Printable Football Route Tree: Your Ultimate Guide

Oct 25, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered how those amazing plays in football happen? A big part of it is the route tree. It's like a secret code between the quarterback and the receivers. And guess what? You can learn it too! In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the football route tree, and even give you a printable version to take to the field. Let’s dive in!

What is a Football Route Tree?

Okay, so what exactly is a football route tree? Simply put, a football route tree is a numbered system that defines the paths a receiver will run during a passing play. Each number corresponds to a specific route, allowing quarterbacks and receivers to communicate quickly and efficiently. Instead of verbally describing a route every time, they can just call out a number. This streamlines the play-calling process and reduces the chances of miscommunication, especially in noisy stadiums or high-pressure situations. Think of it like a dance choreography, where each step is assigned a number. The dancers (receivers) know exactly where to go based on the number called out by the choreographer (quarterback or coach). The standard route tree typically includes routes numbered from 0 to 9, each with its unique characteristics and purpose. For example, a '1' route might be a simple hitch, while a '9' route is usually a deep fly. Understanding the route tree is crucial for any aspiring football player or coach, as it forms the foundation of a successful passing game. Moreover, mastering the route tree allows for greater flexibility and creativity in play design. Coaches can mix and match routes to create complex combinations that exploit the weaknesses of the defense. Receivers who understand the nuances of each route can also make adjustments on the fly, based on the defensive coverage. This level of adaptability is what separates good offenses from great ones. Beyond just memorizing the routes, it's important to understand the why behind each one. Why is a certain route effective against a particular type of coverage? How can a receiver use his body language to sell a fake and create separation? These are the kinds of questions that players should be asking themselves as they study the route tree.

Why Use a Printable Football Route Tree?

So, why should you bother with a printable football route tree? Well, having a printable version is super handy! First off, it's a fantastic learning tool. You can take it anywhere – to the gym, the field, or even just keep it at home. Instead of relying on memory alone, you can visually reinforce your understanding of each route. This is especially useful for visual learners who benefit from seeing the routes drawn out on paper. Secondly, a printable route tree is a great coaching aid. Coaches can use it to explain routes to players, draw up plays, and make notes during practice. It's a tangible resource that can be easily shared and referenced. Plus, it's way more convenient than trying to sketch out routes on a whiteboard during a fast-paced practice session. Imagine you're on the sidelines during a game, and you need to quickly explain a route adjustment to your receiver. Having a printable route tree at your fingertips can save you valuable time and prevent confusion. Furthermore, a printable route tree can be customized to fit your specific offensive scheme. While the standard route tree provides a solid foundation, many teams will tweak the routes or add their own variations. By using a printable template, you can easily add these custom routes and create a route tree that is tailored to your team's needs. For example, you might have a special route that you call the "Dragon," which is a combination of a slant and a wheel route. You can add this route to your printable route tree and give it a unique number or symbol. This level of customization allows you to create a truly unique and effective passing game. And let's not forget the benefit of being offline. In a world where we're constantly bombarded with digital distractions, having a physical copy of the route tree can help you focus and learn without interruptions. No notifications, no emails, just you and the routes. It's a great way to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the game. This is especially important for young players who are still developing their attention spans.

The Standard Football Route Tree (0-9)

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here's the standard football route tree, routes 0 through 9, explained. Knowing these routes is essential.

