Mills
Post-dig combination attacking the middle of the field
Mills, also known as the post-dig concept, creates a devastating high-low read in the middle of the field. The outside receiver runs a post route over the top while the inside slot receiver runs a dig underneath, forcing the middle-of-field safety to commit to one or the other. This concept traces its roots to Don Coryell's Air Coryell system and has been refined by coaches like Norv Turner and Sean McVay. It is one of the most efficient ways to attack single-high safety looks while remaining effective against two-high shells.
Route Assignments
Post route breaking to the middle of the field — the deep high part of the high-low read.
Dig route at 10 yards running underneath the post — the low read in the combination.
Out route at 8 yards providing a backside outlet away from the concept side.
Quick slant occupying the backside linebacker to prevent him from helping on the dig.
Running back checks protection then releases to the flat as a safety valve.
Read Progression
Read the middle safety — if he drops deep to cover the post, throw the dig. If he sits on the dig, throw the post over the top. Work to the out or flat if the concept side is bracketed.
Why It Works
The post and dig create an impossible choice for the middle-of-field defender. He cannot be in two places at once, so the quarterback reads his leverage and throws to the open level. The complementary backside routes prevent defenses from rotating extra help to the concept.