Why Do Quarterbacks Point Out the Mike Linebacker?

Patreon: / theqbschool
Twitter: / jt_osullivan
QBS Twitter: / the_qb_school
Website: theqbschool.com

[@jons2614]

I just think it's amazing that EVERY team has a guy named Mike - and he seems to play linebacker! Incredible!

[@justbecause7402]

Mike Kuechly

[@GBHanny8]

Mike Singletary

[@tallonjones8514]

Mike Urlacher

[@serenitywilson5483]

It’s funny because my son is named Michael and he plays linebacker 😂

[@Plxaxt-]

Mike Lewis

[@khushjawandha5283]

Thought this was Kyle Shanahan when I clicked

[@angel.dc5752]

Khush Jawandha same I was aboutta say that 😂😂😂

[@mafia_dave32]

Damn me too

[@TheQBSchool]

Everyone else too i guess.

[@riyazsf]

Same here.

[@johnbienasz163]

*Kyle og

[@jacksonrose1423]

This is like Khan Academy for football

[@TheQBSchool]

You're welcome.

[@desirous5695]

This is Kyle Shanahans long lost brother Chad Shanahan.

[@JohRiGa]

This. Just this xD

[@dsimpson530]

Ironically he is a former niners QB

[@desirous5695]

JoRiGa Kyle and Chad brothers forever

[@dfelix419]

Or Cooper Shanahan... if it weren’t for his injury, he would’ve been than Payton or Eli...

[@raheim21]

Indeed😂. I thought Kyle Shanahan grew a beard and had a weekend in Vegas.

[@susanmaggiora4800]

“2nd & goal from the 22 is not good.” Spoken like a student of the game 🤣

[@DudeHomer]

could be a lot worse.....at least it's only 2nd down + they are in field goal range, if they don't get the TD in 2 tries.

[@jascharl]

Spoken like Booger McFarland

[@LiamBriggs18]

Could be worse. Could be 3rd and 93

[@Falor5151]

@@LiamBriggs18 4th and 93, we're going for it.

[@nathan.d.c]

@@LiamBriggs18 everyone in Ruston, Louisiana felt that one

[@codacreator6162]

I just learned more about football in 15 minutes than I have in 40+ years as a spectator. Feels like I’m going back to school, but it’s worth it. My 13-year-old son is so crazy into football already he’s running his own fantasy team. And winning. Nice to be able to share some of this with him on a long, lazy Sunday. Thanks, man!

[@majestyirving1372]

That’s dope asf do the same thing with my pops on this channel

[@49erfanoz]

Been watching and playing this game my whole life and learn more each day that I know nothing about football lol

[@xGSxAmAZyn]

Don't let him play... unless it's flag... brain is like a dime in a 2 liter bottle

[@bipedalkoi9449]

@@xGSxAmAZyn why would you deprive your kid of that experience?

[@super8bitvideos]

@@bipedalkoi9449 Depriving them of brainmush at an age younger than 13?

[@rogerm2420]

As an equipment assistant for a pro team in the late 70’s, it wasn’t until I was around position meetings and film study did I realize most football fans knew little more than the final score. Great reference and insight. Thank you.

[@hawksfan5]

Most football guys (anyone involved and hardcore fans) realize this about the age of 13

[@rogerm2420]

Maybe...even ‘20 somethings’ had trouble with new techniques at camp. “Get out of my drill rookie”, the great Lamar Leachman R.I.P.

[@SatsuiEvilRyu]

"IM NOT THE MIKE"

[@goode.110]

Before watching id say cuz it looks badass

[@adgee5401]

Good E. Lol. Line calls

[@susanmaggiora4800]

Good E. 🙂

[@alaba2679]

You just randomly popped up in my feed. I'm very grateful!

[@TheQBSchool]

Nice. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@JC-il7rl]

My dad, brothers, and I had niner season tickets when you were with the team. Team struggled but I’ll never forget chanting J-T-O! J-T-O! Some of the best years of my childhood- thanks for being a part of them!

[@charlesdarks8850]

I already knew these things but hearing the explanation by a real pro is amazing.

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks.

[@George_M_]

I'll always remember that highlight of the guy yelling "I'm not the Mike! I'm not the Mike!"

