What it is

An end around is a play where a wide receiver runs behind the line and takes a handoff from the quarterback, running around the other end of the formation.

In a game

The receiver begins his run as if he were going into a route, then curls back toward the quarterback. The defense often notices him too late, so the play works best after a few runs in the other direction.

More detail

It differs from a reverse because the receiver gets the ball directly from the quarterback, not from another runner. Fast receivers like it because it uses their speed in open space.

Animated diagram

1. The receiver on the left side moves toward the quarterback, as if going in motion.
2. He takes a handoff and runs around the opposite end.
3. The defense is following the running back, and the receiver can use his speed on the outside.