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.
The Center
An offensive lineman called the center hikes the ball on most plays. He must be ready to block right after snapping.
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.
FAQ
What is a hike and how do players do it?
A hike, also known as a snap, is the term for putting the ball into play at the start of a scrimmage down by the offensive center. The offensive center will hike, or snap, the ball to the quarterback signifying the start of play by throwing the ball through his legs. He is not allowed to hike it to either side of him. The quarterback lets the center know when to snap the football by saying a certain word or slapping his hands together.
Does the center always hike the ball?
Sometimes if the play is difficult, a defensive linemen will hike the ball. However, for field goals and punts, a member of the special teams unit, the long snapper, will hike the ball.
What are some penalties that can happen on the hike?
There are three types of penalties that can happen on the hike. These types of penalties are neutral zone infractions, false starts, and encroachment.