[@asmahasmalaria8596]

My favorite audibles come from Tom Brady ("Gronkh! Stand up!" or "Julian! Get in your spot!")

[@SovietAssault69]

@@asmahasmalaria8596 I'm pretty sure it was, "Julian! You're in the slot!"

[@mikelynch7271]

Asma Hasmalaria ... have ya seen the one where TB audible’s in the middle of the play ? I think James White was the RB - TB takes the snap & as he fakes the Handoff he tells White where he wants em .

[@ElGranSanto]

That shot from behind made him look like a kid that got in trouble. Lol

[@ashleycoonfield9051]

I was looking in the comments to see if anyone mentioned this. This was the first thing I thought when I saw the title!

[@CaptainCory]

This is my new favorite KZbin channel. Nerding out so hard right now. Great content JT.

[@kaueseoane6885]

As a Brazilian fan I'm grateful for this content! NFL has been growing here! Keep it up!

[@w0216984]

Just stumbled upon your channel, this is one of the best explanations of this I've seen. Great video for fans

[@emmagalli]

Wow every time I watch one of your videos I actually learn something new about football! Thanks so much!

[@hughtaggart565]

Man, I love this channel! Mr. O'Sullivan, you do a fantastic job all around with your channel and content! Something about the way you break it down makes everything just click for me and I legitimately walk away from every video with a deeper understanding of the game. Keep up the great work sir!!

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks, Hugh. Means a lot. Appreciate you watching.

[@Njbear7453]

Just subscribed to this channel and I’m glad I did. Your knowledge is extremely impressive. Being a former player and offensive lineman in college hearing all of the football terms and terminology brings a smile to my face. Good stuff

[@TheQBSchool]

Appreciate it, Bear.

[@david-shank]

Being a fan, but someone who didn't get to play organized football, I love these videos. Gives me a lot deeper understanding, as opposed to just watching the game.

[@hermanpesina6328]

I've always asked this question in my head and I'm so glad someone explained it ! Thanks !

[@ramganesh4424]

Just discovered this channel! Absolute Gold!! Wish there was an ordered playlist with recommended order for watching all these videos

[@sagnik3556]

there is

[@YDCFF_]

This reminds me of how many times I heard Ray Lewis identified as the MIC. As a former LB I loved watching that man play.

[@Robmlufc]

Thanks for the videos! Big Football fan in the UK so never played at school. Learning all the details from these videos. 👍🏻

[@TheQBSchool]

Nice. Thanks for watching.

[@stephenkurucz]

This is my new favorite KZbin account. So knowledable! Thanks

[@TheQBSchool]

Wow, thanks!

[@EclecticBuddha]

I think you were suggested to me because I watch Antonelli Baseball. It's fascinating hearing you guys break down your sports. It's also amazing to learn that it's possible for a QB to have a long career without ever having an apartment in Cleveland. Maybe you and Antonelli could do a collaboration comparing and contrasting lifestyles between the leagues. I'm sure your fans would have a ton of crossover. Keep up the great work! I'm really loving your channel!

[@charlesdeyo6154]

Thank you for the explanation. I didnt realize it had to do with protection.

[@thedeleted1337]

Watching a JT O sullivan video 15 seconds after the video is posted. My life is complete.

[@danielholtxxl4936]

A complete loss.

[@sleepygrumpy]

Man this is the most sophisticated football channel on the internet -- you are the shit, thank you for what you do, you literally are pulling the curtain back on the coolest stuff in sports

[@TheQBSchool]

Glad you dig it.

[@mtube2380]

I love this channel. Thank you sir

[@mattsmith1173]

This stuff fascinates me,great explaination!!Always wondered why Tom Brady and others were calling out "52's the Mike"

[@nimascolari1508]

JTO!!! Played for so many NFL teams, man. Huge potential and intelligent QB. Now schooling the new generation of QBs. Keep it up! Hope to see you coaching in the NFL soon. ✌️

[@eugene3484]

What’s his name? This coach?

[@golfaddict9]

@@eugene3484 I think he introduced himself at the beginning of the video as JT O'Sullivan. His Wiki says he played in the NFL for 9 seasons and NFL Europe for two seasons.

