Shoot the gap

Shooting the gap is a term used in American football. To "shoot the gap", a defensive lineman will exploit the space between the offensive linemen. The defensive lineman is usually one of the defensive tackles. The gaps are given different letters depending on their distance from the center. The gaps between the center and guard are known as the "A gaps", and between the guard and tackle are known as the "B gaps". Shooting the gaps requires the defensive lineman to turn his shoulders and get past the offensive line into the backfield by any means possible, usually by diving through the gap. The play is often used during a blitz, as the defense will try to rush past the offensive line in order to get to the quarterback and cause a quarterback sack.