You are an honest person. KTime is busily googling it as we type this. X used to be called the "split end" in traditional doctrine.I don't. Maybe one is more inside "shorter routs" but cutting and positioning is important. Then the other more outside "longer routs"
X lines up on the LOS, and is actually your featured WR. Z used to be called the "flanker" in traditional parlance. He lines up a couple of steps behind the LOS because he is a member of the backfield by rule. The Y receiver can be a slot or a flex receiver. In some formations, Y might be a TE. These letters have been assigned so that an OC or a QB can quickly set the formation and direct his receivers into proper positions.
Since your X receiver is lined up on the LOS, it is a little easier for a CB to jam him and throw off the timing of the route. Also the X usually needs to be an effective blocker. That's why it is best if the X is physically strong in the upper body and has very good footwork. Being lined up off the LOS, the Z is harder to jam and can take advantage of pure high end speed. The Z is usually the receiver who runs the reverse.
There is more to it, but that's a simple explanation. Dane Key is our X.
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