[@ayadali9112]

I never thought anyone would explain this nor did I ever bother to search this up but it is something I see and it is something that comes to my head every time I watch and think of football seeing quarterbacks like Brady and Manning do it.

[@weesebowski8651]

Coming from a small native reservation I was never taught any of this! Sadly all I understood was pass block and run block that’s about it! Other than that I played DE and figured hey I’ll just hit everyone that isn’t on my team and make sure it hurts! And the routes I had was “hey cut inside, or go Wide out! 🤣 Ok bro!!!

[@badlandskid]

Ahhhh... a cup of coffee, 3 inches of fresh snow and a new QB school video!

[@TexasKing100]

bruh whats snow, its still 70 in South Texas xD

[@tylerpederson1894]

@@TexasKing100 aged well

[@TexasKing100]

@@tylerpederson1894 not at fucking all

[@raheim21]

And some film bro!! Your voice and knowledge is Golden!!

[@kiloalphahotel5354]

Thanks for the vid. Always great.

[@delontamonroe7503]

Yo, You just put me on game!!! I love this type of content, thanks man!!!

[@goose33]

I didnt search for this. But i NEEDED this

[@claytonwood7211]

This makes so much more since thanks!! Love the videos btw!

[@tribulation138]

Lol. I always thought Mic was the guy who had the comunication earpiece with his defencive coordinator.. shows how much i know

[@jeffreyplays7479]

Same here lmfao 😂😂😂

[@LYeah-dp9mp]

J.T. O’Sullivan, drafted by the Saints back in 02 played on various teams like the Packers, Bears, Vikings, and Patriots just to name a few. Played professionally from 02-12. Even played in Europe with the Frankfurt Galaxy. Glad to see him still doing what he loves. Most guys get out of the league and if they don’t make the HOF you never hear anything about them again. You gotta have love for this sport because it has long term damaging effects that most don’t see for years to come. Big ups to you Mr. O’Sullivan it’s been a pleasure

[@diggingnthetrenches4215]

Great as always JT awesome job

[@go.gators]

Just found the channel ...and I love it!! Very cool content.💥

[@danabuch324]

You're videos are amazing. It occurred to me that there is a subject that is hardly ever talked about. The ability of the QB to judge speed-distance-time. People always associate YAK as only the result of the receiver's ability to run after he catches the ball. But on a crossing pattern the QB needs to get the ball to the receiver on the run and quickly enough for his receiver to make his cut up-field before the linebackers get there. It may only be a half a step but that is enough to get up-field. Please do a video on this subject comparing QBs ability to do this.

[@TheKennyboy92]

Such a good explanation of it thanks for the video.

[@jamief7079]

Happy New Year JT. Can’t wait for more vids in 2020

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks. Same.

[@HPmob420]

During the dark ages of the San Francisco 49ers, I always loved JT and now he is on YT providing great insights. I have one question for JT. who gives the 9ers the better chance during this final stretch of the season (a healthy Jimmy G or Trey Lance)

[@jrocketcan710]

Please keep doing stuff about Xs and Os. I am trying to get back into coaching and it is really helpful. Also, where can we ask questions for your Q and A vids?

[@michaeltipler5674]

You the shiznik dude, keep up the fantastic work!

[@junwah22]

Thanks JT I appreciate it greatly...

[@TheQBSchool]

You’re welcome.

[@rulesnwitz]

Would love you to do a film study on Brady with some final thoughts on their season... what a run even the last like 4-5 yrs has been insane obviously a tough little stretch for them but retool, get better and healthy in the offseason. certainly an interesting time for the pats and Brady

[@kwaynesatuckle5631]

It’s like looking at a map and saying “this is North”

[@dennisclarke6456]

When Peyton Manning would do that, it was like he was a conductor instructing a symphony.. it was epic lol...

[@jdog6620]

I’m 50 and I’ve never seen a QB do that or have so much control and understanding of what the defense was doing and what he was doing. It was phenomenal to watch.... in awe.

[@oishirley]

I got a lot of catching up to do. I just recently got into football. Cheers from Guatemala.

[@aarontaylor463]

Thanks. I had wondered about that and you explained it very well.

[@ChristopherStandardTime]

holy crap... that clears up SO MUCH. subscribing now.

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks.

