route
Swing Route
A swing takes a back out of the backfield on a curved path toward the sideline, behind or near the line of scrimmage. It gets a playmaker the ball in space and makes the defense cover the full width of the field.
How the Swing Is Run
The back bows outside, drifting slightly back, then turns upfield as the ball arrives. It is usually a quick throw or a checkdown when the downfield reads are covered.
What It Beats
- Linebackers in man on a back, who struggle to keep up all the way to the sideline.
- Zones whose flat defender is pulled inside or deep by other routes.
- Pressure, as an outlet once a blitzer has left the area.
Common Questions
What is a swing route in football?
A swing takes a back out of the backfield on a curved path toward the sideline, behind or near the line of scrimmage.
Concepts Built With the Swing
HookSwing / OTB / Curl
