Football Library · Plays
Bubble RPO· 11v11 Tackle
Run-pass option built on Inside Zone with a bubble screen tag. The blockers run-block the inside zone (tackle OL; in 6v6/7v7 flag the front simulates the read); the back takes the Inside Zone path; a slot receiver releases on a bubble (lateral release, settling 0–2 yds behind the LOS); the QB reads the conflict defender (typically the playside OLB / overhang). If the conflict defender comes down to fill the run, the QB pulls and throws the bubble — the slot has the perimeter outflanked. If the defender stays out to play the bubble, the QB gives and the back hits a light box. Modern HS / college / NFL staple.
Coaching breakdown
Bubble RPO Right: QB reads the playside OLB. If he comes down to fill the run, pull and throw to on the bubble (he has the outside leverage). If he stays wide on the bubble, give to on Inside Zone — the box is light. Backside / run go routes to hold the deep safety.
When to call it
Use when the box is loaded (defender count exceeds blockers + 1) — pull and throw the bubble. When the box is light, hand off. The READ is the play; calling the right action based on alignment is more important than the play name.
When not to use
Avoid it when league rules prohibit the run-pass conflict, when the bubble side lacks a numbers advantage, or when press leverage can erase the bubble without sacrificing a box defender. A muddy read or an unblocked interior defender turns a simple option into two bad plays at once.
How to adjust for situations
Declare one conflict defender and one rule: he fills, pull and throw; he widens, give. Vs press, use fast motion or a stacked release to uncover the bubble. Near the goal line, replace the bubble with a quick flat or glance if the sideline compresses the receiver's space, while keeping the same box-count read.
Common mistakes
- QB doesn't actually read; just hands off (or always pulls). Defeats the entire purpose of the RPO.
- Bubble receiver attacks the LOS; should be running at the QB pre-snap then bouncing outside on the catch.
- Blockers leak past the LOS on the bubble side — in tackle that's illegal man downfield (half-cuts are the discipline); in flag it just looks like everyone committed to the run too early.
- QB holds the read too long; should be a 1-second decision off the conflict defender's first step.