been an extremely easy toss and catch, but he would have easily rumbled to at least as deep as Gunner was if not further.

Here’s the problems with the trick play. First, just get the freaking first down. There’s a ton of plays out there that can get you one yard. No need for a trick one, especially not a second trick play on the same set of downs.

Second, there’s too many moving parts for a fourth down play. Way too many chances for a fumble, and way too many opportunities for the defense to break through and wreck the play.

Third, Zach isn’t allowed to keep his eyes downfield. There’s a reason he didn’t see Rex running wide open right in front of his face. While Rex is running wide open, Zach is having to stare at all the hand offs and keep his eye on the ball to ensure he doesn’t fumble. Then, when he finally secures the ball back in his hands, he has to quickly locate his primary target, verify he’s open, mentally calculate the trajectory, and all while his internally clock is telling him he’s got to get rid of the ball or he’ll be pile driven to the turf.



Can the play work? Of course. Gunner should have caught that ball. It’s still not a play you should be risking when all you need is a yard on 4th down.