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Throughout the draft process there is talk about arm strength at the QB position. The ability to throw the vertical game along with the deep out, comeback and skinny post. Prospects that can “drive the ball” down the field.

Today, let’s take a quick look at Arizona State’s Brock Osweiler throwing the 9 (fade) route in a “flood” concept vs. Mizzou. The QB does need time to develop at the pro level, however he has size in the pocket (6-8, 240) and can target the top of the route tree based off his tape.

Check out the replay and then we will get into some coaching points…

- I mentioned the “flood concept” above because Arizona State is sending “four strong” in this offensive set. Similar to the “OVS” (outside vertical stretch), the Sun Devils get the 9, 7 (corner) and flat along with an underneath crosser from the X receiver (reduced split is a pre-snap key) to the open (weak) side of the formation. A smart call with the strength of the formation to the field.

- A quick coaching point on protection. Arizona State is using “counter protection” (pull backside guard) off the run action. Offenses will use this to give the LBs and safeties a “false key.” Stick your eyes in the backfield as a defender (instead of reading low-hat vs. high-hat) and this can force you to step towards the line of scrimmage.

- Mizzou is playing what I see as a “quarters” technique to the closed (strong) side of the formation. Off-man position (CB and SS) reading the release of No.1 and No.2. From the perspective of the CB, a straight vertical release to the outside equals man-technique (outside leverage) and you have to stay on top of any vertical concept.

- I like the execution from Osweiler here. Ride the RB through the mesh point, take your drop, set your feet and deliver the ball down the field. It looks smooth and we all see the end result with the finish because of the ability to throw the deep ball.

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