Zone blitz

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In American football, a zone blitz is a defensive tactic that sends additional players to rush the opposing team's quarterback, whilst also unexpectedly redirecting a supposed pass rushing player into pass coverage instead.^[1][2] This tactic also includes zone coverage (rather than man-to-man coverage).^[3][4]

Like a conventional blitz, the zone blitz tactic assigns five or more players to rush the quarterback in a single down, rather than the usual three or four players. However, unlike a conventional blitz, the zone blitz uses players who are initially positioned to rush (for example, the defensive ends) to instead give pass coverage.^[2] For example, a zone blitz may involve two linebackers adding to the rush of three defensive linemen, while a fourth lineman unexpectedly moves into pass coverage.^[4]

As in other blitzes, using additional rushers is intended to hurry the quarterback, and potentially cause an incomplete pass, sack, fumble or interception.^[5] Redirecting a player who was expected to rush is intended to confuse the pass protection assignments of the offensive line, tight ends and backs, who may now be unsure of which rusher to block.^[3][4] Although blitzing leaves fewer defenders in pass coverage, the relatively safer zone coverage system reduces the risk of conceding a long touchdown pass.^[3][4]