A type of option offense where the quarterback and tail back line up approximately side by side. After the quarterback receives the snap, the two players cross paths and go through the motions of a hand-off. Based upon reading the defensive reaction, the quarterback either completes the handoff or pulls the ball out and runs…
Category Archives: Definitions
Zone blitz
A defensive package combining a blitz with zone pass coverage. Allows the defense to choose the blitzer after the offense shows formation and pass coverage requirements, and features unpredictable blitzes from different linebackers and defensive backs. Invented by coach Dick LeBeau.
Zone defense
A defense in which players who are in pass coverage cover zones of the field, instead of individual players. Pure zone packages are seldom used; most defenses employ some combination of zone and man coverage.
Zebra
A colloquial term for an official, referring to their black-and-white striped uniform.
Z-receiver
A term used in offensive play calling that usually refers to the flanker, or the wide receiver that lines up off the line of scrimmage. For example, “Panther Gun 85 Slant Z Go” tells the Z-receiver to run a go (also called a fly or streak) route.
Yellow flag
A weighted yellow marker thrown onto the field by the officials to signify that a foul has been committed by either the offensive or defensive team (or sometimes both). Commonly referred to only as “flag.”
Yards from scrimmage
The amount of yards gained by the offensive team advancing the ball from the line of scrimmage.
Yards gained
The amount of yards gained or lost during a play, game, season, or career.
Yardage
The amount of yards gained or lost during a play, game, season, or career.
Yard Line
A marking on the field that indicates the distance (in yards) to the nearest goal line.
