Understanding and Coaching Wide Receiver Route Stems
Wide receiver route stems are critical components of route running that determine how a receiver begins a route and ultimately impacts their ability to create separation from defenders. The “stem” of a route refers to the initial phase where the receiver releases off the line of scrimmage before making their intended break or cut to get open for a pass. Understanding and executing route stems effectively is vital for wide receivers to deceive defenders, maintain balance, and execute their routes precisely. Understanding and Coaching Wide Receiver Route Stems is very important:
Understanding and Coaching Wide Receiver Route Stems
Note: When a receiver runs straight down the field it is not referred to as a stem- for many coaches anyway. Instead, stemming a route is when a receiver bends their route outside or inside before reaching the top of the route. I coach the kids three different route stems- vertical, inside, and outside stems.
Release Off the Line of Scrimmage: The route stem begins with the receiver’s initial movements as they release from the line of scrimmage. This phase involves evading press coverage, finding an open release lane, and using techniques like jab steps, releases, or swim moves to get a clean start.
Straight Stems: A straight stem involves the receiver running straight up the field before making their break. This approach is commonly used in routes like go (fly) routes, fades, Digs (in routes), out routes, and /or post routes. The receiver attempts to maintain speed and threaten the defender vertically before making a sudden cut.
Curved Stems: Curved stems incorporate a slight curve or angle in the initial part of the route. This can be used to create separation and make the defender guess the receiver’s ultimate route direction.
Inside Stems: Receivers can stem a route inside, which will help them to gain leverage on the defender. They might also have a defensive back who is playing with inside technique so they stem inside (at the inside shoulder of the corner) to get head up, or square with the defensive back, before breaking their route.
Outside Stems: Receivers can also stem their pass pattern to the outside (usually outside shoulder of defensive back) to gain leverage or square up (also known as stacking the DB) the defender before breaking into their pass route.
Speed Variations: Altering the speed of the stem can be an effective way to deceive defenders. Receivers may start slowly to lull the defender into a false sense of security before accelerating into their break, creating separation. Conversely, they might burst off the line with explosive speed and then decelerate subtly before the break to deceive the defender.
Varying Route Depths: Stems can also involve varying the depth of the initial phase. For instance, in a deep post route, the receiver might stem at a shallower depth initially to avoid bump-and-run coverage before angling back toward the middle of the field at a deeper depth.
Setting Up Defenders: The stem is an opportunity for the receiver to set up the defender. By running a stem that looks like one route before breaking in another direction, the receiver can create separation through deception. This is particularly effective in double moves, where the receiver initially feigns one route before going in another direction.
Adjusting to Defensive Reactions: Good route runners are aware of how defenders react to their stems. If a defender is playing off-coverage, the receiver might choose a quicker stem to exploit the space. If the defender is playing press, the receiver might employ a release move to get free before the stem.
Maintaining Balance and Technique: Throughout the stem, receivers must maintain proper balance, footwork, and body positioning. This ensures they can execute their breaks cleanly and remain in control of the route.
See Also: Wide Receiver Stalk Blocking Techniques
In summary, the wide receiver route stem is the initial phase of a route where the receiver establishes their path and attempts to manipulate the defender. It’s a critical part of route running, as it sets the stage for the receiver’s break and ultimately determines their success in getting open for a pass. Receivers who can vary their stems effectively, read defenders’ reactions, and maintain precision in their movements are often the most successful at creating separation and making big plays in the passing game.
