Mastering the Naked Bootleg: Create Explosive Plays From Multiple Formations (Coach's Guide) - Matt DeBerry

Matt DeBerry, OC at College Station High School (TX), provides a detailed explanation (along with game film) of how they run their naked boot.

Their routes are rule-based.  On each naked play:

#1 runs a mandatory outside release fade
#2 runs a climb from the backside or a sail from the frontside|
#3 Post
#4 Off-Ball TE/Back runs Arrow

You can catch his entire presentation on Glazier Drive: Bootlegs & Play-Action Passes out of the Spread Offense.

Core Route Structure

• Every bootleg play features three primary routes: fade, climb, and post
• Number 1 receiver (call side): Outside release fade route (or corner if condensed/tight end)
• Number 2 receiver: Climb route (stair-step/sail/deep out at 12-15 yards)
• Number 3 receiver: Post route
• Off-ball tight end or back: Arrow/flat route (3 yards deep, staying flat)

Read Progression

• Quick peek at fade route (rarely thrown)
• Primary read is the arrow/flat route
• Progress to climb route
• Finally to post route
• Read pattern: low to high

Coaching Points

• Arrow route should stay flat at 3 yards (common error: drifting upfield)
• Quarterback must "whip head around" after fake to quickly read the flat
• In red zone, fade becomes "wrong way" route instead
• Routes can be reassigned with simple tags (ex: tagging outside receiver on climb shifts other routes)
• Multiple run action looks can be used (outside zone, toss, bug sweep)
• When executed properly, the play creates explosive gains (40+ yards mentioned)

Coach DeBerry emphasizes versatility through formation shifts while maintaining consistent route concepts and shows multiple game examples of successful execution.