check*down
What Is The Definition Of A Checkdown In Football?
1. This is short yardage pass attempt that the quarterback makes to a running back or tight end when all the wide receivers are covered, in order to avoid a sack.
The term “checked down” means that the quarterback has spent the time (usually 3-4 seconds) to look downfield to see if each one of his receivers are open or not, basically “checking down the list of receivers”. If they are all covered, he will “checkdown” to the running back or tight end for a short yardage attempt.
Examples Of How Checkdown Is Used In Commentary
1. The defense has all the receivers covered downfield, forcing the quarterback to checkdown to his running back near the sideline.
2. Brady runs through all his progressions and ends up checking down to his running back in the flat.
SportsLingo Goes The Extra-Inch With The Meaning Of Checkdown
The offensive line plays a crucial role in order for a quarterback to be able to checkdown during a game. If the quarterback does not have the proper pass protection and the amount of time in order to look down field, then the play is at risk of breaking down and the quarterback being sacked. The time allows the play to develop and it gives the quarterback the opportunity to check-off which receiver is open or covered. Although the quarterback can go to his last receiver option any time he chooses, he would rather have the opportunity to gain more yards on the play if there is a receiver open downfield.
Sport The Term Is Used
1. Football
Also Known As:
1. Checks
2. Checked Down
