About the play: Shannon Sharpe is a fabulous tight end. He can run and is very physical. He can manhandle any linebacker in the NFL. This route allows Sharpe to use his skills. The Broncos love crossing routes that can beat both man-to-man and zone coverage.

Keys to the play: The X receiver, Ed McCaffrey, must run and get the corner to turn his back on Sharpe, who is running a drag route to the area vacated by the corner. Sharpe has to take an inside release, so he is not late to his route and push up the field before he crosses. This allows him to get separation on the coverage. The Z receiver, Rod Smith, must be alert for the ball on his over route. If the coverage jumps Sharpe, then Smith will most likely get the ball from quarterback Brian Griese.

Critical player: It is critical that both Sharpe and Smith get off the ball cleanly. That is why the Broncos put Smith in motion, so he can get off the ball more. A clean release will help Griese make a quick, smart decision.

When to expect the play: The Broncos will run this play when they know the defense is in man-to-man coverage. They will also try to set up this route by running some outward breaking routes and then redirect the route just when they think the defense is overrunning the play.

Defensive strategy: The defense can stop this play by having a corner rolled up on McCaffrey. The cornerback must be aware, read his keys and stay at home while he waits on Sharpe to cross into his zone. Also, the defense must have a group of linebackers who get great depth and force Griese to check the ball down to a back. That would be a win for the defense.