In football, a blitz is the tactic where the offense is unaware of the blitz until it happens. If a defensive player rushes the quarterback and the quarterback cannot see the defender coming, the quarterback will often throw an incomplete pass because it’s hard to see an incoming defender. If a defensive player rushes the quarterback, the quarterback can take extra time to choose how to throw, and the quarterback will take longer to throw.
What is a Blitz in Football?
The blitz is a play designed to disrupt the quarterback and offense. The defensive linemen typically lines up in a “firewall” formation, with the edge rushers running an angle toward the quarterback. The defensive backs may play a more traditional coverage, or rush multiple defenders up the field. This is primarily intended to force a quarterback out of the pocket and is often accompanied by pre-snap movement.
Why is it Called a Blitz?
The blitz is a play design that attacks the line of scrimmage to destroy the opposing defense. Blitzers should attack the offensive line by striking them fast and hard. The quarterback is the best target for this blitz and should be protected carefully.
The concept of the St. Louis blitz was the idea that the defensive back would blitz the quarterback with the idea that the back would intercept the pass if it were thrown before the back.
The “blitz” tagline was created by Al Davis in the late ’50s and became a rallying cry for the teams he coached. At that time it was a very new concept of bringing an extra defensive player on a regular basis. Davis and his team, the Oakland Raiders, named this new strategy after running up and down the field against an offensive line. He would yell the Raiders “Blitz!” in a kind of jubilant call that would energize his players during games.
What is the Purpose of a Blitz?
The defense plays so well, that they can take it for granted that they’ll force the offense to make mistakes. It’s almost like they’re daring the offense to go for it.
An example of a blitz, which has many of these advantages and benefits, is a speed rush from the front.
In the following example, the quarterback will receive the snap and look to escape the pocket. While he has options, he will not move very far, as the defensive secondary is in man coverage. The cornerback will be able to cover the receiver in front of him, but the defensive end will be able to get to the quarterback if he turns his hips and runs properly.
What are the Different Types of Blitzes?
The system was created to give a team the ability to switch up from a traditional 4-3 or 3-4 defense, and allows a defensive coordinator to put multiple defensive linemen and linebackers on the field.
Zone Blitz
Zone blitzes are typically a very difficult read for a quarterback and many defensive coordinators will employ them to confuse the offensive line and keep it guessing. They also keep the opposing offense honest: if you’re going to have to throw quick pass, you may want to avoid one-sided rush lanes, and instead spread them out to take advantage of a double-team.
Secondary Blitz
The Steelers blitz packages involve a lot of players rushing the line of scrimmage. This is a very good way to confuse the quarterback and gain an advantage. The Steelers defensive backs are usually more interested in getting into the backfield and disrupting the passing game as opposed to sacking the quarterback.
Zero Blitz
This play is dangerous because it leaves no defenders in the back seven. It forces the linebackers to play man coverage and leave their gaps open which can make things difficult for the offense. Usually we expect the pass rush to get to the quarterback, while this forces the defense to pressure the passer.
Can you Blitz Every Play?
While blitzing is effective, it is risky as there is little protection against passing plays. This makes it difficult to run throughout the game. It also causes defensive players to tire out quickly and wear them down throughout a game.
By using the zone blitz more often, defensive coordinators can allow a defensive back to pass off a blocker and get a shot on the wide receiver or tight end.
Blitzing is not the only way to successfully influence a quarterback. It is possible for a defense to create quarterback pressure without using the blitz. For example, in 2020, the Los Angeles Chargers had success pressuring quarterbacks without using the blitz, as their pressure rate was 13% higher than their overall pressure rate. This means that, while the Los Angeles Chargers were not using the blitz, they had more success creating quarterback pressure than the Ravens had using the blitz.
The ideal situation for a blitz is when the defensive line is lined up head-to-head against the offensive line like the Texans are in this screenshot. This is the most dangerous position so defenses will usually send one or two players in to disrupt the quarterback’s throw. However, a good blitz can be executed effectively when the defensive line is lined up head-to-head and one player will rush from the angle of the tight end.
Conclusion About the Blitz in Football
Blitzing is an illegal play in American football and will not be tolerated by your coach. However, if you want to play football as a kid then you need to get some equipment before going out and get into trouble. The first equipment you need is a helmet, because you can’t play football without it. The best helmet you can buy is one you can wear for several years and not damage. You also need a pair of shoulder pads because they are a must. They are important for protecting your body in case you get hit high or low. You should also get a pair of knee pads since they are used when you tackle. Finally, you need a pair of arm pads to protect yourself if you get hit in the side of your body.
