How to Run the Hook & Ladder Play

The Hook and Ladder, otherwise known as the Hook and Lateral, is a trick play used in American football. Utilizing the quarterback, a wide receiver and a third player (usually another wide receiver or a running back), the Hook and Ladder play relies on precise execution and timing. The successful execution of this play can catch your opponent off-guard and result in a huge gain of yards or even a touchdown.

Instructions

    • 1

      Assign Player 1 to a hook, or curl, pattern. Player 1, a wide receiver, will run 7 to 10 yards down field, turn to face the line of scrimmage, and catch the ball. Once Player 1 has caught the ball, he should make sure that he has the attention of the defensive backs on him.

    • 2

      Send Player 2, a wide receiver or running back, on a delayed fly (deep) pattern at the same time Player 1 is running his hook pattern. This should be timed so that Player 2 will pass Player 1 just after Player 1 has caught the ball. Player 2 should be running at full speed as he passes Player 1.

    • 3

      Have Player 1 hand off or lateral the ball to Player 2. Player 2 will continue running down field.

    • 4

      Assign Player 1 and all other eligible players to block for Player 2 after the lateral has been made.