The progression passing game is one of the methods offenses use in football today. The groupings usually include three receivers and one outlet pass route, which is usually a running back. Each receiver is numbered by sequence from 1 to 3 to outlet, with 1 as the primary receiver.

Each receiver runs a specific route, unless the defense forces a change. This is an alert call, with various routes built in. Only the most experienced quarterbacks know them all. 

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There are 12 basic specific progressions. Once the receivers and quarterbacks learn all of this information, you can automatically change primary routes.

Out of the 12 progressions, three of the 12 are for the quick passing game, which includes quick three- and five-step drops. For example: The alerts are to run a flat, then slant route. Another example is to run an outside route, then adjust to an inside passing route. The last example is a four-yard stick to continue to an outside flat route. 

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The other nine progressions are for the regular drops by the quarterbacks. These include big three-, five- and seven-step drops.

There are many different progressions: 
1. Play action 
2. Deep, shallow, crossing and screens. 

The big question: Is it a progression or a coverage read?
Coverage reads are exclusively used by the NFL. Coaches look at pictures that are taken up in the booth at the defensive scheme. Then it is relayed to the coach and quarterbacks on the field. This is a pinpoint throw to a specific receiver in most cases.

Progressions are used by all levels of football, including the NFL. As a coach, do your homework before installing the offensive system.

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Bill Hewitt is a former college football coach, NFL scout and film grader for the Buffalo Bills. He also is a retired physical education teacher. Follow him on Twitter @HewittCoach.