A pump fake is a simulated move with the ball that appears to be passing, but the ball is not released. The quarterback uses this tactic to fool the defenders. It can also be used as a feint when trying to draw attention away from yourself or someone else. Pump fakes are useful tools for any quarterback who wants to avoid getting hit or sacked. By doing a pump fake, you can start to get out of the pocket or take off if you're being chased down by defenders. A lot of times, the quarterback will hold the ball high above their head and act like they're about to throw it before quickly bringing it down and running with it. Pump fakes are difficult to defend against because no matter how hard you try to predict what will happen next, you can't possibly know unless it actually happens. This makes it so much fun to watch and play against! Not only do pump fakes help quarterbacks escape trouble, but they also help them find open receivers. If the defense isn't paying attention to where the quarterback looks like they're going, then there's a good chance they'll miss someone underneath. Pump fakes are important tools for any quarterback who wants to exploit defenses downfield.