Out (route)

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An Out route is a pattern run by a receiver in American Football, where the receiver will start running a Fly pattern, but after a certain number of steps, will cut hard 90 degrees towards the sideline closest to him, away (or outside) from the Quarterback. This route generally allows a one on one matchup between the receiver and the defensive back who is guarding him, as safeties generally are concerned with helping out on long routes downfield or the center of the field.

This route is used much more frequently near the end of each half, when a team is running their Two-minute drill to preserve time on the clock, because as soon as the receiver catches the ball or after a short run after the catch, he should be able to get out of bounds, stopping the clock. Outs can be dangerous plays to run, because in the case of an intercepted pass, the defensive player will often have a clear path to the other end zone.