A “pick” in American football refers to an interception, a defensive play where a player catches a pass intended for an opponent. This immediately changes possession of the ball from the offense to the defense. The term “pick” is a colloquialism derived from “picking off” the pass before it reaches its intended target.
What Exactly is a Pick?
A pick, or interception, occurs when a defensive player catches a forward pass thrown by the opposing team’s quarterback. The pass must be caught before it touches the ground and while the defensive player maintains control and remains in bounds. This immediately transfers possession to the intercepting team.
Once the defensive player secures the ball, they can attempt to advance it towards the opposing end zone. All standard ball-carrier rules apply, meaning the interceptor can be tackled, run out of bounds, or even fumble the ball. If the interceptor scores a touchdown, it is called a “pick-six” because a touchdown is worth six points.
Why Picks Are So Important
Interceptions represent a turnover, one of the most impactful plays in football. Turnovers halt an offensive drive, preventing scoring opportunities for the team that threw the pass. Conversely, they provide the defensive team with an unexpected opportunity to begin their own offensive possession, often with favorable field position.
A successful interception can shift the momentum of a game, boosting the confidence of the defensive team and potentially disheartening the offense. Teams with a positive turnover differential, meaning they gain more possessions than they lose, statistically win games more frequently. For instance, a multi-season analysis found that teams with just one more turnover than their opponent won approximately 70% of the time.
Common Circumstances Leading to a Pick
Inaccurate throws by the quarterback are a primary cause of interceptions, where the ball is placed too far, too short, or off-target for the intended receiver. Poor communication or a misrun route between the quarterback and receiver can also result in the ball going to an unintended location.
Defensive pressure on the quarterback can force hurried or ill-advised throws, increasing the likelihood of an interception. Strong defensive coverage and anticipation by defensive players allow them to position themselves to “pick off” passes. Passes tipped by offensive or defensive players can also lead to an interception.