Switch

A noun

• Offensive strategy: a motion involving two players, usually receivers, crossing paths after the snap to throw off the defense. Disrupting the defensive coverage is the main goal, as it usually leaves one of the receivers free for a pass.

For instance: “The quarterback executed a successful switch, causing the defenders to collide and leaving the wide receiver open for a touchdown.”

• In defensive strategy, players on the defensive side of the ball (often linebackers or defensive backs) switch roles in response to the offense’s actions. This aims to thwart offensive concepts such as pick plays and crossing routes.

For instance: “The cornerbacks performed a switch to effectively cover the crossing routes of the opposing team’s receivers.”

In both cases, the switch is a tactical move that the team uses to their advantage, either to set up or stop their offense.