A slot is a narrow opening. It is an area in between the face-off circles in the offensive zone. It is usually taken up by a running back or a tight end.

In the NFL, slot receivers are becoming more prevalent. Having a slot receiver makes it possible to create mismatches downfield and to run quick outs. It also prevents the quarterback from being sacked.

It is important to note that a slot receiver can be used on either side of the field. For defenses, it can be confusing if there are multiple slot receivers on the same field. They may have to change formations or add defensive backs.

A slot corner is also called a nickel cornerback. He is a defensive back who is lined up inside the boundary cornerback. The slot corner must play off-man and must also be a part of the team’s press coverage.

Players like Branden Cooks can stretch the defense vertically off pure speed. If the slot corner is able to redirect the puck to a center, the center can then place a stick out in front of the goalie to block the shot.

An extra defensive back will often line up in the slot to cover DB lines. A well-placed one-timer from the high slot is one of the best shots in hockey.

If a slot receiver receives a handoff, he can use his speed to go inside or outside of the offensive line. They can also serve as check-downs for the quarterback. Normally, passes to a slot receiver are short. However, they can also have big play potential.