[@guidenredhawk]

I'm someone who doesn't watch much football, but where I work a lot of people watch it and talk about it. I'm someone who knows the core of football, but not the specifics like players and their roles, or the different set ups for plays. This video is good for learning how to learn the finer details of football. I am also trying to get into Madden 24 to play with guys at work, so these videos will also help get better at playing.

[@BDHunj]

JT- love the channel. Was wondering if you might consider doing a deep dive into Super Bowl 51 and how exactly my Falcons gave up a 25 point lead...perhaps your analysis will help me heal LOL

[@teejay3179]

J.T O'Sullivan nice, I'm going to sub now oh and great video by the way

[@xDSDSDSx]

Hey JT! First of all: I love your channel! Keep going with it! My question: Can you explain the difference or the basics of a zone read and a read option?

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks. ZR is a run only usually reading the EMLOS. And RPO is a run or pass option based off some specific defender depending on the play, front, shell.

[@realdizzle87]

@@TheQBSchool EMLOS = end man on the line of scrimmage, btw. Basically the defensive-end if you're playing a 4-down defensive-front or the OLB against 3-4 defenses. So, on a ZR play - if the end-man breaks inside: the QB will keep it and run outside. If the end-man breaks to outside off the snap: now you hand the ball to the RB because he should have an open gap either between the T & G or between G & C.

[@edwardmarcus8353]

Awesome. Helps me understand how versatile players like Parsons or Polamalu are/were a nightmare for QBs. Blocking schemes get misdirected by where they line up. Oh - huh - now I understand disguises better too.

[@xBUMSKIx]

Great video

[@erbgorre]

more importantly, why was jameel mcclain so offended when tony romo called him out as the mike that one time? -.-

[@KindredBrujah]

Probably because he thought he'd get a free shot at Romo and Romo correctly identified the blitz direction.

[@victorduffany7723]

I gotta say this is fun. I am having fun learning

[@kyleg8316]

Very informative!

[@w0216984]

Side note I remember you had a hell of a college career watched you while I was in college. Good luck with the channel

[@smokesletsgo8180]

So what's his name?

[@The757packerfan]

@@smokesletsgo8180 JT O'Sullivan

[@tuquynhnguyen9316]

I would have loved if you added Philip Rivers mic’ d up play against the Texans where he called out the Texan defender 41 was the mike, “He’s the new Clowney!”, then he said toldya as it happened and busted him on how he lined up wrong in the blitz. DJ Watts remembers the play and admitting he was right? Funniest Rivers moment ever!

[@Ramdiggum000]

Getting to listen to an former NFL qb is excellent. Nice work

[@TheQBSchool]

Thanks, Shariff.

[@kelseyjones13]

Good info. These vids could def benefit from sample videos, or even better, animations.

[@liamkenny8026]

This should some how be made into a board game where you identify the mike the will and the sam

[@TheQBSchool]

Good idea.

[@dustinmichel7608]

And the defence has to decide to cover, blitz, play the run.

[@dustinmichel7608]

Depending on how the picked play from offence fairs against the defence plus the advantage or disadvantage depending on your recognition of the linebackers and coverage will affect the out come of the play.

[@_o.0_.]

You nice with it!! Qb swag

[@wideeyedraven15]

The best way to explain this is to say: when you call the MIKE out, it orients the template for the offensive alignments to all and everyone agrees. It’s like a pinpoint that affixes the whole scheme to an agreed upon orientation. N for north.

[@hunwa425]

In the 3-4 I call the olb (B on your picture) the bandit, and what you call a plug, we would call the will

[@dkrdkr4690]

Best youtube channel

[@briancook7645]

J.T, I really like the videos you're doing. I love football film. I think the mental aspect of football is actually the more enjoyable part. But! Since videos like this are learning tools, I think it would really help if not only did you show the M, W, and S, but maybe show how the offense is going to block it based off the declarations. Just little lines showing LT is looking to block x, LG y, etc etc.

[@calebwinfield1403]

Just came across your channel. Great stuff! Definitely gonna like and subscribe.

[@darrell5703]

I just started watching your videos (awesome by the way) and I keep thinking you look so familiar. Then it hits me. You look and sound just like Zac (Barry Sloane) from Longmire. If anyone knows who that is lol.

