Spy (gridiron football)

From The Right Wiki
Revision as of 14:09, 20 February 2024 by imported>1ctinus (Adding short description: "Defensive player assignment in American football")
(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)
Jump to navigationJump to search

In American football, a spy is a defensive player assigned to cover the opposing team's quarterback man-to-man. This strategy is generally used against "dual-threat" quarterbacks who are capable of rushing when passing plays break down. The defensive player floats near the line of scrimmage, following the quarterback's movements.[1] Spies are also sometimes known as "keys".[2] Generally, spies are linebackers.[3]

References

  1. "Spying the Quarterback". Sporting Charts. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  2. "Football Outsiders Glossary: General Football Terms". Football Outsiders. Retrieved 17 January 2017.
  3. Theismann, Joe (2003). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Football. Penguin. p. 179. ISBN 0786548363.