiver fakes a slant route before breaking towards the end zone.
7. Can the skinny post be used in different formations?
Yes, the skinny post can be used in various offensive formations, including spread, pro-style, and shotgun formations.
8. What is the ideal situation to use a skinny post?
The skinny post is commonly used in situations where the defense is expecting a short-yardage play or during goal-line situations where the defense is playing tight coverage.
9. Can a skinny post be used as a deep pass play?
Yes, the skinny post can be used as a deep pass play, especially if the defense is playing man-to-man coverage.
10. How often is the skinny post successful?
The success of the skinny post depends on various factors, such as the skills of the receiver, timing between the quarterback and receiver, and defensive coverage. When executed correctly, it can be a highly successful play.
11. Can a skinny post be used in college or high school football?
Yes, the skinny post is used in various levels of football, including college and high school.
12. Are there any specific drills to improve running a skinny post?
Receiver drills that focus on agility, change of direction, and timing can help improve running a skinny post.
13. Is the skinny post primarily used in the passing game?
Yes, the skinny post is primarily used as a route for a wide receiver to catch a pass.
14. Can a running back run a skinny post?
While it is less common, running backs can also run a skinny post route, especially in certain offensive formations that utilize them as receiving threats.
In conclusion, the skinny post is a deceptive route that wide receivers run in football. It involves initially imitating a slant route before quickly changing direction and heading towards the end zone. The success of this play relies heavily on the timing between the quarterback and receiver, as well as the receiver’s agility and route-running ability. When executed correctly, the skinny post can be a game-changing play, resulting in significant gains or touchdowns.
