What it is

In the shotgun formation the quarterback lines up several yards behind the center and takes a longer snap, instead of standing right behind him.

In a game

It gives the quarterback more time to see the field and is common on passing downs. It also makes handoffs and quarterback runs easier to disguise.

More detail

Because the quarterback is already back, he can start his read faster, and running backs get a clear view of the line as they take the handoff. The downside is that the defense can tell a pass is more likely, and a bad snap is more dangerous. Many teams now use it on a large share of their plays.

Animated diagram

1. The quarterback lines up about five yards behind the center, with a running back beside him.
2. The center snaps the ball back through the air to the quarterback.
3. He has more time to read the defense, but the longer snap must be accurate.