The term ‘stacking’ or ‘stack’ is often associated with wide receivers upon their release off the line of scrimmage. Stacking is a means for WRs to create easy vertical separation.
A wide receiver looks to stack a cornerback upon gaining leverage off their release. Stacking is when the receiver gains access behind the cornerback, creating a clear throwing window over the shoulder of the wide receiver. With the right touch, a good quarterback can place the football over the top of the receiver, and the cornerback will have little to no chance of disrupting the pass.
The two primary goals of stacking are:
- Obtain vertical leverage against the CB
- Make an easier throw for the QB
Stacking also helps wide receiverss with separation, for the cornerback is in a disadvantageous position.