[@andrewnixon7115]

Wow, love the video

[@tepanganiban]

Ooh a diagram too! Feel like I’m in camp

[@muzikimh]

Hey Man love the videos! What’s your camera setup/ what do you use to edit?

[@vargrlif8340]

Holy crap...JTO, haven't heard from him in a decade.

[@jti107]

this is so cool...i've heard tom brady do this and i always wondered what he was doing. would've never guessed he was adjusting his protection

[@psosilo]

awesome series man keep it up this is a awesome insight to the game. Why do you think some many teams are not using fullbacks in the NFL? I often hear establishing the run is important and after you establish the run you open play action. I would think a fullback would help establish the run and pass block but the NFL has seem to move away from the position.

[@tabletbrothers3477]

Looks like teams are starting to use fullbacks more :)

[@johncipolla8335]

I have learned to love football because of my wife thoughI wish I understood more about what was happening on the field. from play strategy to formations ectra.

[@michael-vb7br]

"2nd and Goal from the 22, uh, that's not good" lol GREAT breakdown!

[@jarydjackson8531]

Used to play mike until my freshman year of high school when my coach saw how skinny I was and put me at CB , glad other people here take (or took) it upon themselves to really fill the role of the “QB of the defense” to the extreme. I loved seeing QBs getting confused when I started screaming their audibles back at them and to my teammates like we knew what the fuck they were saying. One time I had a kid start stumbling over his words because I started a half second after him and we got a stoppage of play because he told me to shut up because he couldn’t think. That was the point. The pointing back at the QB was too easy but I still love seeing people who do it to fuck with opponents who aren’t ready for it. It’s all about mind games... really.

[@TakingBackHenry1]

Could you break down the differences and similarities of how Brady and Manning read the defenses so effectively?

[@VENENOSEASON]

I think that’s a question only Brady and Manning can answer correctly.

[@MrDirtyd405]

It’s kinda like basketball if you know any of that those two guys have a knack for finding the blitzers in football the blitz is like a double team in basketball a lot of times someone is open when you do it and if it’s a good passer your in trouble. Either sport. In my amateur opinion I think that’s where Tom and Peyton make their decision this is blitz ima look quick first this is man ima look mid for someone getting beat this is zone I’m throwing short like I said that’s my amateur opinion but those guys are great decisions makers if you look at how they move they are slow with their feet but fast with their decisions that’s where Brady kills you he throws short yoh play it close he’ll bomb it on you not even deep just deep-mid the receivers do the rest

[@mildchaos6037]

If this guy knew, he would’ve been on Brady and Manning level

[@billyconforto9108]

Holy shit, JT O’Sullivan haha! I remember this guy,

[@TheQBSchool]

I do too.

[@mikyronpadayachee3609]

RIP Bruh

[@jamilp2869]

@@mikyronpadayachee3609 HAHAHAHA!!!

[@kylemotty5951]

Gang Gang

[@TheLoobis]

7:00 WHAT!

[@jakethiringer1698]

Hey JT - Question - Who are some of the best players you played with and against in the NFL that particularly stand out? Any defenders you really had to alter the gameplan when going against them?

[@markjoseph2801]

Got used to Brady always pointing and calling out the Mic. Always felt that he was in control...

[@slimdougmaddox4634]

I used to think the the "Mike" was the guy that's NOT blitzing. Seems like the RB would be nervous about the protections changing. Thanks for the insight, John Thomas.

[@jk3639]

They point out the mike because defense lacks representation

[@andrewpestotnik5495]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@edged1001]

I remember watching an NFL game were the microphone picked up the quarterback Saying "52 is the Mike!" and next you hear 52 say " hey I 'm not he mike".

[@charlesdeyo6154]

I saw the same thing watching a Giants Cowboys game. The Giants defender yelled back im not the mike and Romo threw a pick.

[@donisys]

Just found ya, JT. Long time no see. #WhoDat

[@Steve-yf9xy]

Yo. When you doing more videos soon? There’s so many good new young QBs out there 🔥

[@davonphillips8048]

Thank you i can use this in madden

[@TheMBROO]

so I get how to identify Mike now. Thank you. My next question. Who blocks who once Mike is identified?

[@skittlecar1]

J.T.O. Underrated football name.