General
bootleg
What does bootleg mean?
An offensive play in which the quarterback fakes a handoff, hides the ball on his hip, and rolls out in the opposite direction to run or pass.
"The QB sold the fake and scored on a bootleg around the left end."
Origin
American football slang from 'bootleg' (something hidden), as the QB conceals the ball.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bootleg in football?
It's a play where the quarterback fakes a handoff, hides the ball on his hip, and rolls out the opposite way to run or pass.
What's the difference between a bootleg and a naked bootleg?
A naked bootleg has no lead blockers pulling with the QB, leaving him completely exposed if the fake doesn't fool the defense.
Why is it called a bootleg?
The name comes from 'bootlegging,' or hiding something, since the quarterback conceals the ball on the fake.
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