question for knowledgeable NFL fans

[cranrab]

can someone explain to me the why it is necessary for the QB to ID the MIC (i assume the MLB) pre-snap at the line of scrimmage?

just about every down i hear the QB call out the jersey number (example: "54 is the MIC!"), followed by a finger pointing acknowledgement from the center and maybe a guard.

but i don't recall ever hearing the QB call out the SAM.

explain please.

 

[largebillsonlyplease]

blocking assignment and it's not really the official "mike"

its the mike based on the formation to align protection.

usually its big on big. so its dt on og and de on ot and that leave the center and the back on certain plays left to identify who they're supposed to block. center usually has the mike.

so essentially what you see is the qb survey, point out the mike and identify... followed by the center or the guard pointing it out with a confirmation saying ok this is who i have to block on this play.

 

[AwwSchitt]

For dumb QB's - like Tim Tebow who you never heard identify the Mike - the Center will make the call.

Intelligent QB's will call out the Mike to set up protection for the offensive line & running backs.

As LargeBills said, the O-Line will take on the default members of the D-Line 4-on-4. That leaves the center and backs to pick up the extra guy(s) who may come.

In the case of an overload blitz you may see a QB point to the far right or left to slide protection in that direction.