What is play action in football?

Play action, also known as a play fake, is a strategy in football where the quarterback fakes a handoff to the running back or acts as though he is going to run the ball, which draws the attention of the defense towards the backfield.

This action is used to freeze or slow down the linebackers or defensive backs and give the receivers more time and space to make their routes. It is a common tactic used by quarterbacks to throw the ball deep down the field or to hit a receiver who is cutting across the field.

The key to successful play action is to make the fake look as real as possible, so the defense is fooled. This requires precise timing and coordination between the quarterback, running back, and receivers. The fake must be executed quickly and accurately, and the quarterback must sell the fake by keeping the ball in the running back's belly for as long as possible before pulling it back.

Overall, play action is a valuable weapon in the arsenal of any football team, as it allows the offense to create big plays and gain significant yardage.