Football IQ•intermediate•15 min
Out of the Backfield Receiving Drill
QB fakes a handoff to the RB who then runs a flare route to the flat — QB looks off the linebacker before hitting the RB for a short gain with open field ahead.
Out of the Backfield Receiving Drill
DrillDescription
The flare to the RB is one of the most reliable change-of-pace plays in flag football. This drill develops the acting ability and route discipline that make the fake handoff + flare a real weapon.
How to run it
- 1
QB and RB line up in the backfield.
- 2
QB fakes a handoff — sell it convincingly.
- 3
RB continues flat into the flare (outside, near the sideline).
- 4
QB looks downfield briefly to move the linebacker.
- 5
QB dumps off to the RB in the flat.
- 6
RB catches and turns upfield.
Points to stress
- RB: sell the run. Don't drift into the route early.
- Get outside QUICKLY after the fake — don't drift.
- QB: look off the linebacker — hold their attention downfield.
- RB: once you catch it, TURN IT NORTH immediately.