Bubble screen vs Draw play in Sports - What is The Difference?

Last Updated Feb 2, 2025

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Table of Comparison

Aspect Draw Play Bubble Screen
Definition Running play where the quarterback fakes a pass and hands off to a running back Quick pass to a wide receiver who runs a short route behind the line of scrimmage
Primary Objective Deceive defense with pass fake to create running lanes Spread defense and create quick yardage through receiver's speed
Typical Yardage Gain 3-6 yards on average 5-10 yards depending on receiver's speed
Key Players Quarterback, running back, offensive line Quarterback, wide receiver, offensive line for blocking
Best Used Against Aggressive pass rush, overcommitted defenders Man coverage, aggressive linebackers
Speed of Execution Slower, relies on timing and deception Fast, immediate release
Risk Level Moderate risk of tackle for loss if read incorrectly Low risk, but vulnerable to quick defender reaction
Common Use Third down runs, slowing aggressive defenses Short yardage gains, exploiting space on outside

Introduction to Draw Play and Bubble Screen

Draw play is a deceptive football strategy where the quarterback initially acts as if passing but quickly hands the ball to a running back, exploiting defensive pressure. Bubble screen is a quick, short pass to a wide receiver positioned just behind the line of scrimmage, designed to create space and leverage blocking for a fast, horizontal gain. Both plays focus on timing and misdirection, but the draw play emphasizes rushing through defensive gaps while the bubble screen capitalizes on swift, lateral receiver movement.

Key Differences Between Draw Play and Bubble Screen

Draw plays and bubble screens differ primarily in their execution and purpose within offensive football strategy. A draw play is a delayed running play designed to deceive the defense into anticipating a pass, often involving the quarterback faking a pass before handing off to the running back. In contrast, a bubble screen is a quick passing play where the quarterback throws to a receiver behind the line of scrimmage, allowing blockers to create space on the outside for yardage gains.

Situational Effectiveness of Each Play

The Draw play excels in short-yardage and goal-line situations by exploiting aggressive defenses, creating gaps through delayed handoffs to running backs. The Bubble screen thrives in quick-response scenarios against zone coverage, allowing wide receivers to gain yards after catch with minimal pass protection needed. Both plays optimize offensive tactics depending on defensive alignment and game context, maximizing yardage through timely execution.

Player Roles and Positioning

In a draw play, the quarterback initiates a delayed handoff to the running back, who takes advantage of blockers positioned to create running lanes through the defensive line; offensive linemen execute run-blocking schemes to deceive defenders. The bubble screen primarily involves the wide receiver quickly catching a lateral pass behind the line of scrimmage, while the offensive linemen and tight ends set up blocks at the second level to create space along the sideline. Defensive players must adjust positioning accordingly: linebackers read the draw play's delayed handoff for run fits, while cornerbacks and safeties react swiftly to the wide receiver's route and screen set-up on bubble screens.

Blocking Schemes: Draw vs Bubble Screen

Draw plays use pulling guards and trap blocks to open running lanes, emphasizing powerful interior blocking for a delayed handoff behind the offensive line. Bubble screens rely on quick isolation blocks by wide receivers and linemen at the line of scrimmage, creating space on the outside through lateral blocking. The blocking scheme of a draw focuses on controlled, inward movement, while the bubble screen prioritizes fast, outward blocking to free the receiver immediately after the snap.

Advantages of Using the Draw Play

The draw play excels at deceiving defenses by mimicking a pass setup before executing a delayed run, creating opportunities for significant yardage gains against aggressive pass rushes. This play capitalizes on defensive linemen's forward momentum, opening lanes for the running back and increasing the likelihood of breaking through initial tackles. Compared to the bubble screen, the draw play reduces reliance on wide receiver speed and timing, offering a more controlled and unpredictable ground attack.

Advantages of Using the Bubble Screen

The Bubble Screen offers a quick-developing pass option that capitalizes on wide receiver speed and spacing, making it highly effective against aggressive defenses. This play creates mismatches by isolating defenders in open space, increasing the likelihood of yards after catch and exploiting defensive over-pursuit. Compared to the Draw play, the Bubble Screen reduces running back vulnerability by minimizing handoff risk and allows for faster ball distribution to maintain offensive tempo.

Common Defensive Counters and Adjustments

Defenses commonly counter the draw play by stacking linebackers near the line of scrimmage to fill running lanes quickly, forcing the running back into traffic. In response to these aggressive run fits, offenses often use the bubble screen to stretch the defense horizontally, creating space and forcing defenders to cover sideline threats instead of focusing solely on the box. Adjustments against the bubble screen include deploying quick outside linebackers or defensive backs in zone coverage to disrupt timing and limit yardage after the catch.

When to Call Draw Play vs Bubble Screen

Call a draw play when the defense shows aggressive pass rushing or blitzing, as it capitalizes on their momentum by allowing the quarterback to hand off to a running back in open space. Opt for a bubble screen when the defense drops linebackers or defensive backs into coverage, creating favorable matchups with quicker wide receivers on the perimeter. Timing is crucial, with the draw play being effective on early downs and the bubble screen serving best on passing downs or obvious passing situations.

Strategic Impact on Modern Offensive Playbooks

The draw play effectively exploits aggressive pass rushes by using misdirection to create running lanes, complementing modern offenses that prioritize balanced attack schemes. Bubble screens enhance quick passing games by isolating speedy receivers in space, forcing defenses to adjust their coverage and leverage slot personnel versatility. Both plays strategically diversify offensive options, enabling coordinators to manipulate defensive alignments and maintain unpredictability in high-tempo schemes.

Draw play Infographic

Bubble screen vs Draw play in Sports - What is The Difference?


About the author. JK Torgesen is a seasoned author renowned for distilling complex and trending concepts into clear, accessible language for readers of all backgrounds. With years of experience as a writer and educator, Torgesen has developed a reputation for making challenging topics understandable and engaging.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about Draw play are subject to change from time to time.

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