Long yardage pass plays use medium and deep receiver routes, with the expectation of the receiver to gain significant yardage in one play. Long yardage pass plays have a lower pass completion percentage compared to short yardage pass plays, and also have an increased chance of an interception or turnover. On the other hand, a successful long pass can lead to a first down conversion, or even a touchdown.

BLOCKING SCHEME
Blocking for deep pass plays is critical because they need to give the quarterback enough time to set up, find the open receiver, and throw. Many times, the offensive line will block man to man, and a running back will pick up the stunt, blitz, or any leak through the line. Zone blocking can also be used, depending on the defensive front seen. Depending on the play, the line blocking will form a "pocket" or a protected area created by the lineman for the quarterback to use. The pocket will collapse in split second, but it is usually enough for the quarterback to work with. A successful line will give the quarterback at least 4-5 seconds to throw.

RUNNING BACKS AND RECEIVERS
Running backs will typically stay at home to add with blocking support. Their main goal is to ensure that the quarterback has enough time to throw. On some plays, a back will stay in and hesitate a block, then flare into the flats as a safety outlet. This is an "out" for the QB in the event that all the receivers are covered. On other plays, a back (usually the half back) can run a streak, or H-FLY route, to get a 1 on 1 match up with a linebacker.

Receivers are the stars of long yardage plays, but they must work for their glory. For each long pass play, the receiver must be able to fight through a cornerback jam, run their route, and get open, all within a few seconds. At the same time, the receiver must continue to move and find an open area in case the quarterback has to scramble. The receiver must be able to sense when the ball is thrown and look just at the right time, adjust their position to catch the ball, then brace for an impact with the defender and/or ground. The stardom of being a receiver does not come without hard work.

QUARTERBACKS
Quarterbacks need to be very tough and face a lot of pressure on long yardage plays. They must wait long enough for the receiver to get open, find the open receiver, and release the ball while various defensive players are looking to bury him into the ground. A 7-step drop is typical for long pass plays. The quarterback can gain more time by stepping up into the pocket, or by rolling out to the left or right.

The success of a long pass play is dependent on the decision making of the QB. If the ball is thrown to the right receiver and is thrown just right, it can easily go for a touchdown. If the QB makes a mistake and throws the ball into a crowd, it can lead to an incomplete pass, or even an interception for a turnover. The QB must also know where the receivers will run to if the play breaks down. It is critical that the QB knows the tendencies of a receiver so that he knows where his receivers are at all times.

SUMMARY
Long yardage pass plays can make or break a game. The success of the a long pass starts with the line giving the quarterback enough time to throw. The quarterback must be resourceful enough to use that time to find the open receiver and release the ball. Once the ball is thrown, it is up to the receiver to make the catch.

Long yardage pass plays are not as successful as short yardage plays, but the stakes are much larger. There are larger risks involved, especially with the risk of an interception. The rewards, if successful includes large yardage gains, and possibly a touchdown strike. These types of plays can dictate the momentum of a team through a game, and can easily change the outcome of a final score.