What is a “Mesh Concept”?
- James Purvis
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Understanding the Mesh Concept in Football: A Modern Offensive Weapon
In the ever-evolving world of football, offensive coordinators are constantly innovating to outsmart defenses. One concept that has gained significant traction in recent years is the mesh concept. A staple in many modern playbooks, from high school to the NFL, the mesh concept is a versatile passing play designed to exploit defensive weaknesses, create natural rubs, and open up windows for quarterbacks. In this blog post, we’ll break down what the mesh concept is, how it works, and why it’s so effective.
What is the Mesh Concept?
At its core, the mesh concept is a passing play that involves two receivers crossing paths at a shallow depth, typically within 5-8 yards of the line of scrimmage, creating a “mesh” point where their routes intersect. This crossing action is designed to confuse or physically impede defenders, particularly in man-to-man coverage, while also stretching zone defenses horizontally and vertically.
The mesh concept is often part of the Air Raid offensive system, popularized by coaches like Mike Leach and Hal Mumme, but it has been adapted and incorporated into a wide variety of schemes. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a go-to play for offenses looking to create mismatches and exploit defensive alignments.
Key Components of the Mesh Concept
The mesh concept typically involves a combination of routes that work together to attack different levels of the defense. Here’s a breakdown of the core elements:
1. Shallow Cross Routes (The Mesh Point):Two receivers, often from opposite sides of the formation, run shallow crossing routes that intersect at the mesh point. These routes are usually run at a depth of 5-6 yards, forcing linebackers or defensive backs to navigate through traffic. The crossing action can create a natural “rub” or pick, making it difficult for defenders in man coverage to stay with their assignments.
2. Deep Routes:To stretch the defense vertically, other receivers run deeper routes, such as posts, corners, or go routes. These routes pull safeties and cornerbacks away from the mesh point, opening up space underneath.
3. Flat Routes:A running back, slot receiver, or tight end may run a route to the flat, giving the quarterback a quick outlet option if the mesh routes are covered. This also forces the defense to account for the short area of the field, further stretching their coverage.
4. Quarterback’s Read Progression:The quarterback typically reads the play from high to low or flat to deep, depending on the defensive look.
For example:
• If the safeties are deep, the QB looks for the mesh routes or flat option.
• If the linebackers drop too deep, the flat route may be open.
• If the defense collapses on the mesh, a deep route could be available.
Why is the Mesh Concept Effective?
The mesh concept is a defensive coordinator’s nightmare for several reasons:
1. Exploits Man Coverage:The crossing routes at the mesh point create natural picks, forcing defenders to fight through traffic or switch assignments. Poor communication or slow reactions can leave a receiver wide open.
2. Stresses Zone Coverage:Against zone defenses, the mesh concept floods specific zones with multiple receivers, forcing defenders to make tough decisions. The shallow crosses, combined with flat and deep routes, can overwhelm linebackers and safeties, creating gaps in coverage.
3. Versatility:The mesh concept can be run from various formations, including spread, bunch, or even under-center sets. It can also be paired with play-action, run-pass options (RPOs), or jet motion to add layers of deception.
4. Quick Reads for the QB:The mesh concept provides the quarterback with clear, defined reads. The shallow routes develop quickly, allowing for a fast release to avoid pressure, while the deep routes offer big-play potential if the defense overcommits underneath.
5. Adaptable to Personnel:Whether you have speedy slot receivers, a shifty running back, or a big-bodied tight end, the mesh concept can be tailored to maximize your playmakers’ strengths.
Real-World Examples
The mesh concept has been used effectively at all levels of football. In the NFL, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers have incorporated it into their offenses. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, a disciple of the West Coast offense, often uses mesh to get players like Travis Kelce or Tyreek Hill (when he was with the team) open in space. Similarly, college teams like Texas Tech and Oklahoma have used mesh as a core part of their Air Raid systems to devastating effect.
One iconic example is the “Y-Cross” variation, where a tight end runs one of the shallow crosses while a wide receiver runs a deep post to pull the safety away. This was a favorite of Mike Leach’s Washington State teams, often resulting in big plays.
Defending the Mesh Concept
For defenses, stopping the mesh concept requires discipline and communication. Here are a few strategies:
• Bump and Switch in Man Coverage: Cornerbacks and linebackers can try to slow down the crossing routes, while defenders must communicate switches to avoid mismatches.
• Zone Depth Awareness: Linebackers must maintain proper depth in zone coverage to avoid getting stretched too far by deep or flat routes.
• Pressure the QB: A strong pass rush can disrupt the quarterback’s timing, as the mesh routes take a moment to develop.
However, even with these countermeasures, a well-executed mesh concept can still find holes in the defense.
Conclusion
The mesh concept is a brilliant example of how simple route combinations can create complex problems for defenses. Its ability to exploit both man and zone coverages, combined with its adaptability, has made it a cornerstone of the modern football offenses today. Whether you’re a coach looking to install a new wrinkle in your playbook or a fan wanting to understand the X’s and O’s, the mesh concept is a fascinating study in offensive football strategy.
As the game continues to evolve, expect to see the mesh remain concept a key weapon for teams looking to attack defenses with precision and creativity. So next time you’re watching a game, keep an eye out for those shallow crosses and the chaos they create—it’s the mesh concept at work!
