Definition of a Blitz

[DeclanJr]

I didn't know where this would fit on the MB, but wanted to ask people's opinion on a topic of contention on Sports Radio 610 between Marc and Andre on The Morning Show.

What is the definition of a blitz?

A) Is it when you bring a player or multiple players, other than a down lineman, to come after the quarterback?

B) Is it when you bring one more player than the offense has in blocking and you are able to sack the quarterback?

[infantrycak]

I think the term originally (back in the '50's) involved the thought of bringing more men than available blockers. Over time that evolved into bringing more men to a local area than available blockers. It is commonly used now as Kubiak uses it--bringing someone whose normal assignment is not rushing the passer, i.e. in a 4-3 anyone but the DL or in a 3-4 the DL and OLB's.

Ware's definition is archaic and silly because it doesn't recognize local overloads and doesn't comport with common usage. On any Sunday, for example, you will hear a single LB coming on a delayed pass rush as a delayed blitz. According to Ware, a single LB can never blitz.

[CPTTexan]

I would also have to say A. Whether, as infantrycak said, it's a delayed blitz or a snap blitz, bringing one or more guys other than the down lineman to me would constitute a blitz.

[DeclanJr]

I think the term originally (back in the '50's) involved the thought of bringing more men than available blockers. Over time that evolved into bringing more men to a local area than available blockers. It is commonly used now as Kubiak uses it--bringing someone whose normal assignment is not rushing the passer, i.e. in a 4-3 anyone but the DL or in a 3-4 the DL and OLB's.

Ware's definition is archaic and silly because it doesn't recognize local overloads and doesn't comport with common usage. On any Sunday, for example, you will hear a single LB coming on a delayed pass rush as a delayed blitz. According to Ware, a single LB can never blitz.

OK, so there is some history to support Ware's argument. Thank you for the information. When I heard his argument yesterday, I was thinking it couldn't possibly have merit. Some guy called in this morning and told Mark that he shouldn't even have the argument with Ware because Ware is a former NFL player, therefore he has to be right. Mark handled the call much better than I would have.

Anyways, thanks for the info.