What it is

A bubble screen is a very short pass to a receiver standing wide, who catches it just behind the line and runs toward the sideline with blockers in front.

In a game

The quarterback throws almost at once, so it works even against a heavy rush. The receivers outside block the defenders, and the ball carrier follows them.

More detail

It is a safe, quick way to get the ball to a fast player in space. Defenses stop it by having their cornerbacks and linebackers read the play quickly.

Animated diagram

1. The quarterback catches the snap and throws to the slot receiver almost immediately.
2. The receiver on the outside blocks the defender in front of him.
3. The runner follows his blocker toward the sideline and gains the extra yards.