Quarterback facts for kids

The usual position of the quarterback is in blue

A quarterback (often called QB) is a super important player in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are part of the offense, which is the team trying to score points. They stand right behind the center, who snaps the ball to them. The quarterback is usually the leader of the offense. They start most plays and tell other players what to do.

In most attacking plays, the quarterback throws the ball to a teammate. This teammate then tries to run to the end of the field to score. Quarterbacks can also run with the ball themselves. Sometimes, they hand the ball to a running back to run instead. Quarterbacks are often the most famous players on their teams. Some well-known quarterbacks from history include Brett Favre, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning, and Johnny Unitas.

Changing the Play: The Audible

New York Giants QB Eli Manning throwing in pre-game warmups in 2009. Notice how he holds the ball and the position of his legs.

Sometimes, a quarterback might not like the way the other team's defense is lined up. If they think the planned play won't work well, they can change it! This is called an audible.

An audible happens at the line of scrimmage. This is where players line up before a play starts. The quarterback quickly shouts out new commands that their teammates understand. This lets them change the play on the spot. It's like changing your mind about a game plan right before you start playing!

Images for kids

• 

  Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Mike Quinn throwing the football

• 

  Navy quarterback Craig Candeto pitches the ball while running an option-based offense.

• 

  QB Aaron Rodgers (12) and the Green Bay Packers breaking the huddle.

• 

  Michael Vick, a member of the NFC team at the NFL's 2006 Pro Bowl, uses his mobility to get away from Dwight Freeney.

• 

  An illustration of a quarterback and center in Spalding's How to Play Foot Ball (1902)

• 

  Bo McMillin tossing a pass

• 

  An image of the single-wing formation, a popular formation and offensive plan from the early 1900s. In this old formation, the quarterback didn't get the ball from the center. Instead, they often helped block other players. Today, only a few high school teams still use the single-wing as their main offense.

• 

  Steve Spurrier under center.

• 

  Bob Griese

See also

In Spanish: Quarterback para niños