What it is

A comeback is a route in which the receiver runs deep, then stops and returns toward the quarterback and the sideline.

In a game

It beats a defender who is backpedaling, because the receiver is coming back to the ball while the defender is moving the other way.

More detail

The quarterback throws before the receiver turns, trusting that he will be there. It is a classic route against cornerbacks who play far off, and it keeps the clock moving with a catch near the sideline.

The route

The bright circle is the player running the route. The arrow shows his path. Scroll down to watch it as an animation.

Animated diagram

1. The receiver runs deep, and the cornerback follows.
2. He stops and turns back toward the quarterback and the sideline.
3. The defender is moving backward, so the receiver catches the ball with space around him.