The Simplest Play Call That Often Works on Third and Long for the Chiefs

This may come as a surprise to some who have been blessed to watch Patrick Mahomes play quarterback over the last few years, but there really aren’t many great play calls for third and 15+. 

It’s actually quite difficult to find a concept that will work while also being able to execute such a play. After all, defenses are likely looking to drop into deep zones to keep the play in front of them while having plenty of space to force a fourth down (and likely a punt). It’s an obvious pass down where a gain of 10 yards probably doesn’t do much in the way of facilitating a decision on whether or not to surrender the ball to the opposing team. It’s a challenge.

These kinds of moments can quickly become a more talent driven down and distance rather than scheme. Still, something has to be called in the huddle, and the Chiefs have been able to find success over the years using one of the most simple concepts in all of football. It’s known by some as “Sticks.”