libterm.com Post routes define how data is sent to a server using the HTTP POST method, which is crucial for submitting forms and uploading files. Understanding the structure and security of post routes ensures your web applications handle user data efficiently and safely. Explore the rest of this article to master post routes and improve your backend development skills.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Post Route | Wheel Route |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Receiver runs straight, then angles sharply toward the center of the field deep downfield. | Receiver runs toward sideline, then quickly turns upfield along the sideline. |
| Primary Use | Deep pass targeting the middle for big yardage gains. | Short-to-intermediate pass exploiting sideline speed and space. |
| Route Length | Long, typically 15+ yards downfield. | Medium, usually 5-15 yards progressing upfield. |
| Key Advantage | Attacks deep middle, challenging safeties and linebackers. | Creates separation with quick sideline burst, ideal for running backs and slot receivers. |
| Best Player Types | Fast wide receivers with strong deep speed and timing. | Agile backs or receivers with quick change-of-direction skills. |
| Defensive Coverage Targeted | Effective against Cover 2 and zone, exploiting deep middle. | Effective against man coverage, using sideline space and quick cuts. |
Introduction to Post and Wheel Routes
Post routes involve receivers running angled patterns toward the center of the field, creating opportunities for deep middle passes that exploit defensive coverages. Wheel routes combine a short route from a running back or tight end, typically turning upfield along the sideline, designed to confuse defenders and create mismatches in coverage. Understanding the timing and positioning between post routes and wheel routes is crucial for quarterbacks to maximize offensive efficiency and capitalize on defensive weaknesses.
Defining the Post Route
The Post route is a vertical passing route where a receiver runs straight downfield before angling diagonally toward the middle of the field, typically targeting the quarterback's throwing window between the hash marks around 10-15 yards deep. It contrasts with the Wheel route, which begins with a short route toward the sideline before turning upfield along the sideline, creating a deeper outside threat. The Post route's primary advantage lies in attacking the deep middle of the defense, challenging safeties and linebackers with timing and precision.
Understanding the Wheel Route
The wheel route is a key passing concept in football where the receiver starts running a short flat route before turning upfield along the sideline, effectively creating separation and confusing defenders. Unlike the post route, which cuts sharply toward the center of the field aiming for a deep middle connection, the wheel route leverages a wide arc movement to exploit mismatches on linebackers or defensive backs. Understanding the wheel route's timing and receiver angle is crucial for quarterbacks to maximize yardage opportunities against zone or man defenses.
Key Differences Between Post and Wheel Routes
The Post route targets the area between the hash marks, with the receiver angling toward the middle of the field to exploit deep middle coverage, whereas the Wheel route features the receiver initially running a flat or short route before turning upfield along the sideline. The Post route demands precise timing and vertical speed to beat safeties, while the Wheel route capitalizes on mismatches between running backs or tight ends and slower linebackers in open space. Post routes emphasize breaking inside quickly for big gains, whereas Wheel routes blend short routes with vertical motion, creating flexible opportunities for yards after catch.
Situational Use: When to Call a Post Route
A Post route is most effective when the receiver needs to gain separation quickly for a deep, inward-breaking pass, typically used in red zone or midfield attacking scenarios. In contrast, a Wheel route suits short-yardage or screen plays, allowing a running back or receiver to pivot upfield along the sideline to exploit open space. Calling a Post route is ideal when the defense is in zone coverage or when the safety is playing deep, providing an opportunity for a high-reward, vertical completion.
Situational Use: When to Call a Wheel Route
A wheel route is ideal when the receiver needs to create separation quickly by running a vertical route along the sideline before turning upfield, often used to exploit man-to-man coverage on the outside. It is particularly effective in situations requiring a quick change of direction or when the offense wants to stretch the defense horizontally to open underneath routes. Coaches call a wheel route when the defense shows zone coverage softening near the flats or when the running back or slot receiver can leverage speed and agility to gain yards after the catch.
Advantages of the Post Route
The Post route leverages sharp, quick cuts that enable wide receivers to create separation from defenders more effectively than the Wheel route, which often runs along the sidelines. This route is advantageous in exploiting the middle of the field, increasing opportunities for high-percentage completions and yardage after the catch. Quarterbacks find the Post route advantageous due to its clear sightlines and timing, facilitating faster decision-making and improved offensive rhythm.
Advantages of the Wheel Route
The Wheel route offers precise timing and consistent quarterback reads, enhancing route timing coordination in football offensive schemes. Its circular design creates multiple options for the quarterback, increasing the chances of finding open receivers against zone defenses. This route effectively exploits linebackers' coverage weaknesses and opens up underneath passing lanes, making it a valuable strategy in both short and intermediate passing games.
Common Mistakes: Post vs. Wheel Route Execution
Common mistakes in executing post routes include running too deep too early, causing separation issues with defenders and timing disruptions with the quarterback. Wheel route errors often involve improper speed or angle, leading to ineffective outside leverage and poor timing that disrupts pass timing or causes coverage breakdowns. Precise route depth, timing, and spatial awareness are critical to distinguish the efficient execution of post and wheel routes in football strategy.
Choosing the Right Route for Your Offense
Choosing the right route in your offense hinges on the specific defensive alignment and the quarterback's throwing strengths. The Post route, targeting the deep middle of the field, exploits zones with tight safeties, ideal for quarterbacks with strong arm accuracy. The Wheel route, blending a quick flat route into a vertical seam, benefits offenses seeking to confuse linebackers and create mismatches against slower defenders in the flats.
Post route Infographic
