A shake route in football is a deceptive pass-catching pattern designed to create separation from a defender by executing a series of quick, sharp changes of direction. It's a nuanced route that relies on selling one intention before abruptly breaking in another direction.
Understanding the Deceptive Nature of a Shake Route
The core purpose of a shake route is to manipulate a defensive back's leverage and commitment. By threatening different areas of the field, the wide receiver forces the defender to react, thereby creating an opening for the quarterback to deliver the pass. It's a sophisticated technique that requires precise footwork, body control, and a convincing portrayal of each phase of the route.
The Anatomy of a Shake Route
The shake route is characterized by a specific sequence of movements, each designed to build on the deception:
- Five-Step Vertical Stem: The route begins with the receiver driving hard upfield for approximately five steps. This initial burst aims to threaten a deep pass, pushing the defender back and creating vertical stretch.
- Three-Step Post Break: Following the vertical stem, the receiver executes a sharp, three-step cut towards the goalposts, as if running an inside post route. This move is crucial for drawing the defender's weight and attention inside.
- Out Break Towards the Sideline: Crucially, after selling the post, the receiver quickly transitions into a sharp cut towards the sideline. This final, decisive break is the "shake" that leaves the defender out of position, as they've committed to the inside move.
It's vital to note that simply changing direction is not enough to deceive a defender. The effectiveness of the shake route comes from the receiver's ability to sell each phase with conviction, utilizing their entire body – head, shoulders, hips, and eyes – to make the fakes believable.
Why the Shake Route is Highly Effective
This route's effectiveness stems from its ability to exploit a defender's natural tendencies and training:
- Misdirection: By presenting multiple threats (deep, inside, then outside), the receiver keeps the defender guessing and prevents them from maintaining consistent coverage.
- Creating Space: The sudden, sharp changes of direction, especially the final break, can create significant separation, providing a large throwing window for the quarterback.
- Precision and Timing: When executed with perfect timing and crisp cuts, the shake route can be nearly impossible to defend, making it a favorite for elite route runners.
Practical Insights and Mastering the Technique
For receivers, mastering the shake route involves continuous practice and attention to detail:
- Footwork: Develop explosive first steps and the ability to stop and change direction quickly without losing balance or speed.
- Body Language: Learn to "sell" each phase. This includes dropping your hips sharply on cuts, snapping your head around, and using arm movements to mimic a full commitment to the fake.
- Explosion out of Breaks: The ability to accelerate rapidly out of the final "out" cut is paramount to capitalize on the separation created.
- Film Study: Observing professional wide receivers, like those known for their elite route running, can provide invaluable insight into the subtle nuances that make a shake route truly effective.
| Phase | Action | Defensive Reaction Targeted |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Stem | Drive hard upfield for 5 steps. | Push defender back, open space underneath. |
| Post Break | Sharp 3-step cut towards the goalposts. | Draw defender's weight inside, commit hips. |
| Out Break | Immediate, sharp cut towards the sideline. | Leave defender trailing inside, create outside separation. |
The shake route is a testament to the art of route running, emphasizing deception and precision to gain a crucial advantage over a defender. It is a powerful tool in a wide receiver's arsenal, allowing them to consistently get open and contribute to successful offensive plays.
For more on general route concepts, explore resources like Football Routes Explained. To refine your route-running skills, consider fundamental techniques outlined in articles such as Route Running Fundamentals.
