The Shallow Cross Concept for 7v7 out of Trips is a great passing concept because it creates natural traffic, easy separation, and a simple read for the quarterback. By using a shallow route from one of the trips receivers, the offense forces defenders to chase across the field, which is especially difficult in man coverage. The other routes in the concept can stretch the defense vertically or hold zone defenders in place, giving the shallow crosser room to run underneath.
Shallow Cross Passing Concept for 7v7

The Shallow Cross Concept is good against both man and zone coverage, which is why itβs such a popular passing concept.
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The shallow cross is excellent because it forces a defender to chase a receiver across the field. This creates natural separation, especially when the route runs through traffic or crosses underneath other routes.
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It works because the shallow route stretches the underneath defenders horizontally. The QB can hit the crosser on the move, or wait for the receiver to settle in the open window between zone defenders.
5: Vertical.
4: Dig route – 8-10 yard stem.
3: Wheel route.
2: Seam vertical.
1: Under route- climb to no more than 3 yards. If it’s zone, sit between the hook and curl defenders.
QB Read: 4 to 1 to 3. This progression can changed based on matchups and/or coverages.
Playbook: 3×1 Attack System Playbook for 7v7
The Shallow Cross Concept is also great because it gives the quarterback answers against both man and zone coverage. Against man, the shallow cross creates a natural rub and allows the receiver to win with speed across the field. Against zone, the QB can hit the crosser settling into open grass or work to the deeper routes if the underneath defenders jump the shallow. It is easy to install, gets the ball out quickly, and gives your offense a high-percentage way to attack the middle of the field.
