The Jordan Matthews Jailbreak Screen

Over the last 2 weeks Chip Kelly has unveiled a play I don't recall us running last year but my memory might be failing me. It's a common spread offensive concept called the  jailbreak screen that is a form of a WR screen that requires the OL to release off the line of scrimmage and get downfield to lead block for the receiver. His target? New slot receiver Jordan Matthews

Others may call this play a tunnel screen which is a similar concept. The jailbreak screen can be run in several different ways. The idea is to assign a blocker to take on the defender that has coverage responsibility on your targeted receiver. This can be executed by the playside offensive tackle, a tight end, or another Wide Receiver. In the two instances that Chip has run it this preseason, he's used the tight end to take out the receiver's man. Some other variations involve the playside offensive tackle. Some coaches choose to release him, others don't. 

Let's have a look at the plays:

One of the keys to the play is for the quarterback to get the ball out quickly. As you'll see all offensive lineman are (after an initial pass drop) releasing to the second-level to lead block for the receiver. The Eagles start the play by motioning Jordan Matthews to the top of the screen. A Patriots defender follows him in motion indicating man coverage and also tipping off Brent Celek the man he is to block. 

As the play develops you will see Jordan Matthews taking a step back to the QB and all 5 OL releasing to the second-level. Yes, your eyes are not failing you, the only guy protecting the QB on this play is 5'6 Darren Sproles. Sanchez gets the ball out immediately and you'll see Celek already has his man blocked:

The blocking is not great on this play, but Jordan Matthews does a nice job of navigating through traffic, breaking a tackle and getting a nice gain:

We ran the same play against the Steelers last week and it was better executed by the first team OL. Here again you have Jordan Matthews motioning to the bottom of the screen. No defender follows him indicating zone coverage. You'll note Brent Celek will once again lead block for Matthews but he'll have a lot of help as once again the entire offensive line will release to block downfield. 

This is where our athletic offensive line really shines. As the ball is released to Matthews the offensive linemen are quickly getting downfield:

Check out the blocks downfield as Jordan Matthews rips off a big play for a 1st down:

 It's likely that we haven't seen the last of this play once the regular season rolls around.