NFL
Why do quarterbacks say “hut” at the beginning of a play? What does it mean?
The use of the term in football may have been influenced by its association with army drills, as it provides a brief and attention-grabbing cue for players.
The iconic shout of “Hut” by the quarterback is synonymous with the start of every play in football, from peewee to professional levels.
Even seasoned players and Pro Bowlers, like Philadelphia Eagles’ Jason Kelce and New Orleans Saints’ Benjamin Watson, admit to being in the dark about the word’s origins. Kelce humorously remarked, “I have no idea why we say ‘Hut,” yet they most definitely snapped the ball tens of thousands of times to the word ‘Hut.’
The origin of ‘hut’
Delving into the archives, the word “Hut” appears to have made its debut sometime in the 1950s, possibly owing its existence to World War II. Some believe it can be traced back to drill sergeants’ commands, specifically “ten-hut,” a term used to prepare soldiers for battle by bringing them to attention.
In contrast, the more traceable term “hike” was coined by legendary football figure John Heisman, known for the prestigious trophy named after him. Heisman initiated the use of “hike” after scratching the center’s leg to signal the snap, eventually replacing it with a quicker and more audible command.
The military influence on football doesn’t stop there. “Ten-hut,” with its roots in World War II, found its way onto the field, possibly due to its commanding nature and easy audibility amid the game’s chaos.
So, why does every play kick off with a resounding “Hut”? The answer lies in its effectiveness. Whether borrowed from military drills or born out of necessity, “Hut” has stood the test of time, proving to be the perfect catalyst for the gridiron ballet that unfolds with each snap. Ultimately, it’s not just tradition—a word that works.