What Position Hikes The Ball In Football?

When snapping the ball to the quarterback, the player who snaps the ball is called the center. The center plays in the middle of the offensive line and is tasked with making and calling out reads to the quarterback, usually relating to linebackers and the defensive line. If the ball is being snapped to a holder for a field goal or a punter for a punt, the player snapping the ball is called the long snapper. Centers and long snappers must be very accurate when snapping the ball or risk a fumble on a bad snap. After the snap, the play begins and the center must block with the offensive line to protect the quarterback and running backs.

Table of Contents

• The Center
• Long Snapper
• FAQ
• What is a hike and how do players do it?
• Does the center always hike the ball?
• What are some penalties that can happen on the hike?

The Center

An offensive lineman called the center hikes the ball on most plays. He must be ready to block right after snapping.

Learn more about the football center here:

• Football Center

Long Snapper

The long snapper is in charge of hiking the ball on field goals or punts. He must be able to hike the ball further than normal.

Learn more about the football long snapper here:

• Football Long Snapper

FAQ