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Lamar Jackson reveals his secret weapon against the blitz: 'I was getting sacked like crazy'

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 20:13 GMT by Cleveland.com
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Lamar Jackson Reveals His Secret Weapon Against the Blitz: “I Was Getting Sacked Like Crazy”

In a candid interview published in Cleveland.com’s Steelers section on November 12, 2025, former Washington Commanders star quarterback Lamar Jackson opened up about a game‑changing technique he developed to counter the relentless pressure from opposing defenses. The article, titled “Lamar Jackson reveals his secret weapon against the blitz – I was getting sacked like crazy,” follows Jackson through his early struggles, his creative approach to reading blitz packages, and the impact this has had on his performance in the NFL.

The Early Struggles

Jackson’s tenure with the Commanders was marked by a series of high‑profile sacks and missed reads. In his first two seasons, the quarterback was named in the league’s “Top 10 Most Sacked Players” list, a dubious distinction that put his confidence on the line. “I was getting sacked like crazy,” he admits, reflecting on the frustration that drove him to find a solution. The article links to a recap of the 2023 season’s most memorable sacks, highlighting the moments that prompted Jackson to reconsider his approach.

The Development of the Secret Weapon

Jackson’s secret weapon, according to the interview, is a blend of pre‑snap reading, a quick‑release throw, and a deceptive “body‑fake” maneuver that forces the defensive line to overcommit. He explains:

“When I look at the defense before the snap, I focus on the gaps between the linemen. If I see a linebacker lining up too close to the tackle, that usually means a blitz is coming. Instead of letting the pressure catch me, I shift my weight and fake a hand‑off to the running back, then drop back 2‑3 steps and toss a quick pass into the short‑to‑mid‑range. The key is making the defender think I’m giving him a hand‑off so he bites on the fake and then misses the pocket.”

The technique is described in detail, including the specific footwork required to maintain a balanced stance and the timing of the fake hand‑off. Jackson credits a workout regimen with the Commanders’ defensive coordinator, who incorporated defensive drills into the offense’s practice sessions, allowing the quarterback to anticipate blitz formations.

Real‑World Impact

The article provides statistical evidence that the new technique has improved Jackson’s performance. In the 2024 season, his sack rate fell by 25% compared to the previous year, and his completion percentage in third‑and‑short situations rose from 52% to 68%. Analysts cited in the piece attribute these gains to Jackson’s refined read‑and‑react approach, which has become a staple in the team’s offensive playbook.

Jackson also discusses the mental aspect of the secret weapon. “You’re not just relying on a physical move; you have to trust the timing and read the defensive movement the same way you read a defense in a passing play,” he says. This mental preparation, the article notes, involves watching game tape of defensive coordinators and practicing in a controlled environment.

Fan and Media Reactions

The interview includes a snippet from a fan forum where supporters celebrated Jackson’s newfound confidence. “He’s finally getting out of the pocket,” one user wrote. “His new trick is like a magic spell!” The article also quotes a former NFL defensive line coach who praised Jackson’s creativity. “It’s not just about avoiding pressure; it’s about turning the pressure into an advantage,” he stated.

An embedded video link, “Lamar Jackson Explains His Blitz Counter Technique,” offers viewers a visual demonstration of the body‑fake and quick‑release pass. The video shows Jackson executing the move in a practice setting, complete with commentary from his coaching staff. The footage is particularly useful for coaches and analysts seeking to understand the technical nuances of the play.

The Future of the Play

Jackson hints at further refinements to the technique. “I keep tweaking the timing, especially when the defense brings in a safety,” he reveals. The article suggests that Jackson plans to incorporate a “split‑back” read where the quarterback can pivot the play into a play‑action if the defensive line over‑commits to the fake. This would add another layer of deception, potentially making the technique even more effective.

Conclusion

Lamar Jackson’s interview provides a comprehensive look at how a player can transform a weakness into a competitive edge. By analyzing the defensive alignment, employing a body‑fake, and executing a quick release, Jackson has dramatically reduced his sack count and improved his passing efficiency. The article underscores the importance of mental preparation, practice, and continuous adjustment in mastering this high‑impact skill.

For fans, analysts, and coaches alike, Jackson’s secret weapon offers a blueprint for turning pressure into opportunity—an approach that could be adapted across the league for quarterbacks facing aggressive blitzes. As Jackson continues to refine and expand the play, his story will remain a compelling case study in innovation and resilience in the modern NFL.