The rules of football are clear: Only one forward pass that starts behind the line of scrimmage is allowed per play. But a backward or parallel pass, followed by a forward pass, is legal. This play is used frequently in flag football.
How It Works
In flag football, the quarterback will often take the snap about seven or eight yards behind the center in shotgun position. Instead of looking downfield, the quarterback will toss the ball to a teammate who is parallel to his position or behind him. That teammate will look downfield and throw the ball to an open receiver for a big play. As long as the running back or receiver who takes the pass from the quarterback is not in front of him, a second pass can be thrown.
Play-Action Double Pass
A play-action pass in football occurs when the quarterback takes the ball and uses the action of a running play to deceive the defense and then throws the ball. This can be done on the double-pass as well. The quarterback takes the snap from center and tosses a backward pass to a running back who is swinging out wide to the right. After catching the ball, the running back takes three steps forward as if he will try to run the ball. However, just before he gets to the line of scrimmage, he launches a pass over the top of the defense to a receiver. The running back hopes his play action has fooled the defense into thinking the play will be a run and leave the receiver open.
Spot Pass
Most of the offensive action in flag football is based on the pass. Running plays may throw the defense off balance from time to time, but offenses are based on throwing the football. In some cases, the receiver will throw a pass across the field after catching a ball downfield. If the quarterback throws to a receiver who is 10 yards downfield, that receiver can throw a pass across the field as long as it is parallel to or behind the spot from which he throws the ball. This is often referred to as a spot pass. While the throwing action of the receiver looks like a standard pass, it is technically a lateral because it goes to a spot that is parallel or behind the thrower.
Double Pass -- Lineman
One of the most effective double passes takes place when the quarterback works the play with an offensive lineman. After taking the snap, the quarterback rolls to his right. The left tackle hits the defensive end with a chip block and then allows him to get after the quarterback. The offensive lineman drops back and the quarterback throws him the ball. The defense is in shock because at no time have they accounted for an offensive lineman receiving a pass from the quarterback. The stunned defense does not know what to do and the lineman hurls a pass to an open receiver. This often works for a big play.
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