sack
What Is The Definition Of Sack In Football?
1. A sack happens in football when a defensive player tackles the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage before the quarterback can attempt a forward pass.
A sack is an impactful play in football because it causes a loss of yards while counting as a down for the offense. For example, if a quarterback is sacked on a 2nd down with eight yards to go, a sack on the play can result in a 3rd down with 18 yards to go. This makes it much more likely that the offense will have to punt on the 4th down.
Why Is It Called A Sack In Football?
The term “sack” was made popular by Deacon Jones, a Hall of Fame linebacker who played for the Los Angeles Rams for most of his career in the 1960s. According to Jones, it refers to an original meaning of sack, which means to plunder a city after its capture.
Although popularized by Jones, it’s believed the term’s use in football was coined by George Allen, a former coach of the team formerly known as the Washington Redskins. However, he used it in a different context by referring to Dallas Cowboys quarterback Craig Morton and putting him in a sack like Morton salt.
What Is The Difference Between Tackle And Sack?
A sack is a type of tackle. All sacks are tackles, but not all tackles are sacks. A sack is only counted when a defensive player tackles an offensive player, usually the quarterback, before they are able to attempt a forward pass.
It is not considered a sack if the quarterback is not trying to throw the ball, even if the quarterback is tackled behind the line of scrimmage.
Examples Of How Sack Is Used In Commentary
1. The offensive line collapses as Khalil Mack sacks the quarterback for an eight yard loss.
2. The defensive tackle pushes through the center to sack the quarterback and force a fumble.
Sport The Term Is Used
1. Football
