Incorporating the Pass Down, Pick Down: A Versatile Offensive Strategy for Men’s Lacrosse

The “throw down, pick down” in lacrosse is more than just a set play—it’s a versatile strategy or philosophy that can be seamlessly integrated into any fluid offense. This concept creates space for players to attack the goal by using smart off-ball movement and picks, which can be executed within the flow of various offensive sets.

Throw Down, Pick Down Strategy Explained:

1. Fluid Setup:

• Rather than requiring a rigid formation, this strategy can be incorporated into any part of the offensive rotation.

• A player, usually higher on the wing, passes down to a teammate who is positioned lower, and then immediately sets a pick (“pick down”) for the player they just passed to.

• The idea is to use the flow of the offense to create natural opportunities for this pick, without interrupting the rhythm of ball movement or player motion.

2. The Action:

• After the pass (“throw down”), the picker sets a screen for the player now holding the ball.

• The ball carrier can use this pick to come around it and attack the goal, or simply create separation from their defender to open up more passing or dodging options.

How It Enhances Offensive Fluidity:

1. Adaptable to Any Offense:

• The throw down, pick down doesn’t have to be a fixed play—it’s a tactic that can be used anywhere on the field, regardless of the offensive set you’re running (e.g., 1-4-1, 2-2-2, or even in fast breaks).

• This strategy can be initiated spontaneously when two players find themselves in positions to execute the pick-and-roll concept within the natural motion of the offense.

2. Handling Defensive Pressure:

• Separation and Relief from Pressure: This approach helps the ball carrier quickly gain separation from a defender, especially when the defense is applying high-pressure.

• Forcing Defensive Adjustments: As the defense reacts to the pick, they are often forced to switch or slide, leading to potential breakdowns in coverage, which your offense can capitalize on.

3. Pick and Roll Philosophy:

• Once the pick is set, the picker has the option to roll to the goal, creating a dynamic pick-and-roll opportunity within the fluid offense.

• If defenders overcommit to the ball carrier, the picker could be left open for an easy feed and shot. This pick-and-roll concept can be constantly incorporated into motion offenses as a natural reaction to defensive pressure.

Additional Benefits of the Throw Down, Pick Down:

1. Flexible and Unpredictable:

• This strategy adds unpredictability to any offensive system. The defense doesn’t know when or where the pick will occur, making it harder for them to prepare.

• It allows the offense to remain in motion, rather than stopping to set up a play, keeping defenders on their heels.

2. Creates Multiple Options:

• For the Ball Carrier: The ball carrier can come around the pick to drive to the goal or exploit the space created by the defense’s switch.

• For the Picker: The player setting the pick can quickly roll to the cage for a potential feed, or they can reset into an open area to keep the offense moving.

• Off-Ball Opportunities: Other players can read the defensive reaction and adjust their movement to find open spaces, making the offense multidimensional.

3. Efficient Use of the Field:

• By incorporating picks and off-ball movement naturally into the offensive flow, the entire field is used more efficiently. Defenders are drawn out of position, leaving gaps for dodges, quick passes, or even a cutter coming through the middle.

4. Managing Pressure:

• In high-pressure situations, the throw down, pick down strategy helps relieve pressure on the ball handler, giving them an outlet through the pick.

• It also forces defenders to communicate and adjust, making it difficult for them to apply constant pressure while covering multiple threats.

5. Fits into Any Offensive Playbook:

• This strategy doesn’t need to be a specific call from the playbook—it’s a philosophy that can be incorporated into nearly every offensive set. Whether you’re in settled offense or a fast-break situation, the throw down, pick down offers a fluid and consistent way to create opportunities.

Why It’s a Great Philosophy for Any Offense:

• Improves Offensive Flow: The throw down, pick down works as a continuous offensive strategy that keeps the ball and players moving while creating opportunities to break down the defense.

• Handling Aggressive Defenses: It’s especially useful against aggressive, high-pressure defenses, where quick picks and movement can create confusion and mismatches.

• Enhances Team Communication: This tactic forces players to communicate and read each other’s movements in real-time, fostering teamwork and allowing for constant offensive fluidity.

In essence, the throw down, pick down isn’t just a set play—it’s a flexible and adaptable philosophy that integrates into any offense, opening up opportunities for fast, effective ball movement, pick-and-roll situations, and creative ways to handle defensive pressure. By keeping defenders on their toes, it allows for a seamless, unpredictable offense that maximizes scoring chances.