This play works well against routes that require the receiver to be in a certain spot at a certain time. The disadvantage, however, is that the receiver can Shedshed contact and get behind the [[cornerback]] for a big play. This varies from the more traditional defensive formation in which a defensive player will give the receiver a "cushion" of about 5 yards to prevent the receiver from getting behind him. In the [[National Football League|NFL]], a defensive back is allowed any sort of contact within the 5 yard bump zone except for holding the receiver, otherwise the defensive back can be called for an illegal contact [[Penalty (American football)|penalty]], costing 5 yards and an automatic first down, enforced since 1978, and known colloquially as the [[Mel Blount Rule]].
