Screen pass

A screen pass can be effective, but it can also be risky as it is rather easy for a defensive player, even a lineman, to intercept the pass if a defender gets between the quarterback and the intended receiver—something that only happens if the offensive line misses a block, the quarterback takes too long to throw or the defense overwhelms the offensive line.

The frequent use of the screen pass is a distinguishing feature of the West Coast offense.

The bubble screen was essentially created by Don Read when he was head coach of the Montana Grizzlies, and Lou Holtz, head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, brought the play into prominence after calling Read and asking for the play.

Because the pass appears to be a fumble if not completed, some defenses attempt to recover the ball as a turnover.

The player receiving the screen pass moves behind the releasing linemen and waits for the ball.

The outside receivers run clear-out routes in order to make a path for the screen coming behind them.

A trick play variant of the screen pass involves an offensive tackle.

The tackle must back up so that their hands are even with or behind the passer's and receives a lateral or backward pass.