Shotgun formation

The shotgun formation is a particular formation in the game of American football for the offensive team. The most distinctive feature of the shotgun formation is that the Quarterback lines up a distance of usually 5 yards or more behind the Center away from the line of scrimmage. Thus when the ball is snapped it must be thrown through the air between the Center's legs to the Quarterback in order for the Quarterback to receive the ball for play to begin. The advantage of this position is that it is safer for the Quarterback because he is less likely to be sacked[?] and is usually used for passing plays, such as a Hail Mary. It generally has two or more Wide Receivers[?] at the far ends of the line of scrimmage. The disadvantage of this position is that there is a greater chance due to the ball being thrown from the Center to the Quarterback that the ball might be fumbled