Short yardage situation
Short yardage is any situation when the team needs to gain 3 or less yards to reach the primary goal. It may be the first down point but also the touchdown. Most performers choose the running play instead of risky passing because of touchback or interception risk.
The teams usually change their active personnel before the play. Then, the offense chooses the strategy for that release. Quarterback sneak is the popular one when the QB takes the ball from the snapper and immediately runs to gain the yardage. Alternatively, the offensive team can fake the running play but then pass the ball to any eligible receiver. This tactic is known as play-action-pass. It still has high efficiency because the defense expects the rush.
If the attackers have a powerful running back, it can exploit the run up the gut. The play’s efficiency depends on the ability of the offensive linemen to open the safe push for the selected executor.
When the team is far from the goal line the deep pass attempt is effective. The defense is ready for the rush, so one of the potential receivers is usually open or has a single coverage. Thus, it simplifies the task for the offense.