Pass types

“Pass types” in American football are how the quarterback throws the ball to move it down the field and hit players. Passing is one of the most important parts of the game, and players can use different kinds of passes to fit different scenarios and plans. Here are some popular types of passes:

Forward pass: This is the most basic type of pass in football. The quarterback throws the ball onto a target downfield. It can be a short or long pass, based on how many yards or points need to be gained.
Screen Pass: In a screen pass, the quarterback throws a short pass behind the offensive line to a running back or target. The offensive tackles then make a wall of guards so the receiver can run after catching the ball.

Slant Route: In a slant route, the player runs diagonally across the field after the ball is snapped. On this diagonal route, often used for short to medium gains, the quarterback throws a quick pass to the receiver.

In an out route, the receiver runs toward the sideline and then cuts away from the field. As the receiver makes their cut, the quarterback throws the ball to them, hoping for a catch along the sideline.
Curl Route: In a curl route, the receiver runs downfield and turns back toward the QB. This moves the blocker out of the way. As they head back toward the line of scrimmage, the quarterback throws the ball to the target.

Hail Mary is a deep, high-arcing pass usually thrown at the end of a half or game as a last-ditch attempt. Several players usually run long routes, and the quarterback throws the ball toward the end zone, hoping one of them will make a miraculous catch.

Play-Action Pass: In a play-action pass, the quarterback pretends to hand off to a running back before dropping back to pass. This can trick the defenders and make throwing long plays down the field easier.

Option Pass: A running back or receiver can throw a pass in some offensive schemes. This makes the attack more interesting and can catch the defense by surprise.

Screen pass: This is a pass to a player behind the offensive line and has blocks set up in front of them to keep defenders away. It is often used to stop pass rushes that are too strong.

Dump-off Pass: When the quarterback is under pressure and doesn’t have an open downfield target, they may throw a short, safe pass to a running back or tight end as a check-down.

Different types of passes are used on purpose to find the weak spots in the defense, win yards, and score points. Quarterbacks and players need to know a lot about these passes and when to make them work well.