Route 0: The Hitch (or Quick Out): This is a short, quick route where the receiver runs 2-3 yards and then turns sharply towards the quarterback. It's often used as a safety valve when the quarterback is under pressure. The receiver needs to be quick and decisive, creating separation from the defender and presenting a clear target for the quarterback. The hitch route is also effective against soft coverage, where the defender is playing off the receiver. By quickly getting open, the receiver can provide an easy completion for the quarterback and gain a few yards.
Route 1: The Comeback: The receiver runs 10-12 yards downfield and then breaks back towards the quarterback. This route requires good footwork and the ability to quickly change direction. The receiver needs to sell the vertical route initially, making the defender believe that he is going deep. Then, he needs to plant his foot and explode back towards the quarterback, creating separation. The comeback route is particularly effective against aggressive defenders who are trying to jump the route. By breaking back, the receiver can catch the defender off guard and create a window for the quarterback to throw the ball.
Route 2: The Out: At 5-7 yards, the receiver makes a sharp 90-degree cut to the sideline. Timing and precision are crucial for this route. The receiver needs to maintain his speed and make a clean cut, creating separation from the defender. The out route is often used in combination with other routes to create a high-low read for the quarterback. For example, the quarterback might read the linebacker. If the linebacker covers the out route, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running a deeper route. Conversely, if the linebacker covers the deeper route, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running the out route.
Route 3: The Slant: A diagonal route across the middle of the field, usually run at a depth of 3-5 yards. This is a quick route designed to get the ball into the receiver's hands quickly. The receiver needs to be explosive off the line and accelerate across the field. The slant route is particularly effective against zone coverage, where the receiver can find a soft spot in the zone and make himself available for the quarterback. It's also a good route to run against man coverage if the receiver can beat the defender off the line.
Route 4: The Flat: The receiver runs directly to the sideline, parallel to the line of scrimmage. This is a short, easy route that is often used as a check-down option for the quarterback. The receiver needs to be quick and agile, getting to the sideline as quickly as possible. The flat route is often used in combination with other routes to create a horizontal stretch for the defense. For example, the quarterback might read the cornerback. If the cornerback follows the flat route, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running a deeper route on the opposite side of the field. Conversely, if the cornerback stays deep, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running the flat route.
Route 5: The Curl (or Hook): The receiver runs 10-12 yards and then turns back towards the quarterback. Similar to the comeback, but the receiver turns inward. This route requires good timing and coordination between the quarterback and the receiver. The receiver needs to sell the vertical route initially, making the defender believe that he is going deep. Then, he needs to plant his foot and turn back towards the quarterback, creating a window for the quarterback to throw the ball. The curl route is particularly effective against aggressive defenders who are trying to jump the route. By breaking back, the receiver can catch the defender off guard and create a window for the quarterback to throw the ball.
Route 6: The Dig (or In): The receiver runs 10-12 yards downfield and then cuts sharply inside, towards the middle of the field. This route requires good footwork and the ability to quickly change direction. The receiver needs to maintain his speed and make a clean cut, creating separation from the defender. The dig route is often used in combination with other routes to create a high-low read for the quarterback. For example, the quarterback might read the linebacker. If the linebacker covers the dig route, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running a shallower route. Conversely, if the linebacker covers the shallower route, the quarterback can throw to the receiver running the dig route.
Route 7: The Corner: The receiver runs a diagonal route towards the corner of the end zone. This route requires good speed and the ability to track the ball in the air. The receiver needs to get a good release off the line and accelerate downfield. The corner route is particularly effective against Cover 2 defenses, where there is a soft spot in the corner of the end zone. The quarterback needs to throw the ball with good accuracy and anticipation, leading the receiver to the spot.
Route 8: The Post: The receiver runs a vertical route towards the goalpost. This route requires good speed and the ability to separate from the defender. The receiver needs to get a good release off the line and accelerate downfield. The post route is particularly effective against single-high safety defenses, where there is only one safety in the deep middle of the field. The quarterback needs to throw the ball with good accuracy and anticipation, leading the receiver to the spot.
Route 9: The Fly (or Go): A straight vertical route down the field. The deepest route in the route tree, requiring speed and good hands. The receiver needs to get a good release off the line and accelerate downfield. The fly route is particularly effective against defenses that are playing off the receiver. The quarterback needs to throw the ball with good accuracy and anticipation, leading the receiver to the spot.

Creating Your Own Printable Route Tree

Now that you know the basic routes, let's talk about creating your own printable route tree. You can easily find templates online. Sites like Pinterest and sports-related blogs often have free, downloadable templates. Look for ones that are easy to read and have space for notes. Once you've found a template, you can customize it to fit your needs. Add your team's logo, change the colors, or even add extra routes. The key is to make it a resource that you'll actually use. For coaches, consider creating separate route trees for different formations or play types. This can help players quickly understand their assignments in different situations. For example, you might have one route tree for shotgun formations and another for under-center formations. You can also create route trees that are specific to certain players. For example, you might have a route tree for your slot receiver that includes more quick routes and option routes. By tailoring the route tree to the player's strengths and weaknesses, you can maximize their potential. When designing your route tree, be sure to use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon or technical terms that players might not understand. Use diagrams to illustrate each route, and label each route with its corresponding number. You can also add notes to each route, explaining the key coaching points and techniques. For example, you might add a note to the slant route that says, "Attack the defender's outside shoulder and explode across the field." By providing clear and concise instructions, you can help players learn and execute the routes more effectively. And don't be afraid to experiment with different designs and layouts. The goal is to create a route tree that is easy to use and understand. Try different fonts, colors, and diagrams until you find a combination that works for you. You can also get feedback from your players or coaches to see what they think. Remember, the route tree is a tool to help you and your team succeed. So, make sure it's a tool that you're comfortable using.

Tips for Using Your Football Route Tree Effectively

Okay, you've got your printable football route tree, now what? Here are some tips to make the most of it:

Memorize the Routes: This might seem obvious, but it's the most important step. The better you know the routes, the faster you'll be able to react on the field.
Practice Regularly: Repetition is key. Run through the routes with your quarterback until they become second nature.
Visualize: Before practice or a game, take some time to visualize yourself running each route perfectly. This can help improve your focus and confidence.
Study Film: Watch film of yourself and other receivers running routes. Pay attention to their technique and how they create separation from defenders.
Communicate with Your Quarterback: Make sure you and your quarterback are on the same page. Talk about the routes, the timing, and any adjustments you might need to make.
Adapt to the Defense: The best receivers are able to read the defense and adjust their routes accordingly. If the defender is playing tight coverage, you might need to use a different release or adjust your route slightly. If the defender is playing off coverage, you might be able to run a more aggressive route.
Pay Attention to Details: The little things can make a big difference. Make sure you're running your routes at the correct depth, making clean cuts, and using proper technique. These details can help you create separation from defenders and make yourself a more reliable target for the quarterback.
Stay Coachable: Be open to feedback from your coaches. They have a lot of experience and can help you improve your route running skills. Listen to their advice and try to implement it in your game.

Conclusion

So there you have it! The football route tree demystified. With a printable version and a little practice, you'll be running routes like a pro in no time. Remember, it's all about understanding the system, practicing regularly, and communicating with your team. Now go out there and dominate the field! And happy route-running, guys!