Packers Film Room: Dashing for a dagger

In a recent game against the New York Jets, the Green Bay Packers showcased an effective play utilizing their "Dash" motion. This motion, characterized by a slow arc behind the line followed by a quick sprint towards it for a block, has been employed by the Packers 10 times in the first two weeks of the season. On this particular occasion, the play saw three receivers split wide, with Matthew Golden to the left and Christian Watson to the right.

The cornerback over Golden was shaded to the inside shoulder, while the safety was positioned on the hash. When Packers quarterback Jordan Love initiated the Dash motion, Golden immediately bobbled out to the side. Rather than handing the ball off or throwing to Golden on the Bubble route, Love lofted a pass upfield, avoiding any chance for the defense to intercept the play.

The Jets had not blitzed their cornerbacks extensively in this game, only blitzing 31.25% of their defensive snaps. However, the alignment of the cornerback and safety played a crucial role in Love's decision to throw the over-the-top pass. If the cornerback had been playing on Golden's outside shoulder, Love might have opted to hand the ball off.

Similarly, if the Jets had played off coverage with the safety over the top, Love could have thrown to Golden on the Bubble route. By throwing further outside and up-field, Love accounted for the cornerback's potential blitz, ensuring that Golden had ample time to adjust to the ball's trajectory. This well-timed throw resulted in a 14-yard gain for Golden, setting up a 26-yard field goal scored by Green Bay's Trey Smack, ultimately contributing to the team's victory.