Smash
Corner-hitch pairing that stretches the flat defender
Smash is a classic two-man route combination that creates a high-low read on the flat defender or cornerback. The outside receiver runs a corner route while the slot runs a hitch or curl underneath, forcing the defender to choose between depth and the underneath throw. Originally a staple of the BYU passing game under LaVell Edwards, Smash is one of the most widely run concepts in football from pee-wee to the NFL. It is especially lethal in the red zone where the corner route has enough depth to clear the end zone while the hitch sits in an open window.
Route Assignments
Corner route breaking to the sideline at 15 yards — the high part of the stretch.
Hitch at 6 yards sitting underneath the corner route — the low read in the high-low.
Quick slant acting as the backside alert — available if the defense overrotates to the concept.
Flat route to the boundary providing an underneath check-down option.
Running back stays in to pass protect, providing the QB extra time for the corner route to develop.
Read Progression
Read the flat defender or corner to the concept side. If he sinks with the corner route, throw the hitch. If he sits on the hitch, throw the corner. Check the slant backside if the safety rotates over.
Why It Works
The flat defender is responsible for both the underneath zone and the deep outside zone. The corner route threatens his deep responsibility while the hitch sits in his vacated area. The defender cannot cover both, giving the QB a clear read.