INSIDE THE BUBBLE
What is a bubble screen? Quick-hit play designed to get the ball to the outside and in the hands of a fast and agile player.
Who originated it? Legend has it that Don Read created the play when he coached at the University of Montana from 1986 to 1995. Lou Holtz also is widely credited with making it popular at Notre Dame after he had Read teach him all of its nuances.
Wide receiver's duties: Takes a jab step forward, then loops back toward the QB, getting into position to catch the ball.
QB's duties: Takes hike, quickly pivots to left or right and throws sideways or slightly forward. Accuracy (chest high, front shoulder) and timing are musts.
Blockers' duties: To spring the receiver. Often that job falls to the tight end and/or another wide receiver.
