To understand, first we need to know what is a gap.<\/p>\n
In an offensive alignment<\/a>, the \u201cgaps\u201d are the spaces between the linemen. The A <\/strong>gap is to the left and right of the center and is the space between the center and the guard. The B <\/strong>gap is the space between the guards and tackles and the C<\/strong> gap is outside the tackles. Defensive strategy<\/a> sets the alignment of defensive linemen across of the offensive line, sometimes straight in front of the opposing lineman while other alignments have the defensive players positioned in the gaps.<\/p>\n To shoot the gap is to \u201cshoot\u201d through the gap and into the offensive backfield so quickly that the offensive linemen can\u2019t move to stop the advance. This often leads to a tackle for loss or a quarterback sack if not countered by the offensive backfield.<\/p>\n